Andes Bird watching Trips

This was my first Exodus trip and it was a wonderful two weeks exploring Costa Rica with a small group of 7, our fantastic guide Guillermo and excellent driver Carlos. Two nights in each location, very different landscapes. We saw a huge number of creatures and an amazing 174 species of birds. Great hotels and excellent airport pick up in San Jose. This holiday was fabulous!

This was my first solo long-haul adventure and I felt privileged and grateful to be immersed in such a unique, fragile and important environment. The wildlife was abundant and spectacular - on land, air and sea. The boat accommodation was excellent and the guide and crew were always on hand, helpful and good-humoured.

It’s now two weeks since I returned from Portugal and I wish I was back walking the wild Algarve. The unspoiled coastline was spectacular with few tourists, just surfers riding the huge waves. Also what was so noticeable was the fact that there were no litter bins but also no litter anywhere - the environment is truly respected.

This was a wonderful late April holiday in Portugal, my first with Exodus. The itinerary and accommodation were first class. Everything was so well organised and very diverse, the walking covering beautiful countryside and woodland as well as stunning coastal paths. As it was Springtime everything seemed to be in full bloom which was an added delight. As a group of eight coming together for the first time we gelled well together and enjoyed some wonderful walks, meals and activities together. The friendly, gracious and careful way in which our group leader Inês managed the tour was admirable. The additional activities and learning about flora, fauna, and Portuguese customs were perfect additions to the holiday. The bread baking, olives, ceramics, wine and an artisan olive oil producer provided a holistic and rounded experience of the Algarve for us all.

Discovering the Algarve in Portugal was fantastic. Experiencing its beauty by exploring scenic hiking trails was the right way to go. Meeting charming local business owners and talented artisans along the way enhanced the trip. Hearing the story behind a family-run olive oil press or discovering how locally grown berries are transformed into liquors gave us insight into the passion people feel for their land and how they live on it. Sampling the local wines and savoring delicious meals at cozy restaurants was a bonus.

This journey through Ecuador showcases its dramatic landscapes, unique wildlife, and warm local culture. What makes it especially compelling is the opportunity to experience the country as locals do, staying in locally run accommodations rather than traditional cruises, particularly in the Galapagos, offers a more authentic and often overlooked perspective. The Galapagos feels incredibly safe and close‑knit, with a strong sense of community that stands out alongside the extraordinary wildlife.