Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

In the Amazon undoubtedly watching a family of giant otters feeding. And in Galapagos it has to be the snorkelling.

Thoughts on Group Leader

In the Amazon, Guido was extremely knowledgeable and despite the fact that I have a Canon SLR camera with long lens he was able to take picture with my mobile phone that I didn't know it was capable of! In the Amazon Franklin was again very knowledgeable and went out of his way to get my to a Chemist when I had a tummy upset. We had a delayed arrival in Quito due to and cancelled flight and the reps in Quito rearranged our itinerary for us and were most helpful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The lodges in the Amazon are amazing but to get there involves nearly 2 hrs of paddling in an open canoe (don't worry the paddling is done for you!) because no engines are allowed in the national park. Ponchos are provided if it rains (and it does) but they are not that effective against a torrential downpour. It rained for the last 20 minutes of our return trip when we left and we were still wet sitting in the airport waiting for our flight back to Quito. Maybe have your own reliable waterproofs available. The trip notes say that Wellington boots are issued but they may not cater for big feet. I am a UK size 12 or even 13 and had no problem, in fact the first pair I tried were too big! In Galapagos we found "Cachalote Explorer" rather a noisy ship, especially when on the move and particularly in the downstairs cabins, and that's most of them. There is quite a lot of moving at night and the sea can have quite a swell on. I thought I'd find sleep difficult but I got used to it. The sea in Galapagos can be pretty cold but wet suits are provided free now - there used to be a charge.

Most Inspirational Moment

Looking at the incredible view of the coastline following the steep ascent and visiting Navarro.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Reuben was simply outstanding, he has a wonderful, cheerful disposition which is truly infectious, his love for his country shone through everyday. He shared lots of information and stories about Portugal. Nothing was too much trouble. The bikes were in excellent condition and the lunches were delicious.

Most Inspirational Moment

The cities and towns we visited were the best part of the trip; All beautiful in their own way.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Fab was a great leader and a fun guy; Very lively and enthusiastic, had lots of initiatives and sorted out every issue quickly with a smile and always felt safe in his hands.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is the first trip I've seen electric bikes as an option and used by a third of the group. They definitely enjoyed the hills more and found the long days easier to manage. Something I'd consider for a future trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

A visit to an organic vineyard in the middle of nowhere, run by a charming man called Fernando, where we were served an amazing lunch in his living room because it was raining.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lina was welcoming, fun, hugely well organised and prepared throughout. She is very knowledgeable about the area, the history, the plants, animals and people of he region and communicates her enthusiasm and love of the Douro to everyone she meets. She dealt with a couple of tricky situations on our trip with compassion and tact while making sure she did what was needed. Top marks Lina!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just to enjoy it!

Most Inspirational Moment

I really loved staying in the Trulli and found Matera fascinating as it is on so many levels - a proper rabbit warren!

Thoughts on Group Leader

I really liked Gabriele. Although it was only his second time running this trip he is a very experienced leader and is a very nice, intelligent and interesting man. Everything ran perfectly - pick ups always on time, hotel check ins much quicker and simpler than normal etc.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be aware this tour is not really suitable for anyone with mobility issues. Matera is built on seven levels so steps absolutely everywhere and paving is uneven and sometimes slippery.

Most Inspirational Moment

Cycling through the Dormitor mountains

Thoughts on Group Leader

Dimitri was a very capable and helpful leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Enjoyed the trip but make sure you're fit , there's lots of climbing

Most Inspirational Moment

Piz Boe summit, superb.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Paul, expert guide and top laugh.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go for it

Most Inspirational Moment

It’s hard to pick just one moment, as the whole trip was fantastic from start to finish. Viewing the Nazca lines, spotting Andean condors in Colca Canyon and visiting the floating Reed islands on Lake Titicaca were definitely some of the main highlights! However, personally, it was when I caught the first glimpse of Machu Picchu coming into view. You always see it in photographs, but it was so much more impressive seeing this massive world wonder in person. Surrounded by lush green towering peaks, it really is an incredible sight to see!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Nothing was too much trouble for Holger! He helped us order the best local dishes, grabbed us exotic fruits to try on long bus journeys and always ensured everyone’s food allergies were catered for. He always went out of his way to help the group. Holger was also really accommodating to those who struggled with adjusting to the altitudes on longer walks. His excellent knowledge of Pre-Inca and Inca culture knew no bounds and really added to the whole experience. He’s also a great photographer and was able to capture and share photos of Giant hummingbirds and Andean Condors with the group! You could tell this is more than a job to him. He loves his country and is really passionate about being a tour leader, taking travellers beyond the guidebook to ensure we saw a different side of Peru. Thanks Holger for being such a wonderful guide!

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you get bitten abroad, definitely bring mosquito repellent and soother with you! In the winter months, I’d consider bringing thermal socks and thermal jackets. Layers are a must, as it can range from -2 to 23 degrees on a single day in winter.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Absolutely outstanding - see above comments in the summary,

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring a swimming cap if you want to use the hotel pools! - It’s mandatory in Portugal and you won’t be allowed in without one. Flip flops also a good idea.

Most Inspirational Moment

The passion of its people. From the farmer we met as we passed through a remote village, wheeling his bounty of potatoes and directing us through his back gate to have easier access to be able to pick oranges from his trees ... to the winery's we visited ... such pride in their produce and ALL of it so delicious!

Thoughts on Group Leader

I cannot commend Lina highly enough - she was simply a delight to spend the week with. ALWAYS making sure everyone knew what the day's walks entailed, a fountain of knowledge on the landscape we passed through ... sharing the details with such passion. Warmly greeted us every morning, she made sure that everyone was feeling good, happy and ready to go. The little star touches of demonstrating cracking open almonds with a stone, when picked directly from the tree, to sharing her knowledge of the natural world as we passed through. Lina provided the best introduction of Portugal I could have ever wishes for, and I certainly hope to join another of her trips ... there's just SO much more of Portugal to explore and I couldn't think of anyone better I'd like to have leading it!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for ANY weather. We were there in mid-June and the temperatures were exceptionally low (c. 16-18C) and threatening drizzle on several of the days. Walking shoes/boots a must. Full length trousers too for the woodland walks.