Beautiful and spectacular scenery, remote ruined castles, a strange ghost city, preserved monasteries, ancient fortresses, Roman and Greek ruins, the tour encompassed them all as well as moderate length, reasonably challenging hikes. Our tour leader Engin, was entertaining, interesting and a fount of knowledge on all things Cypriot. He kept the group moving to timetable and frequently pointed out flowers and plants, as well as leading us expertly through some (at times) challenging terrain. With a comfortable bus, a highly competent driver and a pleasant hotel which lacked nothing and was staffed by such friendly people, the whole trip was a most enjoyable and stimulating way to see in the New Year. Such a lovely group of hikers too.
Active and outdoor
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kyrenia, Bellapais Village, Kapl
Kyrenia, Bellapais Village, Kaplica Beach, Karmi, Lapta, Buffavento Castle
This trip is varied and covers a lot of different areas of interest, cultural, historical and natural. It is important to have realistic expectations of the overnight train and the homestay - neither are luxurious but that isn't the point. Our guide was very knowledgeable and very helpful, really looked after us and was thoughtful in booking us space on the train over the River Kwai which isn't routine. That day is particularly powerful and thought provoking. We did the skywalk in Bangkok in a free afternoon which is amazing. As you would expect there are some longish drives - up to 4.5 hours, so not too bad. Elephant sanctuary a highlight for me, homestay, River Kwai and Chiang Mai night markets also. Lots of temples!
Active and outdoorWildlife
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
This was a great trip and thoroughly recommend.
I would like to disagree with the previous comment about the transport as I've done many Explore trips and the bus was perfectly adequate.
However I'd like to agree with the comments about the Tour Leader. Although very knowledgeable, there is a limit to the amount of information people can take in. A lot of time was spent standing and talking rather than seeing as much as possible, and there was little respite on the bus - 4 hours of non stop talking on one of the travel days when we just wanted to sleep or read or get to know other group members!
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Nebil was a great guide to the paths and routes that we took. Great group of fellow-walkers, dined together every night. Walks were mixed with additional local information. Meals with local residents was great, particularly the one on New Year’s Eve, with a perfect sunset.
Accommodation was good but felt some of us missed out with basic rooms while others (mostly singles) had a sofa and /or a jaccuzzi while those sharing had neither so very little space.
Walking toursBeach
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Kas, Limanagzi Bay, Patara Beach
Kas, Limanagzi Bay, Patara Beach, Kekova, Kaputas Beach
Our Vietnamese guide, Binh, was assisted by two Cambodian guides, one in Phenom Penh and one who was with us for the rest of the Cambodian trip. All were knowledgeable and passionate about their countries and attentive to us and our safety and to ensuring that we had a memorable experience. Binh, in particular, was was experienced and patient by repeating all the essential details that we needed to know. An excellent trip overall !
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, Ban
Siem Reap, Ho Chi Minh City, Banteay Srei, Angkor Thom, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, Can Tho, Chau Doc, Phnom Penh, Kampong Thom
A very enjoyable tour with an excellent and informative tour leader who always went the extra mile to ensure things ran smoothly. Perhaps the only criticism is that it needs to be stressed in the trip notes that although crossing the Gulf of Fonseca by boat is an adventure it’s going to be rather wet.
Active and outdoorExplorer
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Eco Lodge, Lodge, Villa
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Panama City, Antigua, Rincon de
Panama City, Antigua, Rincon de la Vieja Volcano National Park, Isla De Ometepe, Granada, Leon, San Salvador, Suchitoto, Panama Canal, Copán Ruinas, Boquete, Bocas Del Toro, Sarapiqui, Arenal, Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve
I really enjoyed this trip and seeing some more of India. Highlights include the Taj Mahal, Varanasi, Shimla and temple at Amritsar. I travelled with a really nice group and the tour leader made sure we were perfectly looked after. The food was good. Warm clothes are needed for Shimla in the winter months.
I would highly recommend the trip.
Cultural, religious and historic sites
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Sleeper Train, Lodge
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Amritsar, Kolkata, Shimla, Bodh
Amritsar, Kolkata, Shimla, Bodh Gaya, Varanasi, Agra, New Delhi
The island's breathtaking landscapes and diverse walking trails make it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Each day was a new adventure, with outstanding walks that showcased Madeira's natural beauty, from lush forests to stunning coastal views. The itinerary allowed us to experience all that Madeira had to offer from off the beaten tracks to Funchal city.
What truly made this trip exceptional was our tour leader, Benny. He was fantastic at bringing our group together, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere that enhanced the entire experience. His knowledge and enthusiasm for the island were infectious, and he always made sure everyone was having a great time.
The weather was perfect throughout our stay, which only added to the enjoyment of exploring the island. Whether you're an avid hiker or just looking for a unique getaway, I wholeheartedly recommend a holiday in Madeira. It's an experience you won't forget!
Walking tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
16-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Funchal, Santana, Porto da Cruz
Funchal, Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faja Do Penedo, Rabaçal, Pico, Madeira
It's my 3rd tour with explore!, and I've enjoyed it very much.
The itinerary was good, and our guide - Diem - was excellent, with a lot of knowledge and good spirit.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers