Reviews

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group was privileged to have Amer with us. Amer is a skilled storyteller and a encyclopedia of knowledge. His history lessons were detailed and he pushed us to rethink what we, as Westerners, have been taught about the Middle East. He encouraged us to ask questions and didn’t shy away from providing honest answers. Beyond his knowledge of history, Amer has a deep love for his country. He is proud to be Jordanian and that passion radiates in every conversation, in every place we visited, in all the lessons he gave us. I count myself very fortunate to have experienced Jordan through Amer’s eyes.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I have never felt safer traveling than I have in Jordan. I walked the busy streets of Amman’s downtown at 11:30 pm alone and wasn’t looking over my shoulder or holding on to my bag too tightly, as I do in many North American cities. I left my bag with phone and wallet on lounge chairs as I swam in the Red Sea and the Dead Sea with no reservation.

Most Inspirational Moment

the things I enjoyed most were the walks I had come to do, especially enjoyed Puig Campana and Fat Man's Agony way up onto Aitana.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jose was a very knowledgeable and informative leader, having grown up and live in a nearby valley. He sensibly tailored the walks to the group ability and on the hotter days. I was happy where needed to slow down, admire the landscape and take yet more photo's.

Advice for Potential Travellers

My trip was end of October and apart from the day we arrived, sunny and at times hot for some, therefore be prepared for 6-8hours of walking in the heat. The rocks coming down most paths though dry were often skiddy and easy to slip down on, which I even did despite having new grippy boots and poles. I found the walks on the easier side of challenging, shorter than I was used to, equivalent sort of climbs to what I do in the English Lakes with less exposure due to the bushes/ scrub (only short exposures was on the last two days with a steep rocky slope section with good zig zag path and a step across with a chain, then 2-3 move simple rock scramble/ climb with a chain; there are others but are optional/ extras to the walks) and I found the heat much less sweaty for the equivalent English heat, though was the youngest in my 50's and others may have struggled at times on parts of the walks. The route's may be adjusted therefore accept the advice Jose gives as he knows the area. Autumnal colours only seen really on the last 2 days higher up, most trees look evergreen to me. It is worth doing the optional day trip to the coast, I enjoyed both places and the coastal walk to a viewpoint over Benidorm with large butterflies, though didn't have time to do all I wanted. Jose set up a WhatsApp group for photo sharing. It is a worth doing the optional first afternoon self-guided walk to scenic Guadalest; I didn't mind when we went a bit further down and therefore had a longer road walk; it is a very good introduction to the area. 8 people is the optimum number for this trip as that is the capacity of their mini-bus; if more book they have to book another vehicle which can limit options. The people in our group were mostly in their 60's I think. The pension we stayed at I liked, nice location for sunrise and sunset, closer to the road than I had expected though didn't bother me, though is on the simpler more basic side; expect some things not to work as well or have to collect a replacement toilet roll from the corridor for example, the shutters I gave up on closing too fiddly when tired so bring a sleep mask, be careful in the tiny bath/ shower as the shower curtains suddenly fell down on me while washing my hair which was rather surprising, and don't look under your bed until the end of the trip (it was rather dusty). There was plenty to eat/ snack on; vegetarians may want to check there is no meat, there were some occasions when this was queried both in the pension and at the day off restaurant. Kettle and hot drink things in the small lounge downstairs. I didn't need to touch the small supplies I brought with me in case. I did drink some spring water the last day, but then had a mild stomach upset once home. Overall an area well worth a visit and hope Exodus keep doing this one.

Most Inspirational Moment

Moments- Driving through the Andes, Exploring Cusco, Seeing the condors at Colca Canyon, interesting and photographic Santa Catalina Convent in Arequipa.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Giscard was brilliant- not just a group leader but a teacher, a listener, an expert in cookery & altitude walking, a father figure and like a brother. He quietely looked after us all individually.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines will be on everyones 'Must See' list and didn't disappoint but there's so much more to see. Layer up with clothing. If you have a decent camera, take it, with the appropriate lenses, for city but especially wildlife shots.

Most Inspirational Moment

Inspiring moments- Boat trips down the Amazon, night walks with guides coaxing the Tarantulas out, giant river otters at Tres Chimbadas Lake, sights and sounds of Macaws at Colpa Chuncho.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Klaus and Leo were very thoughtful and amazing. Other than accompanying me on my day and night walks Leo set up a scope just for my use, took some phone shots and videos with my phone, even made me a coffee, at Colpa Chuncho. At Tres Chimbadas Lake I was supposed to be in a small rowing boat but Klaus hired a much bigger boat (30+ seater I think) knowing I had a lot of camera equipment- there was just me, him and the boat owner. Due to that I saw the giant river otters which the bigger groups hadn't seen the previous day.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It was very humid so dress appropriately. The lodges were very comfortable. Several power points were available outside the restaurant, as well as tea, coffee and bananas at all times. WiFi can be picked up at various points around the lodges. You can either mix with others or have your own space.

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing on the hilltop in Volterra, overlooking the endless Tuscan countryside, was incredibly inspiring. The blend of ancient history, peaceful streets, and breathtaking scenery made me pause and truly appreciate the beauty and depth of the region. But to be honest, every single day offered its own “most inspiring moment” — Tuscany has a way of surprising you at every turn.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our tour leader was outstanding—knowledgeable, attentive, and genuinely passionate about Tuscany and Italy. She made every part of the trip smooth and enjoyable, offering help whenever needed, sharing tips and engaging stories, and even giving us a thoughtful personalized gift at the end. Her warmth and enthusiasm created a friendly, welcoming atmosphere for the whole group, making the experience truly fantastic!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Pack comfortable shoes for walking through cobblestone streets and rolling hills, and be ready to savor every moment—Tuscany is best explored slowly. Don’t hesitate to try local wines, cheeses, and pastries wherever you go, and take advantage of the free days to wander charming towns, soak in the scenery, or follow your own curiosity. Bring an open mind, a sense of adventure, and your camera—every corner is picture-perfect!

Most Inspirational Moment

The optional glacier trip was stunning, as was the optional penguin island trip

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sadly new to the role and had little knowledge to impart, but appeared to have a wonderful time taking selfies

Advice for Potential Travellers

Trip notes were very dated re pricing, expect to spend more. If you don’t eat meat there was really very little choice at some of the places visited. If you are looking for souvenirs don’t leave it to the end as Ushuaia and Iguazu had very little choice.

Most Inspirational Moment

A difficult choice ! My first day in Argentina: cycling above 4000m in the middle of the puna was really special

Thoughts on Group Leader

Claudio was always here for me- for assistance, for recommendations and also for customising the trip to my taste. Always very friendly ! He even introduced me to his family !

Advice for Potential Travellers

I will repeat Claire and Andrew precious advice that I followed ! Great to get used ro altitude. And a must see !

Most Inspirational Moment

Visiting the farmhouse and being able to take part in traditional Sri Lankan games - This was such an incredible experience that allowed us to experience local life .

Thoughts on Group Leader

Roshan was incredible and very helpful !

Advice for Potential Travellers

Pack a warm jacket/jumper as gets cold in the highlands

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the Santiago de Compostela Cathedral with our group was an unforgettable moment. The sense of accomplishment, the energy in the square, and our celebratory dinner together made the perfect finale to this Camino adventure.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our amazing tour leader Maria brought so much heart and first-hand knowledge from her own experiences hiking multiple Camino routes. She was kind, funny, incredibly supportive, and always radiated positivity and energy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring whatever footwear is most comfortable for you, whether that’s hiking boots, trail runners, running shoes, or a mix. Just make sure they’re well broken-in before the trip. Hiking boots aren’t always necessary and can feel heavy over long distances but could be useful for rainy hiking days through the forested sections with roots & rocks, so if you pack hiking boots I suggest having a couple of lighter options to bring along and change into. I even packed a pair of Merrell sandals with good tread on the bottom to hike in for certain sections or to change into after a long day of hiking. Bring Vaseline, blister plasters, or your go-to foot-care essentials to stay comfortable. Also hiking poles were useful for certain sections of the trails as well! Bring a reusable water bottle—there are plenty of spots along the Camino to refill your water as you go.

Most Inspirational Moment

The final day of cycling. A lot of climbs followed by a 2km downhill to finish, through stunning scenery!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Rey was an asset to Exodus. Charming, funny, knowledgeable and extremely helpful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take cash, a portable charger, a torch and lots of bug spray and you'll be fine.