Reviews

Buen Camino!

This was our 3rd trip along the Portuguese Atlantic coast, having done the other two coastal rides in previous years. It made sense to complete the northern end of the coastal route. It didn’t disappoint. It was a treat.
Cycling from Porto northwards towards the Spanish border ( a short boat trip across the river in very small boat complete with bikes), cycling had been fairly easy on a flattish but at times, windy terrain.
Portuguese cobbles in some villages were a regular conversation piece. The scenery was wonderful.
In Spain it became hotter and more hilly, but only one day of note with 3 increasingly sweat inducing climbs. Throughout we had lovely views, and changing terrain, welcome shade with off road trails were a regular part of this enjoyable ride.
As we were following the Portuguese Coastal Camino route, we shared it with friendly hikers, and chatted or shared the ‘Buen Camino’ greetings, as we gave each other space to pass. It made for a lovely relaxed cycling week.
Hotels were all pretty reasonable with the highlight being outside of Padron on day 5, in a lovely county retreat.
Regular coffee and lunch breaks meant weight loss was unlikely, and the route was such that we had time for an afternoon cold drink before reaching the next hotel at a reasonable time. It was probably helped by being a small group of that cycled at a similar pace, lead by an excellent guide, Alfonso.

An Unique Set of Islands

Each of the three islands has it own personality. What they have in common is a view of Mount Pico which alone is worth the trip. You find yourself constantly searching out the mountain to see what view the weather has in store for you. The landscape with the rock walls, cows and corn fields everywhere is in itself something one may never see on any other set of islands.

Lisbon to Algarve Cycling

I thought this was a really enjoyable trip with a great group of people and an excellent leader. The accommodation was very comfortable, the food and drink was good and of good value. Joao was really friendly and helpful with a great sense of humour and very supportive. He gave us clear instructions every day and explained the terrain and the timetable for the day. Felipe was also really good in his support role. The countryside is beautiful, especially as you go further south.
I was unsure about some aspects of the trip so I hope the following will help others: I think that, if you are a competent road cyclist, then there is no great problem with the off road sections. You can go at a speed that is in your comfort zone. There seemed to be a greater proportion of off road than in the notes but some of this may be due to the much slower pace on this terrain. The bikes are quite heavy but well suited to the terrain.
I was apprehensive about cycling on sand, as were several others, but Joao’s explanation of the technique made it fun and everyone did it successfully. There was less of this surface than I expected.
The other question is should you hire an electric bike and I would say, if in doubt, hire one. I used it on 5 hills and I was pleased I did. You don’t have to use it all the time if you don’t want to. I tried sandy sections with and without the electrics and I found the electrics helped to keep going a little (on the lowest setting) which is the key to cycling through the sand.
As a road cyclist this was an interesting mix of road and off road; it might not suit someone who just wants to ride on tarmac.

Inspiring and wonderful trip!

I booked the tour as a solo traveler – I’d chosen this trip for it’s small group and itinerary. In short, it was wonderful – the guide Adonia, the drive Sofisto and the fellow travelers were all fantastic people – fun, witty and a joy to be around.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing 24 elephants running toward a water hole and once in, reveling in their relief and play - Complete with many baby elephants. It was such a wonder to behold.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Adonia was awesome at reading the crowd's mood and engaging those who may have been reticent. He was knowledgeable and kind, plus great at getting everyone excited to see the amazing sights. He was great!

Advice for Potential Travellers

There is a fair amount of driving days on this trip - I didn't mind but the some of the roads were in poor condition. Hope this improves. Bring a good camera - the animals are everywhere and a zoom lens is a must. The camping in the wild was a highlight of the trip!

Reply from Exodus

We’re delighted that Coleen had such a wonderful experience on her trip, and that Adonia, Sofisto and her fellow travellers helped make the holiday so memorable. It is especially lovely to hear that witnessing the elephants at the waterhole and the wild camping experience were such highlights.

While we’re pleased she enjoyed so many aspects of the trip, we also note her 3-star rating and appreciate her comments regarding the long driving days and the condition of some of the roads. Unfortunately, road conditions in some of the remote areas visited can be challenging, but we recognise the impact this can have on the overall experience and appreciate her feedback. We’re grateful she still found the wildlife, guiding and group atmosphere so rewarding, and we hope to welcome her on another adventure in the future.

– The Exodus Product Team

Whale of a time on Vancouver Island

Just back from another great Exodus trip. Whales and bears of British Columbia is an excellent trip. We saw black bears and grizzlies, orcas, grey and humpback whales, seals and sea lions, river otters and a raft of sea otters, porpoise and bald eagles. Very well organised, four great boat trips, a couple of ferries and a good mix of walks and optional activities – kayaking. Our leader, Taylor was excellent. All the accommodation was comfortable. The minibus drives were comfortable with interesting views and frequent stops. Friendly group. A brilliant trip.

Perfect Tour

Firstly the tour surpassed all of our expectations. We have travelled extensively around the world and we can categorically state that Artur Lumani’s commentary and knowledge regarding both ancient and modern history of Albania (supported by our visits to archaeological and contemporary sites) was brilliant. His presentations were exceptional and he was committed to ensuring that we all had the best tour possible.
Being of Albanian heritage, speaking the language, and having travelled to Albania in 1982 during the communist era, we were able to share insights with this lovely professional guide.
We will definitely visit Albania again thanks to Exodus, Artur and Diu (our friendly safe driver who was not only kind but had the cleanest most comfortable mini -bus we have been in). Everything ran smoothly and was well organised . Highly recommended for anyone wanting to explore beautiful Albania.

Our Bosnia and Beyond trip

A varied trip taking in mountains and wildernesses as well as the cultural highlights of Mostar, Sarajevo and other cities, providing an excellent introduction to this region’s complex history.

Amazing 10/10

Me and my family (my sister, Farrah, parents, Mary and Jim), went on the Exodus tour to Albania. We were introduced to our tour guide, Artur. From Day 1, Artur provided us all with his knowledge on every place we visited. He is an amazing tour guide (the best we have ever had), and deserves all the praise.

Our bus driver, Diu, was also amazing and the best driver. We all felt like he was part of the tour group family.

Both Artur and Diu were wonderful and lovely to everyone in the group. We will always remember their kindness and hold the memories of Albania close to our hearts.

They both also work well together!

Thank you Artur and Diu, and Exodus for a wonderful trip.

P.S. We would also like to mention the coach. It was a Premium Class, 5-star coach and one of the newest and best coaches we have travelled in. It was extremely comfortable and made the long journeys around Albania even more enjoyable. Diu took great care of us throughout the trip, and we always felt safe and comfortable with him driving.

Thank you again! 😃👌

Outstanding Exodus Trip

What an incredible holiday – full of exciting canoeing, close encounters with wildlife, spectacular wild camping and learning a new skill. In the group of 6 we were complete beginners and it was windy.

Amazing Dolomites Experience

From start to finish, this was a first-class experience. Everything was thoughtfully planned, the food was fabulous, and each hike was perfectly chosen—challenging, spectacular, and filled with epic views. An unforgettable trip, and I would absolutely travel with Exodus again.