Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

The Fitzroy Massif and Moreno glacier were stunning. Having said that I also enjoyed the varied scenery in general which varied from mountainous to barren wind swept plains. The wildlife was very exciting especially spotting the condors and the full day boat trip in Ushuaia was worth it for seeing the penguins and sea lions. The food in restaurants throughout the trip was excellent not mentioning the wonderful Argentinian wine.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader Xavier was fantastic, friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. He did a really good job suggesting and booking restaurants for the group to eat out in the evening although it was left to individuals whether to join in or not. He introduced us to 'mate' a herbal tea drunk from a special 'cup' with a metal straw which is shared amongst friends which we often had on our bus journeys.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Although I am an experienced walker, walking each year in the Swiss Alps on challenging paths, I found the treks quite hard. This was not because the treks were difficult but more due to the pace set by the fitter and faster walkers. Xavier was very good though walking at the back of the pack and there was always the possibility of turning back at certain points for those wishing to stop.

Suggestions

All the accomodation was good even the basic hotels and refugio. The places were all very clean and comfortable.

Most Inspirational Moment

I have more than one moment - the Fitzroy hike was amazing as was the Torres Del Paine hike - this is pretty strenuous, particularly the last part. All that hard work is well worth it for the views to be had. Plus, we had amazing weather on our trip, so we had clear views on both hikes.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Luciano was brilliant. His passion for this part if his country came across to us so well. He was knowledgeable in all aspects and was an excellent tour guide. His restaurant recommendations were excellent too - I have never had so much amazing food (and wine) in one trip

Advice for Potential Travellers

There are some long drives on this trips - the main one being the journey from Torres del Paine to Ushuaia. But, they are broken up with interesting stops along the way, so it never seemed that long overall. Put a couple of extra holes in your belt so you can loosen it as the trip goes on! - if you like your steak, wine and desserts, you will be very well catered for this country !

Suggestions

An all round amazing trip that I would highly recommend to anyone.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting to the base of the Torres del Paine after a long, hard 4 hour + trek and the first view of the Perito Merino Glacier - the pictures do not convey its magnificence!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Luciano, was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. He was always very concerned about our welfare and very keen to involve us in everything 'Patagonian'. Everything he did was with a smile and nothing was too much for him. We hope to see him in England sometime.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for the long drives with plenty of water and snacks. There are interesting stops on the way and the arrival at the end of the journey is well worthwhile!

Suggestions

The long drive to Ushuaia and 'The End of the World' was the icing on the cake. We had a beautiful nature walk through the Tierra del Fuego National Park. Many contrasts of scenery on the way.

Most Inspirational Moment

As I had waites for so long to visit, just being there was inspirational. Our walk to Mount Fitzroy was a particularly good day. Great weather and stunning scenery all around you. Our entire group made it up to the highest point and the views up there were fantastic. I particularly recommend continuing the walk down to the lakeside and a small lake hidden from view, which was the most beautiful colour. The mountains framed by the two colours was just brilliant. A good day, all tired but hopefully happy .

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader was completely full of energy and although he did not know the city so well, his knowledge of the countryside was very good. I found him very good humoured and funny. He was helpful and if he had overlooked minor things at times, there was a good vibe most of the time. Our leader went out of his way to try and cope with everyones needs as best he could. We will keep in touch via facebook Im sure.

Advice for Potential Travellers

There are some long travelling days and those visiting should remember that the way to get the best views involve long hikes at times, so have all the most comfortable gear to do this. Local guides were good, with at least two who were excellent in El Calafate and Ushuaia.

Suggestions

I would recommend this trip as you never became fed up of just looking out the window.

Most Inspirational Moment

Clear blue skies at the top of Torres del Paine, stunning.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Luciano was great, right balance of sorting things, getting involved, and standing back when other guides were leading.

Most Inspirational Moment

Getting up to the lake at the base of Fitzroy. It was a tough hike especially the last bit, but it was so beautiful up there. If you get the right weather you will never forget the view.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Denis was a friendly and helpful leader, but sometimes his organizational skills were a little unorganized.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Try and push for an early start on the days of the main hikes. It will give you more time to go at your own pace. Take walking poles if you have them as the walks are hard. At Torres del Paine we set off (late) in really nice weather, but by the time we got to the top it was snowing, it was 1 degree centigrade, and we couldn't see anything. Check on the currency situation before you go. Make sure you have large denomination US$ bills to exchange to get the best rates. It is worth adding on a few days to see Buenos Aires and make a trip across to Colonia (Uruguay).

Suggestions

As a vegetarian I was concerned about food on the trip. However, there are several good places in Buenos Aires which are easy to find on Google. The included food at the refuge was better than I expected and the hotel food in Calafate was very good. From Torres to Ushuaia and in Ushuaia itself there was not much choice on offer, so take some standby snacks for those days.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking on the glacier and being mesmerised by the stunning colours of the icebergs and glaciers. Walking in the Tierra del Fuego National Park Hiking to the base camp of Fitzroy

Thoughts on Group Leader

Pepe was very good group leader. He was very informative, had a good command of the English language. He was resourceful in arranging trips and booking tables at restaurants at short notice for us. Pepe had a good sense of humour and kept us entertained.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for the very long road trips in the mini bus.

Suggestions

I recommend anyone to attend a tango show.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being among the Southern Andes in good weather. or Standing on the water front in Ushuaia watching the sun go down - without being cold...

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very good. Never seemed to be in any trouble or under stress and even seemed to be enjoying himself most of the time.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The two day walks which are part of the itinerary of the trip (Mount Fitzroy and Torres Del Paine) both involve significant climbs, but are well worth the effort. Very limited time in Buenos Aires if you use the group flight

Suggestions

The latest edition of the trip noes (2015) received about 2 weeks prior to departure appears to be in need of a serious review - in particular the optional trips offered were significantly different.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing Mt Fitzroy and the Torres del Paine for the first time. The boat trip on Beagle Channel. Petito Moreno glacier calving ice. Also the group we had was fantastic and clicked very well. They were very supportive of everyone on the more challenging portions of the treks. The group made the trip even more special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Xavier was great! Arrangements were flawless, needs were met, and he always was available for issues. One member of our group become ill and had to go home and Xavier took care of everything. If you get Xavier as your leader, you will be very happy.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for changeable weather. Parts of the hikes (treks) are moderate so make sure you are prepared physically for them. If those parts are too challenging, you can always stop and go back down and wait for the group to continue the hike (trek). Taking it slow is no problem. Local currency and US dollars are taken almost everywhere for optional trips and food. For taxis in Buenos Aires, use local currency. When leaving Argentina, if you depart from Ezeiza International Airport, arrive earlier than normal at home as check in can be a bit slow.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the majestic Fitzroy Massif rising magically above the barren Patagonian Steppe as we drove away from El Calafate and towards El Chalten. I'd waited decades to see this sight for myself and the weather gods smiled, to put it mildly, so it more than exceeded my impossibly high expectations. The Beagle Channel penguin colony was also a delight.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Xavier was great, one of the best tour leaders I have ever had. Constantly cheerful and relaxed, nothing was too much trouble and he made an effort to acquaint us with important Argentine traditions including asado and his constant mate drinking.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring some good books and one of those inflatable travel pillows for the number of long bus journeys involved. Also worth packing your trekking poles if you have them as some of the walks whilst not too tough do feature some slightly tricky trails at times.

Suggestions

Some previous reviews have been critical of the two nights spent at the rifugio in Torres del Paine NP. Yes, the food is not brilliant and you have to share rather cosy dorms with fellow Exodus people for a couple of nights. But the location is great and I personally enjoyed the variety and sense of adventure after so many consecutive nights in (admittedly pretty comfortable) hotels. So don't let that put you off. The only annoyance for me was the quick morning's visit to Tierra del Fuego NP. I realise time is tight but it was a shame not to be able to do a proper day hike in such a famous national park. Personally I would edit the schedule if I was Exodus to make such a walk possible.