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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14518 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Judy Lindner-McCluskey

Reviewed July 2016

A Week in Jordan

For years I had wanted to experience Petra. This trip turned out to be about more than just Petra–it showcased Jordan–and in the process exceeded all expectations. Two days at Petra was a wonderful way to experience the site–mile after mile of hiking as the adventure unfolded, we learned about the history and people of the area. We had dinner in the home of a local family where we learned about the muslim religion and way of life. We got to experience a hammam, we enjoyed the luminaria evening at Petra complete with poetry and music. Unforgettable!
We got to experience the beauty of the desert in Wadi Rum and stay overnight in a beouin camp at full moon. The next morning, a camel ride at sunrise was magnificent and unforgettable.
Snorkeling in the Red Sea–couldn’t get enough of it. Swimming in the Dead Sea and taking the “mud cure”. Great experience and hilarious to be plastered with black mud. Bye bye wrinkles! Amman and Jerash–such a rich experience –the hisory, the local color, the wonderful people. A special surprise for me was a birthday cake and celebration–It was wonderful and never to be forgotten, thoughtful and much appreciated! There was so much going on–the pace was just right. We saw as much as could comfortable be fitted into the time we were together.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved the birthday surprise. I loved the horseback ride and the camel ride. I loved the"aha" moments that were constantly occurring.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sami was excellent. He was extremely knowledgable, professional, intuitive, experienced and capable. I trusted him and felt safe. He was committed to us having the best experience possible. We loved meeting his daughters.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Expand your horizons. Experience your planet. Live in the moment. Learn thru new experiences and enjoy the inner and outer journey.

Carl McCluskey

Reviewed July 2016

Jordan - Where the People are Polite and Friendly

Eight unforgettable days in Jordan. Amman an the Citadel and Roman Amphitheater, Jeresh, ancient Roman City, the next World Heritage site. A swim in the Dead Sea with mudpack. Petra three nights and two days. Going to the high, mostly unvisited, places, in Petra. Wadi Rum – take me to the desert. Camel ride at sunrise. The Seven Pillars of Wisdom – Lawrence of Arabia. Aqaba and snorkeling in the Red Sea. Great tour leader, Sami. Great hotels. Great restaurants and food.

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing to the monastery, then continuing on to the best view in Jordan. Where Ghost played and sang a vey old song on his ud.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Sami has a PHD. He knows his facts. Sami told us of his land, history, and people in a very delightful, insightful, way. We got to meet some of his family, two of his girls. Being a tour leader is a challenge, it's like herding cats. Sami was a master at getting us involved. I will never forget my time with him in Jordan.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take it in, open your mind, an stretch your comfort zone -- doing so makes you the most alive in this world. Jordan did this for me.

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!

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