Reviews

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

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97 Reviews

4.4 out of 5

Erica Brown

Reviewed April 2023

Triple A - Amazing Atlas Adventure

This trip is a great combination of activity and relaxation. After an excellent guided tour of Marrakesh we were free to shop, visit local gardens (I recommend the Majorelle Gardens not far from the hotel) or relax by the pool. We were all keen to get into the mountains and they didn’t disappoint. From our lovely village location our fantastic guide Abdelkabir Ait Lasri led us off on our daily walks with a characteristic “Yalla yalla, let’s go”. On the walks he kept the pace just right so somehow none of us ever felt either held back or left behind. His knowledge of geology added an extra level of interest to our mountain experience. Most impressive was that the week I went on this trip it was Ramadan so despite not eating or drinking all day, Abdel never failed to give 100% in making sure “everyone ok?” Always adding: “If you have any questions, I am here.” The walks vary in length and as a group we did opt for the short version of the long walk on day 6, which nonetheless was still a pleasant six hour round trip along the river with a picnic (Moroccan style) lunch produced by our fantastic “chefcook”. I met a lovely group of people on this trip and with Abdel at the helm there is nothing I could fault. I had a great time. Highly recommended.

Most Inspirational Moment

The views from the top of the mountains.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Abdelkabir Ait Lasri was a fantastic group leader, always calm, always helpful and always courteous. He made sure everything worked as it should resulting in a seamless experience for the group. He did all of this during Ramadan on no food or drink and yet never faltered - a true professional. He created a lovely atmosphere for the group. Definitely a top guide.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Make sure you have a reasonable level of fitness as some of the walks are quite long and (obviously) hilly, though not overly difficult on the whole

Elizabeth Cranfield

Reviewed March 2023

Atlas Panorama in February 2023

This was an exceptionally cold trip with snow in the mountains and rain in the lowlands – something that was outside the experience of our group leader and other ‘locals’ that we met. There was just 4 days of snow and it coincided with our 4 days in the mountains! A guided tour of the old city of Marrakesh, and free time to look further, at the start of the trip, and more free time in Marrakesh at the end, with a good ‘filling’ of 4 days in the High Atlas Mountains, is a great sandwich to give an experience of this part of Morocco. Abdullah, our group leader, recommended excellent restaurants from which we were able to look out over the central square. It was unfortunate that the snow in the mountains curtailed our activities there. However in addition to the walks to and from the riad, we were able to make some enjoyable excursions. One to the top of one of the neighbouring mountains before there had been much snow, and an interesting morning walk along the valley when there was 6 inches of snow on the ground. We spent a day and a half confined to the riad when the snow storms prevented walks, and the group spent time reading, playing cards and scrabble, and participating in a ‘pub quiz’ compiled by one of the group. Despite the weather, it was a very convivial group. We were also able to take advantage of the Hammam. The riad has limited heating. However the riad staff made sure that the gas space heater was always on in the communal area when we were there – and they managed to find a second one as it was so cold. A gas lamp was also provided during the two power cuts. Despite fire wood being very limited in that area, the staff willingly provided sacks of wood for the upstairs woodfire. We also took advantage at night of the additional blankets available. The food prepared by the riad staff was excellent – and even though towards the end supplies were limited due to the roads into the mountains being blocked, they still managed to provide nourishing meals. All in all it was a great trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

The time in Marrakesh, mainly because Morocco was warm and sunny then! It was interesting to see the souks and craft market and watch the skills of the craftsmen as they made the goods they sold – skills that are lost in our country. The glow after the Hammam The many insights into Berber life that our group leader provided. The walk back from the riad in warm sun where we passed sheep and goats being herded and were able to see the gorgeous countryside. The generosity of the riad staff in making sure that we were as comfortable as possible.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Abdullah was great and provided a lot of local information making our trip more interesting. He warned us in our group welcome of the forecasted snow, thus preparing us for any unexpected situations. He took care to ensure that our mountain walks were designed to take into account the conditions and the group’s capabilities. However what made him outstanding was his calmness and his ability to sort out the issues regarding our leaving the High Atlas Mountains. We did not know until we were back in Marrakesh that the roads into the area had been blocked. Communication was difficult. Abdullah spent a lot of time on his satellite phone with limited connectivity sorting out transport etc, for our journey back, making sure that only reliable companies were used. It was a different route back to Marrakesh - in the dark along a hairpin pass with snow and rock falls part blocking the road - as the main pass was closed to us, and the driver is to be congratulated on getting us back safely. Abdullah made sure that we were well looked after at all times.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Whatever the conditions – Enjoy the trip. Morocco is a lovely country and this is an interesting and contrasting holiday. Winter can be chilly, even in normal times, and I would recommend taking several thin layers in case. I took a hot water bottle and was the envy of my fellow travellers.

Donald Chalmers

Reviewed February 2023

Trip Spoilt by Exceptional Weather

Our Atlas Panorama trip was spoilt by exceptional snowfall which precluded the planned hiking activity. As a result we spent 4 days in very basic accommodation with no proper heating, no direct contact with the outside world and nothing to keep us occupied. There was only one inefficient patio type heater in the whole building which was barely enough to raise the temperature above low single figures. There was no heating in the bedrooms which made them untenable for anything other than sleeping – and even then most people slept in 2 -3 layers of clothing! Whilst safely achieved, our return to Marrakech took 13.5 hrs through a very small mountain pass in the dark was particularly stressful.The first day in Marrakech went as planned and was excellent. Food in the Riad was simple but tasty.

Most Inspirational Moment

N/A

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent group leader but he was constrained by uncertainty. He did as much as he could in the circumstances

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take plenty of warm clothing if holidaying in the winter

Frances Burns

Reviewed November 2022

Perfect weather in November

We had a wonderful week of complete contrasts – the busy-ness of Marrakech and the quiet of the Atlas mountains. The itinerary worked smoothly and was well balanced; there was nothing that I would change.

Most Inspirational Moment

Some of the walking took us to super viewpoints with far reaching extraordinary views of the mountains. The group we were in were all positive and cheerful, and it was great to make new friends.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ismail was quietly efficient, hardworking and eager to get everything right for us all. He was always positive and nothing seemed too much trouble. It was also great that he had the local knowledge whether it be of farming, plants, recent developments in schools, or the history of the area. You felt safe in his leadership as he was obviously very at -home in the mountains and ridiculously fit but he always kept the pace steady and safe for the rest of us. We were all genuinely very grateful to have him as our leader and sad to say goodbye.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The walks do take you up to an altitude that might make you feel more weary than normal. You definitely need good walking boots as there is a good amount of climbing rocky paths and dealing with loose stones. I found walking poles gave reassurance that I wasn't going to disappear over the edge of some of the steep slopes! Although it was November, it was bright sunshine and most of the walks are in the open and therefore no shade so a peaked cap was really important.

Jennifer Holmes

Reviewed November 2022

Fabulous adventure in amazing Morocco

Our first Exodus adventure, and it certainly lived up to expectations. Every detail was taken care of, from pre-adventure packing lists, flights, transfers, accommodation, local guides, food and some very well organised walks in the High Atlas Mtns. We were blessed with a terrific host & coordinator, Ismail, who ensured we were well informed of activities – the length & difficulty of our walks and the expected time they would take – plus meals and departure times. Nothing was too much trouble for Ismail and he kept our group of 16 in constant good humour and united throughout the 8 days. The entire adventure exceeded our expectations – the sheer beauty and tranquility of the varied Moroccan landscapes, the kindness of the Berber and Moroccan people, the hamman experience, the hustle and constant movement, cacophony of sounds & myriad of smells & colours in Marrakech. We can’t recall a time when we ate so well and slept so deeply. Morocco is a wonderfully safe, inviting place to visit. We would highly recommend this trip.

Most Inspirational Moment

The tranquility of the mountains. As we slowly moved along varied paths and terrain, at fairly high altitudes, you were just one with nature. Magical.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Ismail can only be described as one of life's gems. Organised, articulate, patient and always thoughtful and kind. We were truly blessed to have Ismail as our group leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The weather was a lot warmer than it usually is in November, so check forecasts and adjust your packing accordingly. Layers are best. Running in Marrakech, even as a woman, was safe and didn't attract unwanted attention or surprise. There are so many gardens and suitable trails in and around the city to get in short and long runs. Get lost. Even if you thought you had decent navigational skills, prepare to become disorientated when wandering about in the souks. It's a journey, not a destination. Same is true for Marrakech - very few street signs and you will get lost. Enjoy! Eat the street food and enjoy the tagines and local dishes. The fruit is gorgeous!

Linda Boscic

Reviewed June 2022

Atlas Panorama

A very enjoyable trip split between cosmopolitan Marrakech and experiencing rural village life

Most Inspirational Moment

Nothing jumps out which was more inspirational than others

Thoughts on Group Leader

Abdulla wa wonderful, very knowledgeable, engaging and committed

Advice for Potential Travellers

Yes accept that the 4 nights in the Atlas mountains you are totally remote from the rest of the world unless you have organised a local SIM card.

Deirdre O'Connor

Reviewed March 2020

Amazing Morocco

A great trip with a combination of the madness of Marrakech and the quiet of the High Atlas. This was my first visit to North Africa and I loved the clear blue sky, the winter sunshine and the fresh air in the mountains. It was a real contrast with the vibrant city of Marrakech- both the old part of the city and the Ville Nouveau. The trip was nicely paced with a combination of group activities and time to explore the city. The walking in the mountains was really enjoyable- with two easier days and then a challenging long day.

Most Inspirational Moment

Completing the long trek on the last day in the mountains. It was a challenging walk, but in stunning scenery and with the reward of a hot lunch at 2,750m. Hearing the call to prayer echoing through the valley before getting out of bed. Having a laugh with the village women in the mosque ( may have been slightly nervous laughter on our part, but they were certainly having fun!!)

Thoughts on Group Leader

Mohammed was very knowledgable, respectful and good humoured. He looked after us really well, responding to our various requests for eggs, bananas etc and keeping us safe on the walks. All the local staff were polite and helpful too.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We needed all types of clothes in February- the weather was lovely and warm in Marrakech, and when the sun was out in the mountains. However, it was cold at night and in the wind in the mountains. Walking poles were really useful over the rough ground. Bring snacks for the walks- no shop in the village and limited snacks available to buy in the riad. Bottled water is available but try not to use it as disposing of rubbish is a big issue in the mountain village.

Audrey Sherlock

Reviewed November 2019

Fabulous experience - and responsible tourism!

Loved every minute of our Atlas Panorama trip. Good balance between city and village life. Lovely trekking routes. Great hospitality. The trip notes are accurate. Highly recommended.

Most Inspirational Moment

Our guide Hamid, himself was inspirational! Heading out at 7am from our riad on a cool, dark November morning (equipped with our head torches) for a 31 km hike. Another was our leader, Hamid, providing after dinner entertainment - singing and playing drums. Another was our afternoon at the hamman in the village - well done exodus, a great example of responsible tourism.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Excellent. Hamid looked after the whole group so well. He was very good fun and very willing to tell us about village life. He also paced our treks well to suit the group.

Advice for Potential Travellers

We were there in November and temperatures were chilly at night in the mountains, as you would expect, so pack warm layers for winter. Trip notes describe this trip accurately. Do pack water purification tablets or water filter to reduce plastic bottled water and bring some gifts for the village school. It's a nice gesture.

Barbara Preneta

Reviewed November 2019

Fantastic Trip!

This was a fantastic trip with great contrasts, from busy Marrakech with souks, palace, mosques to the quiet village up in the High Atlas Mountains. Our guide, Hamid, could not have been better!

Most Inspirational Moment

I loved the mountain village, the quiet, the hammam, having mint tea in the home of our guide's family. Having a hot cooked lunch up in the mountains was special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our leader, Hamid was great. He was knowledgeable, considerate, funny, and always aware of what was happening with various members of our group. He shared so much about the Moroccan culture, answering and encouraging questions from the walkers. We came away with so much more than experiencing a few walks in the mountains.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared with layers for all kinds of weather. It was cold in the riad at night, but plenty of warm blankets were provided. Don't skip the hammam! I hadn't planned to do this, but was so glad that I did.

Edward Preneta

Reviewed November 2019

Genuine Morrocan Community and Hospitality

This is a very good introduction to Morocco, Marrakech, remote village living and the high Atlas Mountains. You learn that Morocco is a Berber nation in the Arab world. It is also a very good example of Exodus’s responsible tourism. Excellent local leader and drivers.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hamed took 16 of us to his family's village house for tea and a variety of cookies/biscuits, which were prepared and served by his sister and other family members. We had a tour of his house and resident live stock. There was no pretentiousness. It wasn't staged. It was a moment of genuine Moroccan Berber community and hospitality.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hamed was and is an outstanding leader. He is engaging, attentive, extremely knowledgeable and eager to learn from those he leads. He is very bright. He knows the trails, Morocco and Exodus.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Believe the trip notes. Marrakech is colorful and busy late into the night 7 days a week. Take the advice from the leader about what to eat, where and how much it should cost for meals, cabs and goods. Always bargain with merchants in the souk. The village is remote and picturesque. The riad is basic and simple. Prepare for the cold in winter months. The trails are rocky and stoney. Don't be shy. Try a hammam.

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