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.
Simply use the selector below to search our trip reviews and start reading real feedback from real Exodus travellers who have ‘been there and done that’!
Lots of our clients also like to post handy tips and advice about their travels. It’s great to know what to expect on an Exodus adventure before you go, so make the most of their experience and you’ll make the most of yours!
Haven’t posted your review yet? Here’s how to do it…
Once you return from your Exodus adventure holiday, you will be emailed a link to add your review. Any feedback collected is posted onto our website, totally unedited.
Alternatively you can navigate to the relevant trip page and add your review via the Reviews tab.
Select a trip specific review:
14102 Reviews
4.7 out of
5
Reviews
Angela Beckwith
Reviewed January 2025
A Real Adventure with Fabulous Wildlife
Madagascar is a truly special place and this trip is a real adventure. I have heard Madagascar described as one for the “seasoned traveller” and this is pretty accurate – certainly it is somewhere that you should go with your eyes and mind open and prepare for the rugged terrain and slightly uncomfortable journeys. That said, I would not trade a thing as the experiences are all part of its charm and more than made up for by the beautiful scenery and amazing wildlife.
I loved the entire trip and thoroughly enjoyed the variety of experiences, from the slightly chaotic capital Tana, to the jagged UNESCO site of the Grand Tsingy, to the peace and tranquillity of Ifaty, all interspersed with amazing national parks and wildlife including lemurs, chameleons, fossa and owls.
We were incredibly lucky with our wildlife viewings, with red-fronted brown lemurs, greater bamboo lemur, Goodman’s mouse lemur, dwarf lemur, grey mouse lemur, sportive lemur, ring-tailed lemur, indri, diademed sifaka, Verreaux’s sifaka, Milne-Edwards sifaka and many many more. We went in October and the babies were out in force – so many incredibly playful young lemur could be seen and photographed, all apparently quite indifferent to our presence. The day and night walks were all very well organised and provided plenty of opportunity to just stand back and observe these creatures in their natural habitat. We were rarely rushed on the walks (only when the guides had heard tell of something else exciting up ahead) and the local guides were expert at finding the best angles and lighting for some great photographs, even in challenging conditions.
I found the hotels to be of a general good standard and, as a solo traveller, did not feel as though I was in any way penalised by room size or quality. In fact, by luck of the draw, in one location I ended up with the suite! We had at least warm water most of the time and the food was generally good if a little repetitive after a while. Breakfast was generally fruit, breads, jams, and eggs cooked to order. Where there was nowhere appropriate to stop for lunch, we were able to order sandwiches to go so we never went hungry on the long drive days.
Most Inspirational Moment
For me, I think watching the playful baby ring-tailed lemurs in Anja National Park, as well as the red-fronted brown lemurs in Kirindy Reserve were definite highlights, although sunset in the Avenue of the Baobabs and the epic scenery of the Tsingy both come a very close second.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Elodie was an absolute star, always making sure we were well looked after and going out of her way to get us the most out of our trip, whether it be an additional night walk squeezed in or a side trip to a local hot spring. She was so knowledgeable about the wildlife and was a brilliant spotter when we were out on the nature walks. She was very open and honest about the challenges that the Madagascan people face and just chatting to her was a real education. On top of that, she was always smiling and bubbly, even when she herself was not feeling 100%, helping us all to get through the occasional challenges that inevitably presented themselves on a trip like this (broken down vehicle, stomach issues, delayed ferry) and making this a truly memorable trip.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do not underestimate the travel days. Read the trip notes in detail and pay attention to the fact that days 5,7,8,9 and 11 all include long drives on very poor roads. Madagascar is a poor country and if you go expecting western levels of comfort and road conditions, you are going to be sorely disappointed. If, however, you go with your eyes and mind open, you will get to experience a truly fantastic country full of genuinely happy and helpful people, with incredible scenery and wildlife experiences.
Take plenty of Imodium or similar - I think everyone on the trip had an upset stomach at one point or another.
Only around 20% of the population have electricity in their homes, so you need to accept that there are rolling blackouts and just get used to charging cameras / phones during periods of power.
At the end of the day, Madagascar is a wonderful country to visit and I feel incredibly privileged that we were able to explore and experience so much in just 16 days. I would have happily stayed longer.
John Colverson
Reviewed January 2025
Dissapointing
Chilly in the north, wet in the middle. Lots of pollution.
Most Inspirational Moment
The inspiring moments were marred by the intense traffic in Hanoi and Saigon (Ho Chi Ming city). There are literally millions of scooters and motor bikes churning our pollution and noise. They seem to have priority over pedestrians who have to walk in the road becauce the pavements are full of bikes. I found it a very stressful environment.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader tried, but his english was limited, and other we got to a site where just churned out a lot of information which was difficult to follow.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Double check what the weather is going to be doing throughout your trip. The information we were given was largely all wrong. Think about staying for longer than absolutely necessary Hanoi and Ho Chi Ming city
Steven Adams
Reviewed January 2025
Highlights of Morocco - In Comfort
This was our first group adventure tour that we have been on. We chose Exodus based on the trip itinerary and discussions with friends who had also been on the same trip. The actual experience of the tour was better than we expected. The tour was extremely well organised and our guide Khaled was very knowledgable on all aspects of Moroccan culture, very customer focused and helpful. Throughout the trip we felt very safe and our driver Mohammed was extremely capable providing a comfortable transfer throughout the whole of the trip.
Most Inspirational Moment
The highlight was the variety of the itinerary rather than anyone specific item. The addition of trips such as the visit/walk to the Berber family and the visit to the village Haman showed what Moroccan life is actually like, an experience you don't get by just visiting the tourist sites.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Khaled was an excellent tour leader, very helpful, knowledgable and would go out of his way to help. On these trips the capability of the tour leader makes these trips and i can say that Khaled certainly made this trip for us. If i was recommending this trip for any friends i would also recommend them asking for Khaled as their tour leader.
Anne Day
Reviewed January 2025
Fabulous Christmas and New Year trip to Sri Lanka
This was an amazing trip with such a varied itinerary – trying to remember everything we did at the end of it was quite a challenge. At the same time we didn’t feel over rushed although we were on the go much of the time. The hotels were great with really lovely swimming pools which we made the most of. We were lucky enough to travel with a great group of people who quickly became friends and to have a fantastic team taking us around this beautiful country.
Most Inspirational Moment
Probably cycling through rural Sri Lanka on Christmas Day meeting the local people and experiencing the warmth of their hospitality for our spectacular Christmas lunch. Cocktails on the 26th floor roof terrace on our final night in Colombo after an amazing trip was also a highlight. As were the elephants, the wildlife around the lake at Kandy, Horton Plains, climbing Adam’s Peak, the train through tea county, white water rafting, Lion Rock…..!!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Sujee was the perfect leader. Knowledgeable with a clear love of his country and people. Nothing was too much trouble and he looked after us extremely well and with very good humour!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Go.
Joyeeta Deb
Reviewed January 2025
Being close to the nature and the wild life
I have never been so close to the wildlife, from Addo National park to Harmenus – I been with the nature and the its amazing creatures. This trip is a must go if you want to experience good food, comfortable journey, natural beauties and off course the wild life.
Most Inspirational Moment
In middle of the sea with the Mother and baby Whale at Harmenus. The dolphins chasing our boat and the scenic beauty. It was mesmerizing for me all together.
Thoughts on Group Leader
She was very good, informative and jovial. She had tried her best to give us all the comfort and guide us through out the trip.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack you bag with lots of energy, a binocular, some sunscreen, hat, sunglass and off course do not forget to take extra layers as some places were very windy and chilled. This trip have moderate walking but have few long travel too.
Susannah Pink
Reviewed January 2025
A wonderful varied trip exploring The Tropical South
This was an absolutely brilliant trip with varied itinerary seeing a mixture of busy cities and daily life within, walking barefoot in beautiful temples, watching traditional Kathakali dance show, trekking in stunning mountainous tea plantations and also in jungle in the Periyar National Park, cruising on a houseboat on the beautiful backwaters, staying in an amazing home stay being looked after by the lovely owner Grace and finishing with relaxing time on beautiful beaches.
The scenery as you drive around is simply stunning with some incredible views. We had such a really lovely fun group of people and the locals were so warm, gentle and smiley and hotel staff went out of their way to look after us, in particular Ripon at the Peppervine, best kindest service ever!
We had the most incredible knowledgeable guide Biju, who gave us so many interesting insights into his wonderful country and was the warmest, kindest most thoughtful person, looking after us all so incredibly well, he helped make this holiday a best ever . Vinod our driver was excellent, so friendly and smiley and he kept the bus immaculate and drove us so safely .
A wonderful trip and no wonder it’s known as Gods own country, it’s simply stunning, with an exceptional guide Biju and such lovely locals who really touched me, I left a piece of my heart there!
Most Inspirational Moment
Trekking in the tea plantations and in Periyar National Park, the early morning walk in Madurai and walking barefoot through the incredible Meenakshi temple complex amongst pilgrims, Grace and staying in her beautiful homestay, the backwaters, the daily interactions with the lovely local people , so many inspirational moments and happy memories.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Biju was an absolutely exceptional group leader, so proud of his country and he shared so many wonderful and interesting insights. He is cheerful , professional, well organised, knowledgeable, warm, smiley and so kind and he looked after us all so well. He went out of his way to ensure everyone was having the best time, nothing was ever too much trouble for him. Biju made this the most wonderful trip for which thank you so much Biju !
Advice for Potential Travellers
Food and drink is very cheap in comparison with the UK.
Take a small bag for your overnight stay on the houseboat.
Smile at the lovely locals and they will smile back, such a wonderful country and such warmth from the people , a very special place which touches you.
Just book this holiday, it’s brilliant!
Ilenia Barausse
Reviewed January 2025
Amazing country and wildlife!
I absolutely loved Costa Rica, it is such a special place and it makes you appreciate how wonderful our world can be when we look after it! This trip is quite a busy trip and with long drives at times but it is worth it as you get to see so much of this country and its extraordinary diversity of landscapes. Lots of great scenery, wonderful cloud forests, beaches, countryside and amazing wildlife including sloths, hummingbirds, toucans (and numerous other colourful birds), iguanas, monkeys, tree frogs and the most beautiful butterflies I have ever seen. I loved every place we visited but my favourite has to be Tortuguero nature reserve. The boat trips around its waterways spotting wildlife was definitely one of my highlights.
Most Inspirational Moment
Difficult to pick as too many. Spotting wildlife in its natural habitat is wonderful. And the beautiful sunrise on the beach in Tortuguero.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Bring good waterproofs, camera with a good zoom lens and strong trainers or walking shoes. Also a torch is useful as it can be quite dark at night around the lodges and in Dominical we experienced a few power cuts.
Jack Gamble
Reviewed January 2025
Incredible experience, and a wonderful country!
An incredible journey! Every city had its own charm, from the vibrant streets of Tokyo to the peaceful beauty of Kyoto. The mix of history, culture, and nature was unforgettable, and the food was out of this world. A truly memorable experience, with a brilliant guide to match!
Most Inspirational Moment
There was so many! I loved each place for different reasons so it's hard to pinpoint one. The food was a highlight for me though!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Masa was fantastic, it was his first time leading a group solo but you couldn't tell. He was knowledgable, attentive and understood the groups needs.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Traveling in Japan is all about leaning into the experience and embracing the culture. Learn a few basic Japanese phrases like arigatou (thank you) and sumimasen (excuse me) to help with interactions—it’s appreciated even if you’re not perfect! Try new things, whether it’s tasting unfamiliar foods, soaking in an onsen, or navigating the efficient train system. Be open, respectful, and ready to immerse yourself in this incredible country.
Donald J Gonsalves Jr
Reviewed January 2025
An Incredible and Exciting Trip
My wife has long desired to travel to North Africa to explore her Berber ancestry from her maternal grandfather’s side of the family. I am thrilled that we finally made this amazing trip happen in October and November of 2024.
Most Inspirational Moment
I was truly inspired by the people of Morocco. From the stunning expanse of the Sahara Desert to the pristine beauty of Rabat, the charm of Fez and its medinas, and the magnificent mosques in Casablanca and Marrakech, everywhere we went left a lasting impression. I particularly enjoyed hiking in the High Atlas Mountains and sharing a delightful lunch with Lahcen's family.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Lahcen was an exceptional leader who genuinely cared for everyone. He was particularly attentive to those with special needs and offered his support whenever possible. His professionalism was evident in every aspect of his work. In a group setting, I felt completely secure and confident in Lahcen's abilities.
Advice for Potential Travellers
This trip, in a sense, is an expedition across North Africa and an adventure. There is a lot of walking and hiking which was fine for me, but difficult for my wife. We enjoyed the long bus rides as we got to see more of the countryside and visit small villages. Sophisticated travelers are aware that North Africa is a developing country, so its hotels are not rated the same way as those in the United States or England. My wife and I sought a genuine experience of Moroccan culture and lifestyle. The riads were exceptionally charming. The food was simply fantastic, particularly the bread. We had no complaints whatsoever. We even had the opportunity to experience riding in a taxi cab to and from an event. What can I say, but, our experience in Morocco for 12.5 days was truly remarkable. We will never forget our Morrocan brothers and sisters. We'll be back to visit soon. Thank you, Exodus. I highly recommend Lahcen and this trip.
Kathryn Warmus
Reviewed January 2025
Go, go, go!!!! The scenery is unbelievable. And if there is any way the Iguazu Falls extension is a MUST.
This is my second trip with Exodus and I could not be more pleased. Already planning my third. The Iguazu Falls extension was over the top fun! The tour leaders that Exodus works with were all exceptional. Pamela with Aqua Grandes in Iguazu. In Patagonia on my lesser hikes, both Mathieus and Jorge were knowledgeable about wildlife – and we saw a lot! Condor (from afar), puma (up close), emus, rheas, guanacos, and plants and flowers and orchids, etc. SUPPORTIVE both literally and figuratively moving at my speed and letting me figure out the terrain.
Most Inspirational Moment
Private hike with my Tour Leader, Pepe Valdivia. I was unable to do the two longest hikes, but Pepe found me my own challenging mountain. Shorter distances to travel, but inclines steep enough for me to feel the mountain.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Pepe Valdivia. BEST MOUNTAIN GUIDE EVER!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Go, go, go!!!! But the wind ... my hardest hike was a flat walk to a waterfall at Los Glaciers. Winds were 70-80 kmh. I literally had to hold on to my guide to keep from falling over.
