Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Finally getting to see Mont Blanc towards the end of the week. We were joking that perhaps it didn’t actually exist!! Our trip coincided with UTMB and as an ultra trail fan I was in my element. It was good that the rest of the group also became avid supporters which culminated in us all cheering the runners on at the 2 mile point of the main race outside the local pub. Just brilliant!!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rob was an exceptional leader and despite varying abilities kept the whole group together all week something I found out was less likely than I thought it would be. He tweaked routes according to the conditions although I never felt we were missing out. Some of his times and distances were a bit on the conservative side and became a running joke which was taken in good humour by everyone.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take enough clothes for all weathers. There are no washing facilities at the chalet so bear that in mind.

Most Inspirational Moment

The places visited were splendid, for the scenery and sights of Dalmatia, which neither of us had seen before, are wonderful.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our guide, Mila, worked very hard all week to make our holiday a success. Her commitment could not be faulted.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure the hotels have been vetted properly by Exodus if you can.

Most Inspirational Moment

There is always a great sense of satisfaction and pride in completing a walk. It can seem a challenge, but the prizes both on the walk, and particularly and the inevitable spectacular conclusion is always worth the effort. Just soaking up the village life, a well earned 'cold beer', or a dip in the green/blue sea is always a treat and worthy reward. Shady spots under the canopy of trees and beautiful, magnificent churches provided rest bite from the heat and inspiration and awe in equal measure. We fell in love with the 'base camp' small town of Mongolia and the Hotel Piccolo. The Hotel, family run and personal, only a few steps away from the beach, making a early morning swim before breakfast a real treat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

In Michaela we were so blessed. She was the perfect guide and companion. Let's start with the basics, she was efficient, organised, knowledgable, informative, patient, hard working. So, in terms of meeting the job specification, absolutely first class. Now the real Michaela, lovely, friendly, witty, personable, enthusiastic, encouraging, fascinating. We had a lovely group of people on the trip, but the absolute star was Michaela. Fantastic spoken English, she took great delight in expanding our rudimentary Italian with daily lessons and tests at the end of the day. She loved our sense of humour and gentle teasing. She gave so much more than was expected and brought great joy. Please pass on my thanks and fond wishes to Micky.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Come with good walking shoes, plenty of water, your camera, your swimming costumes, and open mind and a good appetite.

Most Inspirational Moment

2 nights in Calella de Palafrugell, the cycling using cycle lanes, the food, the variety of scenery throughout.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing all the different people along the way and then making it all the way to Santiago cathedral finally.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Aitor was so good, keeping an eye on everyone in the group, making sure we were all ok from the slowest to the fastest. Nothing was too much trouble. His knowledge of the history and area was spot on. Absolutely faultless.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go prepared. It is not the most challenging of walks but it is a walk of distance over back to back days, you need to be up for that physically and psychologically.

Most Inspirational Moment

We had several jaguar encounters but the most special was a female jaguar walking along a beach in the last 15 mins of our final boat trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Juan was exceptional, he was bubbling with enthusiasm and organised as many nature excursions as time allowed, running multiple nature walks each day as well as night safaris. His knowledge of the wildlife was second to none and he was an integral part of our success rate with both jaguars and other wildlife.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The airport at Sao Paolo can be confusing so ensure you check bags in on the ground floor when booking on for Cuiaba. Not all EU or US adapters fit and so check your adapter has pins like a shaver not a large circle connecting the two pins as some airport sold ones have. You can buy an adapter at the airport in Cuiaba The hotel and both lodges are happy to take Credit Cards for payment and prefer it to cash. Long trousers and long sleeves are a good idea due to horseflies during the day / sandflies or mosquitos at night. The boat rides are often in full sun as using covers restricts viewing. There are no UK style black tea bags so take your own as hot water is provided.

Most Inspirational Moment

The views were spectacular and inspirational every day but the defining moment for me was the 5th day ascent to the Col de la Croix du Bonhomme. It was the longest and most difficult climb of the trip and making it to the top was a defining moment for me personally. All of the people in my group were supportive of each other the whole entire week and some life long friends were made.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We could not have asked for a better group leader. Hristian was knowledgeable about the area, the terrain, each day's challenges, the history and so much more. His extensive experience was very evident and comforting. His friendly, calm demeanor made everyone feel comfortable and he made sure to keep the pace suitable to everyone in the group. Hris truly went over and above for me and the others in the group. The best example is when he carried the packs of 2 of us so that we could make the final cable car of the day down on day 5! His ever present smile and his sense of humor made my experience one I will never forget! Our group became a family for the week and we can thank Hris for that!

Advice for Potential Travellers

TRAIN, TRAIN, TRAIN!! Follow the training guidelines at a minimum and do not pack or plan to carry anything that is not absolutely essential for the 6 days. Slow down and enjoy the beauty of the people and the scenery that surround you every day!

Most Inspirational Moment

Too many to easily choose between (eg. the Darvaza gas crater in Turkmenistan, the Islamic architecture & decor in Uzbekistan, Iskanderkul lake in Tajikistan) but if I had to pick one it would be the time spent at Son Kul lake in Kyrgyzstan. Stunning scenery, remote location, fresh air and starry skies free of light pollution. Add to that a chance to walk in the wilderness, sleeping in comfortable yurts and excellent food and you have a perfect experience.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jordan oversaw the whole trip professionally and was always approachable to help get things sorted out. Each country had its own local guide and all were very good, although those in Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan went above and beyond in providing the best service.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The travelling can be gruelling at times, with long days in the bus from time to time. But more than made up for by the destinations. The border crossings were occasionally frustrating as unnecessary bureaucracy kicks in - we had our passports checked by six different border staff on a couple of occasions! Watch out also for some of the locals pushing in the passport control queues, but if you develop a group strategy to shield you, you'll be fine!

Most Inspirational Moment

The scenery in the farmlands and the medieval villages.