Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers  

Here at Exodus we thrive on feedback from our customers. It’s the only way we can ensure our trips continue to be the best they can be. So, for the real tales, twists and turns of the trip you’re interested in, look no further than the reviews from our previous travellers.

Simply use the selector below to search our trip reviews and start reading real feedback from real Exodus travellers who have ‘been there and done that’!

Lots of our clients also like to post handy tips and advice about their travels. It’s great to know what to expect on an Exodus adventure before you go, so make the most of their experience and you’ll make the most of yours!

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Reviews

Reviewed November 2011

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - RONGAI ROUTE

The 6 day trip culminating in ascending Kilimanjaro was the best thing i ve ever done in my life-the very hardest but the most special.The team looking after us just could not have been more generous in their time energy and spirit.They were proud of their country and wanted us to have the best time we possibly could- and we did!

Most Inspirational Moment

To be walking and constantly be shadowed by Kilimanjaro was exciting and nerve wracking.The whole group knew we were gearing up to the summit night but we all enjoyed every day leading upto that time.Walking slowly all day and coming into camp-the smell of deliciuos food and the thought of a cosy tent was a great feeling.I was inspired by the team looking after us- The African Walking co -the leaders were heavenly-caring for us all and helping in every way posssible to get us nearer to our goalThe whole trip was inspirational-all our individual efforts to overcome challenges-be they sickness,fatigue,worry or doubt-all the efforts from the team behind us-the wonderful scenery and amazing lanscapes.100% inspiring!!!!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Henry Fernandez was a legend!!! A kind gentle responsible caring chap-who we learnt had trained to be a Priest-the church s loss was our gain!!!he headed a team of wonderful leaders-Davis-the most gorgeous kind funny and thoughtful man that I could have walked for days with,Jonath-dear and kind.John-interested and interesting considerate and gentle.Obote-my hero-without whom I would not have made it up that darn mountain!!!!-and many more-caspar and Trophid the chef-but really the whole team-from the all important toilet monitor-who carried it and serviced it the whole trip!-to ALL the cheery hardworking porters.What did I think of them all??? I LOVED THEM!!!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Really dont fret or worry beforhand.As long as you are fairly fit and well you will be fine-unless altitude sickness picks you off-and that just random.A lot of the achieving is down to attitude-and there are times you must dig deep but its all possible.camping is a challenge-be organised-take as little as possible-you will wear pretty much the same every day! Wet wipes -always useful.Favourite snack and sweets -and I took Marmite-that got me through!!!Dont fixate on THE SUMMIT-enjoy EVERY bit of the trip-it flies by and you probably wont repeat the trip-so enjoy every day.Appreciate all the effort that is being made for you-and shoe that gratefulness to the team.Good boots,warm layers and positive mental attitude-thats all you need!!

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Reviewed November 2011

ATLAS DESCENT

The Atlas Descent is a beaut of a trip. Six biking days and all quite varied. Camel roads, gorges, mountaintop trails, moonscapes, I was amazed at the variation. The mountainbiking is as varied as the scenery from tough offroad singletrack, fast flowing landrover trails to swooping tarmac. Loved it.

Most Inspirational Moment

The uphills were hard and demanding however they were instantly forgotten in mile after mile of adrenaline rushing downhill on every concievable variation of so-called-road surface..Dropping into the surf at the end was such a blast.The Atlas Mountains are surely one of the best kept secrets of North Africa, jaw dropping scenery.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Liz was a treat. Patient and positive with time for everybody. Her fluent franglais should become a degree course :o)

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take double sided pedals, flat on one side SPD on the other. It's not all downhill, and cleats make a difference.Do as much off-road practice as you can on broken surfaces.

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Reviewed November 2011

THE AMALFI COAST

The weather was wonderful (especially considering it was the first week of November),and the scenery spectacular. The walks were well described in the trip notes and were at the level we were expecting (leisurely/moderate). Our guide, Christine, was knowledgable and made sure the week ran very smoothly. The hotel was a very good standard and food was plentiful. All in all a wonderful week and would definately recommend this trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

I really enjoyed the trips to Pomeii and Herculanium and found these places very moving. I would definately recommend having a guide on these sites so that you can look and listen rather than having to jump aroung a guide book and map (which they had run out of). The weather was excellent for walking, needing a fleece only when starting out. Seeing the rugged coastline was spectacular.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Christine was very efficient, knowledgable and helpful, just as we have come to expect of Exodus guides, thank you for making it such a wonderful time.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The thousand(s) of steps down to Amalfi and Positano do take it out on your knees, so poles are very useful.

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Reviewed November 2011

CYCLE CILENTO & AMALFI

This is my (our) 3rd Exodus Cycling Holiday, all of which ( Cuba and Turkey) we have enjoyed immensely but this was truly great at every level other than my personal fitness which did of cours improve. A great ( low cost0 region,an individual knowledgeable committed leader and surprise surprise top quality accomdation. The fellow cyclists were all brilliant.However the brochures promise that there was an optional ride on the last day which was not realisable. This was misleading and I would have enjoyed a leg stretch of some type. Its all about money I know as our leader explained and we had plenty of value in the holiday but it is good to be clear and accurate which I believe our understanding was not

Most Inspirational Moment

1. Looking from our balcony straight into Amalfi cathedral staircase and 3rd century Constinople doorway. Priceless! timeless! 2. Finding my wife (again). 

Thoughts on Group Leader

Outstanding. Dutchman totally in touch with southern Italy and the Cilento in particular, personally involved. Mother hen, good fun who understood the balence between riding all day and stopping by great places. Where can you get 2.5 course lunch with wines and liqueurs overlooking the most beautiful bay for 7 Euros. line up an I will you.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Mug up on greeco Romano heritage.

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Reviewed November 2011

JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN

Fantastic trip with such a variety of experiences – a great way to visit the 4 countries.

Most Inspirational Moment

Mozambique , and in particular the village visit in Bilene and the early morning walk on the beach to see the fishing.The lions in KrugerWalking in DrakensbergLesotho - the pony trek was amazingThe great campsites especially in Hlane NP and BileneLanga township tour, Cape Town        

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rob and Sifiso were great guides and ensured we got the most out of the trip. I enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere they created due to their hard work, patience and good humour. We always had plenty of good food and were given lots of information along the way about the places we passed through or visited.   

Advice for Potential Travellers

Leave your watch at home and relax! There are some long driving days but enjoy them as the scenery is fantastic and there are regular stops. The campsites and lodges you arrive at are in great places. You can lighten your bag in Malealea Lodge,Lesotho as the Trust will distribute any clothing etc left there. They were asking for toiletries etc for young girls when we were there, as well as the items mentioned in other reviews.     

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Reviewed November 2011

WALKING IN TUSCANY

Braccicorti was a lovely place to stay with a warm welcome from the family; Sara, our leader, was fantastically supportive, encouraging and full of information about the area, the locals and the way of life; fantastic walking in wonderful mountain and hill country and a great group who gelled well together.

Most Inspirational Moment

Working together so that one of the older members of our group was able to make it all the way to the top of Monte Sumbra.Our specially drawn map for our 'day off' walk - navigating by the number of dogs at each house!Enjoying our last evening together barn dancing to the Eagles!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sara looked after us from start to finish - taking care that we got the meals we wanted including going out and buying soya milk for us; making sure that we had the right equipment and those new to walking poles knew how to use them; keeping us topped up with biscuits, sweets and encouragement; letting us walk at our own pace but giving us clear instructions on routes and where to regroup; looking after the slower and less confident members of the group; giving us information about the area and the local way of life; making sure that our itinerary fitted best with the weather; ensuring that we were all sorted out for different activies and venues on our day off; making sure we got back safely from our evening out; selecting great walks within all our capabilities; making sure we had a good time.Thank you, Sara - you are a great leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

These walks are well within the capabilities of any one who is moderately fit. However, if you live more or less at sealevel, as we do you, may find the first walk up into the mountains takes your breathe away - physically as well as the stunning views!

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Reviewed November 2011

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

Amazing experience! Great balance between walking and wildlife and a really diverse trip, you feel like you are seeing a lot of the country without being rushed. Scenery is stunning and perfect for walking. Campsites are fantastic, food amazing. Really lovely, well paced and interesting trip with fantastic opportunity to spot the big 5!

Most Inspirational Moment

Spotting Cheetha close up on foot and seeing a kill..fantastic moment! The Drakensberg mountains were stunning, loved the two walks there.Whole camping experience, beers around the fire, everyone swapping wildlife photos, great atmosphere.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both Bongani and Shawn were excellent leaders, they really went the extra mile and worked very hard to make the trip run like clockwork and it did. Both have a great sense of humour and made it fun and interesting.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would reccomend doing all of the optional game drives. You never know what you might see. We were really lucky to see so many animals up close.

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Reviewed November 2011

IMPERIAL CHINA & YANGTZE RIVER CRUISE

A lot of this vast impressive country is packed into the 19 days on the ground. As an overview of the country visiting many of the main sites with smaller ones besides I think Exodus and Dragon our excellent leader have achieved their aims .

Most Inspirational Moment

Most people cannot pick just one.The Obvious :-  Beijing and the Forbidden City- Great Wall- Xi'an- Terracotta Warriors and museum- Pandas ( not forgetting the Red Pandas too )- Yangtse - Mt Emei- Karst country- Tongli-  Shanghai Bund  Less Obvious :- Cycling the 13.7 km of the Xi'an city walls and looking down on a school choir giving a concert in the playgound- Cycling into the country at Yangshuo and the farmer's wife cooking us lunch- Being approached by students in Yangshuo to practise their English - Eating Sichuan hotpot in a local restaurant where we were the only westerners and the object of much curiosity- 'Calvin Klein'  the vendor in Yangshuo ( only the 8th Oct group will get this one ! )- just meeting the locals with a smile.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Dragon was one of the best leaders I have encountered in years of travelling. I think he read history at University and he was passionate about the history of his country past and present . He was so informative about life in China nowadays and during the lifetime of his parents under Mao, that his stories and anecdotes made the trip for me.  I was speaking to an English couple on the boat who were with a large mainstream UK operator and were getting none of this.They were quite envious of our relationship with Dragon.He was endlessly patient, ever helpful ,well organized and above all a thoroughly nice person .   We wish him well for his forthcoming wedding.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Dragon's informative handout at the start of the trip told us to embrace '' T I C ''THIS IS CHINA  ie  ignore the pushing in, the smoking,  the spitting, the crazy traffic , car horns,  some of the toilets etc  etc.    After all this is only 3 weeks out of your life to enjoy a wonderful country so just remember TIC .If you want 5 star luxury, can't embrace TIC and go with the flow, then this trip is not for you.Pack lightly because there are many occasions when you have to carry your bag up stairs and through crowded stations. There is also limited space for the more corpulent cases under the bunks on the trains.You may wish to bring a light sleeping bag liner and pillow case for the third and oldest sleeper train . . . although if you remember TIC, it was fun and part of the experience. Dont forget your pot noodles as all trains come with hot water boilers.The suggested £400 spend is light. I spent around £550/600 but I suppose it does depend on how much beer you drink.

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Reviewed November 2011

ESSENTIAL PERU

A wonderful holiday, saw so much and helped so much by having a great guide in Juan, his enthusiasm and knowledge was second to none, already planning another holiday with Exodus, true professionals in every sense.

Most Inspirational Moment

Probably Machu Picchu and the homestay island, truly magical experiences, but all the other sights and sounds of Peru were excellant, hope to return one day

Thoughts on Group Leader

Juan was absoluty brilliant

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepred for a non stop adventure, too many highlights to mention, a feel for the country is guaranteed

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Reviewed November 2011

MONT BLANC CIRCUIT

A fantastic trip travelling through a beautiful part of the Alps, one of the classic mountain routes. The tour was very well organised – the camping, food both in camp and at resturants, the walks and the company were all great. We even had amazing weather for just about the whole trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

There were many great moments during the trip a few of the inspirational/memorable moments: The high point of our trip for the whole group - Tete Nord des Four (2665m). As the weather was good the whole group completed an optional detor to this peak and were rewarded by a fantastic 360 degree panorama of the Alps including Mont Blanc & the Matterhorn. The celebrations in the group photo say it all. The view from our tents at the Campsite in Les Bosson, Chamonix - in particular waking up early on the final day to Mont Blanc & Aiguille de Midi silluetted by the early morning sun rising behind them and lighting up the clouds above the mountains. Getting to see the leaders in the Ultra Trail du Mont Blanc at the checkpoint at the Refuge Bonatti and seeing many more of the competitors later in the day on our way to Courmayeur. On the second rest day walking the ridge above les Contamines (Mont Joly to Aiguille Croche) after enjoying a fantastic breakfast in a cafe in the village. The views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding area were fantastic and I had the ridge to myself for most of the trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Graham our leader was fantastic - he worked increadbly hard to ensure that everyone in the group had a fantastic holiday regardless of their fitness level/ability. For myself his optional extensions and challenges ensured I wasn't sitting around and got some good challenges. The extra extensions to peaks near the route gave even better views and gave the group time to regroup. Graham's knowledge of the area was very good and his leadership skills ensured everyone had a great trip. For the rest days he had some great suggestions for everyone - from visiting the Decathlon R&D centre for a gentle day to an easy Via Ferrata for those of us that wanted a challenge. For me personally these extras really made the trip, including letting myself and two others sign-out of the trip to complete the more challenging Arpette route on Day 3 by ourselves. Chris our Cook, Transport & Campsite co-ordinator was also fantastic - his cooking skills were legendary and his/Graham's choice of resturants for the nights out were brilliant. 

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go for it this is one of the classics in the Alps and the Exodus trip is very well organised. Fitness - get as fit as you can before the trip - the days are quite challenging and that extra fitness really helps you to enjoy the amazing land you are travelling through. The extra walks/peaks I was able to do due to my fitness level really made the trip for me. Camping vs. Hotel - if you are trying to decide go for the camping - you get a much better sense of travelling around the tour; most of the campsites are fantastic and the food you get is amazing both in camp and at the resturants. We did have good weather on the main - though a lot of the sites had good shelters for eating/sheltering from the rain. Weather - Thunderstorms are common in the evenings/ovenight and it can get very cold overnight so be prepared for that. Don't leave your towel on top of the tent on a cold night to dry as folding it in the morning becomes a challenge. Equipment - Good boots and walking poles are a must, if it is hot a hydration bladder is also useful, though there are plenty of refuges along the way for beer/coffee/hot chocolate and if you go in August lots of Murtle Tarts to be eaten.

Reply from Exodus

We carefully pick the campsites we use on this trek working with a combination of factors, location, facilities and flexibitlity. The campsite at Trient, although perhaps a little more basic, has been chosen as it is the most suitable on this occasion, with a good area for pitching tents and great wooden pagoda for eating dinner under. There is only one other alternative campsite in the area mentioned and this is at the hotel. We have decided against using this as it is small and we cannot always guarantee getting a large enough area for our groups, also it is windy (as it is on a col) and this can cause difficulties with the mess tent. We appreciate the feedback given and have hopefully answered any concerns. As you can see from all the reviews it truly is an iconic trek and one not to be missed!

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