Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Moments. Coming across a large pack of wild dogs in Kruger, whales and dolphins in Mozambique, realising just how fast an ostrich can run. Graskop gorge for an educationshort walk in a forest environment.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Andrew was brilliant, patient and organised, everything we needed. Good humoured and took us to some great locations, bars and restaurants. Sopeto his assistant was the man for driving, cooking, moving luggage and doing everything else asked of him with a huge smile and incredibly relaxed attitude. Chris, the driver we had in Kruger for 3 days gets a special mention. Knowledgeable and possessing inredible vision. How do these guys spot so much in the bush?

Advice for Potential Travellers

Incredible trip. So much to see and do listing it is impossible. Do yourself a huge favour and book. Whatever you think the tip bill will be, double it. SA has a strong tipping culture. Having said that, eating out is not expensive and mastercard is not accepted in Mozambique.

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved Hiiuma island as well as walking in the forests picking berries and identifying mushrooms. I loved being surprised by the beauty and history of Vilnius, Riga and Tallin. I particularly liked Riga architectural tour as well as wandering in the upper and lower town of Tallin. Walking on the beach was memorable. The Cold War museum was particularly poignant! A dish with Chanterelle in Vilnius, kilgani in Trakai and salmon soup in Helsinki were some of the culinary delights. As of the inspiration, I was quite in awe of how much progress those countries had made despite a difficult history. I am inspired to dig deeper to learn more about the history and current progress.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Andrius was our leader and he really made the trip for us. Everyone was at ease from the very beginning because of Andrius humor and no- nonsense style. He followed the itinerary but also accompanied us on our free time endeavors. It was obvious that he really enjoys his job. He introduced us to many local specialities and made suggestions always mixed with some fun facts and humor. It was a genuine difficult moment of saying goodbye.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you arrive a day early, take the Vilnius Jewish tour. It was very informative. An insect repellent is a must.

Most Inspirational Moment

The two nights on Whale island - paradise Two nights in Hoi Ann - what a fab place The night on the train was such fun and one will we will never forget as our leader put on a great party !

Thoughts on Group Leader

Long was just amazing . Nothing was too much trouble . He had a large group to manage -18 of us and he was brilliant. He was smiley helpful and made sure we maximized our time in Vietnam

Advice for Potential Travellers

Stay a night in Hanoi after the trip so you get to see more as trip doesn’t give much time Take money to change to Vietnam Dong as many places don’t take cards outside the city

Most Inspirational Moment

Watching a humpback whale perform for us right next to our boat in Tamarindo.

Thoughts on Group Leader

David was a great nature spotter, he spotted wildlife that we just wouldn't have seen without him.

Most Inspirational Moment

The beaches on the Baltic - clean, respected, scenic and perhaps surprising how inviting they were.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Lina was excellent - always attentive and enthusiastic. She provided loads of background information and history of the countries. She never tired and always supported us all. Great leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Try this trip - you won't be disappointed. Plenty of exercise, good food and, on our trip, really great company (and warm weather).

Most Inspirational Moment

Arriving at all summits along the TMB is very inspiring. As I write this review, I have returned home and I find myself constantly reliving each day of the journey. The whole experience has been wonderful. I also enjoyed the activities provided along the trek such as kayaking, swimming, the spa, country village visits etc... We were fortunate to do the trek at the same time as the 2024 edition of the UTMB… it was an exciting time to be in Chamonix. I can’t imagine running on the mountain trails all night as these runners do as part of the UTMB. And so I also walk away very inspired by Adventure Racers.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I really appreciated that Exodus made sure we were supported by an elite International Mountain Leader. Our guide Tim was extraordinary! He had a calm and confident demeanor that was reassuring when we tackled rocky outcrops along the trail, as well as steep climbs and difficult descents. He set a good steady walking pace, and was flexible with members of our group who liked to walk faster and some slower, such as myself. That said I was so happy (and proud) when on the last day I was able to follow the group to the top of that day’s summit without falling behind. Tim was “top-of-class” in terms of his mountaineering knowledge and skills, as well as his ability to pass on information about the local fauna, flora and cultural elements. Tim helped group members when it was difficult, thereby ensuring everyone's success with the TMB. We were also very well supported at camp by Kieron, our Camp Leader and great Chef. He went out of his way to make sure the camp was comfortable and that everyone was provided with a great culinary experience. I liked the mix of camp and restaurants.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Ensure you have trail shoes or boots with a thick sole as there are many sharp rocks. I highly recommend poles, and picking a day pack sack that is not too big and heavy. (ps …Also say yes to paragliding at the end of the trek. Although I suffered from motion sickness, I am very happy to have done it!)

Most Inspirational Moment

Arriving at all summits along the TMB is very inspiring. As I write this review, I have returned home and I find myself constantly reliving each day of the journey. The whole experience has been wonderful. I also enjoyed the activities provided along the trek such as kayaking, swimming, the spa, country village visits etc... We were fortunate to do the trek at the same time as the 2024 edition of the UTMB… it was an exciting time to be in Chamonix. I can’t imagine running on the mountain trails all night as these runners do as part of the UTMB. And so I also walk away very inspired by Adventure Racers.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I really appreciated that Exodus made sure we were supported by an elite International Mountain Leader. Our guide Tim was extraordinary! He had a calm and confident demeanor that was reassuring when we tackled rocky outcrops along the trail, as well as steep climbs and difficult descents. He set a good steady walking pace, and was flexible with members of our group who liked to walk faster and some slower, such as myself. That said I was so happy (and proud) when on the last day I was able to follow the group to the top of that day’s summit without falling behind. Tim was “top-of-class” in terms of his mountaineering knowledge and skills, as well as his ability to pass on information about the local fauna, flora and cultural elements. Tim helped group members when it was difficult, thereby ensuring everyone's success with the TMB. We were also very well supported at camp by Kieron, our Camp Leader and great Chef. He went out of his way to make sure the camp was comfortable and that everyone was provided with a great culinary experience. I liked the mix of camp and restaurant meals.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Ensure you have trail shoes or boots with a thick sole as there are many sharp rocks. I highly recommend poles, and picking a day pack sack that is not too big and heavy. (ps …Also say yes to paragliding at the end of the trek. Although I suffered from motion sickness, I am very happy to have done it!)

Most Inspirational Moment

Not necessarily inspiring but certainly memorable: ….and not in any particular sequence. Visiting Ivan at his small vineyard, munching on his raspberries and enjoying his home made wines. Walking along the Curonian Spit til we ran out of land. The boat ride around Trakai Castle with our own “happy hour” on board. The girls braving the cold sea and swimming amongst the jellyfish. Cold War museum….this was somewhat rushed and felt more time needed to read all the chilling material. The lakeside walk in Helsinki past the little wooden lodges. Tallin Seaplane Harbour, worth a couple of hours of anyone’s time. Beer on the Russian Train. Helsinki Library…wow, that was something else ( must mention out excellent guide we had in Helsinki).

Thoughts on Group Leader

Andrius……Open, honest, ready to answer all our questions, and great fun to be with. Kept us all amused with his jokes but still maintaining his professionalism as a first class leader, a credit to Exodus. Also…..an expert forager indentifying various edible berries and mushrooms. Of course, one thing we must thank him for is being our “Quality Control” food taster.

Advice for Potential Travellers

In previous reviews….good insect repellent, waterproof jacket and don’t take too many unnecessary clothes. On a few days we travelled, stopped for a beer or two, had dinner and then back to the hotel. Talking of hotels, generally good apart from The Panorama in Vilnius, a soviet looking bland block, very small dark rooms, chaotic breakfast area, an area where a bar used to be ( blamed COVID for that not reopening), but hey ho, a good location with some excellent bars nearby. ….a five star tour, great itinerary and good company. Hope any of you reading this decide to do it have just as good time as we had.

Most Inspirational Moment

Stalin Museum and Tbilisi

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent, highly knowledge, insightful, clear and interesting commentary throughout. Most helpful and attentive to everyone in the group.

Most Inspirational Moment

Beautiful scenery in a stunning location .

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent