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★ ★ ★ ★

Great African Adventure

Game Trails of Zimbabwe & Botswana Camping Safari

To get the most out of this adventure (it's not a holiday) you need an open mind and a flexible attitude. It really is a case of the more you put in the more you get out. Helping one another to put up/take down the tents makes the job easier and quicker (although its still a fantastic feeling when you know its the last time you have to do it!!!!) The early starts and pot-holed roads are hard, but you get to see so much in a short time - beautiful landscapes and majestic beasts. Remember that ... the culture here is very different. No one is in a rush so border crossings and administration can be incredibly slow, but the tour leaders will guide you through it all - be patient! Remember to let the guides know you have spotted something so that they can stop and let you take photographs. Ask them questions, so that you can learn. Its a long journey, but try to ensure that you take time to look and listen at things around you. In general all the optional game drives are worth taking because even though you might not see the animal/bird you might hear them (especially at night). Always have warm clothes for the early morning/late evening, its cold in the open vehicles! I can guarantee that at some point you will take so many photos that the camera battery will expire make sure you have a spare charged. And because charging points are not always available you should have a power bank. And make sure you have a specific African plug adapter. My 'universal' adapter would not fit and had to buy one. Remember that tipping is expected (US dollars are preferred) and ensure you take lots of small ($1) notes, or you will over tip and run out of cash very quickly. It wasn't mentioned in the trip notes, but the flight over the Okavango delta is worth doing. Even though water levels were unexpectedly low it was amazing and there were large numbers of animals to be seen. However the low altitude, thermals and crosswinds did make it a bit of a bumpy ride so it might not be for everyone! The sunsets and sunrises are like something else and in between the clear night sky allows you see the stars free from light pollution - wonderful. If only we had seen a leopard. Maybe next time?

By Simon from Woodstock | 19 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A Lovely Week in the Algarve...

Timeless Trails of Portugal's Algarve

We spent a wonderful week exploring the Algarve on my first trip to Portugal. One of the first things I noticed was that the posted internet temperatures did not seem to match what we were experiencing, and it was much hotter than we anticipated. Aside from being caught in a huge downpour on Day 1 where the ground got quite slippery, the weather ranged between perfect & too hot - but of course we can’t control the weather. The property was lovely and comfortable, and all of Violetta’s ... food was chef’s kiss-worthy (special shout-out to curry night)! The lodge and the sleeping rooms were relaxed, rustic and airy with enough creature comforts to make us comfortable yet aware of our impact on the environment and our reliance on connectivity. Nights were pitch black and incredibly quiet, and we were treated to some very beautiful starry skies. We were fortunate to be taken to Sagres to watch the most beautiful sunset at “the end of the world”. Our group also walked to the small town of Pedralva one evening for supper, and many laughs and lasting friendships were made around the table as our stomachs filled with delicious food and lovely Vinho Verde. The first 4 treks were challenging for me as a flat-lander from Saskatchewan, Canada (especially the ascents/descents and the sometimes loose ground underfoot). The guides (Jonathan and Isabella) were knowledgeable and encouraging. Our group (of 6 people – 3 from Canada and 3 from England) had a varying range of ability, which I’m sure takes some skill to handle as a guide. As the one generally pulling up the rear I appreciated not being too rushed or made to feel I was a hindrance. I stopped more than most to either take pictures or catch my breath and I’m glad I did as I came home with lots of photos and wonderful memories. The dogs (Alanna & Chocolate) were very protective, and it was fun to have them along. I opted out of the last day’s trek to spend time walking to one of the local beaches, though those who did this trek enjoyed it very much. Overall, I would recommend this holiday, especially if you are fit. Certainly do-able but challenging at the same time. I did a trek of the same grade in Italy several years ago and also found it more difficult than anticipated. My only tip would be, if you do not regularly train on ascents/descents, keep this in mind as the grade might be deceiving.

By Ruth from Saskatoon | 18 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Great walking holiday visiting delightful islands

Walking the Islands and Volcanoes of Sicily

Really enjoyed visiting the Aeolian islands for the first time. Tony our guide was excellent, very sympathetic and interested in all of us as individuals, informative, and laid back. There were seven of us and we ate out at different restaurants together every evening. Highlights for me were seeing Stromboli erupt, from a safe distance, and climbing to the top of Mt Etna. Catania, where we started and finished the tour was an interesting place as well, despite being a bit shabby at the edges, ... better at night when the streets came to life.

By David from Sudbury | 18 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This holiday exceeded expectations

Walking Wild Tuscany

I highly recommend this holiday. The walking provides the opportunity to discover the delightful Appenine and Apuani Alps on paths that would be difficult to find for the first time visitor. The accommodation is comfortable, spacious and welcoming. We appreciated the kitchen to make tea and coffee, the garden for pre dinner drinks with its wonderful views, and of course the swimming pool. Jamie and Ailsa are charming hosts who take every care to ensure that their guests feel at home.

By Philip from PENRITH | 17 September 2023

A super holiday - the photos don’t do it justice

Walking Wild Tuscany

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By Philip from PENRITH | 17 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Fantastic Wildlife Experience

The Ultimate Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Safari

Uganda absolutely brims with wildlife that is never too far away. Be warned though that there are many early mornings and some long drives to get to some destinations but if you are comfortable with this then you are rewarded in full. With the exception of a leopard our group of 5 saw everything else many times over in vehicles that were ideal to tackle rough terrain and the smooth road surfaces in Uganda (except the constant and many speed humps in the roads!) The standard of accommodation is ... generally good with a couple of lodges at Enganzi & Lake Bunyonyi which were very good. Food is plentiful (you will not go hungry on this trip with 3 course lunches & dinners if desired) and generally consists of fish or chicken dishes. Gorilla and chimp trekking are of course the highlights of this trip although the boat cruise to see hippo, elephant and crocodiles didn’t disappoint either. The gorilla experience in Uganda was better for us as it remained dry whereas it had started to rain in Rwanda so, although you were close to the gorillas in both places (think 2-3 metres away), in Rwanda they tended to prefer to stay under some cover and weren’t as active. Trekking in Uganda is a little harder than Rwanda but it only took us a couple of hours on both occasions to find the gorilla families. The local guide and driver who was with us for the holiday was knowledgeable and friendly. I would say take a few more $USD than you think you will need as pretty much everywhere takes dollars or a credit card. Also, long sleeved shirts and trousers with sturdy walking boots for trekking. Gaiters are not really required though many people wore some. T-shirts and shorts are fine elsewhere as well as a light raincoat. It really wasn’t too busy when we visited and people are very friendly- the local community project we visited gratefully received some pens and paper. For any first time Safari goer, or even the more experienced ones, this trip is sure to keep you busy!

By Andrew from Didcot | 12 September 2023

Ugandan & Rwandan Wildlife

The Ultimate Uganda and Rwanda Gorilla Safari

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By Andrew from Didcot | 12 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Fantastic challenging walk in a spectacular location

Tour de Monte Rosa

Having walked the Tour du Mont Blanc many years ago, this was certainly a more challenging but quieter circuit. It involves steep and sometimes precipitous paths, long days, carrying all your gear and a LOT of ascent and descent. My knees were certainly feeling it towards the end! Accommodation was very good and the food particularly impressive in the mountain refuges. Refuges were excellent fun to stay in and in some spectacular locations, although sadly we were unable to reach Teodulo refuge. ... Knowing that we had some challenging weather conditions coming, Marion our guide did an excellent job at keeping everyone safe by starting early, organising alternate routes, vehicle transfers, cablecars and new accommodation, due to some sections becoming inaccessible. I adored the attractive little villages, lovely alpine meadows, stunning views and often exhilarating walking, especially the roped glacier crossing which was a highlight for me on a spectacular bright morning above the clouds. Although it was tough, the challenge made it all the more rewarding and the fantastic team spirit and support made for an amazing and memorable trip.

By Catherine from WOKING | 11 September 2023

Fantastic challenging walk in a spectacular location

Tour de Monte Rosa

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By Catherine from WOKING | 11 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A very challenging and amazing trek!

I really enjoyed the group and accommodations. The mountain hut Hallerangeralm was my favorite. Our guide Ryan truly took this adventure above and beyond! His knowledge of the history, geology, and botony of the area was quite impressive. He was kind, funny, and took the time to get to know us as individuals. I would take another trip with him anytime!

By Patricia from Portland | 09 September 2023

Self guided TMB

Self-Guided Tour du Mont Blanc

By Rory from Maryport | 09 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Inspiring and stunning arctic landscapes

Traverse of the Jotunheimen

Of all of the trekking I've done, this trip was the most outstanding and inspiring. The scenery was the most diverse and fascinating I've ever seen. The guides were very skilled but also full of humour and friendship. The group really bonded and every day was a different. The huts were extremely comfortable and the food wonderful

By John from Dundee | 08 September 2023

Choquequiro August 2023

Choquequirao to Machu Picchu

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By David from Keswick | 08 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A Humbling and moving Journey through Stunning Landscapes

Walk to Freedom across the Pyrenees

Our Walk To Freedom on The 'Chemain de la Liberte' provided a sensory and emotional nourishment. It was both a privilege and humbling to trace the route taken By Jewish Refugees during the Second World War, when the fortunes of that tragic conflict were in flux. Each day of the four-day walk offered challenges and delights, the rolling wooded foothills on day one, to the breath taking serrated ridges seen at the frontier crossing on day four. Cyrille, our French Guide, enriched the whole ... experience with his kindness and superb management of the expectations and needs of a diverse group. This tour is highly recommended but be prepared for demanding walking on broken, shattered and bouldery terrain at times and check exactly what you need to carry before setting off. It's best to travel light if you can!

By Edward from Llandeilo | 06 September 2023

Svalbard campsite

Svalbard Sea Kayak and Hike Expedition

By Stephen from Farnham | 01 September 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A wonderful trip, full of highlights

Game Trails of Zimbabwe & Botswana Camping Safari

This trip has a really well-planned itinerary, full of interest and variety, with an emphasis on game viewing in different environments, but including other significant sights, such as Great Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls. You get to see wildlife from open and closed vehicles, from a motorboat and traditional canoes, and on foot, visiting major national parks in the three countries, as well as less visited places like Matobos National Park in Zimbabwe, where we got close to rhinos on a game walk ... (they are wild, but monitored around the clock for protection, so used to people). It was wonderful to see a lioness with four tiny cubs, and her mate resting nearby, alongside the remains of an elephant calf in Hwange, Zimbabwe (fortunately elephants are very plentiful there). I can recommend the optional night drive in Hwange, where we got to see nocturnal animals like bush babies, African wild cats, and springhares (aka ‘African kangaroos’). The optional morning game drive in Chobe, Botswana, was also great, seeing the park from a different perspective than on the included boat ride. The tents are up to the job and the camping is relatively comfortable, with hot showers just about everywhere except the two nights in the Okavango delta, where you can still take an outdoor camping shower. Many campsites have unheated pools, which are great for cooling down after travelling. The food was tasty, varied and plentiful, made with plenty of fresh veg. As a vegetarian, and the only one in the group, I was very well catered for, with separate vegetarian dishes instead of meat dishes, which I really appreciated. Our guides, Steve and Alan, did a great job. They had a relaxed but professional approach, taking good care of the group and ensuring the trip ran smoothly through their hard work, without micro-managing everyone’s actions. This was my second trip with Steve as a guide, and as before, he showed great respect for everyone we came across (as did Alan), and this set the tone for a happy and successful trip. Unlike the KE walking trips I have done, there don’t seem to be many single travellers on these Southern Africa safari trips, so if you’re travelling by yourself, be prepared to be in the minority - the dynamic is different, but still works. Early morning and evening game drives in open vehicles are cold! You’re given a blanket, but still take a warm layer, a windproof, and a warm hat to make the experience more comfortable. If you want to see the Zambian side of Victoria Falls on the free day there (a tour of the Zimbabwean side is included the day you arrive), get a double entry visa for Zimbabwe when you enter the country from South Africa. You can cross the border to Zambia on foot, visit the falls, and return to Zimbabwe on foot in a morning. The Zimbabwe side is the more impressive, but the Zambia side is well worth a visit, and has been quieter on the two occasions I’ve visited.

By Timothy from Bradford-on-Avon | 30 August 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Amazing Aladaglar Mountains and Captivating Capadoccia

Trek the High Taurus Mountains and Cappadocia

This was a superb trip that exceeded all expectations. The organisation and support from the local agent and team was excellent, and our guide, Tolga, was outstanding. This trip combines 8 days trekking/camping in the Aladaglar Mountain range of the Taurus Mountains, with hiking and cultural highlights of Capadoccia. Tolga's expert knowledge enabled us to experience the very best of the region, maximising opportunities whilst ensuring an enjoyable pace. In the midst of an exceptional heatwave, ... temperatures were much higher than expected, meaning that the hiking was challenging for everyone. In fact, I think the trekking was far more demanding that I had expected from the trip description and grading. Tolga carefully managed the group to ensure that we all enjoyed the trip (or at least I certainly did), in the most challenging of circumstances. Always conscious of individual needs, but managing the group as a team overall, he did an excellent job of getting us up climbs and passes, summiting peaks, down scree slopes, and safety back to the 'comfort' of our tents each night. The trip was further enhanced by Tolga's knowledge of his surroundings and Turkish history and culture. I've had guides that excel in one area or another, but Tolga's enthusiasm for EVERYTHING made for a most enjoyable trip. We learnt about butterflies, flora and fauna, geology, history, music, culture..... The food on the trek was pretty basic, but given the camp kitchen, it was understandable. The first few campsites had permanent toilet and basic shower/wash facilities; the high camp was much more basic (in fact what I had been expecting for all the camps). The hotel accommodation was clean, comfortable and well located. Overall, this trip exceeded my expectations and was a wonderful opportunity to experience some of the more 'off the beaten track' Turkish highlights. A fabulous trip, which I would thoroughly recommend to adventurous (and hill fit!) types. And a definite digital detox! No recharging facilities and very little phone signal!!!! Just what we all needed!!!!

By Elizabeth from COLCHESTER | 29 August 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A fantastic week exploring the beautiful Balkans

High Peaks of the Balkans

My boyfriend and I have had an incredible week of challenging but rewarding hiking and exploring. First and foremost thank you to Besi for guiding a brilliant tour - he's a living legend! Kind, calm, informative and clearly passionate about his home and the mountains. Each day brought something new and unique. From the scenery views, to the hikes, to the variety of accommodation, to the food. We felt like we had a real adventure and quickly got into vacation mode. The itinerary is inch perfect ... in its efficient use of time. We recommend this trip very highly! One minor point that would have helped us... we took backpacks that would be ok to carry our sleeping mat/sleeping bag (for the night camping), but realised on the trip that we wouldn't be carrying those items, and we would be met by our bags. So our packs were a little bigger than necessary. Maybe this could be made a bit clearer in the itinerary or packing list? Sorry if I missed it! Thank you KE and Besi. We'll be back for more!

By Rachael from Manchester | 28 August 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

STUNNING COUNTRY, FANTASTIC ACTIVITIES, GLORIOUS WATER, DELICIOUS CAKE!

Slovenian Family Adventure - Julian Alps

Our party of 3 was made up of my 45 yo self, my 68 yo mum and my 9 yo son. We were all blown away by the beauty of Slovenia and the superb range of activities provided. Our guides Masha and Hana were both fantastically knowledgeable, motivational, attentive and just generally "nice". They truly made everything seemless. I had not appreciated what a massive benefit it was to have someone else do all the planning, timings and driving (especially the 50 hair pin bends over the Vrisc Pass)! It was ... great having the flexibility to take part in activities or just sit and watch when needed. We had upgraded to have 2 adjoining rooms in the 4 star mountain facing side of hotel, and did not regret that expense. The hotel itself is nice enough, be prepared to be a bit fed up of the evening meals by the end of the week! The restaurants chosen by the guides for lunch were all delicious and in fabulous settings (my favourite was after Bohinj Lake). We were with 2 other families and everyone got on well. All of the activities were superb. My 9 yo is already asking when we can go white water rafting again. I am already missing the fantastic lake swimming. My mum is missing the glorous views across the mountains. I would 100% recommend this holiday to anyone looking for a bit of adventure!

By Alix from Liverpool | 28 August 2023

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Great adventure in wilderness

Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu

After my first trip with KE to Everest Basecamp few years back, this time I was looking for an adventure that will take me and my partner somewhere truly wild and unspoiled - and this trip more than delivered! Ausangate trek includes nine days of camping in remote area of Andes, where you will see not a soul, and except your team, alpacas will be your only witness :-) Trip starts in beautiful Cusco, where we stayed two days to acclimatize before the trek. Not to worry - you won't be bored! Area ... is full of incredible historical sites (Inca temples and fortresses), museums, colorful markets, and absolutely incredible food! Our guide, Luis, was very knowledgeable, and it was a pleasure to learn from him about Inca history and culture. Ausangate trek is demanding but experience is truly priceless! We camp in Andean wildness, in most breathtaking places, cross four high altitude passes, experienced all types of weather (snow, hail, wind, heat - sometimes all in one day). Our guide and support team were there all the way, working really hard, to make our adventure unforgettable. Camp were set up before we were arriving, and food was freshly cooked and ready. Food...hot tea/coffee every morning, delivered to our tents, nutritious breakfasts, snacks for the road, 3-course lunches, tea time, and 2-course dinners! All cooked freshly - heat, hail, or snow. Menu included pastas, pancakes, hot soups, and even a cake!! I can't appreciate enough the effort that the whole team put into making this experience really special for us - these guys deserve every penny of their tip and more, so I would like to strongly encourage any traveler to consider tipping extra on top of official guidelines, and ask themselves a question of their tip truly reflects hard work that guide and support teams put into making our holiday unforgettable. Nature and views on Ausangate trek is incredible - snow covered peaks, rainbow-coloured hills, turquoise lakes, hot springs, and night sky so dark you can't believe there is so many stars...and all of that with not a person in sight! It is so much to experience, that I have forgotten that we still have Machu Picchu to see after return back to Cusco. A lot has been written about Machu Picchu, and even more pictures were published - but it doesn't disappoint - I promise you, if only lucky with weather, it is even more incredible than you saw on Instagram :-) We had a wonderful time on this trek. It perfectly balance attractions of Cusco and lively Peruvian culture, with wilderness and challenges of high altitude trek. Highly recommended!

By Alicja from London | 28 August 2023