Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

Too many to mention, every location gave something memorable.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Jonny Villalobos was a walking encyclopaedia. He is an extremely professional and friendly man whose enthusiasm and knowledge of Costa Rica wildlife, fauna and history was immense. Nothing was too much trouble for him, often adding on extra walks that were not included in the itinerary. His soul aim was to make our Costa Rica experience unforgettable which he achieved. He is widely regarded by his fellow guides as one of the best if not the best guides in Costa Rica.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Although the guide notes are comprehensive there are a few additional point to make. 1. There is no requirement to take lots of dollars as credit cards are accepted everywhere, the only dollars required are for tipping as indicated in the itinerary notes. 2. The exchange rates from dollars to colones is poor especially if you are exchanging from sterling to dollars to colones. 3. Large dollar bill are not accepted everywhere. 4. People do not dress up, smart casual clothes will do. 5 The voltage in Costa Rica is 120V, and not all hotels have hairdryers. 6. Do not wear expensive jewellery in San Jose 7. Binoculars are advised as is a good camera or a telescopic lens attachment for your phone.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being up high, above some of the the clouds on one of the walks.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Paulo was excellent as a walk leader. Knows his walks very well as being doing it for years and adjusts the pace to suit the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Please do read the Trip Notes as sometimes I think some do not and then get a surprise when they see what the walks are like. Expect the Dom Pedro to be in need of a refurb, it is just very tired but comfortable enough. No tea/coffee on the rooms at the Dom Pedro or Pestana Casinos (this one did have a kettle) maybe take a little of your own, buy some milk and if necessary ask for a kettle. Do walk down Santa Maria Street in Funchal, marvellous painted doors. Three of us had a lovely meal at the Restaurante do Forte in Funchal on the last night.

Most Inspirational Moment

Spotting our first quetzal.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Johnny Villalobos is an excellent leader. He gave us information on everything the country has to offer, and it was in a friendly, interesting way. His knowledge of the country, its flora and fauna, especially the birds, the places, and the people is incredible and he was always generous with his time and help.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The weather varies considerably from the first place to the 6th and last place we visit so bring layers and raingear.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hike to the High Place of Sacrifice - stunning views over Petra.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Abdallah was an outstanding leader - extremely knowledgeable, caring and funny.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.