Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Watching 5 black rhino at the waterhole in Etosha. The waterhole at the lodge we stayed at is in a truly beautiful setting with stone seats. It was fantastic to watch the animals come and go at night and to listen in silence to the noises they make (hyenas are very noisy drinkers!!) Two nights of pure joy!

Thoughts on Group Leader

We got information about the wildlife, but would have been nice to have had some commentary about local people, cultures, economy, history etc

Advice for Potential Travellers

Personally, I think binoculars are a must. So too are wet wipes, packets of tissues and hand sanitiser. I would really recommend getting some safari trousers - the ones that have a zip so you can convert them into shorts. Pack less than you think you need so when you don't need to wear your fleece and walking boots, you can still fit them in your case.

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole experience was interesting and memorable since it was my first visit to India.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Raj was a great asset to the trip. His passion, impressive knowledge of history, his sense of humour and charm were of great value since we spent so much time together. I admired his gentle and respectful way of “protecting” us from ubiquitous and often intrusive sellers of souvenirs. I admired him also for the tactful and delicate manner he dealt with one difficult member of our group.

Most Inspirational Moment

The views are unbelievable. From the first volcano to the last, I cannot describe. the beauty.

Thoughts on Group Leader

They were fantastic. Even when we gave up riding the gravel roads, they took great care of us.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just be ready for very rough gravel roads.

Most Inspirational Moment

The guides and the porters who made the trip possible

Thoughts on Group Leader

Wonderful! He was knowledgeable, calm and led the group perfectly

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be fit! The walking is tough and even harder when you take altitude into the mix

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sayeed was amazing

Most Inspirational Moment

Star gazing in the Wadi Rum.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very knowledgeable. He had a difficult week due to a misunderstanding with a guest and a poor hotel in Petra. When asked questions on the bus he needs to repeat it as those at the back can’t hear the question. Did not handle complaints very well.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do this trip as so much is seen. It’s not a relaxing holiday but worth the long days. Pack a small bag for Wadi Rum. Do take a proper water bottle. Spend longer at Petra on second day.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michelle was a very good group leader. Very engaging. Gave us plenty of information and lots of interesting stories about Korean life, culture, and history.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't miss the fact that you need a K-ETA. All the focus was on covid requirements and this is easily overlooked

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the waves on the coast.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Reuben performed his duties in an exemplary manner under difficult weather conditions. He was always positive and looked for solutions to any problem. Commendable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If cycling in Portugal in October, take your rain gear.

Most Inspirational Moment

The guides are so passionate about their culture and history and are keen to expand in their knowledge about the Incas. They answer every question, are kind and patient, and take time to find nice locations to eat when not on the trail. The porters were magnificent, although they couldn't speak much English, were always happy to greet you in the mornings with a hot cup of tea and give you a cheer at the end of each day on the trail. The jungle guides were equaly passionate about their jobs and went to all lengths to ensure we saw as much wildlife as possible as well as talking bout the different plants and insects f the jungle. The optional excursion to the Sacred Valley is really worth it, it lasts the whole day and you will visit various sites with your own personal guide.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The Inca Trail leader Julio was fantastic and so professional from start to finish. Very knowledgable and was always there throughout the whole trip. I had various guides in the jungle and all of them were equaly as good as each other as well as the guide for the Sacred Valley.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared to be taking a lot of flights, especially if you have the jungle extension as well, there is also a 3-hour boat ride into the jungle. The transfer times are tight so be aware of this at check in. You will probably get affected by the altitude on arrival into Cuzco and possibly throughout the trip, but you will gradually get used to it. It was colder in Cuzco and the mountains than expected so be prepared for this (bring hat, gloves and warm sleeping bag. It was also very wet so waterproofs are essential but there is opportunities to purchase a cheap poncho. The jungle is very hot, but bring long sleaved tops and long trousers as you will get eaten alive by mosquitos.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Taj without doubt, it cannot fail to impress, beautiful and well worth getting up very early for.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Chandresh was a good leader, kept us informed and safe especially when crossing roads in cities. He was very easy going and ready to help with whatever we needed, he took us on extra trips when we wanted to explore more. Chandresh introduced us to some lovely restaurants, arranged a cookery class when asked and looked after me very well when I was unwell. He as concerned for all of our well-being throughout.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It’s a wonderful trip, be prepared to adapt to Indian ways and customers, tipping can be a bit complicated. Be ready for some long travelling days and lots of curry, there are always regular breaks as well and you eat in some great places.