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.

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14493 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Steve Johnson

Reviewed July 2016

Alaska - Endless Landscape

An amazing holiday to a stunning, unspoiled and primal part of the world. The itinerary is activity-packed but never really feels forced: there is plenty of time to take in the changing landscapes and animals that you meet each day. Not a trip for someone who doesn’t like glaciers, mountains, breathtaking scenery and wildlife living our their lives as Nature intended.

Most Inspirational Moment

Not easy to say as I got something out of everyday. But the flight up to the glacier at the foot on Mt. Denali on a de Havilland Beaver will stay with me for a long thing as was the memory of camping right beside the roaring Copper River and then wandering up to the lost-in-time town of McCarthy for a drink with fellow thirsy group members.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Vicky was simply excellent. Her love of Alaska was obvious and genuine. She organised everything and kept us in check. And she knew some great bars!

Advice for Potential Travellers

The weather was great on my trip - warm and sunny apart from a couple of days. If it had rained most days then I'm pretty sure the camping would have been challenging. So be prepared: take plenty of waterproofs, etc. As others have said, some campsites are pretty primeval and so be prepared for days when you can't wash and where the trip to the toilet can feel like a trek. The mosquitoes are pretty nasty: they usually don't like me but I got bitten everywhere (seemingly through my clothes!) Alaska is expensive - apparently much more expensive than most of the USA. One or two walks were challenging and if I had appreciated that I would have got myself a bit fitter beforehand. Laundry and shower facilities are few and far between with no change machines nearby: so collect as many quarters as you through the trip. You might also want to pack a few non-bio laundry detergent capsules. In June it never got dark so you might want to think about a sleep mask (and ear-plugs if there are heavy snorers in the group!)

Paul Appleby

Reviewed July 2016

Great walks on the Great Wall

It is a myth that you can see the Great Wall of China from space. But close up it is an amazing structure, with a fascinating history. This walk took us to parts of the Wall that other tourists never reach. And with a guide who brought Chinese history and culture to life. It is a strenuous walk, with lots of steep ups and downs – I lost count of the number of times we encountered “the thousand steps” or “the stairway to heaven” – but it is well worth the effort.

Most Inspirational Moment

There was a moment on the third day of trekking when I looked around and realised that all I could see in any direction was uninhabited wooded hills, with the Great Wall snaking through the landscape from one horizon to the other. And we had this breath-taking, awesome view to ourselves.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Could not have wished for a better group leader than Jerry Wu. He kept us safe and together through some pretty wild terrain - we were his "sticky rice dumpling". He shared his considerable knowledge of Chinese history,culture and language with us with passion and good humour. And we enjoyed excellent food, drinks and accommodation which all just appeared effortlessly - no doubt thanks to Jerry's efforts behind the scenes. (Jerry is his chosen English name; on the last night he revealed his Chinese name and why he doesn't tell groups that name on day 1 - a story which had us all in stitches. If you ever get to meet him, do ask!)

Advice for Potential Travellers

You do need to be prepared for some physically challenging sections, scrambling up or down steep and uneven slopes. I took trekking poles and was very glad of the extra support. If you are afraid of heights some sections will be uncomfortable. But our group of mixed ages and abilities - from students to retirees, from occasional day hikers to multiple marathon runners - all managed the walk. The only real problem was the heat and humidity - if that bothers you don't do this walk in July!

Ivan Pinto

Reviewed July 2016

Kenya & Tanzania Adventure

A great introduction to the wildlife of East Africa, there is nothing quite like the excitement of animal/bird spotting that is an integral part of this tour. Camping allowed one to feel close to nature and was even better as few had other campers close by. Kip and his team were superb hosts keeping us informed of local life, both human and animal, while ensuring we were well fed. On the cultural side we visited a Masai village in the Serengeti and had guided tour of a typical local market in Musoma.

Most Inspirational Moment

We were very lucky to witness the wildebeest and zebra migration crossing of the Mara River. The sheer number of wildebeest in the area was almost biblical.

Thoughts on Group Leader

There was a real rapport between Kip and his team and they could not have done more to ensure everyone had a good time. They set up camp as soon as we arrived and the meals were varied, wholesome and most importantly tasty (thanks Albert)! Everything seemed to work like clockwork, a sign of the hard work that goes on in the background.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for some early starts and the odd long drive, but it's all worth it. On occasion the poor road surface could result in an 'African massage'! In terms of camping the mattress provided was very comfy (~2in thick foam). The occasional campsite does not have hot water, however, a cold shower after a hot dusty day was refreshing! Ngorongoro was cold (we travelled in July) so warm clothing is a must.

Stephen Harford

Reviewed July 2016

A short trip but very enjoyable

We went on this holiday principally to see Jaguar, Giant Anteater, Giant River Otter, Tapir and Hyacinth Macaws. We opted for a short trip combining a boat hotel and and land-based lodge. We had been with Exodus previously and felt they would do a good job. Food at both venues was very well prepared although a little monotonous at times. Travel arrangements were very good.

Most Inspirational Moment

We saw 7 Jaguars on the river including a pregnant female and a lover's tiff between a young female and adult male. Saw giant river otters a number of times and while we only saw giant anteater and tapir once both were superbly close and long viewings. Our main interest is usually birds and these didn't disappoint with good views of various macaws, parrot, herons and some noteworthy viewings of sunbittern at Araras Lodge.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Tony, was very helpful and knowledgeable and he would always try to meet everyone's requirements. Originally from Guyana clearly his English was very good. In addition the guides at the Jaguar Boat and the Lodge were also very helpful, particularly Paulo on the Jaguar Boat day trip craft whose ability to spot wildlife at a distance was quite remarkable. The drivers transporting us between venues were also very courteous, safe and helpful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It may not be appropriate for all trips but when we were there was a surprising cold wind particularly when out on the river in the early morning. If you have room in your luggage it would be worth taking some warmer clothing just in case.

Polly Evernden

Reviewed July 2016

Lovely walking and bears

We had an excellent trip with very enjoyable walks through beautiful countryside. The hotel and food were great.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing bear cubs from the hide and being surrounded by wild flower meadows on walks.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Udo was good fun and very knowledgeable.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Perhaps take some snacks for walks if you want more than just sandwiches

Debbie Carter

Reviewed July 2016

Walking the Amalfi coast

Brilliant holiday – great walks, lovely hotel, excellent group.

Most Inspirational Moment

My first mountain!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Emily was utterly amazing, could not have asked for a better leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take your flip flops, beaches are stony.

alexander mcneilly

Reviewed July 2016

Novice camper and walker does the Tour du Mont Blanc

In the process of booking to go to Costa Rica with Exodus ( staying in hotels) my wife saw this itinerary in the brochure. Somehow despite the fact camping is not our thing at all we booked the camping version. I think neither of us wanted to show the other that we couldn’t hack it. After the first couple of days of adjustment (it rained heavily, tired after the first walks, communal wash block etc.) we both really got into the trip. Are we glad we booked this trip? Absolutely! It was out of our comfort zone and we enjoyed it all the more for that. The camaraderie with our fellow campers was excellent. The group leader and also our base camp chef and logistics expert were enthusiastic, engaging and fun. 5 stars from us

Most Inspirational Moment

Personally getting up a 500m ascent in under 55 minutes ( OK I admit I stuck with one of the veteran walkers to help keep me going) and walking in snow and snow flurries. Flowers, views, snow, a decent coffee in Courmayeur! Saying good bye to the group at the airport was surprisingly emotional and it made you realise that actually we had completed this challenge together.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Catered to every ability. Knowledgeable about the geography, flora, fauna and history of Mont Blanc. Spent time teaching us how to walk uphill, downhill and across snow in an efficient manner. Felt that he genuinely wanted to share his passion for the mountains and it wasn't just a job. Our Base camp leader was excellent providing good camp food and plenty of it. They made a good team.

Advice for Potential Travellers

My wife and I are over 55 and relatively fit but we didn't follow the recommendation to prepare for the trip by walking at home. We managed but the first couple of days were long. If you are not fit you do need to get in your walking boots and walk at home if nothing else to avoid the risk of blisters on the actual trip.

Sunita Patel

Reviewed July 2016

Wonderful first cycling holiday

This was my first cycling holiday so I was not sure what to expect. Since the trip is rated Moderate I thought it may be challenging as I have not done much cycling before and only bought a bike a month ago. At times it was a bit tough with windy conditions and since I wanted to stop and take photos to make it easier for myself Michele arranged for me to get an E-bike on the second day. This made a huge difference especially for the hills and I didn’t have any worries anymore.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved the last 2 days, very flat and easy leading to the highlight was of exploring Venice, a city I've never been to but always wanted to visit.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michele is an excellent tour leader and took care of the group and made sure that everyone had a good time.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Get an E-bike!

Jonna K

Reviewed July 2016

AMAZING TIME walking the Amalfi Coast!

When you miss the group, the leader, the hotel and the views the moment you leave…you know you had an AMAZING time!! And that is exactly what sums up my Amalfi Coast Walking holiday. I don’t even know where to begin to describe it all because no words could really describe how ABSOLUTELY AMAZING and BRILLIANT the whole trip was! Each day was filled with so many wonderful and memorable moments and experiences, breathtaking views and a lot of laughs and a really good time. The whole trip really topped all my expectations, it absolutely blew my mind, it was THAT excellent! The views during the hikes were out of this world, we learned so much about the history and culture, and I loved the dinners each night with the group and with our excellent guide, Severio! There were so many great conversations and laughs and it was just amazing! The hotel was great and the whole hotel staff really went out of their way to make sure everything was perfect! All of the staff were SO NICE and almost treated us like family! The food was A-M-A-Z-I-N-G! There was SO MUCH to eat and everything was ABSOLUTELY DELICIOUS!! Not only did each dish look amazing, they tasted SO GOOD too! I really can only praise Severio and the hotel staff as well as our guides in Pompeii and Vesuvius. Everyone did an EXCELLENT job!! I could’ve stayed another week!

Most Inspirational Moment

I can't really pick one moment because the whole trip really was one big inspirational moment. The Tre Calli hike and the views from up there were amazing, Vesuvius was brilliant, but so were all the other hikes. We hiked in pouring rain during our last day and even that was fun because our group spirit was so high! And like I mentioned earlier, we had such a good time during every dinner, so many nice conversations, so many laughs...the live music night and everyone singing and dancing together was so brilliant, it really showed the team spirit...I just had a really wonderful time!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Severio was AWESOME!!! I can only praise him!! He paced the hikes really well, there was always a chance to take a break and drink some water (it was around 35 Celsius outside every day so it got really hot and it was crucial that everyone drank enough fluids, so Severio made sure everyone drank enough and reminded us to have some water) and there were also enough bathroom breaks along the way. Severio really took an excellent care of us and always made sure everyone was fine and that no one got lost. He kept counting us to make sure everyone was there so that no one gets left behind or goes the wrong way. Also, on the last day when it was raining really bad he changed the schedule around a bit so that we all still had a great time and got to see the sights but at the same time were safe and didn't take any unnecessary risks due to the rain and possible thunderstorm so that no one would get injured. I really appreciated that. It was nice to know you were in good hands and could trust your guide. Severio also told us a lot about the history and other interesting information and also always kept the group spirit high. It was great to have a real Italian as our guide to show us the "Italian way" and allow us to really get a glimpse of the Italian culture and to teach us a little bit of Italian and to answer any questions we had about Italian culture and customs!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Definitely make sure to get enough of uphill training before you go because especially the Tre Calli hike includes a LOT of uphill climbing for like 2 hours straight. It's not really an easy hike. Also the way down includes a lot of loose rocks and can get a bit tricky so make sure you have really good shoes and maybe hiking poles if you feel more secure with them. Also for Pompeii, if you're going during the summer, make sure you have LOTS of water with you, as well as a hat and also an umbrella, because it gets REALLY HOT and there is no shade so you will really appreciate the umbrella for the shade! Also I'd really encourage everyone to go with an open mind. Don't be afraid to try new things. Even if you normally wouldn't eat something, at least try everything! You get so much more out of the whole trip and really get to experience the culture! Also...be prepared to have a great time!! Remember that the trip is also part of what you make it yourself! Be open to new experiences and a fun time and you'll have the BEST vacation ever!!

JO Aplin

Reviewed July 2016

CYCLING on the Amalfi....a great challenge

11 of us arrived on Day 1 for what would be an amazing cycling tour, not easy for all, especially me…but lots of fun, and pinch me moments as we travelled through such a beautiful part of the world. Together with the scenery came the food….ITALIANs do food so well, and this Exodus trip did not fail to disappoint! We enjoyed a wonderful mix of traditional foods from a variety of restaurants with the most amazing views and people. Both Paulo and Raphael led our trip with professionalism and with humour and friendliness. Nothing was too much trouble. History lessons on the go interspersed with swimming in the ocean( which when the temps soared were much loved), Macciato coffees, and Saints days all added to the colour of Southern Italy. Yes the cycling was hard…but it was well worth it. Grazie to everybody concerned.

Most Inspirational Moment

Achieving the final day of riding...the longest day from Minori to Sorrento and back...luckily the temperatures had dropped.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Awesome leader Paulo, well assisted by mechanic, water boy and driver Rapha. He did a fantastic job, leading the group, who varied in cycling ability, but Paulo was able to make sure everybody was safe on the busy, roads of the Amalfi but still achieve their cycling goals. A great source of knowledge and history.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Accept the challenge, book the trip then train harder than you think you need! If you can find a 12km hill to train on all the better!

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