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Reviews

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

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116 Reviews

4.8 out of 5

Reviews

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

A fantastic trip that had a variety of scenery across the 8 days. I felt I was given as good a chance as possible of making the summit – and everyone on our group did make it.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the summit after a torch-lit trudge up the mountain - and realising that everyone else had also made it since 3 or 4 of the group found it really tough.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Meke estimated that he had been up the mountain about 200 times and he was a calm and reassuring presence all week. The other guides were also very friendly and welcoming throughout the week - and many had been lead guides on other trips. Four of the group who were struggling were each allocated an individual guide on summit day - and each said that they may not have made it without their support. It still left Meke and 4 guides to lead the remainder of us.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The food was excellent all trip and there was always plenty of it - with some snacks as well. Every person in the group was paired with a tent porter. They would overtake you during the day (except summit day) along with the other porters and then meet you as you arrived at the next campsite to take your daypack. You would be lead to your erected tent with sleeping mats and main bag already inside. It was another nice touch that contributed to the feeling of being well looked after the whole way.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

This was a great trip, extremely well organised and with great guides. The scenery, changing as it did with altitude, was stupendous, especially walking high up above the clouds.

Most Inspirational Moment

I had tried to ascend Kilimanjaro some years previously, when I did not appreciate the value of adequate acclimatisation. Then I struggled to reach Gilman's Point. Now older I knew it would be hard to reach my goal, Uhuru Peak, especially when also beset with 'digestive tract problems' which meant 'walking on empty'. Nevertheless, on the night of the ascent the guides were so good in keeping up our morale and keeping us focussed, such that the entire group made it to the summit of Africa. Giving up was not an option (unless you really were too ill to make it). I surprised myself and the guides by making it to the top!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Meke was a brilliant group leader. Though I had some medication for my 'digestive tract problems' he had a great array and gave good advice on what to take and when. He paid regular attention as to how I was feeling and when I really lost my appetite too he would get the cook to prepare porridge for me as that was something I could eat.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Having suffered with 'digestive tract problems' on similar trips I had obtained ciprofloxacin and metronidazole from my GP before the trip and I did have to resort to the ciprofloxacin in the end. However, whilst other members of the group had similar issues, for them it was no more than a day or two, whereas it was several for me. Maybe I'm just more susceptible to gut infections.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

A thouroughly enjoyable trek. My wife booked the trip and I was sceptical. I cant believe how much I enjoyed it. Even the camping !!

Most Inspirational Moment

Sunrise on top of Mount Kilimanjaro was stunning. A memory that will stay with me forever.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Wilfred, lead guide was excellent. I had altitude sickness for a couple of days and the care and attention to detail he showed was first class. I know I would not have reached the summit without his help.

Advice for Potential Travellers

My advice would be listen to the guides. The pace is incredibly slow but it is like that for a reason. And it gets you there.Also, take Diamox. Better to have it. I was given it by the guide but probably easier to take it with you.And take a small nail brush. The dust gets everywhere and become engrained !!

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

I was anxious before the start of a trip which I had challenged myself to do whilst my partner recuperated from a seriously life threatening health issue. Would I get on with others in the group? Was I physically fit enough? I soon realised that the others, who ranged in age from 22 up to myself at 61, all had the same fears and the disparate group of individuals soon became a mutually supporting team which encouraged each other every step of the way. It was a life affirming experience for which summiting was the emotional highlight but every moment was a privilege and joy which would have been worthwhile even if I had not got to the top.

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing on the roof Africa, sobbing my socks off, because I had actually got to the top of the highest mountain in Africa was a much more emotional moment than I ever expected. Until the moment I got there I really was not sure I would be able to do it even though everything had gone well upto that point. The guide (Seraphin) spotted my struggle in the last few hundred yards - he took my bag and encouraged me supportively and unobtrusively to the top. I know I couldn't have made it without him. Four months of training and preparation, 8 days of climbing and high altitude camping, combined with the uncertainty of how I might react to altitude, meant the moment of reaching the summit was hugely emotional and amazing.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Simon was very professional, quiet, unassuming and very observant. The whole trip ran like clockwork and one could observe his leadership skills at work bringing on and encouraging the assistant guides in doing briefings and leading some of the earlier treks. On the summit day itself it was clear Simon would take the responsibility for leading the group 'pole pole' to the top. He told us he would not be chatting whilst we walked because he would be too busy listening to us. ( to our breathing that is) to make sure we were safe. He gave very discrete and personal support to those members of the group who were unwell in the approach with the result that all but one made it to the summit and the one got to Stella point. This was only possible because of Simons clear support and guidance and management of the guides supporting the team.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It is said that you cannot prepare your body for the effects of altitude and that fitness is no guarantee that you won't get altitude sickness. Whilst this is true , it is still really important to ensure you have the best possible fitness levels to cope with the demands of the trip-especially if you are an older team member like me. Diamox or no diamox for altitude sickness? I did manage without Diamox as my GP didn't know enough about it to prescribe it. However, most of the group either took it to start off with or started taking it as the symptoms of altitude sickness developed. I did not have problems as it happened but I would take some with me if on a similar trip in future so I would have some of my own to take if the need arose. It seemed to work quite quickly for those who waited until they felt I'll to take it.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

An amazing experience full of laughter and a great sense of achievement.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Barranco Wall was fun - it looked really dauting from below but actually you had to take it slowly because there were lots of porters moving past us (they are truly incredible). Somehow the guides were always in exactly the right place to help each of us past tricky bits. Wonderful views at the top and a perfect spot for photos. Getting to Stella and then Uhuru was fantastic too of course. I think we were a really slow group - by the time we got to Uhuru it was lovely, sunny and uncrowded.

Thoughts on Group Leader

He was very organised and efficient - it is a big operation to get us, food, water, tents etc up the mountain and it all ran very smoothly. He always sent someone on ahead to get a good spot at the next camp.

Advice for Potential Travellers

My top tip is to do what your guides tell you to do - they are experts at getting people up to the top e.g. extra acclimatisation walks, drinking lots, eating well and communicating with them if you have a problem.  Other tips: an iPod on summit night really helped me - I wasn't tired of the of the walking but was a bit bored, it was a good motivator and the girl behind said she saw my bopping my way up the mountain.  Get a thermal tube for your camelbak (you can get a cheap generic one from Decathlon) and generally getting used to all your kit in advance. Mentally prepare yourself for the scree descent from the summit - personally I found this a lot harder that going up. Keep some snacks for the descent. 

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

There are a number of options to complete the summit to Kilimanjaro, although I can not speak for them all the Lemosho route was amazing. It offered a fantastic balance between providing a stimulating ascension and varied environments to climb. Due to the additional duration it also enables suitable time to acclimatise to maximise the opportunity to summit.

I was slightly sceptical of completing this activity with a group of strangers, however the diversity of the group was one of the most memorable things of the expedition.

In short, climbing Kilimanjaro was excellent and I have already thoroughly recorded this to my friends.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being able to complete the summit as an entire group.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The group leader was a local guide from Tanzania. He was patient, knowledgable and exceptionally friendly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you take a mixture of warm and cold weather clothing and book this trip.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

An amazing 8 nights. The lemosho route was a great route with wonderful acclimatisation with shortish but hard walks to prepare for the summit.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking from Stella point to Uluru peak at sunrise...and being reminded that this is the rooftop of Africa.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Inspirational. He kept a smooth ship running of 35 porters and 8 clients. Rather amazing. There is nothing I would suggest he or the porters did differently - genuinely. It was that good.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't take 'summit'' snacks. Rather have snacks EVERY day in your bag for a treat. You won't be hungry but it's nice to chew on a jelly baby or fruit pastel every day rather than just summit night. Read the kit list as its quite good. Take a good sleeping mat (inflatable) or hire one. If you hire it, it doesn't need to fit Into your duffle bag so that's good as it gives you space in your duffle bag. The food is great - tasty and varied and lots of it. Don't forget wet wipes: take at least four packs of 12.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

An incredible trip. Fantastic scenery and the crew, headed up by Charles, were truly inspirational. Everyone in the group made it to the summit thanks to them. They were knowledgable about the flora and fauna, incredibly experienced and terrific fun to be around. I learnt lots about the mountain and Tanzania, as well as picking up a few words of Swahili. Asante!

Most Inspirational Moment

It has to be summit day. Although gruelling and operating on very little sleep in rather nippy conditions, we somehow climbed up to Stella Point in time for sunrise. The views were incredible, surrounded by glaciers and the new day dawning. I felt like I was on top of the world. It was pretty emotional but great to share it with everyone. 

Thoughts on Group Leader

Charles was very organised, serious (this Kili stuff is serious business) but gentle and considerate. We all trusted his judgement and listened to every bit of advice he had to offer. He took care of us and to his credit we all made it !!!

Advice for Potential Travellers

The pace is nice and slow to aid acclimatisation and it really does work.  The Lemosho route is ideal as it's  longer than many of the trails meaning your body has more time to grow accustomed to the altitude. Plus you pass through a variety of mountain scenery and climatic zones. 

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

The whole trip was very well organised throughtout.The guides and porters were amazing- always friendly and helpful.The food was very good.

Most Inspirational Moment

Reaching the summit has to be the highlight of the trip after some very tough trekking.I think everyone in our group was quite emotional because of the achievement. 

Thoughts on Group Leader

Makeke Sandy was great-always encouraging and cheerful.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a tough eight days but anyone can do it.The sense of achievement makes it worth the effort.I was 70 years old when i did it.

KILIMANJARO CLIMB - LEMOSHO ROUTE

Probably the most incredible experience you’ll ever have.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sadly I didn't quite make the summit, but there were plenty of inspirational moments nevertheless. Stunning views every day, the first sighting of the summit on day 2, having a birthday cake (with candles) baked for me by the chef at 4000m, the dedication and friendship of the guides, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and just getting to the top of some of the hills when suffering from altitude sickness.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Abraham was the ultimate professional. Calm, efficient, organised, friendly, with a cheeky sense of humour, he had eyes in the back of his head and was always watching to make sure everyone was OK, and quietly sorting problems without fuss, though never interfering. I can't imagine anything would rattle him, and you really couldn't ask for more in a guide. Special mention also to all the assistant guides: Nicholas, Saidi, Joseph and George for their incredible dedication, friendliness, passion and expertise, in particular on summit night when many people were struggling and could not have made it to the top without them. Joseph quite possibly saved my life that night.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't worry too much beforehand - all your questions will be answered during the trip, and the guides have everything down to a T. However, do make sure you are prepared mentally and physically: do some fitness and practice walks first, make sure you're organised, practise with your walking poles, rucksack and so on so you're not constantly faffing with equipment and holding people up. While lack of fitness won't necessarily stop you getting to the top, the fitter you are the more you'll enjoy the trekking in general. The days are mostly quite short and the distances covered small, but the altitude does make it challenging and tiring for the unfit. Hire the sleeping mats (trust me on this). And do be prepared for some very cold evenings. A really warm down jacket and 4 season down sleeping bag are an absolute must - do spend the money (or hire them). Make sure you have both a hydration bladder (difficult to drink frequently enough otherwise), and also 1-2 litre water bottles. Some days you'll need at least 3 litres of water during the day, and on summit night the bladder will freeze unless you can put it in your jacket pocket (as I did) or have insulated tubing (even then it may still freeze). Don't stress too much about the Diamox issue. Whatever anyone tells you, the research about its use prophylactically is still unproven either way. Some of our group who successfully summited took it, some didn't, some took it halfway through. Do your research, make a decision, but either way, if the guides think you need to take it, they'll tell you (and if you don't have any, they'll provide it).You don't need a yellow fever vaccination or certificate if you're on the group flights. Despite many comments on here to the contrary, I never bothered with gaiters once - didn't have a need for them (the first 2 days were muddy, but I was wearing shorts). If you don't normally wear them, I wouldn't bother. You'll be dirty anyway after a week without washing.