Reviews

Most Inspirational Moment

I find it impossible to pick an individual moment, as there were so many. But I suppose standing in glorious sunshine enjoying expansive views of some of the most beautiful and dramatic snow encrusted mountains on the planet takes some beating. And fortunately that moment occurred again and again during the course of the week.

Thoughts on Group Leader

I've been on quite a few guided treks over the years, many of them with Exodus. I have generally been very impressed with the group leaders, but none have proved to be as inspirational as Sara Bull. She has boundless energy and enthusiasm, and whilst her levels of care and support for the group know no bounds, she feels more like a member of that group and a friend rather than an employed guide. That is a very difficult feat to achieve and adds immeasurably to the overall experience.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I think Grade 3 is appropriate for this trip, but walking through snow for prolonged periods can be physically testing so, as the trip notes state, it is important that you are comfortable with your own level of fitness. I regularly go hill walking in the Lake District and found the treks to be perfectly manageable.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing my first tiger in the wild of course, but also seeing a leopard albeit at a distance.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Krishna was great, very caring and went out his way to help if anyone had a problem.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take some protein bars for the breakfasts, the morning drives are cold so take layers , also all the drives are dusty so take covers for cameras and something to cover your mouth and nose especially if you have any respiratory issues. Be prepared for long bumpy drives, and lots of sitting around just listening for any alarm calls and waiting , and be prepared to be disappointed, as you will not see Tigers on every drive, they are elusive, and you may only see glimpses of them through the jungle . Enjoy the rest of the wildlife especially some of the beautiful birds. Take plenty of tissues , and be prepared for the Indian style toilets . Also remember to just watch the tigers not always through a lenses.

Most Inspirational Moment

Experiencing the birds, iguanas, monkeys from the boat in the lagoons. On a night walk in the jungle listening to the nightlife with the torch turned off - drinking in the noise of the frogs, insects etc. was magical. Swimming in the pool at the bottom of the waterfall surrounded by high cliffs and amazing forest vegetation Watching the humming birds.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Hector was wonderful. Having been on several Exodus trips I can honestly say he was The Best. Knowledgeable - interested in the people on the trip. Eager to learn and Europe as well as imparting information to us. He had a great sense of humour He wanted me make out time in Costa Rica special and memorable and he succeeded

Advice for Potential Travellers

Take plenty of spending money. The meals out can be expensive. All the extra activities are great - do them ALL - but budget accordingly If travelling from countries other than the UK check the requirement for a Yellow Fever Certificate. This is required from travelling via Ecuador

Most Inspirational Moment

Meeting the Ayurvedic doctor who had a cure for everything...

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suresh is the best tour leader we have come across so far on our travels

Advice for Potential Travellers

Do NOT take the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya- stick to the bicycle/ bus if necessary

Most Inspirational Moment

The wildlife which cropped up at almost every turn.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Suresh was brilliant 10/10 thank you for sharing your country with us, laughs, banter and great memories all the way.... "maximum damage, probably"

Advice for Potential Travellers

Sunscreen and sleeves, the sun is very strong, factor 50 didn't stop sunburn. Keep a small bag for easy access on the bus with a towel, shorts and T shirt in case of a heavy shower.

Most Inspirational Moment

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Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a good trip for people with some experience of skiing or for those that can learn quickly.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sites like Karnak, Philae, the pyramids at Giza and the Valley of the Kings lived up to all expectations. I also loved cruising down the Nile and watching the world go by - this was my first river cruise and I would do more now.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Teefa was excellent - like having a friend guide you round the sights.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It's not a leisurely trip - there are a number of very early starts and you cover a lot of sites in a week. February is a perfect time to go - it's a very pleasant mid 20s during the day, and cool in the evenings.

Most Inspirational Moment

Particularly enjoyable memories include: Climbing Lions Rock, Hortons Plain walk (even though Worlds End view was misty), white water rafting, hot water bottle at night at the Hill Club, bike ride/local lunch, playing Sri Lankan games, train ride, wandering round Galle, and still some time to relax by the pool and have a swim.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Roshan was an excellent guide, our tour was very well managed.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Whale watching – I did it, and we did see blue whales (and a pod of dolphins). But, with hindsight, I would not have done it, as it takes around 7.5 hours, and you only see a few glimpses of the whales, and I think I could have made better use of my time by the local beach and doing perhaps the afternoon mangrove tour. Oh well, you live and learn. Sigiriya – do the optional game drive, we saw loads of elephants, and we only caught a glimpse of one on the included Yala drive. Take insect repellant.

Most Inspirational Moment

Las Torres

Thoughts on Group Leader

Pepe was outstanding. 10/10 only just covers it.

Advice for Potential Travellers

consider arriving a day early to see a little bit more of Buenos Aries. Take flip flops for the showers in the refugio's

Most Inspirational Moment

The beautiful, awe inspiring scenery.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Could not fault her.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just go for it.