Exodus Signpost Magazine-UK Summer 26

SIGNPOST

ADVENTURES START WITH THE BEST LOCAL GUIDES

Spirit of the ANDES

Peru: Machu Picchu and beyond

ICONIC TREKS OF THE WORLD

The classics to trails less travelled

SKILLCATION: THE ART OF DOING

Cooking, kintsugi & skills to take home

ISSUE THREE | SUMMER 2026

MORE THAN JUST THE RIDE

Chasing the next adventure on two wheels

on

trying something new. GO

EXPERTISE

unrivalled local knowledge, insight and dedication. It’s this expertise which really sets our adventures apart, ensuring you have a trip of a lifetime.

trying something

TRAVELLERS

curiosity and sense of adventure. You’ll enjoy lively conversation and a journey that feels more like travelling with friends than an organised tour.

EXPERIENCES

everyday life in the places you visit. From cooking with families to learning crafts from local artisans, our adventures go beyond any guidebook.

Welcome

When did you last try something new? This issue of Signpost is all about what happens when you do.

I had a taste of that on a recent Exodus cycling trip along South Africa’s Garden Route (p26), where travelling on two wheels brought constant surprises, real camaraderie and new challenges.

In this issue, you’ll find trips that capture that same feeling, from hands-on skillcations (p32), to journeys that take on some of the world’s most iconic trekking routes, from the Himalaya to the Alps (p16). There are also moments you simply can’t replicate, like the chance to witness the Eclipse of the Century in 2027 (p7).

Think of it as a nudge to shift gears and see where your next adventure takes you.

Enjoy the ride.

STEVE GILCHRIST HEAD OF PRODUCT Africa & the Americas

Lares Trek in Peru to Norway’s wild coast 12 SIGNATURE STAYS

For nights as memorable as days 14 SIGNATURE VIETNAM

From fabric to folklore, venture to the heart

Toubkal,

Three friends go beyond Machu Picchu 26 MORE THAN JUST THE RIDE

Chasing the next adventure on two wheels 28 A TASTE OF TIMELESS JAPAN

Local guide, Hidesada, shares his Takayama 31 EXTRORDINARY STAYS IN JAPAN

Expert advice, practical kit and stories from the road

36

Svalbard on a polar expedition, wild and unscripted

44 IN YOUR WORDS 14 trips in, and still not finished yet

46 ASK THE EXPERTS

New to trekking or not, your questions answered

47 IT’S IN THE BAG

What earns space on the trail

48 YOUR WORLD IN FOCUS

The winning shot in our photo competition

50 OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Beyond the ruins with Edwind Colque

TRENDING now

From rising destinations to rare celestial events, discover the trends capturing travellers’ imaginations – and why now is the moment to experience them.

CHINA: BIG ADVENTURES, WIDER ACCESS

China has long captivated curious travellers – and now it’s easier than ever to visit. With expanded visa-free entry for UK citizens, the door has opened wider. And the rewards are immense: walk the Great Wall at sunrise, cycle the ancient city walls of Xi’an, and cruise the Li River past limestone karsts that rise like brushstrokes from the water – or witness Everest’s vast presence from Tibet. Few destinations match China for sheer scale, story and spectacle.

Visit exodus.co.uk/china

SPOTLIGHT ON

GEORGIA

Often overshadowed by more familiar destinations, Georgia deserves a closer look.

Set between the Black Sea and the towering Caucasus Mountains, it offers dramatic hiking landscapes, storybook villages and a culture shaped by centuries at the crossroads of empires. There’s also the wine: Georgians have been making it for over 8,000 years, often in traditional clay qvevri buried underground. Wander Tbilisi’s colourful streets, trek beneath snow-capped peaks and discover a cuisine built for long, convivial feasts. You can also pair Georgia with neighbouring Armenia on our new 14-day adventure.

Visit exodus.co.uk/Georgia-holidays

CHASING TOTALITY

SOLAR ECLIPSE DEPARTURES

Some moments don’t just reward good timing – they demand it. On 2 August 2027, a total solar eclipse will sweep across North Africa and the Middle East, bringing one of the longest periods of totality visible on Earth this century.

So, we’ve timed special departures to place you in the path of totality. In Morocco, that moment unfolds in Chefchaouen, the blue-washed town in the Rif Mountains. Here, with a professional astronomer, you’ll watch the light fade before the sun disappears entirely – a fleeting, precisely timed spectacle.

For those drawn further along the eclipse path, our Saudi Arabia Explorer offers a more remote setting, pairing the phenomenon with vast desert landscapes and ancient sites including Hegra and AlUla.

Find out more about our Morocco trip at exodus.co.uk/trip/amze or our Saudi Arabia adventure at exodus.co.uk/trip/axye

NEWS &views

REWILDING

ITALY’S WILD HEART

We celebrate five years of partnership with Rewilding Apennines this year – driving tangible change across one of Italy’s most overlooked regions. Through our commitment to rewild 100 square metres per traveller, more than 1,000 hectares of the central Apennines have been restored, helping to rebuild habitats and protect species such as the endangered Marsican brown bear. This is rewilding in action – led by local experts and supported by you, our travellers. You can experience it firsthand on our Italian Apennines Walks & Wildlife trip, staying in remote villages and walking through landscapes now returning to nature, where every trip directly supports ongoing conservation work.

Discover the Apennines and support rewilding. exodus.co.uk/trip/tir

BOOK NOW

LATE SUMMER, DONE PROPERLY

This is Europe in its sweet spot – from the Dolomites’ high trails to Evia’s quiet coves and Portugal’s windswept Atlantic coast. The vineyards are heavy with harvest, the seas still warm and the crowds beginning to thin, leaving the landscapes to be savoured more slowly, and with a little more space to make them your own.

Turn to page 36 to read the full feature.

JUST BACK FROM MOROCCO

NII BANNERMAN EXODUS CUSTOMER MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Ever ridden a camel into the Sahara at sunset? I hadn’t either! And it’s as surreal as you would imagine. Watching the light across the dunes is a moment that will always stay with me. Morocco is full of contrast. One minute you’re weaving through busy souks, filled with spices and street food, the next you’re in the Atlas Mountains, walking between villages and sharing a cup of tea with the locals. The hammam experience? Let’s just say it’s not something I’ll forget in a hurry. Honestly, I still can’t quite believe I was actually there.

EXPERT TIP: Carry cash for markets, keep water with you at all times, and always ask before taking photos, especially in busy souks where many locals prefer not to be photographed.

Highlights of Morocco exodus.co.uk/trip/amh

“From the Sahara to the Atlas Mountains, Morocco surprised me at every turn, in the best possible way.

”

MAKE IT A LONGER STORY

Why stop at one trip? Combine two journeys and see a country – or even a continent – in greater depth. Pair northern and southern Italy for contrast, or link adventures across borders for a longer, more immersive escape. We’ll handle the logistics, from connecting flights to timings, so everything flows as one seamless experience.

Call our expert team to start planning your adventure.

NEW trips

New trips are easy to come by. The right ones take a bit more finding. These journeys are built with the people who know them best, taking you beyond the obvious and into the detail.

RAJASTHAN HIGHLIGHTS BY BIKE

Cycle Rajasthan’s backroads, with tiger tracking along the way

Cycle through Rajasthan at a steady pace, following quieter rural roads from Pushkar towards the Taj Mahal. Along the way, your local leader brings context to everything you pass, from Jaipur’s early-morning rituals to lesser-known countryside stops. Stay in former palaces and forts, track Bengal tigers in Ranthambore, and reach the Taj Mahal at sunrise, when the light and the crowds are at their most forgiving.

exodus.co.uk/trip/mil

LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU

Trek quieter Andean routes with expert locals

Take the quieter route to Machu Picchu, visiting remote Quechua villages and crossing Andean passes. The Lares Trek suits those seeking a more personal Andean hiking experience, offering a culture-rich alternative to the Inca Trail, without the need for a permit. After time to acclimatise in Cuzco and explore the Sacred Valley, we follow lesser-used paths through high mountain landscapes, supported by an experienced crew. Camp in remote valleys, soak in natural hot springs, then arrive at Machu Picchu ready to explore it with your guide.

exodus.co.uk/trip/tpa

HIGHLIGHTS OF CENTRAL ASIA

Share tables along the Silk Road with local families

Start in Tajikistan, where tourism is still in its infancy and the rhythm of daily life feels largely unchanged. Hike to the mountain village of Voru and gain insight into life in one of the region’s most remote communities. Back in Panjakent, sit down for a heartwarming dinner with a local family in their home. Days later in Bukhara, you are welcomed by the Toshev family, well-known local artisans, where you share a home-cooked meal, learn about their craft traditions and celebrate your journey together.

exodus.co.uk/trip/aqz

HIGHLIGHTS OF CAMBODIA

Cook Khmer dishes and receive a monk’s blessing

NORTHERN NORWAY COASTAL ADVENTURE

Stay in a trading post and meet coastal communities

Explore the Helgeland coast with expert guides who know these islands and communities first-hand. Stay at a restored trading post in Støtt, where what’s on your plate depends on what’s come in that day, and spend time with local people whose lives are shaped by the sea. Travel between islands by boat and bike, hike coastal trails and kayak through sheltered skerries, adjusting to weather and conditions along the way. Remote, yes – but never out of reach when you know where you’re going.

exodus.co.uk/trip/axn

This concise 8-day trip covers Cambodia’s key highlights, taking you from Phnom Penh to Siem Reap to explore Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom and Ta Prohm with your guide. In Battambang, join a market visit and chef-led cooking class, before watching the bat exodus at dusk. Receive a private blessing from Buddhist monks and spend time at Phnom Kulen, known for its river carvings and waterfalls. Throughout, stays are in carefully selected, comfortable accommodation.

exodus.co.uk/trip/aoz

SCAN TO FIND MORE NEW ADVENTURES

SIGNATURE CHINA

Great Wall & Warriors

Walk the Great Wall where it’s quieter, and the stories run deeper

China’s past still walks beside you – in palace courtyards and in stories shared across village kitchens. With a hand-picked Signature Guide, travel from Beijing’s imperial heart to the restored streets of Pingyao and onward to Xi’an, once the eastern gateway of the Silk Road. Walk quieter sections of the Great Wall, hear memories shared by a village elder, and stand before the Terracotta Army with an archaeologist. A curated Signature Day and characterful stays bring each moment into sharper focus.

exodus.co.uk/trip/lch

SIGNATURE STAYS

For nights as memorable as days

There are days that stay with you. And then there are nights that refuse to fade. Our Signature Stays offer a refined expression of local hospitality. Chosen for their setting and character, these stays include pioneering luxury hotels, intimate hideaways and accommodations with privileged access. From lush rainforest retreats to nights on the edge of India’s tiger country, each is integral to the experience itself. Because when accommodation is chosen with intent, the day doesn’t stop at dinner, it continues.

EXPLORE OUR FULL COLLECTION OF SIGNATURE STAYS

Tocu Tent Camp, Caño Negro

COSTA

RICA

| WHERE THE WILD ANSWERS

Immersion continues at Tocu Tent Camp, deep in Costa Rica’s wild Caño Negro. Spacious, safari-style tents handcrafted by local artisans sit within the rainforest, alive with birdsong and nocturnal wildlife. By day, explore private trails in Hacienda Caño Negro’s reserve, rarely accessed by travellers. Evenings bring cocktails at the Kapi Forest Lounge, Costa Rican-inspired dinners and fireside views over the Río Frío. Solar-powered and community-driven, Tocu blends comfort with conservation in one of the world’s most biodiverse regions.

exodus.co.uk/trip/lcc

The Maharajas Lodge, Ranthambore

INDIA | THE REALM OF ROYALS

Set on the edge of Ranthambore National Park, The Maharajas Lodge offers a stay steeped in heritage. Originally built in 1933 as a royal hunting lodge, it now blends history and contemporary comfort with landscaped gardens, an outdoor pool and spa treatments between game drives. One evening, Signature Collection guests enjoy a talk from an expert wildlife photographer, sharing stories behind Ranthambore’s wildlife. This insight brings added depth to the experience — and a chance to see the landscape through a new lens. exodus.co.uk/trip/lir

A Dahabiya on the Nile

EGYPT | SPIRIT OF THE NILE

The journey between temples becomes part of the adventure aboard a traditional dahabiya, reserved exclusively for Signature Collection travellers. Offering an intimate small cruise experience, with only 12 beautifully appointed cabins, it’s an atmospheric way to sail the Nile from Luxor to Aswan. With no engine noise and the freedom to moor away from busier stretches, life moves at a gentler pace. Days drift between ancient sites; evenings bring shaded decks, lantern-lit dinners and passing scenes of palm groves, villages and temples. exodus.co.uk/trip/led

SIGNATURE VIETNAM:

In Fabric & Folklore

HANOI | 9 DAYS

From scholarly halls to mountain hearths, Vietnam speaks through craft, ritual, and lived knowledge. With your Signature Guide, travel from Hanoi’s historic heart into the northern highlands, where private invitations open doors rarely unlocked. Along the way, hands-on encounters and after-hours access deepen understanding, before the journey settles into the layered streets and flavours of Hoi An.

A stay you won’t forget

Set high in the Hoang Lien Son mountains, Topas Ecolodge offers a rare sense of stillness. Private stone bungalows look across terraced valleys, creating space to pause, while thoughtful design and local materials reflect the landscape that surrounds you.

Moments that matter

Meaningful encounters shape your understanding of Vietnam. Join a permaculture masterclass at Lavie Vu Linh, learn indigo dyeing with Lu artisans and dine at KOTO, where your meal directly supports training and long-term opportunities for local youth.

A day to remember

Set aside for personal choice, your Signature day invites a deeper connection to a place. Cook with local ingredients, work with H’Mong textiles, hike high above terraced valleys or join a Snow Shan tea harvest, each revealing a different side of Vietnam.

Curated experiences

Private access brings Vietnam’s story into focus. Walk the Temple of Literature after hours with a leading historian and explore Hoi An alongside a cultural scholar, uncovering layers of history, belief and architecture rarely experienced in this way.

ICONIC TREKS AROUND THE WORLD

When it comes to the world’s most iconic trails, the scenery is only part of the experience. The rest? Let Danny Bell, Walking & Trekking Programme Expert at Exodus, explain what truly makes the difference when you’re tackling the planet’s best-loved trekking routes.

SDANNY BELL WALKING & TREKKING EXPERT

ince joining Exodus in 2014, I’ve been fortunate to tackle some of the world’s most iconic trails. I’ve summited Mont Blanc and trekked deep into the Himalaya. I’ve traced ancient footsteps on the Inca Trail, crossed the wild Simien Mountains in Ethiopia, and followed back country routes in the Rockies.

Of course, the landscapes were extraordinary. But over time, I learned what truly makes a hike more extraordinary: the camaraderie of a small group, the chance to go off trail to explore something most miss, and the insight and know-how of exceptional local guides.

Exploring on foot has been in the DNA of Exodus since the very beginning, back in the 1970s. Those decades of experience now shape everything we do: from how we plan our itineraries, to how we manage safety, to the care we take in choosing the very best tour leaders to guide our trips. And trust me, that expertise becomes invaluable when you’re trekking the world’s great trails.

When I think about my time in the Himalaya, it’s not the views of Everest or the other great peaks that immediately spring to mind: it’s how the guides made the adventure even more incredible. Hiking that high up is not easy. You’re tackling challenging ups and downs where the air is thinner, and each morning you’re waking in cold conditions.

But they just knew exactly what we needed: good humour to keep the spirits up, motivation for those who needed it when the going got tough, and, of course, huge smiles in the morning complete with a hot tea brought to your tent.

My next great challenge takes place this summer: the Welsh 3000s. Alongside a group of Exodus colleagues, I’ll be tackling 15 peaks across Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park in under 24 hours to raise money for the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation.

It’s going to be a tough challenge where mental strength will be key, but I know what will carry us through: a can-do attitude, teamwork, and the expertise of our guides. The same trail spirit that defines every Exodus adventure.

“

Expertise becomes invaluable when you’re trekking the world’s great trails”

6ICONIC TREKS

TO INSPIRE YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE

1 TOUR DU MONT BLANC FRANCE, ITALY & SWITZERLAND

BEST FOR ALPINE VIEWS

Venture to the birthplace of alpinism to tackle the most iconic multi-day trek in the Alps. The Tour du Mont Blanc – also known as the Mont Blanc Circuit – loops 105 miles through France, Italy and Switzerland, offering magnificent views of the range and, of course, Mont Blanc itself. We don’t think it’s one to rush, which is why we include three rest days to recharge and explore some of the Alpine towns en route. Staying in hotels and auberges also means you’ll have somewhere cosy to rest your head each night.

Tour du Mont Blanc Hotel Trek | 15 days exodus.co.uk/trip/two

2 TRAIL TO EVEREST BASE CAMP NEPAL

BEST FOR HIMALAYAN ICONS

If you have adventure in your soul, chances are, you’ve dreamed of standing at Everest Base Camp. The hike there is an unforgettable journey that blends spirituality with stunning views over the tallest mountains in the world, the Himalaya. Getting the most from your adventure takes knowledge garnered over more than 30 years. We leave early each morning to beat the crowds and have one of the highest staffto-traveller ratios on the trek. Additionally, established safety protocols and built-in acclimatisation and contingency days mean you can travel in confidence.

Everest Base Camp Trek | 16 days exodus.co.uk/trip/tnt

EL CAMINO DE SANTIAGO SPAIN

PEKOE TRAIL

5 4 3

SRI LANKA

BEST FOR PILGRIM SPIRIT

One of the three great Christian pilgrimages, El Camino is actually a network of trails leading to Santiago de Compostela Cathedral in Galicia, said to house the remains of St James the Apostle. Though many of today’s hikers have reasons outside of religion to hike the trail, the pilgrim mindset reigns: community, friendship, and shared stories. On our classic Camino trip, you’ll take the Camino Francés – the most popular route – with luggage transfers between nightly stops and, of course, the expertise of the tour leader bringing the trail’s history into context.

Trekking the Camino de Santiago | 9 days exodus.co.uk/trip/tso

DRUK PATH TREK BHUTAN

BEST FOR HIKING BLISS

BEST FOR SECRET HIGHLANDS

A newcomer to the iconic treks of the world, the Pekoe Trail was only officially launched in 2023 – but it’s rapidly become one of the most talked about trails on the planet. The full route stretches more than 180 miles through the Central Highlands, though we’ve hand-picked the most scenic sections for our trip (giving us time to scale Kirigalpotta, the highest hikeable peak in the country). Along the way, you’ll explore a part of Sri Lanka few visit, walking among emerald tea hills and traditional communities.

Hike Sri Lanka’s Pekoe Trail | 12 days exodus.co.uk/trip/tsp

In a kingdom where national happiness is prioritised, the Druk Path is sure to leave you smiling. Completed over five days, the trail follows an ancient high-level trade route from Paro to Thimphu, winding through rhododendron forests, past yak-herder settlements, and over a series of mountain passes. Towering Himalayan peaks and deep valleys form a dramatic backdrop, while nights are spent camping beside crystalline alpine lakes. Along the way, encounters with remote monasteries, prayer flags, and local communities offer a rich glimpse into Bhutan’s deeply rooted Buddhist culture.

Bhutan: Druk Path Trek | 12 days exodus.co.uk/trip/tbc

THE GR20 CORSICA, FRANCE

BEST FOR MOUNTAIN CHALLENGE

Paddy Dillon, the prolific outdoor writer, called it one of the world’s top trails. He’s spot on, of course, but the GR20 is also a true test of your hiking capabilities, cutting through the mountainous interior of Corsica. That’s where our local expertise comes in. Unlike most, we take the south-to-north route, offering a quieter trail, the sun on our backs, and the toughest sections at the end of the trip (once you’ve really got into your stride). What’s more, your guide, an International Mountain Leader, has all the knowledge needed to slow down or speed up whenever needed, so all you need to do is focus on the trail.

Trek the GR20 of Corsica | 15 days exodus.co.uk/trip/tws

REACH YOUR PEAK

There’s nothing quite like the moment you finally set foot on a mountain summit: the altitude,the achievement, the awe. Whether you’ve got your sights set on your first ascent or your 50th, our expert guides and meticulously designed itineraries give you the best possible chance of making it there. Here are three peaks to inspire your next adventure.

JACK KEROUAC “

Because in the end, you won’t remember the time you spent working in an o ce or mowing the lawn. Climb that goddamn mountain.”

TOUBKAL

MOROCCO | 4,167M

Best for your first summit success

Trek through the rugged Atlas Mountains, meeting remote Amazigh communities and camping under star-filled skies on your journey to the summit of North Africa’s highest peak. With a near-perfect success rate in recent years, our Morocco guides have a real knack for getting our groups to the top.

Activity Level: 5 (CHALLENGING)

Summit: 13,671FT (4,167M)

Days trekking: 5

Distance covered: 28MI (45KM)

Climb Morocco’s Mt Toubkal exodus.co.uk/trip/tmm2

KILIMANJARO

TANZANIA | 5,895M

Best for stepping up the challenge

DZO JONGO

INDIA | 6,189M

Of the seven established routes to Africa’s highest peak, the Lemosho Route is widely considered the most scenic. Our carefully designed itinerary maximises your chances of success, with a builtin acclimatisation day, one guide for every two trekkers on summit day, and most departures led by inspiring female guides as part of our Mountain Lioness Project.

Activity Level: 6 CHALLENGING & TOUGH)

Summit: 19,341FT (5,895M)

Days trekking: 8

Distance covered: 40MI (65KM)

Kilimanjaro Climb - Lemosho Route exodus.co.uk/trip/tyr

Best for bagging a 6,000m giant

Test your mettle against a Himalayan titan. The ascent demands determination, but the rewards are extraordinary: views over the Karakorum and Zanskar mountains as you stand on the summit. You should have ice axe and crampon experience, but many see this non-technical ascent as a good chance to bag their first 6,000m peak.

Activity Level: 7 (TOUGH)

Summit: 20,305FT (6,189M)

Days trekking: 10

Distance covered: 63MI (103KM)

Peaks of Ladakh exodus.co.uk/trip/tgv

SCAN TO FIND MORE TREKKING ADVENTURES

THE ANDES The Spirit of

High in the Andes, Peru unfolds in layers – ancient stone paths winding through cloud forest, terraced valleys carved by Inca hands, and communities where traditions continue much as they have for generations. From the vibrant streets of Cuzco to the floating reed islands of Lake Titicaca, every turn carries echoes of the Inca.

IN YOUR WORDS

ERIN THOMPSON

EXODUS TRAVELLER

PERU

When friends Erin Thompson, Jennifer Kadri and Kerinne Levy set off for Peru, Machu Picchu was the dream. But the journey soon became something far richer – from rural homestays on Lake Titicaca to mastering Peruvian dishes with local chefs, their guide, Edwind Colque, opened the door to a side of Peru many travellers never see.

I was surprised how much I loved the cooking class.

“...We had one-on-one instruction from professional chefs, who showed us how to plate everything beautifully. We shaped beetroot into flowers for the quinoa salad. They even created a vegetarian ceviche, just for me, with mushrooms, avocado, corn and dried plantain, while the sommelier paired the dishes with Peruvian wines.”

Walking the Inca Trail was easily one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life.

“...It’s surreal to retrace the same path Inca pilgrims and nobles walked over 500 years ago. When we reached the Sun Gate, as if on cue, the mist lifted to reveal the whole citadel below – it felt as though the mountains had unveiled it just for us.”

The Sacred Valley blew my mind.

“...Standing above those huge terraces and learning how the Inca experimented with crops at different elevations showed just how advanced their farming was – it was incredible.”

“

The homestay on Lake Titicaca was special – it was my rst experience staying overnight with a local family.

“...Our ‘mamas’ welcomed us in straight away. We visited the floating reed islands and learned how they build them layer by layer from totora reeds. Seeing children playing, boats arriving with supplies and daily life unfolding felt like a rare window into their lives.”

Small-group travel just works...

“...After our Mont Blanc trip, we wondered if that group dynamic had just been a lucky fluke. But Peru proved it wasn’t. We met wonderful people again, and now several of us from both trips are heading to the Dolomites together this summer. Somehow, Exodus trips have a way of growing your own travel community. And it’s not just the groups – the experts also add so much to the experience. You couldn’t fault our guide, Edwind. He bridged language gaps, switching effortlessly between English, Spanish and Quechua so we could really connect with people we met.”

Inspired by Erin’s adventure?

START PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO PERU

Ride More THAN JUST A

FBY STEVE GILCHRIST HEAD OF AFRICA & AMERICAS

or me, cycling trips are about much more than the ride itself. You’re outdoors and active, you notice more, take quieter roads, and share the experience with others. On my recent trip along South Africa’s Garden Route, it was exactly that – the wildlife encounters, the climbs, and even a local send-off all made it feel like more than just the ride.

I’ve been cycling since I was a small boy. It was mostly on self-organised trips in places like the Alps and the Dolomites. But it wasn’t until I joined Exodus and went on a guided trip that I properly understood what a cycling holiday can be.

Costa Rica was the first. South Africa’s Garden Route was the second. I saw all the benefits of being with an organised group, with a guide, and how you get under the skin of a destination more. Cycling changes how you see a place. Moving at a pace where you can take things in properly, and stop when something catches your attention.

On the Garden Route, that played out every day. Riding through the Karoo, we had a baboon leap across the road in front of us. Then an ostrich. Then a chicken. Then a monkey. All in one stretch. And because you’re not making much noise on a bike, you can pull over and watch it properly. You simply wouldn’t get that from a vehicle.

It’s the same with people. Riding through villages and towns, you get interaction. People wave, come over, ask questions. It gives you a much stronger sense of the place, and you feel part of it rather than just passing through. That sense of connection carries through to the group as well. We had 15 people on the trip, all with different abilities, but you quickly settle into a rhythm. And as the week goes on, certain moments start to build. For us, it was the Swartberg Pass. Everyone knew it was coming. It’s one of South Africa’s most iconic mountain passes, a long, steady gravel climb that really makes you work for it. I probably should have done a bit more training beforehand. Getting to the top felt like a real achievement, and we all celebrated together with a glass of bubbles. Then the descent, with its hairpin bends and big open views, was just as good as the climb. What followed made it even more memorable. Local women gave us bracelets as a symbol of the group, which was a really nice touch. And riding out of Franschhoek, we were escorted by the local youth team - the Ida’s Valley Community Trails Cycling Team. That was a special moment. Not something you expect, but exactly the kind of experience that stays with you.

A lot of that comes down to the expertise behind the trip. The routes are carefully thought through, taking you onto quieter roads and into places you wouldn’t otherwise go. And the local team make a big difference. Ours were excellent. They knew the terrain, the conditions,

and how to adapt each day. That kind of knowledge gives you confidence and lets you enjoy the experience.

On the rider side, preparation helps, but it doesn’t need to be complicated. A bit of time on the bike beforehand goes a long way. And staying on top of hydration is key, especially in the heat.

You don’t need to be an expert cyclist to do one of these trips. There are different levels, and the support is always there. What you get in return is a much more connected way to travel. You see more, you share more, and by the end of it, it really does feel like more than just the ride.

READY TO RIDE?

Explore the full range of our cycling adventures.

Cycling South Africa’s Garden Route

BEST FOR BIG LANDSCAPES & A SENSE OF ACHIEVEMENT

Ride from the vast Karoo to the coast, tackling climbs like the Swartberg Pass with full support. Expert local leaders manage conditions, pacing and logistics, while carefully designed routes take you onto quieter roads. The small group dynamic turns each challenge into a shared, rewarding experience.

exodus.co.uk/trip/mgr

Cycling the Lake District of Chile & Argentina

BEST FOR DRAMATIC SCENERY AND CROSS-BORDER ADVENTURE

Ride through the Lake District at the northern gateway to Patagonia, where volcanoes, turquoise rivers and ancient forests shape the landscape. This two-country route mixes paved roads with off-road gravel tracks and crosses the Andes twice in spectacular fashion. Along the way, spot condors overhead, cruise across Todos los Santos Lake, and stay in a charming ecolodge in Conguillío National Park.

exodus.co.uk/trip/map

Cycling in Greece

BEST FOR CULTURE, HISTORY & RELAXED RIDING

Cycle through the Peloponnese on routes designed to balance riding with discovery. Quiet roads link ancient sites, coastal towns and vineyards, while your local leader brings context to what you’re seeing. Each day ends with time to enjoy Greek food and culture in places you wouldn’t find independently.

exodus.co.uk/trip/mwh

Cycle Kerala & Tropical India

BEST FOR A CHALLENGE WITH STANDOUT CONTRASTS

Ride from the Western Ghats to Kerala’s backwaters, with expert support throughout. Tackle climbs like the Ooty hairpins, then shift pace with a houseboat stay and safari in Bandipur. The itinerary is carefully paced, blending challenge and downtime, with a local leader guiding every step of the journey.

exodus.co.uk/trip/mik

TAKAYAMA

A TASTE OF TIMELESS JAPAN

JAPAN TAKAYAMA

JHIDESADA SHIMAZAKI EXODUS LEADER TAKAYAMA, JAPAN

apan’s traditions aren’t preserved in museums alone –they live in everyday moments. In the mountain city of Takayama, centuries-old markets, quiet craft traditions and warm local encounters reveal a Japan that moves at its own pace, as expert guide Hidesada Shimazaki explains.

When you meet our Japan tour leader, Hidesada, there’s a calm about him. He speaks softly, often pausing to think before he answers – not out of hesitation, but because in Japan, silence is part of the conversation.

When asked what he loves most about leading our Ancient & Modern Japan trip, he says simply: “The contrast.” Yet he isn’t talking only about the obvious – the glass towers of Tokyo against Kyoto’s temple roofs – but about the way old and new move together in perfect rhythm. That rhythm, he believes, is most alive in Takayama.

High in the Japanese Alps, this small mountain city captures the essence of what makes Japan feel timeless. For us, including Takayama on our Ancient & Modern Japan trip is no accident. As Japan’s most famous sights grow busier, this remote mountain town stands as a reminder that the country’s true character endures far from the main trail.

Here, heritage isn’t curated. It’s lived. The pace slows, the air smells faintly of cedar, and narrow streets are lined with merchant houses that have stood for centuries. “In Takayama,” Hidesada says, “you can breathe again. It’s the Japan people dream about.”

On this trip, he leads travellers through the Miyagawa Morning Market, one of Japan’s oldest, where stallholders have sold miso, mountain vegetables and handmade pickles for generations. Dating back more than 300 years, the market – much like the town itself – has resisted the pull of modernisation.

“You can still see local people buying food for the day,” he says. “That’s rare in Japan now. But these days you can also get steaming handmade takoyaki.” Elderly women arrange wildflowers beside jars of fermented radish while a man roasts Hida beef skewers over glowing coals. Hidesada greets stallholders easily, translating jokes that bridge languages. “When I bring guests, they tell stories, share tastes. It’s not a performance – it’s everyday living.”

“Takayama is where you feel time slow down,” he says softly. “That’s the Japan I want people to remember.”

Nearby, along the old merchant quarter of Sanmachi Suji, Edo-period houses lean gently towards each other like old friends. Their dark-lacquered facades hide tiny courtyards and sake breweries, where visitors are welcomed with a sip of clear, fragrant rice wine.

“This is one of my favourite walks,” Hidesada says. “People taste sake, talk with the brewers, and see how families have kept the same work for hundreds of years.” He often takes groups into small soy or miso workshops too, where tall wooden barrels still bubble slowly with decades of seasoning. For him, these encounters – small, unscripted and human – reveal more about Japan than any postcard view.

“This is why Takayama matters,” he explains. “In big cities, old traditions sometimes become attractions. But here, people keep doing what their parents and grandparents did, not for tourists, but because it’s their way of life.”

Takayama’s slower pace also allows him to show another side of Japanese life: its quiet devotion to craft. At the Hida Folk Village, groups wander among traditional thatched houses relocated from the surrounding mountains. “You can see how people adapted to the mountains,” he says. “Steep roofs for snow, wide beams for warmth – everything made by hand.”

For Hidesada, guiding here is less about instruction than observation.

“I want guests to notice how small details connect to bigger ideas – how Japan’s beauty comes from balance.” Guiding, for him, is about noticing. Even after more than 15 years, he still delights in teaching travellers the subtleties of Japanese etiquette: how to bow lightly, how to accept a gift with both hands, how to order politely in a restaurant.

Each day he teaches a new phrase: kudasai (please), hajimemashite (nice to meet you), oishii desu (it’s delicious). “By the end of the trip, they can use about ten,” he laughs. “And when they say them to local people, they always get a smile back.”

It’s that spirit of connection that shapes the journey from start to finish. In Kyoto, travellers begin among temple bells and quiet gardens. At Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion glows above the water, while at Ryoan-ji visitors pause before the famous rock garden. “If it’s not crowded, I ask them to close their eyes,” Hidesada says. “That’s the sound of Zen.”

In Nara, the mood shifts as sacred deer bow for rice crackers offered by visitors. “It’s fun,” he grins. “It reminds people that spirituality can be joyful too.”

Yet Takayama remains his touchstone. Here, the journey shifts from the grand and ceremonial to something more intimate. Evenings in Takayama are simple and warm. Groups often dine together on Hida-gyu, the local beef famed for its marbling, grilled at small family-run restaurants or enjoyed as sukiyaki simmering at the table.

“We talk, laugh and relax,” he says. “People start to feel like friends.”

By the time the journey returns to Tokyo, travellers have seen a Japan of many faces: the discipline of city life, the serenity of shrines and the warmth of mountain towns. Yet what they remember most, Hidesada believes, are the smallest details: the market vendor’s smile, the sound of wind through cedar streets, the quiet rhythm of daily life.

Discover the Land of the Rising Sun on our Ancient & Modern Japan adventure. exodus.co.uk/trip/aop

Japan EXTRAORDINARY STAYS

Gassho-zukuri Farmhouse

Deep in the Japanese Alps, the UNESCOlisted village of Shirakawa-go is famed for its gasshō-zukuri farmhouses, their steep thatched roofs shaped like hands in prayer.

Built to withstand heavy snowfall, these remarkable homes have sheltered farming families for generations. While most visitors see them only from the outside, you’re invited to stay overnight. Shoes off at the door, you settle around your host’s low table, where tatami floors and shoji screens frame a home-cooked meal – perhaps Hida beef, grilled river fish and seasonal mountain vegetables. Later, futons are laid out on tatami mats beneath the soaring thatched roof of this 200-year-old house. Outside, Shirakawa-go glows softly in the night.

STAY HERE ON OUR CYCLING IN JAPAN TRIP

SSKILLCATION The Art of Doing

killcations are having a moment. Travellers are seeking more than scenery – they want substance, connection and something new to master along the way.

On our trips, you trade passive sightseeing for hands-on learning, guided by chefs, artists, winegrowers and mountain experts who live their craft daily. From balancing flavours in a Vietnamese kitchen to tracing gold through Kyoto ceramics or finding your footing on Icelandic ice, each experience builds confidence. And somewhere between the first attempt and the final flourish, a destination shifts from somewhere you visit to something far more meaningful.

Wine Tasting

NEAR SAN GIMIGNANO, ITALY

At the family-run Cesani estate, just outside San Gimignano, the focus is firmly on the art of tasting often featuring Vernaccia di San Gimignano and Sangiovese-based reds. Guided by an expert host, you learn how to approach each glass, from picking out aromas of citrus and almond to recognising structure and balance.

You taste three carefully selected wines, comparing notes as you go and noticing how each one opens up differently. Alongside, bruschetta, estate-produced extra-virgin olive oil, and a spread of Tuscan cheeses and charcuterie highlight the flavours in each glass. It’s relaxed and quietly sociable, the kind of experience where preferences form quickly and favourites are rarely unanimous.

Tuscany Walks & Chianti Wines exodus.co.uk/trip/tdc2

IN ALENTEJO, PORTUGAL

Tile-Painting Workshop

Azulejos tell Portugal’s stories in cobalt, saffron and green. In the Alentejo, you sit down with a local artist to learn how those stories are built – from initial sketch to final brushstroke. You’re introduced to traditional patterns and regional motifs, then shown how to transfer your design onto the tile using time-honoured techniques. There’s a steadiness required: loading the brush correctly, controlling the glaze, working within the symmetry of repeating forms. You learn how colour behaves once fired, why certain blues deepen, and how fine lines hold their shape. When you take home your finished tile, a piece of Alentejo comes with you.

Signature Portugal: Among the Whitewashed Hills exodus.co.uk/trip/lpc

Paddleboarding ON LAKE BOHINJ, SLOVENIA

There are plenty of ways to experience Lake Bohinj – you can hike its forested shores, cycle through alpine meadows or swim in its clear, glacial waters – but few feel as immersive as standing at water level.

Beneath the limestone peaks of Triglav National Park, you begin with the basics: feet on either side of the board’s centre, paddle angled correctly, power coming from your core. Kneeling first, then rising to stand, you practise smooth forward strokes and wide sweep turns. From the middle of the lake, the Julian Alps reflect perfectly around you. It’s balanced, absorbing and wonderfully quiet – Slovenia at its most elemental.

Slovenia Adventure exodus.co.uk/trip/avr

Cooking Masterclass

IN TRA QUE VILLAGE, VIETNAM

In Tra Que Herb Village, just outside Hoi An, your lesson begins in the gardens. You walk the neat vegetable plots, learning how farmers use seaweed from nearby lagoons as natural fertiliser before gathering fresh mint, coriander and Vietnamese basil for your meal.

Back in the kitchen, a local chef guides you through preparing classic dishes such as bánh xèo pancakes and fresh spring rolls. You learn how to balance sweet, sour and savoury flavours, how to roll herbs tightly into rice paper and how to pour and crisp a perfect pancake. Then you sit down together to taste the results – fresh Vietnamese flavours that linger a little longer when you understand how they’re made.

Vietnam Highlights exodus.co.uk/trip/aoy

Kintsugi Workshop

IN KYOTO, JAPAN

Rooted in 15th-century tea culture, kintsugi emerged when broken ceramics were repaired not to conceal their cracks, but to illuminate them. In your workshop, you follow that philosophy step by step. Guided by an expert, you align and bond fractured pieces using lacquer, learning the patience and precision the craft demands.

Once set, you apply the maki-e technique, sprinkling fine gold powder onto wet lacquer to trace each seam. You discover how sparingly the lacquer must be handled, how the gold settles, how restraint shapes the finish. The result is more than repair; it’s restoration made radiant.

Signature Japan: Through Temples & Time exodus.co.uk/trip/ljc

Glacier Walk

IN ICELAND

At Falljokull, a dramatic yet accessible glacier flowing from Vatnajökull – Europe’s second largest ice cap – you step onto the ice. After fitting crampons, your expert guide shows you how to walk flat-footed so each spike grips the ice, how to carry and use an ice axe for balance, and how to move in steady rhythm across uneven terrain.

As you move across the frozen expanse, you learn to read the glacier’s surface: the difference between stable ice and fragile snow bridges, the subtle blue of compressed centuries-old layers. It’s technical without being intimidating – and suddenly, walking on ice feels surprisingly natural.

Iceland Northern Lights exodus.co.uk/trip/czt10

READY TO TRY SOMETHING NEW?

SCAN FOR MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION

EUROPE IN ITS

Sweet spot

WORDS BY JENNA BERNDT

When the crowds start to fade and the landscapes still glow, late summer is the perfect moment to explore Europe. The heat softens, the busiest crowds thin and the pace shifts. It’s when travelling slowly pays off – to the kind of places where a guide points out a hidden viewpoint, a sleepy, sun-baked trail or the bakery locals swear by. And why not bookend the journey with a city break – a little urban flourish before heading home.

BEST FOR PORTUGAL’S MOST SCENIC COASTAL RIDE

Porto to Lisbon Atlantic Ride

Portugal’s Atlantic shoreline offers one of Europe’s most scenic cycling routes, especially in late summer when Atlantic breezes keep the ride comfortable. Enjoy a standout ride across the dunes of the São Jacinto Natural Reserve and explore the medieval town of Óbidos, postcard-pretty behind its stone walls. The experience is deepened by the guiding expertise of João Colaço, an Exodus Tour Leader of the Year, who grew up along this very coastline and knows every quiet stretch of road and seaside café.

EXTEND IN LISBON Round off the ride in Lisbon with a pastéis de nata, a sweet reward after days spent cycling the Atlantic coast.

exodus.co.uk/trip/meo

BEST FOR DOLOMITES DRAMA & ALPINE DINING

Classic Dolomites Hikes – Premium Adventure

In late summer, when alpine meadows are still bright with colour, the Italian Dolomites rival any mountain range for sheer drama. With an International Mountain Leader guiding the way, walk in the shadow of the iconic Tre Cime di Lavaredo – the kind of view that has guides quietly pointing out their favourite vantage point. You’ll spend the week in Villabassa at Hotel Adler, a 400-year-old Tyrolean property whose kitchen partners with the three-Michelin-starred Atelier Moessmer Norbert Niederkofler – where post-hike dinners rival the summer breeze.

EXTEND IN VENICE Continue the journey in Venice, where canals, Renaissance palazzi and quiet squares provide a memorable change of pace after a week spent high among the Dolomites.

exodus.co.uk/trip/twu2

Iceland Explorer

BEST FOR BEYOND THE GOLDEN CIRCLE

Iceland’s Golden Circle may be famous, but this adventure ventures far beyond it. The route circles the island through immense glaciers and lava fields during the long northern daylight of Iceland’s summer. Vast open landscapes accompany the journey throughout – the kind of scenery that makes your guide pull over and you to stop in your tracks. Choose autumn departures for Northern Lights or summer trips when near-endless daylight stretches the days.

EXTEND IN REYKJAVIK Extend your stay in Reykjavik, Iceland’s colourful capital known for its creative food scene, lively culture and relaxing geothermal pools.

exodus.co.uk/trip/avw3

BEST FOR THE BALKANS’ CULTURAL CROSSROADS

Bosnia & Beyond

In Montenegro, the journey pauses in the village of Podgora on a warm mountain afternoon, where a local family welcomes you for a traditional lunch, part of a regional ecovillage network supporting rural communities. It’s less restaurant, more kitchen table – where dishes keep arriving, stories are shared and the pace of rural life reveals itself between delicious bites. Later in the journey, more shared tables and local encounters offer a taste of everyday life in this cultural crossroads.

EXTEND IN DUBROVNIK Conclude the journey in Dubrovnik, where polished limestone streets, medieval walls and Adriatic views provide a fitting finale to your Balkan adventure.

exodus.co.uk/trip/avb

BEST FOR HIDDEN GREEK ISLAND TRAILS

Walking the Mountains & Villages

of Evia

On the less explored island of Evia, quiet old stone paths connect mountain villages, forests and coastal trails – routes your guide knows well after years of walking them with local friends, and trails most visitors simply never find. Walks descend towards secluded coves where the still-warm Aegean waters make a swim hard to resist. Late summer evenings unfold in traditional tavernas and waterfront ouzo-meze spots, where simple dishes, sea air and long conversations stretch comfortably into the balmy night.

EXTEND IN ATHENS Add on extra time in Athens, exploring ancient landmarks, lively neighbourhood cafés and rooftop views towards the Acropolis.

exodus.co.uk/trip/tve

Searching FOR GIANTS

BY SAM MURRAY

Ready to experience the natural world at its most impressive? Then pack your explorer’s gear and head off in search of the planet’s giant animals. Whether you’re swimming alongside a colossus or peering through binoculars at an apex predator, there’s nothing quite as humbling as seeing a real-life goliath.

Take it slow with giant tortoises

THE GALÁPAGOS

Travel to one of the world’s great wildlife-watching destinations to spend time with an icon of natural history. Start with a visit to the Charles Darwin Research Station to meet the resident giant tortoises – which are being raised here until they’re big enough for release – then head to Floreana island to see their wild cousins roaming a nature reserve in the highlands.

Highlights of Ecuador & the Galapagos exodus.co.uk/trip/waq

Swim with whale sharks

SOUTH ARI ATOLL, MALDIVES

Snorkel alongside fish that can reach the length of a school bus! Starting in a dhoni (a traditional sailing boat), we scour the Indian Ocean for these gentle giants; once spotted, we dive in to admire their size, grace, and surprising speed. To enhance the experience, we later connect virtually with the Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme for expert insights into how this species is being protected.

Marine Wildlife of the Maldives exodus.co.uk/trip/woy

Hide

from brown bears

CARPATHIAN MOUNTAINS, ROMANIA

Spot

wild Komodo dragons

INDONESIA

Enjoy a real-life Jurassic Park experience, searching for a venomous lizard that can reach up to 10ft (3m) long. We dedicate three days to exploring Komodo National Park, staying on a boat to maximise our wildlife-watching opportunities. The highlight for many is the more wild and less-crowded Rinca island, where we can spot the dragons in their natural environment.

Primates & Dragons of Indonesia exodus.co.uk/trip/woz

Journey deep into Piatra Craiului National Park to spend an evening with the largest land predator in mainland Europe – safely tucked in a hide for the experience. You’ll be joined by an expert forester, who shares their insight into these fascinating animals. Later in the trip, we visit Libearty, a vital sanctuary for more than 100 rescued bears, many of which suffered years in captivity.

Carpathian Walking & Bears exodus.co.uk/trip/wvr

SCAN TO FIND MORE WILDLIFE ADVENTURES

FROZEN FRONTIERS

Back from the snowy tundra, Exodus’ Robyn Lewis reveals what it’s really like to explore Svalbard with Polar experts Quark. Her journey on Ultramarine, a small ice-rated vessel, opened her eyes to a world where nature is unscripted and all the more magical for it. Take it away, Robyn.

My favourite moment came on the last night. We were all on deck with the expedition team, reminiscing about the trip under the midnight sun, when a young polar bear appeared on the sea ice, just in front of us.

The whole ship watched in silence as it put on a magical display, rolling in the snow and – unsuccessfully – stalking a seal.

It was a real-life nature documentary: unedited and shared only with the people on deck. That was just one of countless experiences I will treasure forever, but it typified everything I loved about my Quark adventure. It was a true expedition, where nature took centre stage in front of a small, respectful audience.

Throughout my trip, I found that every detail was meticulously planned to maximise those never-to-be-repeated encounters: from our small expedition vessel, which could reach spots larger boats couldn’t, to the carefully chosen off-vessel excursions, including Zodiac trips, paddleboarding, and sea kayaking.

Then there was our expedition team – each a true Polar expert. Their passion and knowledge, whether spotting breaching whales or explaining the snowy tundra around us, brought the wildlife and landscapes to life.

It was everything a Polar expedition should be: thoughtfully planned, deeply magical, and full of surprises.

SVALBARD IN SPRING:

SEA ICE, PRISTINE SNOW & WILDLIFE

A rare opportunity to visit the Norwegian High Arctic when Svalbard basks in 24-hour daylight yet remains wrapped in snow. Mountains stay blanketed and sea ice stretches wide. Witness the Arctic awakening: birds return, calls break the hush, meltwater trickles, ice cracks, and earth thaws. Shoots emerge, a quiet rebirth mirroring life’s cycle at an Arctic scale and renewal. www.exodus.co.uk/trip/pmbe

SVALBARD IN SUMMER:

TUNDRA, WHALES & WILDLIFE

Step into the Arctic at its most vibrant, exploring as it comes fully alive, with plant life and wildflowers at their peak. Summer also offers opportunities to spot polar bears, walruses, Arctic foxes, and possibly belugas. With warmer temperatures, endless daylight, and retreating snow, you can explore on foot and by Zodiac, fully immersed in this dynamic environment. www.exodus.co.uk/trip/pmc

DISCOVER MORE POLAR ADVENTURES

IN YOUR WORDS

JOHN BELGROVE

EXODUS

TRAVELLER

John Belgrove is one of our Exodus Legends who’ve explored the globe with us time and again. Fourteen trips in, with more already booked, he shares some of the moments that have stayed with him – and why every adventure is never the last.

Q: You’ve travelled with Exodus 14 times. What keeps you coming back?

A: A lot of things, really. The destinations and itineraries are the obvious starting point. But it’s the consistency that stands out. You know you’ll have a highly experienced leader who helps you get the most out of every day. There’s a real confidence in how everything is run. It’s been honed over decades, and it shows.

Q: What do you enjoy about small group travel?

A: It’s the connections. You’re travelling with like-minded people and sharing those experiences together, without feeling like you’re part of a tourist group. It just feels more natural.

Q: Your favourite trip ever?

A: So hard to answer. Every trip has its magic moments and something a bit different. We tend to judge them by those moments rather than the whole itinerary.

It might be spotting orangutans in the Sumatran jungle. Coming across elephants crossing the river in Borneo. Seeing the snow-capped peaks and those glacial colours in Patagonia. Or snorkelling with whale sharks and mantas in the Maldives. Watching a super pride, including white lions, on the move in Kruger. Seeing wild hippos wandering the streets in St Lucia in South Africa. Even observing tree frogs and tree snakes at night in Costa Rica. The list goes on.

If we’re talking full trips, Vietnam Adventure really stood out culturally. And South Africa and Eswatini, along with the Peru Inca Trail and Amazon, got that balance of wildlife and trekking just right.

Q: What makes a great Exodus leader?

A: Well again, it’s difficult to pick one. We’ve genuinely not been disappointed. But let’s give special shout outs to Elly in Indonesia, Sujan in Sri Lanka, Raul in Peru, Joe and Cliff in South Africa and Eswatini, Nik in Borneo and Fatima in Montenegro and Bosnia.

What makes them stand out is the extra care they show, alongside their passion and knowledge for their country. That combination really makes the trip.

Q: What’s next on your travel wish list?

A: We tend to come back from trips with a longer list than when we left. Mexico is definitely on the radar for a cultural trip next.

SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OUR LOYALTY CLUB

“Exodus pulls it out the bag every time with the accommodation –all the rooms were lovely and well chosen. It’s one of the reasons I have booked with Exodus 4 times now. This country is so diverse, and Exodus shows you that from the start!”

JEANNETTE | Discover Costa Rica

“Excellent trip to Borneo and Malaysia. Small group, expert guide, ethically run working with Malaysian providers. Trip of a lifetime - felt like I’d been away for months, rather than two weeks. Great way to travel if you’re solo.”

BECCA

Borneo and Malaysian Peninsula

“Thanks again for another excellent trip. Yet again the guides are the key to all the knowledge. They went out of their way to show us places that you would never find on your own, explained local customs and took us to local restaurants.”

START WITH THE STORIES.

Browse traveller reviews on the website and find your next adventure.

“A whole week’s worth of ‘things I’ve never done before’! A wide variety of winter-oriented activities, each of them special in their own right. Strongly recommend for anyone who is looking for a winter getaway. I have been on six adventure-oriented trips with a travel group and this was my favourite one.”

MARK | Finnish Wilderness Week

Leave those beach-ready sandals at home — hiking holidays are more popular than ever. From first-time walkers to seasoned trekkers, more travellers than ever are lacing up their boots and heading for the trails. Here, our travel experts answer your trekking questions.

ASK THE EXPERTS

ALEX MAIDMENT HEAD OF EUROPE

I’m a first-time hiker, how do I know I’m fit enough for a tour?

We offer a wide range of hiking trips for all fitness levels and abilities, so there’s something for everyone! To help you make the right choice, each of our adventures is given an Activity Level, which indicates how challenging the trip will be – make sure to check that out before booking. If you’re still not sure, our in-house team has all the knowledge and first-hand experience needed to make sure you’re on the right trip.

DANNY BELL WALKING & TREKKING PROGRAMME EXPERT

Which are the most exciting hiking destinations for 2026?

That’s a tough one – there are so many! However, my choice is the Pekoe Trail, Sri Lanka’s first long-distance hiking route. This pioneering trail takes in remote villages, working tea plantations and some of the country’s most untouched landscapes. Alternatively, consider our new Hiking in Northern Vietnam trip, which features an authentic Red Dao fire-dancing ceremony and a stay in a hillside lodge with natural hot springs.

OREN BLINDELL SALES TEAM LEADER

I want a mixture of hiking and relaxation, what options do I have?

Hiking isn’t all or nothing, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a spot of relaxation on a walking trip. You could choose a lower-graded adventure: our Activity Level 2 and 3 hiking adventures often include a free day to recharge. Alternatively, tag on extra days after the trip for some downtime. I’ve done this myself, relaxing on Zanzibar after summiting Kilimanjaro and enjoying a spa stay after hiking around Mont Blanc.

NEED ADVICE? OUR EXPERTS HAVE THE ANSWERS: SIMPLY CALL OR LIVECHAT

BETTER TRAVEL

It’s in the bag

No-one wants to lug a heavy backpack when hiking, so keeping your kit to the essentials is, well, essential. Here are some of our favourite items to take on the trail.

1 COLUMBIA BORA BORA II BOONEY

Come rain or shine, this wide-brim hat keeps you protected from whatever the weather throws your way. Its design includes a fastdrying sweatband and mesh vents to keep you dry and cool, plus an adjustable toggle to keep it secure.

www.columbiasportswear.co.uk | £30

4 BLACK DIAMOND DISTANCE Z TREKKING POLES

Made for most trails, these lightweight poles make almost any trek more comfortable. Better yet, they easily fold down, meaning you can slip them into your bag when you’re not using them, while the moisture-wicking straps keep your hands cooler.

www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk | £124.99

2 ANKER NANO POWER BANK

When you’re hiking the most beautiful trails on the planet, you don’t want to miss a photo op because your battery is dead. This fastcharging power bank is small – reducing weight – and has a retractable USB-C cable. Perfect for your pack.

www.anker.com | £49.99

5 SUN BUM ORIGINAL SPF50 SUNSCREEN LOTION

Spending all day outdoors means taking sun protection seriously. Sun Bum’s lotion protects against UVA and UVB rays, while also moisturising your skin. It’s also enriched with vitamin E and is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes. A great all-rounder.

www.sunbum.co.uk | £20.99

3 BUFF ONLAR MULTI

Keep the elements at bay with this versatile hiking buff. Made of 95% recycled polyester, it’s quick-drying and delivers UPF50 sun protection. Its stretchy material also makes it ultra-versatile, meaning you can easily adapt to changing conditions.

www.buff.com | £16.95

6 DARN TOUGH 1466 HIKING SOCKS

Keep your feet happy by throwing a spare pair of hiking socks in your bag. This all-season option is made to minimise slipping and bunching in your shoe – reducing the chance of blisters – while a lifetime guarantee makes them a clever investment.

www.darntough.uk | £29.99

YOUR WORLD IN FOCUS

From split-second wildlife encounters to vast, cinematic landscapes, our travellers know how to spot a moment worth capturing. The 2026 Exodus Photo Competition celebrates the skill, patience and perspective behind the lens – revealing a world shaped not just by where you go, but how you see it.

Out of hundreds of entries, Kenneth Gray’s winning image, captured in the rainforests of Costa Rica, proves that the smallest subjects often demand the greatest skill.

A tiny tree frog sits poised on a single leaf, in razor-sharp focus. Behind it, a raindrop dissolves into a soft, luminous blur, glowing like a distant moon against the green. It’s a study in control: depth of field handled with precision, where focus, aperture and timing work seamlessly together to turn something ordinary into something quietly surreal.

But what sets the image apart isn’t just technical ability, it’s judgement. Knowing when to step in, when to hold back, and recognising the

moment when everything aligns. Fleeting and easily missed, he captures the shot with confidence and clarity — a reflection of both patience and a well-trained eye. It’s this balance of craft and instinct that ultimately makes Kenneth’s submission a clear winner.

Think you’ve got the winning shot?

Watch this space for our next Photo Competition — and in the meantime, explore some of our favourite entries from years gone by.

COMPETITION WINNER: RAINFOREST MOONRISE

Kenneth Gray, Costa Rica

“We were staying at Esquinas Rainforest Lodge and had been chalet-bound for most of the day due to rain; that evening, we headed out on a night walk. By a nearby pond, I spotted this tree frog with a raindrop blurred behind it. I love the simplicity – one frog, one raindrop – and how it becomes something more, like a moon rising.”

BEYOND THE RUINS

“To be Quechua is one thing, but to be part of the Andes is something else entirely. I’m a Highlander – deeply connected to nature, to Pachamama. Once you come here, you understand why people feel such a deep connection to it.”

EDWIND COLQUE

EXODUS LEADER PERU

From high Andean passes to the Sacred Valley’s quiet corners, Peru unfolds differently with Edwind leading the way.

Dawn in the Andes arrives softly. First light spills over terraced hillsides, market stalls creak into life, and llamas stir on the valley slopes. This is the Peru Edwind knows by heart.

For him, guiding is far more than a profession. “I don’t see it as a job anymore,” he explains. “Every trip is my journey as well. I love the mix of people I travel with. To make those kinds of connections daily makes my days richer.”

Moulded by these landscapes, he understands that the country’s spirit isn’t only found in its icons, but in the in-between moments: a detour to a family-run huarique where legends are shared over coca; the distinctive earthy scent of potatoes pulled from the Sacred Valley; the way a festival gathers an entire city in a swirl of colour and brass bands.

“When my groups are in the Andean mountains, I tell them: open your mind. Walk, look, listen,” he says. “Not everyone gets the chance to feel this kind of connection to the land.” He speaks of the Inca not as distant history, but as living legacy, of Machu Picchu not as a bucket-list tick, but as a sacred space best approached with curiosity and care. As a Quechua speaker, he brings another layer of connection – opening small windows into traditions that still shape life in the Andes today.

“The Incas chose these places because they believed the location had good energy. They respected Pachamama – Mother Earth – in everything they did.” He continued, “I like to show a side of the Andes that not many people have the chance to see,” he says. “Those are the moments people remember most.”

Experience the land of the Incas with Edwind on selected Peru departures.

ADD TO YOUR

ADVENTURE

FLIGHTS, UPGRADES AND MORE

Add to your adventure with our seamless end-to-end service Tell us what you want from your adventure and we’ll take care of the rest. Add international flights, private transfers or upgrades, and build in extra nights or thoughtfully chosen city stays along the way. Perhaps extend your journey with time on Zanzibar’s beaches, an expert led visit to Angkor Wat, or a room with a sea view.

The result? A seamless experience from departure to return, shaped entirely around you.

CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT

“I’m back from an incredible trip. We added Angkor Wat at the end and it was amazing. Our guide was superb, the hotel a very good standard, and all the arrangements went like clockwork.”

EXODUS CUSTOMER | Vietnam Adventure

CONTACT YOUR TRAVEL AGENT TO FIND YOUR NEXT AWARD-WINNING ADVENTURE

EXCELLENT

PRODUCTION TEAM

Managing Editor: Kirsten Pearson

Feature Writers: Kristen Whitla, Jenna Berndt, Sam Murray

Guest Contributors: Nii Bannerman, Danny Bell, Erin Thompson, Steve Gilchrist, Robyn Lewis, John Belgrove, Alex Maidment, Oren Blindell.

Photography Contributors: Amy Sedgwick, Nii Bannerman, Aneesa Dalwai, Jack Gamble

Head Of Creative: Chris Wall

Design and Art Direction: Aneesa Dalwai

Junior Designer: Kelly McCleery

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From short hops to long-haul journeys, we can arrange flights that fit perfectly around your adventure. Our global network connects you to leading airlines worldwide, with expert guidance at every step. Book with Exodus and enjoy 24/7 support, flexible arrangements and complete peace of mind – all secured with just a deposit. And if anything changes, we’re already on standby.

YOU’RE IN SAFE HANDS

We come ATOL protected and Which? Recommended – so you can book your flights with confidence.