Reviews

Your Words – We tell it like it is! Holiday Reviews by previous Exodus travellers

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331 Reviews

4.8 out of 5

Harriet Woodcock

Reviewed March 2019

Everyday a highlight

We’d wanted to go to Costa Rica for some time and this holiday did not disappoint. In two weeks we saw amazing things on the coast, in the mountains, in the jungle and in the cloud forest. Our guide, Katia, was extremely knowledgeable and was excellent at spotting wildlife and explaining all about it. Indeed all the drivers and guides we encountered on the journey were excellent and also good at spotting wildlife. The accommodation was good all round including some great jungle lodges. We really felt that we ‘discovered costa rica’ and were really impressed with the whole holiday and the country.

Most Inspirational Moment

It's hard to pick the most inspirational moment of the trip as there were so many of them. Esquina lodge was special. It was a small lodge in the jungle and everywhere you looked there was wildlife. The afternoon we arrived we had a fantastic thunderstorm so we got to truly experience the rainforest. At night the jungle came alive with the sound of frogs and other wildlife. But we also were captivated by the sloths in the cloud forest, the monkeys at Manuel Antonio, the humming birds everywhere ( who knew there were so many varieties?), colourful toucans at Tortuguero, and of course the quetzal in Savegre Lodge.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent. Katia was so knowledgable about the wildlife and very patient with those of us who aren't natural 'birders' . She also gave us a great insight into the country with lots of information and stories to bring the history and politics to life. She was very personable and one of the best guides I've had on a holiday like this. A big shout out to Juan Jose our driver who was also good at spotting bird and kept the bus immaculately clean and tidy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a fab holiday with lots of opportunities to spot wildlife so book it now! The walks are undemanding compared to what we are used to doing, they use made paths or boardwalks and can easily be done in approach shoes or trainers. There are some steps and inclines and some of our companions found sticks useful but we didn't feel we needed them. All the lodges are designed to keep out bugs and beasties but occasionally some creep in (you are in the forest/jungle after all) so check your room before you go to sleep! The hotel staff are on hand to extract any unwanted creatures. Do try the coffee, it's excellent everywhere- non of this instant coffee stuff. There's lots of nice fish to eat fresh from the sea. You have to eat gallopinto at least once - I got quite addicted to it and will be cooking it at home. Only one downside and that was San Jose Airport. We waited three hours to get through customs on the way in so be prepared for a wait. We were told the average is around two hours.

Rosie Ritchie

Reviewed March 2019

Well worth visiting!

Lots of wonderful wildlife and plants, beautiful surroundings, great company and leader 🙂

Most Inspirational Moment

Staying at Tortoguero National Park was an education! We stayed at the lovely Laguna Lodge in comfy rooms within the grounds and within a few minutes walk of the Atlantic Ocean. Taking to the waterways to view wildlife was something I hadn't experienced before and I found it fascinating when the boat came to a stop so we could see birds, monkeys, iguanas and even orchids up close and personal.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hector really knows his stuff. And his love and knowledge of the wildlife, as well as the plants, really came through with everything he told and showed us. His patience in answering our questions was great and he is also resourceful. When we had bad weather on one occasion, he immediately found another activity for us, and he also had plenty of suggestions for good restaurants.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Remember to take mosquito repellent, suntan lotion, a swimsuit, and a waterproof.

Anne Booth

Reviewed March 2019

Costa Rica - fabulous

Discover Costa Rica really lived up to expectations

Wonderful wild life and plenty of time to see everything in detail

An incredibly varied country – difficult to do it justice in 16 days but this holiday gives an excellent insight into a wonderful holiday

Unhurried and relaxing holiday

Accommodation – food – wonderful

Costa Rica is very Eco friendly. It’s approach to living alongside wildlife is to be greatly admired and, indeed, the rest of the world should learn from Costa Rica approach

The guide (Héctor) was superb

Costa Ricans are fabulous people – warm and welcoming

Trip notes are accurate

However if travelling from Ecuador to Costa Rica it is necessary to have a Yellow Fever Certificate.

Most Inspirational Moment

Experiencing the birds, iguanas, monkeys from the boat in the lagoons. On a night walk in the jungle listening to the nightlife with the torch turned off - drinking in the noise of the frogs, insects etc. was magical. Swimming in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall surrounded by high cliffs and amazing forest vegetation Watching the humming birds.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hector was wonderful. Having been on several Exodus trips I can honestly say he was The Best. Knowledgeable - interested in the people on the trip. Eager to learn and Europe as well as imparting information to us. He had a great sense of humour He wanted me make out time in Costa Rica special and memorable and he succeeded

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take plenty of spending money. The meals out can be expensive. All the extra activities are great - do them ALL - but budget accordingly If travelling from countries other than the UK check the requirement for a Yellow Fever Certificate. This is required from travelling via Ecuador

Jackie Boot-Handford

Reviewed March 2019

I didn't want it to end..........

A superb trip, a lifetime experience

As the other 227 reviews have said, the beauty of the environment, landscapes, birds and animals you see, hear and experience is breathtaking. I won’t repeat the details again, but its all true!

Costa Rica has extraordinary biodiversity therefore ecotourism contributes a big chunk to the GDP, and so they do tourism very well. They know their market and hit it square on. This tour, in a short period of time provides experience of a range of ecosystems, a new environment every 2 days and each day reveals a whole new range of fabulous things.

While nature is the main draw to this trip, it also offers a great opportunity to learn about Costa Rica as a country.

Most Inspirational Moment

Varys day by day, really. For me it was the whole dynamic- you are taken to a range of wonderful places, with a group of great people, a super guide who you could ask about anything and who would give you an informed honest answer .......... maybe it was : the afternoon sitting watching humming birds and toucans, or the time on the water at Tortuguero or the sloths/armadillo/bats/agouti/coati/howlers snoozing by the road maybe San Jose and the sculptures maybe singing sea shanties with the group in the bar ask me tomorrow and it will be a different list - a lot happens in 2 weeks

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mayer Jiménez is an excellent leader- he will definitely get my vote for best leader this year I have the impression that the quality of leaders is high. They take a 5 year tourism degree covering the whole range of information visitors may want, not just around the animals, birds and environment but all aspects of Costa Rica including socioeconomic, sources of energy, you name it . The quality of knowledge and information he seemed to be able to supply and skill in knowing just how much was wanted was great. His ability to spot animals and birds was extraordinary, however this links to one of the things I particularly liked- he seemed to love doing it and his interest and enthusiasm was infectious. So a clever guy, highly trained very experienced, well organised and smart at handling the group. His happy place seemed to be with a pair of binoculars around his neck but he had great people skills too.

Advice for Potential Travellers

1) Packing-Pack light Remember you will pack and unpack 6 times plus the guys loading the bags do so by hoiking up on to their shoulder then through the back window. They don't bat an eye but I couldn't watch knowing the weight of mine! I didn't need my heavy walking boots, or camel back. You do however need walking shoes & sandals with GRIP. Most surfaces have loose surface I'd consider getting one of the adapters you can attach to your camera then take pics through the guides scope Load up a Costa Rica animal app- they are very good 2) Places San Jose Don't just see San Jose as a place to stay post and pre flight. It is a very interesting city. I loved the sculptures in the parks. We were lucky to be there when Jorge Jiménez Deredia was exhibiting which was fabulous. Visit the Cathedral, National Museum of Costa Rica, MADC and Pre-Columbian Gold Museum. If I had another day I'd have done the Jade museum and Museum of Costa Rican Art ............and more cake shops and cafes La Fortuna/ Arenal -10 min walk into town- great icecream shops mmmmmmmmmm! Supermarkets reasonably priced Santa Elena- Beso coffee shop for great coffee and lovely bakery products at other end of the high street. You may be taken to the very pleasant tree house but try to push outside of comfort zone and go elsewhere (Amys was good pm but all of them look pretty sound) . Supermarket here is reasonable and I wish I had bought more in the tourist shop ( I got a mug for $6 here which was $16 in duty free/ airport. In evening, go into town to a restaurant- give the bus driver night off and get a cab back- only $6 and gives you freedom to do as you want. Use official cabs- red with yellow triangle . The views in mountains en route from Santa Elena to Manuel Antonio are so wonderful............then suddenly from nowhere you crash back to reality, urbanization, palm oil plantations and Manuel Antonio- about 15 shops/ overpriced supermarkets and a couple of average restaurants. However........there are nice places Mayer took us to an amazing restaurant next to a bar with a real aircraft in it. Great for sundown. There is also a nice restaurant near the hotel ( ask at reception). The pool is small but nice to chill out by- but watch the cheeky whitefaced monkeys- they will pinch your things. You can also see squirrel monkeys near the hotel.

Helen West

Reviewed March 2019

Discover Costa Rica

My recent trip to Discover Costa Rica was absolutely amazing – I certainly ‘Died and went to Heaven – as I was in Heaven’, the trip ran so smoothly, perfect in fact – the transfers, accommodation, boat trips, wildlife and birdlife were in abundance. Our tour guide Mayer was simply Perfect No1, who know everything we asked and had an excellent sense of humour.
I really cannot fault this holiday at all – simply perfect.
I want to do it all again if I could. I have worked in hospitality for around 7 years but have never experienced such a well organised trip.
Well Done and thank you so much Exodus, I will certainly be booking my trip with you next year, perhaps seeing the Jaguar in Brazil!
Helen West

Most Inspirational Moment

Sitting under the tree watching a Mother Sloth with her baby, eating leaves. She was on the beach then walked back along an electric line to the rainforest - truly memorable. Toucans at Esquinas Lodge and Tortugera NP were also amazing to watch.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mayer was No1 Tour Guide he answered everything so well, and had a great sense of humour. Never got stressed, very patient and accommodating.

Advice for Potential Travellers

You won't have any regrets going on this trip, you have to go and see for yourself how amazing this place really is. With 2% biodiversity of the World..... and heading for carbon neutral and recycling.

(Edna) Pat Alette

Reviewed March 2019

What does this mean?

An excellent trip covering a variety of different locations enabling us to get a feel for the country and especially for its wildlife.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing 5 male and 1 female quetzals together

Thoughts on Group Leader

Johnny Villalobos was absolutely excellent. His ability to see creatures hidden in trees or a long distance away was exceptional and his knowledge of the wildlife was phenomenal.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go for it

Paula Cooke

Reviewed March 2019

A superb trip

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed this introduction to Costa Rica.
The group of sixteen bonded well. ( ages 40+ – 70+ years)

Most Inspirational Moment

The abundance of wildlife is amazing. The sight of many Spider monkeys swinging and then jumping above us to cross the river from over hanging trees was so thrilling. ( What an incredible birthday gift!) Finding two and three toed sloths and even patiently waiting to observe them moving along trees or even crossing a road along a wire! Seeing several sightings of the resplendent Quetzal - and especially coming across a ‘pre selection ritual’ with 4 males and 1 female amoungst the trees. We also saw many beautiful humming birds. Too many to list all of the incredible moments.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The leader Johny was phenomenal. His passion, enthusiasm and knowledge of the wildlife, ecology and his country was infectious. He was patient, kind and fun. Johny is a real ambassador for his country, full of respect for creatures, environment and people.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for some quite steep climbs ( at heights of 3000 metres above sea level) although it says level 1 some of the members of our group found it challenging, even though all were fit. Take enough layers for wearing at high altitude - it is cold up there even if it doesn’t rain. Also prepare for incredible heat and humidity at the low levels, the sea and waterfall swims are very welcome. Staying in the midst of the jungle in the small wooden lodges was perfect, and the jungle tends to be noisy all night. ( Ear plugs may be handy for some)

Jenny Knott

Reviewed February 2019

Discover Costa Rica

An amazing country with such diversity. Each location has it’s own appeal. The Pacific and Caribbean coastlines, and the interior rain and cloud forests all have their own beauty, wild life and scenery. 16 is a good group size, and our new friends and brilliant tour leader- Glenda, made it a very special holiday. The lodges are comfortable and each is perfectly located for the adventures ahead, most have beautiful gardens. Usually basic lodge facilities, not always a hairdryer. Swimming pool in several locations , great to cool off! We were lucky with the weather though sudden rain showers need to be considered- best to pack waterproofs or cape. Concerned before we left about temperatures in February. Mainly between 26deg and 32, but Monteverde and Savergre cooler early morning and evening and a fleece useful. We did a 5.30am walk in Savergre (2100 metres) to see the elusive resplendent quetzal and was the only time l felt cold! There is an emphasis on the trip to see all the beautiful birds, though we were also delighted to see slouths, iguanas, lizards, camens, monkeys etc. The itinerary was much fuller than listed, with our guide adding extra walks and finding interesting places for us to stop. Although San José has little to offer, we appreciated going a day earlier to acclimatise and see the town- excellent restaurant with Costa Rican specialities 10 minutes walk from hotel- Nuestra Tierra. Also consider flying from a local airport via Skipol (Amsterdam) if you don’t live near Gatwick. It worked out cheaper and more convenient for us when considering hotel and car parking in Gatwick.

Most Inspirational Moment

We were inspired by the beauty of the country. It’s lushness and biodiversity. Our great guide Glenda was so passionate about her country she made all our areas visited inspiring for their individual charm. The waterways of Tortuguero were fascinating, and we particularly liked the cloud forest in Monteverde. The colourful birds in Savergre were stunning especially the toucan that sat on a branch within a few metres of us having our lunch in Savergre Hotel and enjoyed the attention! We enjoyed zip wiring through and over the tree canopy in Monteverde, organised from the hotel. 3kms of zip wires, 9 zips including across a valley over the lodges. Never thought l would have the courage, but felt safe and thrilled l did it. We enjoyed the night walk at Piedras Blanca organised through the hotel, frogs, snakes, tarantula etc. Our visit to a typical Costa Rican home for traditional fayre on our last day gave an enjoyable insight into the lifestyle of this country.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Glenda was the best group leader we have ever encountered. Her knowledge was extensive on all aspects of Costa Rica. She was extremely well organised and made sure we all had a brilliant holiday. She was sensitive to our individual needs, as well as keeping the group happy. She went beyond what was expected of her to ensure we filled our holiday with many memorable encounters. Her energy and enthusiasm never faltered , and her passion for Costa Rica was inspiring. Her warm and friendly personality, together with a good sense of humour made her the perfect host. Thanks also to Louis, our excellent driver, who kept us all safe and was happy to transport us around additional to the itinerary .

Advice for Potential Travellers

The Presidents Hotel in San José had a good rate of exchange, so we took dollars and changed some at hotel, then used credit cards as much as possible. Often best in markets, shops etc to pay in Colons as dollar price worked out more expensive. Check your universal adaptor is suitable for Costa Rican sockets as several of us caught out (American style) . No plugs in sinks, could take a universal plug. Expect some early starts but not so bad if you only adjust your body clocks by 3hours! A good camera and binoculars are very useful. Personally get attacked by nats/mosquitos. Advised to take antihistamine tablets by pharmacist from two days before travel, also used deet repellant. Possibility of getting bitten in all locations but not such a problem as anticipated.

Cliff Dean

Reviewed February 2019

"Oh my goodness! You're never gonna believe this !!"

A smoothly running trip, comfortable hotels & lodges, giving a great sens of this country’s natural riches,
transformed into something exceptional by a gifted tour leader.

Most Inspirational Moment

(Many moments) Soundscapes: At home I instantly and unconsciously recognise every bird call whereas in CR I was back to being a complete beginner, unable even to guess what kind of bird was making each sound. With Glenda's help I was able by the end of the trip, to differentiate quite a few, enriching the experience. Favourite songs: Montezuma Oropendula & Black-faced Solitaire. The various nocturnal choruses of frogs and crickets were astounding, sometimes synchronizing to a pulse like some ambient electronica, at other times more like a warehouse full of misfunctioning radios & striplights. Frogs that sounded like Space Invaders or little carpenters hammering boxes... I forgot the Howler Monkeys at dawn... The unexpected: Scarlet Macaws suddenly appearing when I thought we had little chance of seeing them. Flocks of unexplained nighthawks passing over the coast one evening; another invisibly camouflaged on its next just beside a busy path. A Masked Falcon gleefully cackling as it carried a snake to its perch.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Brilliant: Glanda Araya is a great asset. Smartly turned out, punctual, well-prepared, efficient, conscientious, attentive to the needs of tour participants. Subject knowledge excellent, but communicated with heartfelt enthusiasm, hence my title. Glenda's excitement at the amazing things we saw and heard was authentic and infectious. Her social skills were excellent: cheerful, humorous, with the ability to make relationships seem personal as well as professional. She & driver Luis seemed like old mates so I was amazed to find they'd never met before this trip! She was friendly with and respectful towards hotel personnel. I benefited greatly from her enthusiasm for bird-watching & she often went out of her way to show me things or just spend extra time looking for birds. The great majority of nature guides are male, and there were occasions when some of them seemed less respectful of Glenda because she's a (small) woman. I feel though that she is a shining example to which other female guides could aspire. I hope and expect that Exodus actively compensate for gender imbalances in the companies they deal with but there are some structural impediments to this, one of which is companies' preference for guide & driver to share a room. In order to pursue an inclusive policy I would expect companies to absorb the extra expense of separate accommodation in the case of female tour leaders. Another approach would be to employ female drivers.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the trip notes. Not all had understood that a "wildlife" tour might involve stopping to look at wildlife. They imagined it as a hiking holiday and got restless. This was not a big problem, and was solved quite easily thanks to the leader's flexibility. Only a few brought binoculars. Glenda compensated with very adept handling of her telescope, enabling everyone a good look at the more static animals.

Jeremy Burns

Reviewed February 2019

Costa Rica birding departure

Good for bird watchers
Excellent professional guide and comfortable air-conditioned coach
Costa Ricans friendly nice people
Good opportunities to ride on boats and walk in unspoilt rain forest and swim from beautiful Pacific beaches
Drawbacks are lots of long coach journeys on slow roads and many of the places visited are crowded with coaches and tourists. Also hotel food is nothing to write home about except at savegre where it is excellent
Don’t bother with night walk and suspension bridges at Monteverdi which are poor value in my opinion.
Costa Rica also very expensive even for basics like bread or fruit . I found it hard to understand how the poor local population could afford to live at these prices

Most Inspirational Moment

Visiting tortuguero

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent very knowledgeable pleasant hard working and considerate... Guillermo Gomez is his name

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take colones or pay by Visa card. If you are British and buy US dollars to take with you, you then end up converting dollars to colones at a poor local rate and lose out twice on the currency conversion If you are elderly you may find the high altitudes at Monteverdi and at savegre a problem. My 82 year old mother for example managed most of the rest of the trip ok but became ill in the high country Good binoculars and camera a must for the birding departure

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