Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Budapest blew my mind. I could never have imagined such a historic city and its culture. Everywhere I turned I was in awe. I want to go back.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The guides were outstanding. All trip support was outstanding. The leader, Juan, kept everything moving, resolved any problems quickly and provided lots of relevant information along the way. He was always upbeat, ready to listen and provide whatever was needed. What an excellent representative for Exodus. Andy, who rode the back line, provided excellent support, encouragement, and humor. He was very good in keeping me encouraged. Juan and Andy - thank for all the support and encouragement you provided.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Really look at your fitness level. I did not pay enough attention to the trip notes, specifically the hills, and did not have the required fitness for the trip. I "made it" with only a few short trips on the bus but I would have enjoyed the journey so much more if I did not struggle as I did. So, before you do this trip, practice your hills and make sure you can stay in the saddle for consecutive days. And make sure you have the right gear.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking the rim of Mt. Vesuvius on a crystal clear day with great guides and companions. But then there was the incredible Pathway of the Gods.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fantastic! Truly loves hiking and an experienced guide. Would love to hike with her again some day.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Wear appropriate hiking shoes, use walking sticks and keep your eyes open.

Most Inspirational Moment

Every day had its own inspirational moment - the Moon Valley in the high desert, the Tatio Geysers at sunrise followed by a dip in the thermal pool, cycling on the salt flats, the 2 incredible 35km descents, the breathtaking geological features and amazing colourful rock formations.... I could keep going on!! One really special moment was being entertained by local musicians in the incredible amphitheatre - a fallen cavern created by an ancient waterfall.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ale was first class! He was a great leader and went over and above the call of duty every day. He also had great knowledge of the political and local history - fascinating sensitive and charming. Also the support team were fantastic.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for altitude- much of the trip is at significant altitude but the trip allows for acclimatisation. Also bring clothing for all temperatures- above 4000m it is quite chilly and it’s well below freezing visiting the Geysers at dawn! Others on our trip have recommended a good saddle or padding for the rutted gravel and a good camera is a must!

Most Inspirational Moment

The visit to the serene Gardens of Villa Cimbrone in Ravello, and then a walk afterwards.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Tony was great - caring, very organised, knew ALL our names from day 2, always available at any time to answer questions; coordinated transport, cafes etc with our walks; knew how to avoid crowds on our walks and very friendly. Thanks Tony!

Advice for Potential Travellers

The “optional extras” do add extra cost eg the trip to Capri was over 100 euros (I believe); the Gardens of Villa Cimbrone were about 10 euros; the barbecue was 30 euros; the last Saturday trip to Herculaneum before our flight, was about 40 euros. They were all worth doing and interesting/fun (I didn’t go to Capri), and but you need to take some extra euros if you partake of them (I do recommend them!).

Most Inspirational Moment

This whole trip was full of awesome moments, all unforgettable, and often totally unexpected, such as standing in the River Jordan with Israel just a few yards away where baptisms were taking place. Finding rock faces in Petra that looked just too incredible to be natural, like they have been vividly painted with abstract patterns. Seeing the Monastery in Petra for the first time, it’s not as ornate as the Treasury, but it’s HUGE! The incredible welcome and hospitality from the Bedouin and Jordanian people completely took me by surprise.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ibrahim was a brilliant leader, who has been doing this for many years and his enthusiasm and infectious smile reflects how much he enjoys what he does. Any problems were dealt with quietly and efficiently with no fuss. Nothing was too much trouble and he repeatedly offered to make arrangements for any individual requests within his remit. He totally understands the British sense of humour which really contributed to the great atmosphere of our group. I felt he could deal with any situation if it arose so I was relaxed and able to fully immerse myself in enjoying a wonderful trip. Wherever we went people knew him and warmly greeted him which says it all really.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I found that if you catch their eye and nod and smile, many Jordanians want to engage in conversation and ask where you are from and welcome you to Jordan. I was thrilled when I encountered a gentle elderly Bedouin man while going around a castle and he welcomed me and indicated he was happy to see tourists back in Jordan. Another time, in Petra, I managed to communicate to one of the men in the Siq (who cleared up after the donkeys,) that he kept it beautifully clean and he kissed my hand and seemed very pleased that his work had been acknowledged! Hospitality is everything in Jordan and with such friendly people I think it’s good to try and show your appreciation to them.

Most Inspirational Moment

Magura itself! Such a beautiful setting, particulary with the Autumn foliage lighting up the surrounding hills. The bear sanctuary was very thought-provoking and it was inspirational to see the passion felt by Katerina and the others involved in the project. Having lunch in the local 'pub' in Pestera with a few bewildered, smiling locals who watched in amazement as 16 very wet and bedraggled hikers walked in!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Thomas was excellent: very knowledgeable and good humoured. He was also very patient when dealing with the differing levels of walking abilities within the group. His organisation was excellent and he changed the itinerary around when needed to ensure we could enjoy most of the activities during the better weather days. Special mention too to Theo who ably assisted Thomas during the week, and was very friendly and helpful. Sebastian, who guided us on the first couple of days, was also an excellent leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for changeable weather! We had everything from cold (with light snow on the mountains) and wet to sunny and warm. Sandwiches are made up from the breakfast buffet, but bring any other snacks with you if needed as these are not provided at the hotel. ATM machines are available at the airport (although a charge is incurred) and we were given the opportunity to use them before we left the terminal. Excluding the bear hide, which we paid in Euros, we spent about £100 in local currency for 2 of us over the week, which included the meal out, a few souvenirs, tips and drinks at the hotel (although the latter can also be paid in Euros). Hairdryers are available in the rooms, despite checking with Exodus and being advised that I needed to take my own! Tap water was perfectly potable (no ill effects felt by anyone in our party as far as I know!), so bring refillable bottles as advised by Exodus. Be prepared to spend quite a lot of time travelling in the vans and be prepared for crowds at Bran Castle!

Most Inspirational Moment

Can’t pick one out but best cycling days for me were the second day where there was a long ascent to Monte de la Cruz de Ferro and the final day which was a longer cycling distance but had more off road sections and went through lots of gorgeous scenery. Inspirational moments were getting to the top of some of the hills and feeling great sense of achievement!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Alphonso was great. Very encouraging and positive with the cycling. Knew a lot of the local history etc of the places we went through, great at picking lovely places to eat and always smiling.

Advice for Potential Travellers

As has been mentioned before, be fit for this trip as it will be pay off and make it more enjoyable , but at the same time, don’t be put off by the hills.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Treks.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Karl was super fit and highly trained. He handled the group so well and had my total confidence.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring poles.

Most Inspirational Moment

A visit to Kruger

Most Inspirational Moment

The spectacular Eagle Festival The peacefulness of the temples The wildlife throughout the trip Visiting nomad families and finding out more about their way of life The stars at night including the milky way Staying in gers in the middle of nowhere

Thoughts on Group Leader

MG made the trip a great success. She worked tirelessly to ensure that the trip ran smoothly, her knowledge of her country, it's history and culture, was fantastic.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would highly recommend this trip. You have to go with an open mind, there are very few tarmac roads, so it's a bumpy ride! But the scenery is spectacular. Packaging for the trip is tricky, the temperature ranged from +28 to -8. So you need everything from shorts to a down jacket and pack lots of layers too.......whilst also trying to pack lightly for the internal flights. Take a good camera and binoculars!