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★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A great introduction to Bulgaria and snowshoeing

Bulgarian Snowshoe Adventure

We took the easyJet flight from Manchester to Sofia so were met there by our guide Ivo who took us to our city hotel which was simple, spacious and comfortable although a little dated by UK standards. We had a couple of hours to explore the city before meeting Ivo who took us on a walking tour. Obviously a fascinating city with a mixture of ancient buildings and communist architecture. We had a meal at a traditional restaurant and were treated to folk music and dancing. The next day we headed fo r the mountains to get used to snowshoes. It was breezy and we were pleased there was a cafe at the top. Accommodation for the next three nights was at The Teahouse, a family run hostel. We had a double room with shower room. The room was fairly basic, and there was a bit of a smell of drains in the shower room at times, and a need to take care with the shower as it was a wet room really, without a shower screen or curtain.However the shower was always hot and the room always warm and the food was excellent. A special thank you to Ivo and all the accommodations for accommodating my husband’s coeliac disease and need for gluten free food and bread. GF bread is very difficult to come by outside Sofia and it took Ivo a number of phone calls to get loaves for the second half of the holiday. During the trip we learned how to test the snow for avalanche risk and to use transceivers and probes to make a rescue. We had to walk across snowfall from an avalanche the previous day. Our third hotel was very modern and comfortable, again with excellent food, close the Rila lakes and mountains and we enjoyed some beautiful walking there.

By Sarah from Cockermouth | 17 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Unquestionably the best Patagonia trekking itinerary available.

Spires and Ice - Trekking Patagonia

Patagonia ... the mere mention of the fabled land conjures up images of it's wild landscape, the granite towers and spires across its skyline and of course it's notorious wind and weather. But nothing prepares you for the experience you are about to have. It's a wild and wonderful place and this itinerary provides a comprehensive and mind-blowing visual feast over the course of its duration. It's not the cheapest holiday of course, but for the global trekking enthusiast its a "must do" at some stage before they hang up their trekking boots. The itinerary itself is full on ... there is very little time to catch your breath. A number of the days are relatively long (20km or more) and there are a couple of "tough" days in particular which may be a challenge for folks not used to longer days in the hills with ascent profiles in excess of 1,000m. True, for the most part the trails are well defined but this itinerary shouldn't be seen as a push over given the grading suggested by KE. In fact, our group was an experienced group of trekkers and mountaineers and we all believed the grading of the trek warranted a review based on the "pace" of the full itinerary, as well as the145km and 6,000m+ ascent profile over the course of the 8 actual trekking days on the trip. The hardest days would be the days up to the base of the Torres Del Paine and the day up the French Valley and across to Los Cuernos. The trekking in Argentina was less demanding in my view, both days were in excess of 20km with the climb up to view Fitzroy the toughest, but the ascent profile was a little less than that experienced in Chile. That said, the weather can dictate everything and after a windy and rainy start to the trip we enjoyed some nice clear, still days with nothing but a mild breeze to take away the sting of the heat. Whilst in Chile, the trip encompassed a stay at EcoCamp both at the start and the end of the "W trek" ... and this was an absolute highlight. Phonomenal food, unusual but highly comfortable dome accommodation, great packed lunches for the trail and an eco experience that gives you hope that there are people out there that have worked out how to provide access to a fragile environment in a sensitive manner ensuring it will be there for generations to come. In fact, the whole national park management system evident in both Chile and Argentina puts the management of our own national parks to shame and provides a set of standards we'd all be wise to adopt. I thoroughly enjoyed the mix of camping, refuge and lodge accommodation. Its a nice balance and the refuge at Los Cuernos in particular is a really nice spot to stay with immense views if the weather is being kind to you. The food overall is plentiful and nutritious. Water is available everyday from the freshest mountain streams trickling down from the immense glaciers so you are always able to keep a good supply of fresh water in your pack. A final word on the quality of guiding we experienced. Patagonia is a veritable "Garden of Eden". It has unique flora and fauna and its geological history is fascinating in every respect. Glaciers have shaped, and indeed continue to shape, this landscape and it's a wild remote place. We were guided by Rod (Rasta) who is a legend in these parts having been guiding KE groups and WWF groups in the region for many many years. He was supported by Katty in Chile who, like Rod, provided a phenomenal interpretation of what is going on around you and how this landscape came to pass. Their knowledge of flora and fauna etc was truly amazing. It's true to say people come to see the fabled mountains but, thanks to these individuals, we leave with a love and appreciation for Patagonia that only comes from time spent with unique local experts. Thank you Rod and Katty ... for me you made my Patagonia experience complete A trip to Patagonia is one of the biggest treats you can enjoy. It's not cheap and its a very long way away to travel. For many of us it only comes at a time in our lives when we've perhaps got a little more time and available cash having ditched the day job for a well earned retirement. But do it .... take a little extra time to explore Buenos Aires on the way out and on the way home. It will add to your experience and it really costs very little extra. The most wonderful South American itinerary and my only regret now is that I feel it will be incredibly difficult to ever find a trip that will surpass it for its beauty and sheer grandeur. Thank you to everyone at KE for superlative support throughout the booking and organisation stages. Just top class adventure travel in my view ....

By Christopher from Ripon | 14 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

An excellent holiday with leaders who ensure it is more than just a walking trip

Spires and Ice - Trekking Patagonia

An excellent trip, thoroughly recommended, with excellent local trek leaders who make sure that this is much more than a walking trip. So the things that may be useful for you: We booked different flights (via the KE office) from the standard ones, as did many others in our group, gaining 2 nights in BA, but also avoiding the worry of transfer times across BA between the two airports (e.g. our flight back from El Calafate was delayed by 6 hours, although luckily we could transfer to an earlier f light). One of the group took the bus between the two BA airports - it took over an hour & they were lucky that the second flight was delayed. Ecocamp is quite luxurious, & is nice to return to after the Paine Grande campsite & Los Cuernos refuge, but be aware that any extras are expensive (‘Patagonia prices’ !) & that the domes are the standard ones, so have no heating & very limited lighting (but the bed is super warm). Be aware also that there is no Wifi in Ecocamp, & very limited availability at the camps, so you are effectively off the grid whilst in Chile. French valley extension walk - you don’t have to go all the way to the Britanico mirador to get the view, so if you’re short of/worried about the time ask your leader if you can go to the nearer viewpoint (& get the same view); if you have Rodrigo he will know what this means ! Accommodation in El Calafate & El Chalten is good. Lots of good restaurants in El Calafate (you have to buy your own dinners there) - Mi Rancho Restaurante Patagonico & Isabel Cocina al Disco are recommended. Most of the days involve early starts, & relatively long days, especially if you do the extra bits, so there’s usually not much time before dinner. The long minibus transfers allow you to catch up on sleep though ! Perito Merino glacier - having done it, I wouldn’t bother doing the boat trip & would just do the walk around the glacier (you get a much better impression of the creaking & groaning of the glacier from there) Finally, keep an eye on your rucsac otherwise you may find that you’re carrying more than you think !!

By David from Mold | 13 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A Really Tough Adventure but Well Worth the Effort

Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

At 70 I was not sure I would make it to the top of KIlimanjaro but Onyx, Stanley, Richard and their team gave me the best possible chance and I made it. It was very hard all the way and the last day to the summit starting at midnight and finishing around 5 in the afternoon was the hardest day of my life (and that includes trekking to Everest Base Camp and running 25 marathons!). You don't have to be ultra fit but obviously fitness helps and you need some luck dodging altitude sickness (it c an happen to anyone) but I took diamox every morning and night which I think helped. KE Adventure was very well organised and we were well supported with 10 of us having a supporting team of 40 guides, porters, cooks etc. who were all extremely supportive, I have much respect for all of them. If I had to find a negative it would probably be the tents. I think they had seen better days, my zips kept popping open and was difficult to fix and there was duct tape on a couple of the seams which was starting to open again. Time for new tents KE ? The only other issue was the hotel we stayed in at the beginning and end of the trek. We used Aishi Machame Hotel which was in a remote location outside of Moshi with no where to go or see. The rooms were ok with plenty of hot water but the service was not great and the porters were almost fighting to pick up my bags to take to my room which was only a few metres from the reception. At one time I had 3 porters trying to carry my 3 bags, they all wanted a tip. The tip I would give them is go and watch the porters on the trek, they know what real work is and they don't ask for anything in return, just a smile! Overall an excellent but very hard adventure. Another tick on my bucket list.

By Roger from Aylesbury | 13 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Brilliant!

Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira

Dear future traveller with KE Adventure Holidays. I'm afarid I can't give a very accurate review for this trip as I had to curtail my holiday owing to illness but from what I did experience I have no hesitation in recommending this trip to others. A special mention must be made regarding Roberto the guide who was a truly inspiring and utterly dedicated to his job as well as being extremely kind and thoughtful. Also too, Nubelia, the agent on the ground in Fuchal could not have been mor e helpful. I am sure the others in my group had a fantastic time I only wish I could have joined them!.

By Nicholas from Berkhamsted | 12 February 2019

KE Adventure reply

Thank you for your review Nicholas. We were sorry when you had to leave the group and we hope you have had a speedy recovery.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Invigorating and memorable holiday with outstanding views.

Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira

My wife and I had a wonderful week. Roberto was a first class guide throughout the week. He guided us safely over some tricky terrain and was very informative. The walks were varied and invigorating with some challenging stretches. Overall a wonderful way to see the island. The hotels were all of a good standard, the food in all was also good and the drivers who moved us and our gear were very friendly and efficient. The group gelled very well in all respects. Thank you KE. Best wishes, Stuart a nd Binny Fraser.

By Stuart from Bristol | 12 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Fantastic local support group

Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route

Tremendous experience. The guides, Onyx in particular, but also Richard and Stanley, were incredibly supportive and made success attainable. Loss of appetite can be an issue and so take lots of easy to eat goodies. Make sure you are reasonably fit (eg able to run for an hour,stairmaster/steps training) as first hour of summit night is demanding.

By Philip from Fleet | 11 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A great weekend break

Mount Teide Weekend - Tenerife

A satisfying weekend, well organised and with a knowledgeable, helpful and cheerful guide; it was a great way to "knock off" a national summit. I highly recommend this trip.

By Timothy from Sheringham | 10 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★

What this trip lacked in single track it more than made up for in food & culture

Turkish Delight

This was culture filled and scenic trip. By the time the dust settled, we had put on 270 km. Only a few of these were on single-track, but dirt/gravel trails/roads led us to little communities along the way. Unexpected encounters were made, such as having a coffee in a hamlet square with the local men as their grandsons inspected our bikes. Or assisting the local women in a bread kiln as they stoked the fire and baked their bread. Wonderful and friendly people. Certainly the underground churches , pigeon roosts, homes, and the amazing city of "Derinkuyu" kept us riding, as did the wonderful lunches and dinners at the restaurants frequented by the locals - not the tourists. Our guide, "Atil Kamas", was fluent, experienced, capable of answering any historical or cultural questions, and knew the best places to dine, visit, explore, and ride. For reference, I have also done the "High Trails of Macedonia" with KE. "Turkish Delight" was superior.

By Timothy from Campbell River, British Columbia, Canada | 10 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Paolo couldn't have taken any more trouble

El Hierro - The Secret Canaries

We really enjoyed this trip - just as advertised. Paolo took such trouble to ensure everyone had a good time. The food was excellent. The accommodation is basic, as it says in the notes, but clean and adequate. One or two people seemed to think there was excessive downhill but I don't understand this - it's all clear in the notes. Beautiful island, really felt like the 'edge of the world' in Europe.

By Clare from Keswick | 08 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A great way to see this part of Thailand and its people.

Bangkok to Phuket Road Cycling Tour

The trip was very well organised with outstanding support from the two ride leaders and two drivers. We were taken to places of interest at every opportunity and enjoyed genuine Thai food at lunch stops and in the evenings. Overnight accommodation was always good and sometimes excellent keeping in mind the need for appropriate distances each day in determining the location of hotels. This was a memorable trip and we are especially grateful for the response of the team following an injury to my w ife. They could not have been more helpful.

By John from Carlisle | 08 February 2019

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Kerala and the Cardamom Hills

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By Laurence from Congleton | 07 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Good mix of volcano & crater lake walk and exposure to equatorial culture & land

Ecuador Walking Highlights

In a short span of two weeks, we crossed the Equator Line; circuited a few crater lakes (Cuicocha Crater Lake and Quilotoa Crater Lagoon); ascended to 5,000m+ elevations of several volcanoes like Cotopaxi, Ruminahui Central enjoying the view and the “KE level 6” walk; learned something new about the “Equatorial Bulge” while walking in Chimborazo; and had an unexpected encounter of a wild fox in Cotopaxi National Park. We also visited Saquisili market for a first-hand experience of the in digenous culture, people and a super abundance of resources from the rich soil of the equatorial volcanic land. Spending the New Year’s Eve in Banos was a big plus. An icing on the cake was a day trip to Devil’s Cauldron Waterfalls near Banos and zip lining over Rio Pataza Canyon. While Guamote also has a local market (including a livestock market), it was the community school for kids that left more impression on us. There was lots of driving though, as expected. In summary, this KE program is a good mixture of walk of the volcanoes & crater lakes and exposure to the indigenous culture & equatorial land.

By Jin from Lisle | 06 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A trip that delivered everything promised

Kerala and the Cardamom Hills

This is my first KE trip and I found myself with a great group of returning KE clients. This trip delivered everything but the stand out aspect for me was the tour leader and lead trekking guide (Senthill and Saravan). Totally professional and very caring. Their attention to detail was excellent, particularly around camp and kitchen hygiene whilst on the trek. And perhaps the most humbling moment was when hot 'tiffin' appeared from Saravan's rucksack for the whole party of ten aft er 4 hours into a trekking day. My fellow traveler Laurence has put some fantastic pictures up of our recent trip - these really capture the essence of Kerala and the Cardamom Hills . I'm certainly looking forward to my next trip with KE.

By Andrew from Minehead | 06 February 2019

Good mix of volcano & crater lake walk and exposure to equatorial culture & land

Ecuador Walking Highlights

By 9618 from Lisle | 06 February 2019

The volcanoes, crater lakes, indigenous culture & equatorial land

Ecuador Walking Highlights

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By Jin from Lisle | 06 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Great scenery and culture and lovely winter sunshine

Walking Holiday on the Captivating Cape Verde Islands

Cape Verde has some fantastic scenery especially on Santo Antao. Probably exceeded my expectations. The whole trip was very well organised and well led by Odair. The walking is usually only about 5 hrs per day but it often involves steep ascents and descents so perhaps more strenuous than expected. The ascent of the active volcano PIco do Fogo was a highlight but was especially steep! I would definitely recommend the trip. I found a walking pole very useful for the descents and would recommend g aiters, only for the PIco descent on soft ash - I didn't have any and I had to empty my boots 4 times!

By Alastair from ABERDEEN | 05 February 2019

Laurence's Kerala & Cardamom Hills Photos

Kerala and the Cardamom Hills

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By Laurence from Congleton | 05 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★

Great Landscapes and Superb Wildlife

The Great Southern African Lodge Safari

On this trip you certainly get to see a great deal in a relatively short space of time, but do be prepared for some long days inside a potentially hot and dusty vehicle over some very rough roads - and some very good roads. The highlights for me were the two nights wild camping in the Okavango Delta away from civilization and modern technology, and the stunning deserts of Namibia. I went in September/October, but I think that somewhat earlier in the year would have provided as many good wildlife opportunities with less heat. The accommodation is very impressive, with a variety of very good quality lodges and cabins and some very good glamping tents - all were very clean and comfortable. Most of the food was prepared by the guides with the assistance of willing volunteers from the group, which made the experience very sociable and a good way to get to know one another. A few meals were taken in restaurants, and gave the opportunity to try some unusual delicacies such as crocodile, kudu, eland and oryx. We managed to see most of the "big five" species (the five most dangerous to Man), especially in the Okavango and Chobe national parks, where there was all sorts of animal and bird life in abundance. It was an amazing experience to be sitting in one of the open-sided vehicles in the Chobe park with a herd of about 40 elephants including babies and juveniles ambling by within about 10 metres of us. The game drive was followed by an evening cruise on the river, which was really excellent and culminated in an awesome sunset. Tracking big game in the Okavango Delta was another truly memorable experience, the native guides giving so much valuable information on animal behaviour and identification by their droppings. By contrast, the deserts were stunning for their landscape qualities, but also produced an unexpected array of wildlife from lizards, snakes and birds to mammals. However, one of the most vivid memories I have taken away was not so much the classic dunes of the Kalahari but seeing the Milky Way again in all its glory - a rare sight in our polluted night skies. The two guides we had - Chris and Zandre - were very informative and worked hard behind the scenes to ensure that we were properly looked after and kept to the busy schedule. Zandre produced some very memorable meals from fresh ingredients, often using rudimentary bush cooking equipment. Aside from the landscape and wildlife interest, this trip provides a great deal of cultural and historic interest, including desert rock carvings and rock paintings, and the remains of a petrified forest. The holiday includes some walking, some of which is optional, but was necessary to see the carvings and paintings. The ascent of Dune 45 in the Kalahari is a "must-do" experience and not as bad as it looks if you take your time, for the rewards are spectacular. The desert landscapes provided a beautiful palette of colours from blacks to reds, browns and yellows, all set against deep blue skies. And, of course, you get to see some fabulous dusks and dawns during the trip, over mountains, plains and rivers. Cultural interest was provided through beautiful naive song and dance routines, the most memorable occasion being an impromptu mini concert in the Okavango Delta around the camp fire after the evening meal. Then there was a short walk with San Bushmen, who showed how it is in fact possible to create fire by rubbing two sticks together. Again, by way of contrast, the ex-colonial German settlements of Swakopmund and Windhoek have a special character to remind you of a bygone era, although hearing German being spoken by schoolchildren in the streets was quite bizarre. Along the way there are several opportunities for excursions including flights by microlight and plane (Victoria Falls) and helicopter or plane (Okavango), as well as several activities at Swakopmund such as dune buggies or a desert wildlife experience where we came across a sidewinder snake, desert jackal, colourful lizards and birds. At the Okavango I chose to take the light aircraft flight (pay by card or cash) but if you want to take photographs you need to take the somewhat pricier helicopter flight for uninterrupted views and a slower ground speed. I can't believe that we packed in so much in such a short space of time. Highly recommended, despite some uncomfortable days on the road, and a long flight from the UK.

By Christopher from Belper | 04 February 2019

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Great experience !

Mount Teide Weekend - Tenerife

Really great trip - we did so much in such a short period of time. Cao was an excellent guide who was clearly passionate about Tenerife - his home - and gave lots of interesting facts. He really looked after us - especially in the refuge at 3260m. Tips : bring ear plugs and eye mask for dorm. Hand warmers for the summit. Travel a day earlier and get up to Mt Teide park, and if possible go up the cable car - this will really help you acclimatise. Tickets can be pre-booked online. I found gaiters helpful to stop the small stones going into my boots.

By Andrew from Esher | 04 February 2019

Latest from our Travellers

Overall Company Rating 96%

A great introduction to Bulgaria and snowshoeing

Unquestionably the best Patagonia trekking itinerary available.

An excellent holiday with leaders who ensure it is more than just a walking trip

A Really Tough Adventure but Well Worth the Effort

Brilliant!

Invigorating and memorable holiday with outstanding views.

Fantastic local support group

A great weekend break

What this trip lacked in single track it more than made up for in food & culture

Paolo couldn't have taken any more trouble

A great way to see this part of Thailand and its people.

MORE OF LAURENCE'S KERALA & CARDAMOM HILLS PHOTOS

Good mix of volcano & crater lake walk and exposure to equatorial culture & land

A trip that delivered everything promised

Good mix of volcano & crater lake walk and exposure to equatorial culture & land

The volcanoes, crater lakes, indigenous culture & equatorial land

Great scenery and culture and lovely winter sunshine

Laurence's Kerala & Cardamom Hills Photos

Great Landscapes and Superb Wildlife

Great experience !

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Latest from our Travellers

Overall Company Rating 96%

A great introduction to Bulgaria and snowshoeing

Unquestionably the best Patagonia trekking itinerary available.

An excellent holiday with leaders who ensure it is more than just a walking trip

A Really Tough Adventure but Well Worth the Effort

Brilliant!

Invigorating and memorable holiday with outstanding views.

Fantastic local support group

A great weekend break

What this trip lacked in single track it more than made up for in food & culture

Paolo couldn't have taken any more trouble

A great way to see this part of Thailand and its people.

MORE OF LAURENCE'S KERALA & CARDAMOM HILLS PHOTOS

Good mix of volcano & crater lake walk and exposure to equatorial culture & land

A trip that delivered everything promised

Good mix of volcano & crater lake walk and exposure to equatorial culture & land

The volcanoes, crater lakes, indigenous culture & equatorial land

Great scenery and culture and lovely winter sunshine

Laurence's Kerala & Cardamom Hills Photos

Great Landscapes and Superb Wildlife

Great experience !

Get our latest articles and promotions straight to your inbox

KE 2644 Online Reviews

96%

Your Wishlist

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