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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14144 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Ruth Clarke

Reviewed March 2025

Sri Lanka is very special

This holiday really delivered beyond our expectations in every respect. The itinerary is packed and varied; culture, wildlife, scenery, exciting activities and enlightening experiences. We climbed Lions Rock; biked alongside rivers, lakes, fields and forest; walked to World End and Horton Plain; explored jungle villages, ancient temples and botanic gardens; rafted across rivers and over rapids; swam in the ocean and gorgeous hotel pools, rode the gloriously scenic train from Pattipola to Ella and even braved tuk tuk rides amidst the mad chaos of The Sri Lankan roads. We jiggled around in jeeps, seeking elephant and leopard and enjoying everything else our excellent guides spotted on two very special safaris. Sounds exhausting doesn’t it but with a very comfortable air conditioned bus to transport us between beautiful hotels in superb situations, and delicious multicultural buffets and wonderful Sri Lankan curries and Lion Beer to reenergise us at the end of each day we were always ready and eager for the next early start. Longer trips were broken up with lovely lunch stops and there were interesting visits to spice gardens, a gem museum, a folk museum and a tea factory. We went from busy towns and hot, humid forests to cooler high country and finished at refreshing beaches, journeying via temples, lakes, paddy fields and the gorgeous contours of tea plantations. We saw traditional dancing and fire eaters in Kandy and had time off to wander the markets and soak up the vibes. There were plenty of spontaneous surprises to add a little extra. We felt safe and welcome, the hospitality was genuine, everyone was so friendly, the children are delightful, and although there is some obvious poverty the people seem happy at heart and very keen to share their love of their country with us visitors. The wildlife in this fabulous country is all around you, flora and fauna in abundance and breathtakingly beautiful.

Most Inspirational Moment

So many, we were so lucky to have three leopards wander up and across the path in front of our jeep at Yala, so that must be top of the long list. Watching a herd of thirteen elephants with a month old calf on our ecosafari was also very special. The abundant bird life everwhere, fruit bats and monkeys in the trees at our hotels, the enormous lush plants and fabulous trees, the serene beauty of the temples and the glorious scenery. But the joyous laughter and “Bye”of the children as they ran out of their homes when we passed on our bike ride through the fields and farm lands will echo in my memory for ever.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Nalaka has been leading these tours for ten years and his total commitment to ensuring we had the best the best experiences was clear from day one. He was friendly, approachable, enthusiastic, kind, calm, caring and capable. He shared his deep knowledge of his country’s history, culture, customs and wildlife in interesting talks, in excellent English, on our bus journeys and his relationships with the locals, guides and villagers ensured we had the best experiences on every visit or activity. He quickly moulded strangers into a team of friends and we have all invited him to visit us. He gave excellent safety advice, solved any issues speedily and without fuss, informed us of the next day’s itinerary verbally and on WhatsApp and charmingly underplayed the highlights so that we were always amazed and delighted by every special surprise. Along with Janaka our reliable driver and Kapila our friendly assist who filled our water bottles and gave us a fresh blossom every morning he showed us how delightfully friendly, respectful and polite the Sri Lankan people are, he was the perfect ambassador for his country and for Exodus.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take plenty of cash to change into local currency at the airport, you will need it for the tip kitty and extras- there are ATMs at most towns but not always reliable. Mosquito repellent is a must, especially if you are wearing shorts and t shirts- roll on Deet is a good idea to target heels and wrist etc. Pack clothes that are quick drying, breathable fabric for hot, humid weather. Take binoculars and an app on your phone to identify all the wonderful animals and plants. Go, enjoy, and be amazed.

Mike Graham

Reviewed March 2025

Disappointing

As a group we had to force the hand of the local agents by refusing to travel unless we had suitable transport. The bus was not big enough, it did not have overhead racks for rucksacks and hand luggage and the air conditioning failed. We then had an excellent large coach until the clutch kept breaking down on mountain roads (engineers were called out 3 times).
Our itinerary was changed resulting in excessive travel time (Exodus were aware of this months earlier, but the Group Leader was only given 48 hours notice and the group 24 hours notice via a WhatsApp); we fully except that itineraries change but this was not due to exceptional circumstances. The EKHO Ella hotel was substandard and far from ‘Premium’ quality.

Most Inspirational Moment

Gal Oya glamping and boat safari. Truly excellent.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Passable. Passionate about his lovely country.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This was not a ‘Premium’ tour. We have used Exodus before and they have always been excellent; sadly this was not the case this time. We were not the only disappointed clients.

Katie Shilton

Reviewed February 2025

Magical Mexico

This is a wonderful trip that covers a lot of different aspects of Mexican history and culture.

Most Inspirational Moment

So hard to pick as I enjoyed everything. I loved all of the archaeological sites as well as Oaxaca, the beautiful waterfall and the magical cenote. We were lucky with both the waterfall and cenote that hardly anyone else was there at the times we were. I was also surprised by how much I enjoyed the visit to textile place as I have done quite a few of these in the past but this one felt the most interesting and informative with the chance to have a go at spinning wool and learn how they make the different colours with no sales pressure.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Edwin was an excellent tour leader. He had an in-depth knowledge of everywhere we visited, but his knowledge of pre-colonial history in particular was very impressive. His love of all of the archaelogical sites we visited was infectious and his explanations of the sites was fascinating. Although I had no issues myself I believe he dealt quickly and efficiently with any issues from other group members.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you are interested in museums and culture then spend at least one more day in Mexico City as there is so much to do there and you don't get any free time. I didn't do this and regret it so would love to go back. Be aware many museums in Mexico close on Mondays

Iain Robertson

Reviewed February 2025

An Unforgettable Journey with an Exceptional Guide

Our holiday in Andalucía was unforgettable, thanks in large part to our outstanding guide, Mike. His deep knowledge of the region’s history, agriculture, and wildlife brought every walk to life. He introduced us to native birds, local traditions, and the warmth of village life, with his fluent Spanish making each interaction effortless. From scenic trails to shared moments over sherry, Mike’s enthusiasm and expertise made the experience truly special. More than just a guide, he created a journey filled with discovery, connection, and adventure. Thanks to him, this was not just a walking holiday, but a deeper cultural experience.

Most Inspirational Moment

Walking in the National Park.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader, Mike, was exceptional. His deep knowledge of Andalucía’s history, agriculture, and way of life brought every walk to life. He made the experience unforgettable with fascinating stories, expert insights into the local wildlife—especially the native birds—and a seamless connection to the local culture, thanks to his fluent Spanish. His enthusiasm, professionalism, and ability to engage with everyone made him the perfect guide. He truly has the best job in the world—and he does it brilliantly.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We were on the Grade 2 option holiday which was within the capability of all the travellers. It is worth understanding the difference between the 2 different grades for this trip especially if you are not a regular walker.

Paul Jones

Reviewed February 2025

A most memorable and inspirational two weeks.

Our Exodus Discover Costa Rica trip has been such a memorable tour. So much bird and animal life to see. We deliberately opted for a small group of 16 people so we would not miss a thing. We also chose a wildlife and birdwatching expert Guide. Staying for two nights at each location, in different climates (rain forest, mountainous etc) gave a great insight into this beautiful country of Costa Rica.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Respendent Quetzel. Also lots of Scarlet Macaws, hummingbirds, toucans. The whole experience was inspiring and will stay with us forever.

Thoughts on Group Leader

David Vargas went above and beyond to make our trip incredible. He was interesting, informative, flexible, knowledgeable and easy to chat to. Together with our driver Randall, they provided us with memories that will last us a lifetime.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Early starts (often by 8am) to get to next location. Usually arrive by lunchtime, but we did have at least one or two longer journeys (one was most of the day) but all journeys are broken up with toilet stops and stops to see points of interest including birds/animals etc. None of the journeys felt a chore, and the minibus was comfortable with air con. There was usually at 5.30am bird/nature walk before breakfast. All accommodation was clean and comfortable and bug free. Bring clothes for all temperatures, hot and humid or cool and rainy in more mountainous regions.

Derek Turner

Reviewed February 2025

Amazing Trip

This was an amazing trip which covered a real mixture of activities and sights. The trip was well paced with journeys in between not too long. I was impressed with the hotel rooms and only had issues with one hotel where the food and service was a bit lacking but not a major issue. Basically this is a beautiful country with lovely people. Even the traffic flows at a nice pace. Book this trip and you won’t be disappointed. A big plus was we had a brilliant group of 16 people.

Most Inspirational Moment

It was surprising given the tour includes Angkor Wat but a number of us loved the APOPO HeroRATs in Siem Reap.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Like any trip like this a lot comes down to the guide and I can honestly say Bunthoeun was extremely knowledgable, helpful, funny, and shared his own life story which was very kind of him.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Number of early starts if that is an issue for someone. The Cambodian good and beers were very good.

George Beckham

Reviewed February 2025

Beckham Review

I had a great time on the 14-day trip. Even though I got deathly sick once, it was a truly wonderful trip!

Most Inspirational Moment

The entire trip!

Thoughts on Group Leader

Very well educated on the subject matter and energetic. Incredible timing skills.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I think the fitness level should be raised from 2:00 to at least three. And watch out for uneven sidewalks.

Karen Harris

Reviewed February 2025

Great way to experience beautiful Vietnam

We have just returned from this amazing trip. Vietnam certainly lived up to and possibly exceeded our expectations. Vietnam is such a beautiful country – a true feast for the senses, so vibrant and joyful. The Vietnamese people are truly warm, friendly and engaging.
The cycling landscape was very varied through some busy towns, quiet villages, breathtaking scenery and alongside endless rice fields.
The organisation of this trip was truly remarkable thanks to the professional skills of our group leader Son. He absolutely is the best group leader we have ever met on our trips.
Unfortunately, I had an accident half way through the holiday but I have nothing but praise for our wonderful leader Son. He showed such professionalism alongside care, support and empathy, as did all the support team – Lee the mechanic, Tee and Saow our driver. I could not fault any of the team and I felt so lucky to have the love and support of the group members.
The accident did not ruin my trip. I feel so blessed to have seen so much of this beautiful country.
 Our hotel rooms were fantastic with available conditioning and a swimming pool available in most of them . Whale Island was beautiful. The overnight train was an interesting experience and Halong Bay at the end was beautiful.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being part of such an encouraging and caring team.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Son Nygugen is simply the best guide we have ever met. He has just the right balance of professionalism, skill and organisational skills coupled with such care, humility, calmness, kindness and humour. We felt so safe and looked after by him. Nothing was too much trouble and Son went above and beyond with his help, support and care for the team. This must have been one of the hardest trips to navigate and lead as unfortunately on top of my accident 11 out of the 17 in the group caught a virus. Son showed nothing but concern and care to each individual and provided any practical support needed. He truly is a hero and deserves nothing but praise. Thank you Son for being such a special person.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be a confident and experienced cyclist, be prepared for the most awesome experience and hope and pray you are lucky enough to have Son as your leader.

Karen Harris

Reviewed February 2025

Great way to experience beautiful Vietnam

Most Inspirational Moment

Being part of such an encouraging and caring team.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be a confident and experienced cyclist, be prepared for the most awesome experience and hope and pray you are lucky enough to have Son as your leader.

Steven Elliot

Reviewed February 2025

Excellent but title is probably a misnomer

I’ll try not to be too gushing about my praise of this but it was a truly excellent trip; at the end we felt like starting again. Exodus at its best, it’s all about the bits in-between not the usual tourist sights, though you do see those. Most of the time you are staying in hotels used by other tour groups and you do feel sorry for them being shunted from temple to city to viewpoint in a coach, all looking bored. They do not pass through villages where locals wash themselves and their clothing in rivers or see the smiles which greeted us, gaudily clad aliens in Lyra.
Thought the accommodation was the best I’ve ever had on one of these expeditions.

Most Inspirational Moment

Difficult to say but guess has to be the climb up to Newara Eliya - nearly 7000 feet of ascent not the 4921 listed in the trip notes. Close second was the descent from Ella; we were awestruck by the scenery.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Wajee is a great guy with a passion for his country and a strong sense of social justice. He was very informative, particularly about the socio-economic situation in the country.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The name of the trip is misleading - we certainly cycled some lovely, quiet backwaters of roads but a lot of time is spent on fairly main ones and, at times, there is a considerable traffic. Beware the Tuctucs, whose movement is akin to random thermal motion but less predictable. It was very hot when we travelled which sapped energy a bit - think that was unusual for time of year. Take factor 50 sunscreen- for me, at least, avoiding skin cancer preferable to a nice tan. We loved the food but it was quite spicy - don't come if you are curry averse. The free lunches are usually buffets - very nice but a good way to pile on weight unless you are careful. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country and one we hope to return to.

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