Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The hot-air balloon ride over Cappadocia at sunrise was absolutely breathtaking — seeing the fairy chimneys and valleys from above felt surreal. Later that day, Ilhan took us to a completely off-the-beaten-track spot where we could see the formations up close, with no one else around. Standing right beside them and learning how they were naturally created made the experience even more phenomenal.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ilhan was amazing — incredibly knowledgeable, passionate, and organized. He made every site meaningful and consistently took us to special spots throughout the tour that we never would have found on our own. The highlight was him guiding us to that hidden viewpoint in Cappadocia to experience the fairy chimneys up close. His insight and expertise genuinely elevated the entire trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for plenty of walking through ruins, valleys, and historic sites — you really get to see a lot of Turkey. Bringing a podcast, book, or playlist for the longer drives makes travel days much smoother.

Most Inspirational Moment

Caminto del Rey.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michael

Most Inspirational Moment

How to choose? The first two walks which featured incredible sea views were hard to beat, but the sunrise from the peak of Pico Areiero may have topped them. Quite magical.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Paulo was terrific. He did a great job briefing us at the outset, and before the next day's hike, making sure that we had realistic expectations. He set up a WhatsApp group to share information and photos, and provided us with restaurant recommendations for the nights when we weren't eating at the hotel. He shared interesting information throughout each hike, and made sure that everyone was doing well.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring hiking poles, and be prepared for the challenges of the trip. Exodus does a good job of describing what the hikes involve; pay attention so that you make sure you're choosing the right trip for you. So long as you're relatively fit, you'll love this. Also, I was surprised that some reviewers complained about having to buy lunches from local supermarkets for their hikes. Really, that was no problem at all. We stopped at a local supermarket each morning as we set out - sometimes there were prepared sandwiches that you could purchase, sometimes not - but it was easy to pick up some fruit, power bars, trail mix and cheese that was perfect for hiking (you could get sliced meats and buns, too, if you wanted). Final tip: on your free day in Funchal, be sure to take the cable car to the top and tour the beautiful Tropical Gardens, then take the "toboggan" (wicker sleigh) ride down - it's unique to Madeira and good fun.

Most Inspirational Moment

It was all amazing. A fantastic tour! We got to see so many parts of the country. Very unique and diversified. Dromedaries, Desert, Hamman, Atlas Mountains, Seeing Villages, Listening to local Musicians, Madenas!! Food was incredible! Hearing the call to prayer was a unique experience. Perfect itinerary. We also did a balloon ride on our free day. It was beyond anything we could have imagined.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was beyond EXCELLENT! AMAZING!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring something for diarrhea as many of the group had problems with this issue.

Most Inspirational Moment

The hike in El Chorro gorge on the Caminito del Rey and walking through El Real Alcazaba, the royal palace, in Seville (tickets many in our group bought on their own for our day in Seville.)

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was excellent -- well organized and incredibly knowledgeable about everything -- plants, farming, geology, birds, animals, and human history.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You definitely need to be fit to do this trip. Be prepared for some challenging uphill stretches, fortunately not continuous. Since Exodus ranks hikes 1 through 7 not 1 through 5 I'd say that there are some parts of the hikes that are 3's not just 2's.

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole trip was one inspiring moment after the other, so hard to have a highlight. A varied well paced tour with lots of different activities - but optional extras could be declined if so wished by any traveller, allowing you to tailor your trip to your preferences.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Amer , couldn't have been better. His passion and love for his country shone through as he shared his stories and history about all of the sites we visited. He integrated into the group so well, putting a bunch of strangers at their ease and facilitating the group's cohesion. I particularly liked that he would share his knowledge and insight of a place and then allow us to explore in our own time - so you could do something at your pace and choice without feeling you were on a school outing. He encouraged us to remember our fellow travelers and that each of us would want different things and go at different paces. I cannot recommend him more highly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would encourage a visitor to arrive a day early to enjoy wandering round the markets in Amman (hotel well placed in downtown for this). If you are debating whether to go or not - do book - you won't regret it! Don't pack binoculars - they will hold up your luggage, may be confiscated or held by hotel whist you stay. More hassle then its worth

Most Inspirational Moment

Sailing for a day and a night through the breathtaking vistas of Ha Long Bay in a luxurious boat exclusive to our group, like a private yacht!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Huy Nguyen was a knowledgeable, engaging and highly efficient guide and organiser, who brought the places we visited to life, but on top of that he added a very special personal touch, in that he was alert to the needs of every individual in the group and went out of his way to respond positively to the specific requirements of individuals and to reassure individuals who were worried.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for very hot weather and (when we were there in November): very heavy rain

Most Inspirational Moment

The DMZ visit was incredibly powerful and gave real perspective on Korea’s history. The Haeinsa Temple stay was a standout — peaceful, authentic, and something I’ll never forget. I also loved the Seoraksan National Park hike, with gorgeous views and a nice balance of challenge and relaxation. Busan was another favourite spot with its fun, coastal vibe and great food.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Michelle was absolutely brilliant. She made everything run smoothly, always had interesting stories to share, and really brought the places to life. You could tell she cared about everyone having the best experience possible. Her energy, humour, and local knowledge made a huge difference - we were so lucky to have her!

Advice for Potential Travellers

A fantastic trip packed with variety, great food, beautiful places and an awesome guide. I’d recommend it to anyone wanting a real taste of South Korea. My advice: bring comfy shoes, try every bit of street food you can, and add an extra day in Seoul or Busan to explore at your own pace.

Most Inspirational Moment

Touring the streets of Porto was an experience we'll never forget. The colourful tiled buildings, the rhythm of daily life along the Douro River, and the sampling of roasted chestnuts from local stands created a magical atmosphere. We loved watching the city come alive at sunset.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our tour leader, Carla, was the heart of the trip. Her professionalism, enthusiasm, and deep knowledge of Portugal’s culture and history made every stop come alive. She was organized, adaptable, and always attentive to everyone’s needs—ensuring we were safe, included, and having fun. By the end, our group felt more like a circle of friends than fellow travellers.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you’re considering Portugal with Exodus, don’t hesitate! Bring comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and good rain gear, especially in autumn. With an open mind and Carla’s expert guidance, you’ll enjoy an incredible journey filled with warmth, discovery, and lasting memories.

Most Inspirational Moment

Bataille monastery

Thoughts on Group Leader

First class. Very caring and knowledgeable, and thought of great money saving dodges

Advice for Potential Travellers

Footwear should have large tread as pavements can be slippery