Reviews

Disappointing

As a group we had to force the hand of the local agents by refusing to travel unless we had suitable transport. The bus was not big enough, it did not have overhead racks for rucksacks and hand luggage and the air conditioning failed. We then had an excellent large coach until the clutch kept breaking down on mountain roads (engineers were called out 3 times).
Our itinerary was changed resulting in excessive travel time (Exodus were aware of this months earlier, but the Group Leader was only given 48 hours notice and the group 24 hours notice via a WhatsApp); we fully except that itineraries change but this was not due to exceptional circumstances. The EKHO Ella hotel was substandard and far from ‘Premium’ quality.

Most Inspirational Moment

Gal Oya glamping and boat safari. Truly excellent.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Passable. Passionate about his lovely country.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This was not a ‘Premium’ tour. We have used Exodus before and they have always been excellent; sadly this was not the case this time. We were not the only disappointed clients.

Reply from Exodus

Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. We’re genuinely sorry that several aspects of your trip to Sri Lanka did not meet expectations.

We conducted a full internal review in response to your concerns, including the itinerary changes, transport issues, and accommodation standards. The itinerary re-shuffle, which led to significantly longer travel times, was not communicated to us in advance by our local partners. This unfortunately meant we were unable to assess the impact or inform the group ahead of time, and we sincerely apologise for the disruption and frustration this caused.

We also regret that the initial transport provided was not suitable for your group size and lacked functioning air-conditioning. While a larger coach was arranged following your feedback, we understand that having to escalate the issue during your holiday was far from ideal.

Regarding the accommodation in Ella, we’re sorry it did not meet the Premium standard we aim to deliver. While the property has previously received positive feedback, we are now closely monitoring future reviews and have contacted the hotel management to ensure improvements are made.

We deeply regret that your experience did not reflect the quality and care we strive to provide. Your feedback is invaluable and has prompted serious internal discussions about our partnerships and processes in Sri Lanka. Thank you again for helping us improve.

Magical Mexico

This is a wonderful trip that covers a lot of different aspects of Mexican history and culture.

An Unforgettable Journey with an Exceptional Guide

Our holiday in Andalucía was unforgettable, thanks in large part to our outstanding guide, Mike. His deep knowledge of the region’s history, agriculture, and wildlife brought every walk to life. He introduced us to native birds, local traditions, and the warmth of village life, with his fluent Spanish making each interaction effortless. From scenic trails to shared moments over sherry, Mike’s enthusiasm and expertise made the experience truly special. More than just a guide, he created a journey filled with discovery, connection, and adventure. Thanks to him, this was not just a walking holiday, but a deeper cultural experience.

A most memorable and inspirational two weeks.

Our Exodus Discover Costa Rica trip has been such a memorable tour. So much bird and animal life to see. We deliberately opted for a small group of 16 people so we would not miss a thing. We also chose a wildlife and birdwatching expert Guide. Staying for two nights at each location, in different climates (rain forest, mountainous etc) gave a great insight into this beautiful country of Costa Rica.

Amazing Trip

This was an amazing trip which covered a real mixture of activities and sights. The trip was well paced with journeys in between not too long. I was impressed with the hotel rooms and only had issues with one hotel where the food and service was a bit lacking but not a major issue. Basically this is a beautiful country with lovely people. Even the traffic flows at a nice pace. Book this trip and you won’t be disappointed. A big plus was we had a brilliant group of 16 people.

Beckham Review

I had a great time on the 14-day trip. Even though I got deathly sick once, it was a truly wonderful trip!

Great way to experience beautiful Vietnam

We have just returned from this amazing trip. Vietnam certainly lived up to and possibly exceeded our expectations. Vietnam is such a beautiful country – a true feast for the senses, so vibrant and joyful. The Vietnamese people are truly warm, friendly and engaging.
The cycling landscape was very varied through some busy towns, quiet villages, breathtaking scenery and alongside endless rice fields.
The organisation of this trip was truly remarkable thanks to the professional skills of our group leader Son. He absolutely is the best group leader we have ever met on our trips.
Unfortunately, I had an accident half way through the holiday but I have nothing but praise for our wonderful leader Son. He showed such professionalism alongside care, support and empathy, as did all the support team – Lee the mechanic, Tee and Saow our driver. I could not fault any of the team and I felt so lucky to have the love and support of the group members.
The accident did not ruin my trip. I feel so blessed to have seen so much of this beautiful country.

Our hotel rooms were fantastic with available conditioning and a swimming pool available in most of them .
Whale Island was beautiful. The overnight train was an interesting experience and Halong Bay at the end was beautiful.

Great way to experience beautiful Vietnam

We have just returned from this amazing trip. Vietnam certainly lived up to and possibly exceeded our expectations. Vietnam is such a beautiful country – a true feast for the senses, so vibrant and joyful. The Vietnamese people are truly warm, friendly and engaging.
The cycling landscape was very varied through some busy towns, quiet villages, breathtaking scenery and alongside endless rice fields.
The organisation of this trip was truly remarkable thanks to the professional skills of our group leader Son. He absolutely is the best group leader we have ever met on our trips.
Unfortunately, I had an accident half way through the holiday but I have nothing but praise for our wonderful leader Son. He showed such professionalism alongside care, support and empathy, as did all the support team – Lee the mechanic, Tee and Saow our driver. I could not fault any of the team and I felt so lucky to have the love and support of the group members.
The accident did not ruin my trip. I feel so blessed to have seen so much of this beautiful country.

Our hotel rooms were fantastic with available conditioning and a swimming pool available in most of them .
Whale Island was beautiful. The overnight train was an interesting experience and Halong Bay at the end was beautiful.

Excellent but title is probably a misnomer

I’ll try not to be too gushing about my praise of this but it was a truly excellent trip; at the end we felt like starting again. Exodus at its best, it’s all about the bits in-between not the usual tourist sights, though you do see those. Most of the time you are staying in hotels used by other tour groups and you do feel sorry for them being shunted from temple to city to viewpoint in a coach, all looking bored. They do not pass through villages where locals wash themselves and their clothing in rivers or see the smiles which greeted us, gaudily clad aliens in Lyra.
Thought the accommodation was the best I’ve ever had on one of these expeditions.

Recommend Belize Reef & Ruins

Joined a group of six, delightful Brits and our extremely capable, watchful and kind guide Jorge for our adventure in Belize. Culturally this was a tour that gave us daily opportunities to enjoy and experience Belizian and Guatamalean history, Mayan civilization , natural beauty and current social/political/environmental environments. Our trip was 1/19-1/30. Just about perfect amount of time to explore with 3 home bases that lent well to the itinerary and our comfort. As a fit 69 and 78 year old couple we found the daily pace comfortable. Though speaking of comfort know that the daily transportation, across pot hole filled roads, is a 10 passenger van which is ok if you are slight of build but if you are over weight or taller than 5′ 9″ you will not be comfortable on the 2 to 3 hour drives.

Climate Change – its here and its real both in the USA and Belize. Our trip was 1/19-1/30/25 and we had a lot of rain. Ones experience is best if you have packed for that wet weather and we did. Disappointed with lack of waste water treatment facilities at Caye Caulker. Several times during our visit we heard local references to the use of the Caribbean as one huge toilet. Snorkeling revealed strain on the coral.

Due to flooding at Birds Eye View Lodge was closed to our group and instead we had accommodations at the Black Orchid which was lovely. Cahal Pech Location atop a hill overlooking San Ignacio makes for fantastic views. Walks to town never happened due to all day downpour on our free day.