Most Inspirational Moment
Amazing whale watching trip with 3 different dolphin species plus sperm whales spotted. Absolute highlight was following a hump-backed whale on it's journey for about 15 minutes.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jorge was a knowledgeable, relaxed and very friendly guide. This was his first outing with Exodus and he managed the needs, expectations and capabilities of a group with age range from 20-70+ very well. He was willing and able to adapt the itinerary to suit the group's preferences.
Advice for Potential Travellers
May weather varied by the hour and with altitude - be prepared for anything and everything each day. Consider arriving a few days early and /or staying on longer as the 6 days of the trip pass very quickly. We went to the main island of Sao Jorge as well and would recommend it.
Suggestions
Flights did not work - we missed our onward connection to Pico due to late flight from Heathrow and did not get to Pico until Sunday lunchtime instead of Saturday afternoon. This meant the time we did have on Pico was rushed to catch up. Most of those who went back at the end of the group trip also missed the return flight in Lisbon. Walk on day 2 not suitable and needs changing (as both Adam and Emma already know as they were there). General point for Exodus to consider re your environmental credentials: It is standard practice for hotels to provide plastic bottles of water (and often small juice cartons too) with packed lunches. This happened on both this trip and our trip to Puglia and Matera in March 2023. Exodus clients all carry refillable water bottles as per your instructions. I gave my unwanted drinks back but once handed out it is easy for people to keep and drink them. Not good.