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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14469 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Nandita Nelson

Reviewed September 2016

Walking and Wildlife South Africa

A very varied holiday, filled daily with new adventures so that it felt longer than 2 weeks. The animal sightings on safari and the early morning estuary trip were thrilling and the views on the mountain walks breathtaking. The added excitement of panning for gold, the aspects of historical interest (Anglo-Zulu war) and a day at the beach whale watching made this trip truly memorable.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing a whale launch itself out of the Indian Ocean, do a somersault and land with an almighty splash. Seeing a leopard stroll past the rear bumper of the van. Seeing a group of baby elephants taking a mudbath and an oxpecker (bird) disappear into the ear of an Impala. Seeing the glorious Drakensburg draped in mist, which then melted away to leave a crystal clear deep blue sky. See an African Paradise flycatcher flit through the trees with its orange ribbon tail floating in the breeze. Eating the delicious S African cuisine prepared by our superb guides under the stars, washed down with some excellent S African vintage.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Colly was first class. He was so concerned about our welfare and worked so hard to make sure EVERYONE was having a good time. He never rested really. Also extremely well organized and everything was beautifully organized, on-time and under control. He did also chat and have fun with the group. Definitely "DANGEROUS" when it came to Uno.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for a range of temperatures, the plains are very hot and the mountains cold. Some longish transfers, so be prepared with entertainment. Washing and toilet facilities everywhere were excellent-even in Kruger where there was a shared toilet block and an enormous bath. Mosquitoes were not too much of a problem, but some insect repellent needed. Don't forget some binoculars, or you will miss out. Birders, you will not be bored or disappointed! Not many maps provided, and I wished I had one to trace our route. Easy to purchase wine at supermarket stops--LOTS of good quality S African wine VERY reasonably priced. (Didn't sample the beer, so no comment there).

Petrina Rance

Reviewed September 2016

Cycling Puglia and Matera

This was a hugely enjoyable trip made by our delightful and knowledgeable guide, Marinella Bozzetti . The tour took us through beautiful countryside and fascinating historic towns and the distances and hills were reasonable for regular cyclists with a good level of fitness. I would rate the trip as excellent but felt our tour guide could have done with more back up – at the very least there should be a spare bike of equivalent standard so that bikes could easily be replaced if necessary.

Most Inspirational Moment

We especially loved the farm house and beautiful rooms in the monastery. In better weather the luxurious pool would have been a highlight but despite the storm we enjoyed the comfort and wonderful setting. Swimming in the Ionian Sea one day and the Adriatic the next was also memorable as was the stunning coastal road between Gallipoli and Ortranto.

Thoughts on Group Leader

We all loved Marinella - she was a constant delight. Funny, charming and unfailingly good humoured despite the many " trrrragedies" of our trip ie thunder, lightening and torrential rain. We were all soaked to the skin but thanks to Marinella we came through smiling. She went well beyond her duties to provide informative guided tours at every stopping point and made sure that we were well looked after in a variety of traditional restaurants. She dealt diplomatically and with admirable patience with the one difficult member of the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you do have a reasonable level of fitness because 6 consecutive days in the saddle are quite demanding and this tour does include a number of longish hills. Heat or bad weather both increase the difficulty but the rewards are worth it. A number in our group were in our 60s and this tour was well within our capabilities but we were all reasonably experienced cyclists. A spare pair of shoes would have been welcome.

Linda Bradshaw

Reviewed September 2016

Morocco's Great South

This was the most exciting adventure which everyone enjoyed whether seriously fit cyclists or more leisurely cruisers like myself. We experienced the beauty & drama of the countryside with the everyday life of Morocco in towns & villages. It was truly an exceptional experience, educational & fun.

Most Inspirational Moment

The most moving sights and sounds of the villagers praying on top of the hills on the day of Eid to celebrate the end of Ramadan. It was like the Sermon on the Mount - quite surreal.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Said was the most perfect guide. He was so patient and kind, he seemed pleased & proud to be able to answer all our questions about the history, geography customs and culture of Morocco which enriched our experience. He worked hard always with a smile. Hussein was a good calm driver and also very kind. We were all sad to say goodbye.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The challenges are to be taken seriously or get back on the bus.

Barry Tylee

Reviewed September 2016

Whales & Bears of British Colombia

What an absolutely fantastic wildlife experience. Can you imagine how wonderful it is to witness, Gray Whales, Humpback Whales, diving and blowing and Orca (Killer) Whales. To watch a pod of Orcas breaching, a acrobatic performance which would win a Gold medal in any ones games.To stand and watch wild bears feasting on huge Salmon, oblivious to us viewing. (Well, most of the time!!). This is a wildlife and photographic trip not to be missed. You can add, sightings of Bald Eagles, the list is almost endless.

Most Inspirational Moment

For me, watching the pod of Orcas performing, Tail slapping the water, followed by a giant leaps out of the water. Closely followed by the majestic performance of the Humpback Whales, Blowing, Diving, followed by the famous Tail lift as it submerges, only to rise again. Tremendous photo opportunities. These are things that you don't forget.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader "Mac". Mac was also our driver. Felt very safe during the sometimes long drives. A good organiser and full of information. Nothing was too much trouble for him. A great cook, we had several Bar-B. Q's and he delivered good cuisine in great settings.

Advice for Potential Travellers

September is at the end of summer, so it can be quite cold, wet and foggy. So be prepared for the elements. "Dress" in layers, with a waterproof handy.

Keith Williams

Reviewed September 2016

Imperial China & Yangtze River Cruise

The whole trip from start to finish was an experience well worth taking.
Of course there were a few things which perhaps in hindsight could have been improved upon, particularly the overnight sleeper train journeys. We would have much preferred to have paid a little extra to have used the bullet train or even an extra flight wherever possible in order to have had more time to carry out sightseeing and avoid the arduous journeys.
However, apart from that the holiday which was well organised by Exodus and superbly led by our tour guide, Alan Liu, (Hongbin Liu), who was absolutely brilliant.
When you are on holiday, no matter who you go with, the face of the company is represented by the Tour Leader and in our instance this was Alan Liu.
If we were to go back to China we would go on the understanding that the tour would again be led by Alan.
He was extremely informative, funny, very well organised and knew his subject matter well.
He ensured that we were at a particular venue or place at the right time so as to avoid the crowds and get the best views and this was particularly the case when we visited the Panda sanctuary at Chengdu where he timed it to perfection and we saw the Pandas at their liveliest and just before the main crowds arrived.
Exodus would be so much poorer without the services of that man.

Most Inspirational Moment

There was so much and, of course, the obvious things were naturally going to be The Great Wall, The Pandas, The Terracotta Army etc. Then there were the marvellous views in the countryside which were breathtaking However, the trip we took opened our eyes to the way the Chinese people now have far more freedoms than we had previously imagined and for us this was a good thing although we were not so naive to think that it was like this everywhere. The three day cruise along the Yangtze river was wonderful and allowed us a brief respite to relax and then the vistis to Yangshuo, Tongli and Shanghai were fantastic.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Without a doubt the trip was made for us by our Tour Leader Alan Liu, (Hongbin Liu). His knowledge about the places we visited was astounding and this, coupled with his brilliant nature, great sense of humour and organisational capabilities made our trip that much more enjoyable. This man is such an asset to Exodus and if he were to ever stop working for the company he would be very sorely missed.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are going to China with Exodus on the Imperial China and Yangtze River cruise trip then make sure you go on the one led by Alan Liu, you will not be disappointed. Be prepared for crowds of people in city centres, railway stations and popular tourist sites and be aware of the traffic. One assumes they must have road laws in China but absolutely no one appears to bother about them. Motor scooters, motor bikes and pedal cycles, of which there are many, come at you from all angles and don't for one minute think that the pavement is your sanctuary as they ride on them as well. Do be prepared to be blown away by the sights and sounds of this country, it has so much to offer and we would strongly recommend that you try and visit China at some stage in your life as you will not be disappointed. However, one other word of caution, the trip is rated as leisurely in the Exodus ratings and whilst it was not extremely strenuous, it was full on with some early starts and a lot of walking so be prepared.

Vic & Linda Young

Reviewed September 2016

An adventure of a lifetime!!!!!

This is a fantastic trip! It was very well organised from start to finish, our guide Flaminia could not have been more organised and helpful.
The trek was longer, hotter and more arduous than we expected, however, the whole group (of 13) succeeded in completing the whole trek. The 2nd day is the most challenging with a 1300 metre ascent with the heat and altitude affecting most people.
The scenery was amazing with varied terrain from rivers to snow capped mountains. The camp sites were clean, tidy and well managed by the support crew and the food was excellent and plentiful!

Most Inspirational Moment

The feeling of achievement after long days of trekking arriving at The Sun Gate on the afternoon of the 4th day.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Flaminia's knowledge of her country, fauna and flora and it's history was second to none. Her spoken English and her understanding of it was excellent. She was well organised, very understanding and patient. Her assistant guide, Johnie was also a great asset.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If possible, an extra day at the start of the holiday would help you to acclimatize. The fitter you are the better particularly for day 2. Make sure you take all of the recommended items on the lists provided, particularly the warm clothes for sleeping during the cold nights.

Sue Ellis

Reviewed September 2016

taste of cuba

superb tour with what must be the best ‘guide’ we have ever had Rayselis, her knowledge, sense of commitment and humour made the tour more wonderful than it was.

Most Inspirational Moment

the whole trip was made up of wonderful moments - not possible to single out just one.

Thoughts on Group Leader

as mentioned above Rayselis was a 'complete gem'

Advice for Potential Travellers

Internet very poor - just be prepared if you think you will need it!

Diane Edwards

Reviewed September 2016

Walking the Amalfi Coast

It was the first time I had gone on holiday alone and was absolutely fantastic. We were a mixed group from different countries and ages ranged from 24 to 64. We all got along brilliantly. The people at the hotel were lovely and Severio, the guide, was fantastic, great fun and was full of local knowledge. As for the scenery- wow! Exodus kept me fully informed and gave me some very good advice for the trip, very helpful as I hadn’t done a trip like this before.

Most Inspirational Moment

Just seeing the most beautiful scenery from so high up, stunning. Also walking myself fitter and realising what a great way to see an area of a country without hordes of people everywhere. At one point you could almost hear the 'sound of silence. On the 2nd days walk I thought I might need a donkey but managed a glorious walk up Tre Calli to meet with more stunning views. I didn't need the donkey after that!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Severius was brilliant. A really fun guy with loads of knowledge, very thoughtful about people's abilities and encouraging. Couldnt have asked for a better guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Go and do it, everyone helps one another and that adds to the enjoyment of the trip. Just enjoy the wonderful scenery and the people you meet. Don't worry if you are a single traveller, this was the best holiday I've had for a long time and the first travelling alone.

Rebecca Clifton

Reviewed September 2016

Lots of large steps for mankind!

What an amazing trip! I still can’t quite believe I managed to walk up and down mountains for 4 days! It was very hard but so worthwhile – the views were breathtaking! This was my first solo adventure but I didn’t feel solo – it was lovely to spend time with a positive, good-humoured group of people and I felt very taken care of and encouraged by our guide Raul and assistant guide Elizabeth.

Most Inspirational Moment

The sense of elation and disbelief in finally reaching Dead Woman’s Pass - the view is awe-inspiring! Also enjoying the panoramic mountain views at the third camp and having time to sit and sketch them. Machu Picchu itself was incredibly beautiful and fascinating; and a sight for saw eyes after the 'Gringo killer’ steps leading up to the Sun Gate.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Raul met us at the airport and took good care of the group from the start. He introduced us to some great restaurants and gave us an interesting tour of Cusco. Raul was very helpful and attentive and was very knowledgable about Incan history and the various archaeological sites on the trail. He was also good humoured and encouraging throughout the trek. Elizabeth was a fantastic assistant guide (and very patient with those at the back!) and we all appreciated the 6.30am morning calls which came with mugs of hot coca tea.

Advice for Potential Travellers

For some reason I imagined there would be more flat paths - there were hardly any. Going uphill felt like rock climbing in parts and with 30% less oxygen , this was really hard. Going down hill took a lot of concentration and was hard work on the knees (knee supports helped me). Using the step machine at the gym may help with preparation. I was expecting it to be freezing in the evening, but it wasn’t too bad. A hat, down jacket/fleece and a mac is fine for supper time. It doesn’t get really cold until about 3 or 4 in the morning. If you have a good sleeping bag and a hat you’ll be fine. I packed 8 loo rolls which wasn’t necessary as exodus provided them in their toilet tents on the camp (you only need your own at some loos along the trail). Pack rehydration salts - you will sweat a lot! Ibuprofen, Imodium and blister plasters (particularly with all the down hill walking) were also useful. Don’t over pack your day bag on day 2 - any extra weight makes it so much harder to climb those huge steps. Brush your teeth in bottled water and bring plenty of antibacterial gel and wet wipes.

Tony Chau

Reviewed September 2016

Camino de Santiago Cycle Ride, Sept 16

We have been to a number of Exodus rides but this one stands out because 1) It was a “door to door” ride – we rode to/from the hotel from beginning to end without any bus transfer 2) We had some non-technical off road sections which was great 3) The leaders were great (see below) 4) It was a very interesting ancient route (we rode the “Camino”) and had amazing churches and Castles en route that one could collect stamps on your Camino passport 5) We had great weather (quite hot for Sept. in the first few days but turned cooler towards the end) + the food was wonderful and cheap….

Most Inspirational Moment

We had a great group of cyclist with similar ability and everyone got on well. The climb to O'Cebreiro was quite "cheeky" and I am glad that we made it! The scenery was wonderful and we got there during a festival / market day which was unexpected in such a village that is so high up. Finally, arriving in Santiago with everyone getting a certificate for riding the Camino was also very special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jose was very knowledgable (he knew exactly the terrain, distance in detail so we knew exactly what to expect and how to pace ourselves - but "undulating" means quite a few ups!). The places that we stopped for coffee, ice cream, lunch, dinner were all wonderful. Guillemo, our support driver/mechanic was also great. We never had our Saddles/Paddles fitted and removed for us in previous trips + we had great support from him (making sure our bottles were filled, checking the tyre pressure, fitting the squeaks....) throughout the trip with a smile.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We thought it was just a cycling trip and didn't know anything about the "St. James Way" and the pilgrims walking the trail. It was a very interesting experience but I wished I read up more about the history before hand.

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