Reviews

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

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23 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

susan bowler

Reviewed July 2024

What an amazing adventure with a great bunch of people.

I had booked this trip to visit Indonesia and see the Komodo dragons which did not disappoint. On the whole the trip was very well organised and the guide was exceptional.
However both the outgoing flight and transfer at Kuala Lumper and the return flight had very tight connection times. I have given some feedback to Malasian airlines as I do not feel that I should have had to run through a very large airport with bus transfer between international and domestic terminals to make my connection. The airline, knowing many ( at least 20) people needed this connection, should either have put on direct transport or guaranteed the flight be held to allow us to confortably get to the flight. Whilst reasonably fit,at 65 I expect this even without a 7Kg backpack I would struggle!!!
I also feel a little more time to acclimatise to the humidity and rest after the long journey before the first hike in the Jungle would have benefitted some of the group including myself. The Ecolodge at Bukit Lawang was anything but eco other than cold water which could easily heated by means of solar panels non of us could find anything eco about it. Whilst it was convenient for the jungle there were many other hotels close by that may have had better washing facilities. All the group felt a warm shower with sufficient water to actually wash, rather than a dribble , would have welcomed us to Indonesian heat better than this lodge.
On return to Medan there was bearly time to enjoy the pool at that hotel and to enable more sleep and avoid another early start, I wonder if there is not an airport hotel that would be more suitable.
There was one American lady on this trip who did not have the fitness required to be able to complete the trip without putting others at risk. Her deafness also caused some issues as she would rudely overtalk the leader and failed on many occasions to hear the istructions needed and Elly would constantly have to repeat them.

Most Inspirational Moment

I really enjoyed the time we spent on the boat. The snorkelling with clear clean waters and corals in a better condition than I have previously seen were amazing. To see the Komodo dragons, that have been protected for a significant amount of time ensuring their protection was inspiring, showing that humans can sustain wildlife when the correct measures are put in place. The indonesian people also inspired me.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elly was a fantastic leader a friendly caring individual with a positive outlook and always finding a solution to any problems we may have. I would fully recomend her ever vote for her as leader of the year.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Read the travel notes given by Exodus and prepare accordingly! Whilst this seems obvious it still amazes me that people do not always have the correct equipment and level of fitness required.

Conor Dodd

Reviewed October 2023

Primates & Dragons of Indonesia

It was a great trip. Exceeded all my expectations.Our guide Elly was brilliant and always on hand if we needed anything. The local guides that were used on various parts of the trip were also very good. On the 2 days spent in the forest in Bukit Lawang we saw Orang Utans within 20 minutes of leaving our lodge. Getting fresh local fruit in the middle of the jungle was a very welcome treat. Possibly the juiciest pineapple i have ever eaten. On the boat trip to Komodo and Rinca Islands the food was very good and fresh. Sleeping on the deck of the boat was great. Saw about 15 Komodo’s over the visits to the two Islands. the snorkelling off the both on numerous occasions was brilliant. Crystal clear waters where we saw loads of turtles and fish to rival the Barrier Reef. Bring an underwater camera, I didn’t and i’m sorry i didn’t. The only slight gripe i have was the walk to the volcano/lava fields. In my opinion this was a waste of time. Elly had asked us if anyone wanted to try Durian fruit. A few of us said yes, so Elly stopped at a stall selling it. Trying Durian fruit has been on my bucket list for a long time. It tastes as disgusting as it smells but I’m glad i tried it. Overall it was a great trip and one i would highly recommend.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the Orang Utans and the Komodo Dragons. Also seeing turtles while snorkelling.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elly is a great guide. Always there if we needed us. The local guides we used during the trip were also great.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Bring good walking boots/shoes for the jungle. It had rained during the night we were in Bukit Lawang and the jungle floor was very slippery underfoot. If you intend to go snorkelling bring an underwater camera/go pro.

Fiona Allan

Reviewed October 2023

Fantastic

From beginning to end this trip was one wow moment after another. The trip itinerary is well structured into 4 parts, all quite different. Trekking the jungle in Bukit Lawang and being lucky to see so many orangutan was unbelievably moving. The two very different stays in the chilled out beach town of Sanur and Ubud with its monkey forest (not on the itinerary but a must to visit). Flores islands were just stunning, loved the two nights sleeping on deck quite literally under the stars. The unexpected highlight of this trip was probably the snorkelling ….never have I seen such a variety of fish, corals and abundance of life underwater.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many moments, the very human like and curious orangutans, being charged at by a 3 meter long male Komodo, the tranquility of the temples and the peace just sitting on deck watching the sunrise in the mornings. The walk up the hill on Padar was worth every step to watch sunsetting over the islands.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ely is one of the best. She guided us efficiently and effortlessly through many flights, journeys and experiences over the 14 days. Her enthusiasm never faltered even keeping us company on what should have been her rest days. Her concern for our safety was paramount even sitting in the tender boat watch over us whilst snorkelling. Ely made the trip the fantastic experience it was.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Long trousers a must for the jungle, be prepared because these leech get everywhere!

Mary Spencer

Reviewed September 2023

Inspirational Indonesia

I have been on several wildlife trips with Exodus and I think this is probably , all things considered the best one that I have been on when taking into account the wonderful support of the guide Elly and the great crew on the boat . The variety of activities on offer, the locations, the food and the hotel accommodation all had a part to play in contributing to that recommendation.

Most Inspirational Moment

For me as an interested amateur wildlife photographer I have to say that the most inspirational moment was getting such great shots of the orangutans in Sumatra. Wildlife can never be guaranteed but we were very lucky to see as may as we did . I also got some wonderFul shots of the Komodo dragons and Thomas leaf monkeys.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elly was a fantastic leader and was so enthusiastic and knowledgeable about her country and its nature. Nothing was too much trouble for her and she was always concerned about our well being. Elly always took us to great restaurants that she had checked out beforehand. .

Advice for Potential Travellers

I bought my visa on arrival at Medan airport with no problems whatsoever. I chose to change some currency before I got there and was able to pay in IDR though I think a colleague paid in euros. There is a fair bit of climbing both in the jungle and temples so a walking stick(s) are handy . I was provided with a bamboo stick for the jungle. I only went on 3 hour walks into the jungle . I heard that the 6 hour walk was considerably more strenuous with not much more to be gained in terms of wildlife sitings.

Hannah M

Reviewed September 2023

Exceptionally good adventure holiday

I’ve been lucky enough to travel on many small group adventure holidays over the years, and this is one of the absolute best. It features a well designed itinerary that balances activity and rest, an exceptional tour leader, and wonderful settings for wildlife viewing, scenery and culture. Although some of the walks are on the challenging side (at least if you’re unfit like I am), the days of travelling provide a good opportunity to rest up and to reflect on what you’ve seen. I finished the trip feeling both that I’d seen and done a lot, and that I was rested and had been able to relax – not something I find with many holidays where it’s either one or the other! The variety is exceptional, feeling like several holidays in one and yet all integrated well into an overall package. The standard of the accommodation and food was also really good. I’d very highly recommend the trip to anyone who enjoys this type of holiday.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing manta rays close up underwater was the absolute highlight for me, but also seeing orangutans and gibbons in the wild and all of the time on the boat were wonderful experiences.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elly was a truly exceptional group leader who is surely deserving of formal recognition from a tour leader awards programme. Very well organised, caring, helpful, great communication skills, assertive enough to get things done but never anything other than kind to everyone. She knew the trip inside out and made every element run smoothly - there was nothing she hadn't anticipated and sorted. On our free days she accompanied us for free on walking tours of the relevant places, something that is not required of a tour leader and was done entirely out of her own goodwill. She managed a difficult situation when one of our group fell seriously ill and had to be hospitalised, ensuring that he and his wife were supported even when they were on a different island, whilst also delivering the itinerary for everyone else to a high standard. This must have been extremely hard for her but she never gave any sign of it.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Don't underestimate the toll that the heat and humidity of the jungle will take on you, particularly when combined with the jet lag and tiredness after a long flight. Take it easy and don't push yourself too much. The six hour jungle trek in Bukit Lawang is really tough (I didn't do it myself) and the participants didn't see anything more than we saw on the three hour trips. You definitely need walking boots with ankle support - you'll be glad of them several times over the course of the trip and they're worth the extra weight. The boat is not as basic as the trip notes suggest - if you have been on other 'liveaboard' boats you are likely to be pleasantly surprised. There is electricity for charging, space to sit and relax and if you choose to sleep on deck, you'll find it very comfortable and enjoy a good view of the stars. There are multiple en suite bathrooms with showers and plenty of space. Some of the hotels only have bar soap so if you prefer a liquid soap then it's best to take some with you, plus some shampoo and conditioner. It's always hard to get a sense of the fitness level required for a trip as what one person finds hard can differ from another. The challenging factors here are the heat and humidity, and some short but steep up and down hill walks including multiple steps. In Bukit Lawang the paths are rough and full of hazards like roots and fallen trees, and can be extremely muddy and slippery. The pace is always as slow as you need with multiple supportive and sympathetic guides and I never felt pressured to go faster than I could manage. You also do have the option to miss out any of the active elements if you need to. I was very worried about the temple in Bali with the multiple steps but actually it's not too bad at all, as the steps are broken up by stops to see things. If you could manage the 3 hour treks in Bukit Lawang you can certainly manage that. The snorkelling is generally easy in still water with good buoyancy, suitable for beginners, and again well supported. The only more challenging swim is for the manta rays. You need to be ready to go quickly and to stick with the guide and swim fast.

Lyndsey Bainton

Reviewed September 2023

Perfect trip

Loads of wildlife, orangutans, komodo dragons, snorkeling with huge manta plus monkeys, turtles, water buffalo, wild boar, deer.. The list goes on. Hindu temples and shrines, great scenery, food, an excellent guide, good local guides and transport, comfortable hotels and a group that gelled. A fantastic mixture of wildlife and culture.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sleeping out on deck on our boat. Baby orangutans playing in the trees. The friendliness of the Indonesians. Snorkeling with manta.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elly was excellent. Everything you want in a group leader and more. Organised, enthusiastic, warm. She really looked after us and made sure we made the most of our trip.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The walking in Sumatra is muddy and slippery. You need walking shoes/boots, not trainers or sandals. And insect repellant. If you have your own snorkeling gear, bring it, you will get good use out of it.

Craig McGarrity

Reviewed September 2023

WOZ - Sept.

Excellent trip, great group and great group leader. Guides also excellent. People very friendly and helpful. Went smoothly and fulfilled expectations.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Great Argus Pheasant (aka the 'Sumatran pigeon').

Thoughts on Group Leader

Elly was Superb. Nothing to suggest for improvement other than a little more research on restaurants.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Ignore hotel and accommodation restaurants. There are much better and better value restaurants outside the accommodation. Go in the dry season. We had very little rain (other than the usual afternoon downpours in the jungle).

Keith Ginnaw

Reviewed July 2023

Primates and Dragons June 2023

An outstanding tour giving a very good insight into a number of aspects of Indonesia and some amazing wildlife experiences. From the close up encounters with Orang Utans in Sumatra to the excellent viewing of Komodo dragons in Komodo and Rinca the tour delivered on its main two objectives. The second trek in Sumatra was challenging but the local guides gave adequate information to the group to allow a decision to be made but we had good viewings even on the simpler walks. In addition to this although I am personally a non swimmer the group also experienced close encounters with Manta Rays and turtles. There are a few days in transit which is inevitable given the variety this trip tries to provide and for our tour we had two boats one better than the other but as per the trip notes expect very basic accommodation but worth it for the benefits early arrival on the islands bring and the outstanding scenery around Flores and the neighbouring islands. Nice beach stay at Sanur which is not as hectic as Kuta but still provides ample nightlife. Ubud adds a nice cultural experience to the tour and a gentle trek in the mountains. I would highly recommend the optional cycling trip available from Ubud which is mainly downhill so doesn’t require any high degree of fitness. The cycling is fun but the bikes really just allow you greater interaction with the locals on the regular stops and to see the real Bali which can be harder to find these days. Another must do is the extension to Gili Islands. Absolutely stunning and a great laid back feel. If you want crazy nightlife it is available as is complete peace and quiet with everything in between.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our tour leader Elly was exceptional and added to the trip considerably with her knowledge, sense of humour and continual concern for the well-being and enjoyment of the group. Also local guides used including Udin and Wayan had tremendous enthusiasm for their country and were two more great examples of the wonderfully hospitable Indonesian people.

J V

Reviewed October 2022

Mismanaged, poorly prepared and mis-sold

If you are considering booking this trip, please do be aware of the following: – The “hike” on “local trails” on day two of the trip is, in actuality, a walk down the town’s high street past all of the local tourist hotels and restaurants. – Exodus do not check the internal flights with the airline. As such, you may miss multiple days of your trip should the airline reschedule flights as Exodus will not be aware. – Exodus do not check whether Rinca Island is open. Therefore, should the island close for construction works, as it did for two years during the pandemic, you will lose out on the dragons part of the Primates and Dragons trip. – Manta Rays, are not regularly seen at Manta Point, they are instead seasonal visitors to the area with sightings outside a few months exceedingly rare due to the roughness of the sea Unfortunately, our trip encountered all of these issues and more. Exodus utterly failed to deliver nearly any part of this trip as advertised and in the aftermath have deliberately misinterpreted our complaints, refused to take responsibility for their failings and refused to make adequate amends. This was our fourth trip with Exodus. After thoroughly enjoying the first three, we never want to travel with Exodus again.

Reply from Exodus

We appreciate you taking the time to leave a review, although we are genuinely sorry that you were disappointed with several aspects of your trip to Indonesia and that this has discouraged you from travelling with Exodus again. The regrettable issues your group encountered were the result of flight schedule changes, which affected the planned itinerary, and the unexpected closure of Rinca Island, both of which were outside Exodus’ control. We understand that our customer services team have been in contact since your return and I hope that they are able to resolve your concerns as we wish that, in time, you might consider travelling with us again. We, nevertheless, remain apologetic that your recent experience did not meet your expectations.

Kelly Reid, Product Manager

Sarah Coupland

Reviewed July 2019

Excellent trip - full of variety

I loved the variety in this trip, it’s three different holidays in two weeks ! From jungle hiking in Sumatra to seas and sunsets in Flores and finally Bali for temples, the beach and chilling.

Despite the distances covered and three flights, it doesn’t feel like you are always on the move as when you get to a location you stay for several days. All the accommodation was good and well located and the Indonesian people are lovely and welcoming. Food on the boat is exceptional and sleeping on deck is an experience.

An excellent guide and fantastic travel companions made this a highly memorable trip

Most Inspirational Moment

The main highlights were obviously seeing the orangutans and Komodo dragons and we saw both. We were lucky to have the opportunity to watch several orangutan mothers with their babies in close proximity and we saw plenty of dragons on both Rinca and Komodo islands. Other highlights were watching the fruit bats fly at sunset and watching the playful monkeys in Ubud. I also did an optional horse riding excursion (from Sanur) which unexpectedly included a visit to a turtle conservation area where we saw just hatched baby turtles.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Wira was an excellent guide. He usually does the activity based trips in Bali, but had stepped in to take this tour as Elly was unavailable. Wira was always laughing, approachable, organised, practical, knowledgeable and sociable, he was always prepared to go the extra mile for you. Additionally, the local guides that accompany you in Sumatra and Flores are excellent. Wira had to deal with a couple of situations which he did quickly and effectively and he couldn't apologise enough for a couple of issues that were completely beyond his control. He helped to arrange some optional excursions that were "not on the list" and even joined a few of us on one of them.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take decent walking boots, I'm glad I did especially for the 2nd day "long" walk in Gunang Leuser National Park. They provide walking sticks (no need to pack one)- I was grateful for the one I used though it does become a liability when trying to take photos ! If you are offered the opportunity to visit the Bat Cave - it's not for the faint-hearted, lots of rocks and scrambling (I had to bail part way through) A few of us wanted to do different excursions to those presented to us on the list. So from Sanur, 5 of us went horse riding on the beach with Bali Horse Riding who were very professional, taking time to assess your ability and matching you with one of their well looked after horses. Most of us slept on the boat deck for both nights. If you go July, I recommend taking something warm to sleep in. I wore my jacket and leggings both nights and many of us added socks for night two ! Some of our group got the chance to see Manta Rays at Manta Point, so make sure you are "snorkel ready" with your underwater camera when the boat gets there. Some of us also wanted to visit Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, so Wira arranged a driver for us and actually came with us. He even arranged the hotel to do breakfast e=half and hour earlier so we could leave and get there before any of the tourist buses. We watched the locals go about their prayers, saw a cremation purification ceremony and got "classic" photos of the temple (minus hoards of tourists). We then went onto the Jatiluwih rice terraces which were beautiful and so much less touristy than the ones we'd seen the previous day on the itinerary trip. We left at 7.15am and we were back for 1.15pm and it cost us about £7/8 each (including driver's trip) well worth it. If you want to do the optional half day trip to Tanah Lot temple from Sanur, I would ask your guide if you could arrange to leave earlier than scheduled, we left at 8.15am and got stuck in the dreadful traffic and consequently we were rushed around the temple.

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