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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.

Simply use the selector below to search our trip reviews and start reading real feedback from real Exodus travellers who have ‘been there and done that’!

Lots of our clients also like to post handy tips and advice about their travels. It’s great to know what to expect on an Exodus adventure before you go, so make the most of their experience and you’ll make the most of yours!

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14715 Reviews

4.7 out of 5

Reviews

Oman Odyssey

We really enjoyed the dramatic contrast in Oman’s geography, which almost seemed to change at every corner, from its rugged limestone peaks, rocky canyons and refreshing wadis, extensive sand dunes through to the sub-tropical coastal plains.

Most Inspirational Moment

Sunset over the golden dunes near to the Arabian Nights Resort and star gazing in the Empty Quarter.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Qais was very experienced and extremely knowledgeable and passionate about Oman. The drivers all spoke good English, and were very friendly, helpful and caring.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It got quite cold at night (low single figures) in the mountains and on the final night of camping in the desert, so recommend cold weather clothing. The trip notes state that there are no washing or toilet facilities whilst camping, but on the first two nights a toilet tent with sit chemical toilet was provided. On the last night, in the Empty Quarter, there were showers (cold!) and a toilet block. Food throughout the trip was tasty, and portions were large, and cheap. We often shared meals between two people, with a meal costing under 3OMR.

Oman Desert Odyssey

Our trip to Oman was unforgettable. With no preconceived expectations, we were amazed by its dramatic mountains, deep canyons, lush wadis, vast deserts, and beautiful coastline. It’s a remarkably safe country, and most people speak enough English to make travelling easy.
We had a few memorable moments, including our tent collapsing at both the beach and the wadi camps due to strong winds. We also witnessed a blue‑green algae bloom that created glowing phosphorescence in the sea, though it sadly left thousands of dead fish along the shore — not the best beach for swimming.
Driving through the desert and exploring the dunes was a highlight, and our desert hotel felt especially luxurious after a night of beach camping.
Overall, experiencing Oman’s diversity and natural beauty was truly special.

Most Inspirational Moment

The endless deserts and wide, dry plains were breathtaking, as were the stunning mosques — especially the one in Muscat.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was knowledgeable, though at times seemed a little tired and less enthusiastic than some of our previous leaders. The 4x4 drivers, however, were very engaging and happily answered most of our questions along the way.

Advice for Potential Travellers

It gets very cold in the mountains, and the mountain hotel isn’t really set up for winter as it’s mainly a summer property. The desert can also drop below freezing at night, so follow Exodus’ advice and pack warm clothing. I took a duvet coat and even slept in it while camping. Expect the unexpected — the unpredictability of both the trip and the country is part of what makes it so enjoyable.

A trip with such variation in environment; deserts, mountains, beaches, wadis...

I was lucky enough to join this trip as an Exodus staff member, and enjoyed very minute! There were areas where other tourists were few and far between, and whilst I was prepared for beautiful deserts, the mountains were stunning. We were able to eat amazing meals for less than £2, and camping under the stars was unreal.

Most Inspirational Moment

The gorgeous desert resort set right in the dunes.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Qais was a very experienced leader with a wealth of knowledge.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Both the deserts and mountains can get pretty cold at night (I travelled in January).

Too rushed.

The idea is sound – visiting four parks maximises the chance of seeing a good variety of wildlife.
However the trip notes seriously under state the terrible condition of the roads and therefore the time it takes to make the transfers. We spent more time on the road between parks than we did on game drives.
The driving is terrifying.
The whole trip felt rushed, as soon as we arrived at a park we were hurried into a meal and then straight out in the vehicle again. There was no time to relax or make use of the facilities in the lodges (which were lovely.)
The behaviour of the guides in the parks was shocking to me. There is a 5 vehicles per animal rule but whenever there was a big cat there were a crowd of 30 or more, all jostling for position and hounding the animals if they moved off. At one point I thought they had run over a chetah. Our driver also broke the no driving off road and no speeding rules. I felt ashamed to be part of it.

Most Inspirational Moment

We were present when a solo lioness challenged a leopard in a tree and stole her kill.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Alex was very knowledgeable but didn't offer up much information without being asked. His driving was frightening.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Think very carefully about this one. And if you have any back problems or issues with motion sickness do not do it.

Dream-like trip totally incredible!

This has been an amazing trip, can’t recommend it enough, especially if this is your first trip to India, it’s a great introduction to get your bearings. Our trip was nine days and we covered a large geographical area in a relatively short space of time to see the sights in Delhi, Jaipur, Ranthamborne, Agra and Varanasi. To do this we travelled in a private minibus which was really comfortable and also took the public train to Varanasi and Delhi, the train was also really comfortable, spacious and clean , we also had a couple of small boat trips along the Ganges which were really special, so there was a good mix of transport it wasn’t all minibus. The sights you see on this trip are stunning, and there are just so many to see. This is a busy trip but that’s the beauty of it, you will get to see so much. The hotels we stayed in were of varying standards but mostly very good: Jaipur, Agra, Ranthamborne and Varanasi Hotels were all great and the breakfasts and evening meals in those hotels were really very good indeed. We were taken to some fabulous restaurants to eat in the evenings and the food everywhere we went was delicious and we didn’t worry about what we were eating as every place we ate at had been vetted by our excellent tour guide leader. The group we travelled with were so much fun, we all became good friends by the end.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Taj Mahal was impressive, it really is as beautiful as it looks in pictures but is so iconic you can't believe you are there! The chance to cook an Indian meal with a family was really special, the couple were so warm and welcoming and we made great food that we all got to eat together after. The visit to a Hindu Temple to watch a devotional ceremony was so uplifting and will stay with me forever. My favourite place was Varanasi, there is such a great buzz of energy here, watching the world go by on the Ganges was extra special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Have to say a great big thank you to our Group Leader Manu who was absolutely excellent at his job. He took great care of us all on this trip. He was always warm, friendly, approachable, happy to answer any questions and help with anything at all during the trip. He was great at keeping us all together and getting us everywhere in good time, which everyone appreciated and he really listened well to meet the needs of the group. Communication was excellent, we were always told what was happening and what to expect next and how to prepare for things we were going to do in advance.

Advice for Potential Travellers

I felt totally safe on this trip, and really well looked after, the group tour makes sightseeing so much easier, especially when trying to do shopping or visiting really busy places. I would definitely travel again with exodus, and after seeing many solo travellers in our group, I would have no problem travelling solo with exodus either.

Best week ever

You have to try it! I loved the cosy wooden chalet nested in snowy landscapes, trying new activities with the group and by myself, the tasty salmon soup, sitting by the fireplace in the evening, and the variety of optional activities – especially the ice swimming/sauna experience and the Riisitunturi snowshoeing day. Out of this world!

Most Inspirational Moment

Standing on a frozen lake at night and being lucky enough to witness the Northern lights crossing the sky. Walking in the forest and enjoying the silence, just hearing the crisp sound of snow under my feet.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Joonas was the best. Super friendly and approachable, very helpful to explain the snowshoeing and cross country skiing techniques and to book optional activities, very knowledgeable about the area and its fauna (was always looking for animal tracks!).

Advice for Potential Travellers

Just go for it, you won't regret it. It's all it promises and more. Full of nice surprises as well, I won't say more!

Stunning countryside and beautiful wildlife

This was an excellent trip and not too hectic with a bit of downtime in some lovely hotels. Group worked well together.

Most Inspirational Moment

Climbing Sigiriya rock, glamping in Gal Oya, cookery class in Ella. Dambulla cave temples. Boat trip to seen elephants on islands.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Richard was lovely: very kind with lots of thoughtful touches: fresh pineapple and watermelon after long days. A ready supply of toilet paper and hand sanitizer! Temple socks and sarongs provided. Very knowledgeable. about his beautiful country.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Socks for temples: it is not like a mosque where you walk on carpet. You walk on gravel, hot rocks, wet paths. Scarf for dusty Yala. The walk with the chief involves wading so consider waterproof shoes. Food: it is very spicey so be careful. The home cooking and restaurants outside hotels were happy to reduce spice but not hotel buffets. Be careful with the rice. Recommend Lords in Negombo and Chill in Ella. Jetwing Lighthouse al la carte excellent

Two unforgettable national parks!!

From the very start, the trip felt immersive and beautifully balanced. The wildlife in Kruger National Park was unforgettable, spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat was a real highlight. We were very lucky spotting the ‘Top 5’ and most exciting was seeing 2 leopards to complete the set! I was equally captivated by the more rural, untouched areas, which showcased a quieter, more authentic side of South Africa. The Drakensberg Mountains were simply stunning, with dramatic scenery that felt almost prehistoric, it was a joy to hike around, with next to no one else there. Visiting the historic site of Rorke’s Drift added real depth to the journey. It was a rich, rewarding, and truly memorable experience!

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the view at the top of Tugela Falls. We spent the day hiking to the summit and seeing the mountains from the top down takes your breath away. The mountains roll on for miles and you truly feel like you are on top of the world.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Clifford was very knowledgeable and passionate about the history, culture and wildlife of South Africa and Eswatini. He was a fountain of knowledge who could answer any questions we had, as well as telling many stories to bring the place to life!

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a very adventurous trip but also a busy one. We stayed in over 10 hotels (to see as much of the area as possible) and there were a lot of early starts. If you are going for comfort then this may not be for you, but if you are going for hikes, beautiful views and amazing wildlife, then you'll have a great time!

Incredible Tour

This itinerary was fantastic! Loved the fun activities, knowledgeable and passionate guide, great hotels & vehicles. Saw loads of wildlife in such a small amount of time.

Most Inspirational Moment

The night walk - amazing to see so much wildlife in the rainforest at night

Thoughts on Group Leader

Alejandro was very considerate of everyone's needs in the group. He was so knowledgeable - It was fascinating learning about Costa Rican culture and history. Also great at spotting wildlife on drives so there were plenty of photo stops.

Potentially great trip let down by unroadworthy bike

Bike: Rear caliper loose, rear tyre coming off rim, excessive play in headset, poor brakes as calipers not aligned with discs. Bike replaced after a couple of days but they sent the wrong size. Leader was at best average. I cycled in Kerala two years age with different company, good Bike, brilliant leader. Hence 2 stars.

Most Inspirational Moment

Homestay and Backwater trip.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Average, made poor decisions about eating places. Communication poor, not using WhatsApp to remind us of important timings , like diner, breakfast and departure. Didn't even set up a WhatsApp group, so I did.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Check your bike thoroughly or get someone with bike knowledge and refuse to get on it until all faults are rectified to your satisfaction. Pot luck with leaders. I walked out of our first night dinner in Varkala without sitting down. Next daythe others said they should have followed me.

Review Centre
Reply from Exodus

How’s this:

 

We’re sorry to read that Charles felt this way about his Cycle the Coast of Kerala trip, and we appreciate him taking the time to share such detailed feedback. Exodus places great importance on the condition and safety of all bicycles used on our cycling itineraries, and we have stringent checks in place before every departure. Feedback from other members of this group indicates that the majority of bikes were generally in good condition overall; however, the comments Charles raises about his bike are not acceptable and this is being followed up with our local team. We fully understand how frustrating it must have been for Charles to begin his holiday with an unroadworthy bike, and we’re glad a replacement was provided, even if the sizing wasn’t perfect. One of our UK team was in touch with Charles during the trip and we would have been happy to organise a different replacement bike if he had requested at the time.

 

We were also sorry to learn that Charles was disappointed with his tour leader. We’re proud to have a strong team in Kerala who usually receive excellent feedback for their organisation, communication, and local knowledge, so it’s disappointing to hear this wasn’t reflected on this occasion. His comments regarding communication, restaurant decisions, and group coordination have been noted and will be shared our local manager.

 

It’s encouraging that Charles still enjoyed aspects of the trip, particularly the homestay and backwater experience, which are often highlights for many travellers. We appreciate him offering advice to future customers, though we feel that our ongoing equipment checks and leader development mean guests can join this trip with confidence.

 

We’re grateful for Charles’s honest reflections and will use them to ensure we continue strengthening the experience for those travelling with us in the future.

 

-Oliver O’Boyle, Exodus Product Manager