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. Any feedback collected (Good or bad) from Exodus clients is posted straight onto our website - totally unedited. Read more...
From the hustle and bustle of Antananarivo to the remoteness found within Andringitra National Park, this trip offers ever changing scenery and thought provoking experiences for all. I would unreservedly recommend this trip to anyone interested in walking in unspoilt and peaceful scenery
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Perhaps the most inspirational facet of the trip for me was the moment of realisation that 'personal wealth' cannot in any way be attributed to, or influenced by one’s own economic status. Having taught Geography for many years here in the UK, I have discussed with students on many occasions the principals behind GDP, First/Third World Classifications and the importance of trade on a Nations economy, but perhaps all this was in some way flawed because my own preconceived notions of Madagascar (The world’s 4th Poorest Country, limited power supplies/transport infrastructure, unstable politically and high levels of depravation) were all for the most part completely and utterly wrong. Yes Madagascar is economically poor on a scale developed by western societies, but in the remote villages away from the hubbub of emerging tourism routes, there is evidence of strongly cohesive and stable communities, who have ample food, well built homes and a passion for family and community that the West can only dream of.So while travelling South on Route 7 in an air conditioned mini-coach, I recognised that although I may have some higher degree of economic wealth than many citizens of rural Madagascar, I was able to appreciate for the first time that I do not have their social wealth, and within the society we live in today, this would be almost impossible to achieve. Trekking in Madagascar has thus afforded me the opportunity to reflect on the importance of my own family and friends in my daily life.
What did you think of your group leader?
Upon arrival at Antananarivo airport we were greeted by the usual pandemonium and confusion surrounding passport control combined with an intense stale heat that no ceiling fan was able to cool. Yet beyond the etched sécurité glass panels stood an individual wearing a pristinely ironed black exodus polo shirt waiting to meet us. Solofo welcomed us with a broad smile, impeccable manners and an enthusiasm that is rarely seen. He immediately took care of our luggage and helpfully directed us to the windows of the Bureau de Change. I was once told as a child that you can only make a good first impression once, and following our brief encounter I was left considering my own politeness as it had been totally eclipsed by that of our group leader Solofo.Throughout the whole tour Solofo ensured our every desire and need was catered for with an unflappable enthusiasm and unfaltering energy. He took time to ensure that our knowledge of local customs and traditions was kept sufficiently full and helped us to decide from many an endless menu which zebu dish would be best for dinner. Perhaps for me my abiding memory of or group leader will be the term ‘Congratulations’, which he often imparted upon us at each evening briefing, yet it is with hindsight, that I think it is I who should had said ‘congratulations’ to Solofo each evening for his wonderful daily efforts, his patience and meticulous attention to detail.Solofo is a wonderful group leader whose realistic enthusiasm towards Madagascar is enchanting.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
As a first time traveller and a real novice of global travel I’m not sure I can offer a seasoned traveller any meaningful or useful tips, so apologies in advance if you have already considered all of these points, but they are specific to this trip;1. Consider what bags you take on the trek. I opted for a small Osprey day sack and an Osprey Transporter 65 holdall. This worked out excellently well as it can be carried by hand and easily converts to a rucksack should your porter prefer. This provided me with more than enough luggage space yet was compact at the same time.2. Cable-tie everything you check in or leave out of sight. One small cable tie can secure your bag and offers you peace of mind against opportunistic theft. Some of the airport connections are a little lengthy especially in Nairobi.3. Espadrilles are an excellent choice of footwear for this trip at all times when walking boots are not worn. Mine started off light grey but through constant use are now much more of a ‘well used brown’ in colour. 4. Madagascar is a very beautiful country and you may want to capture its many facades but ensure you spend time enjoying the scenery through your own eyes and not just through the lens of the camera.5. At the top of Pic Boby is a small note book where you will have the opportunity to write a short note to say you’ve made it. I would advise everyone to think about what to write on the way up to take your mind of the endless steep steps J
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I can only hope you enjoy your trip Madagascar as much as I have.
Jacqueline Edge
TREKKING IN MADAGASCAR
Written
I was disappointed by how few opportunities we had to observe wildlife. From the online itinerary, it seems as if this holiday is about wildlife watching, as well as trekking and seeing the way of life. However, the wildlife we did see was largely incidental, or part of additional excursions that were not included in the trip. And when we did finally get to see lemurs, we were rushed through. If you're looking for wildlife, this is not the trip for you.However, every other aspect of the holiday was fantastic. Our group leader and all of the local guides were very friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. The driver was exceptionally good - very good at anticipating problems and navigating undeveloped roads. The accommodation was fantastic and the food was delicious. The trekking scenery was beautiful and very unusual.
What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?
Seeing lemurs (sportive & sifaka) in the dry forest, but this was an optional extra excursion. The day on the beach at the end.
What did you think of your group leader?
Armel is wonderful - very helpful and well organised. He is passionate about his country and eager to show tourists around and to ensure that everyone gets what they want from the holiday. He worked hard, while making us all feel very welcome and comfortable.
Do you have any advice for potential travellers?
Take many blister plasters! :) Make sure you have a few euros left for the airport: they don't accept Ariary beyond security, not even for a drink. Pounds sterling are not readily accepted, either. The electrical plugs are all standard european two-pins.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Fantastic trekking holiday, but not recommended for wildlife fundis. :) Note: this holiday does not explore any rainforest at all!
from 9 reviews.
Login above to retrieve a previously saved list or 
Click on 'Add to wishlist' to pin trips here.
