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1953 Total Reviews

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Everest and other mountain views
Everest Yeti Trail Luxury Lodge Trek

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By Roy from Waterlooville | 24 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★
Breathtaking walk in perfect conditions
Patagonia - The Classic Paine Circuit
This was a fantastic holiday – undoubtedly enhanced by the good weather we experienced during the trek. The weather can be very variable, requiring equipment for all four seasons. The sheer scale of the landscape of Patagonia was breathtaking, deep blue/grey lakes, big skies, immense glaciers and the impressive granite towers of the ‘Torres’ themselves. What was less expected was the range of wildlife, especially birds – enhanced by the tremendous knowledge of flora and fauna, geology an d geography of our two guides, Diego and Tomas. On the trek (or the road to Eco Camp) we saw Guanacos, Rheas, condors, various raptors, armadillo, Southern Lapwing, Caracaras, Southern Goose – too many to list. The flora; beech forest, semi desert and flowers were equally enthralling. We saw plenty of puma prints and fresh puma scat – very close to the campsites, though no sightings and the woodpeckers were also being shy. The nature reserve at El Calafate is also worth a visit – you can get remarkably close to the birds. It’s a long way to go for 7 days’ trek and anyone with the time would be well advised to take a bit longer – though in our case work called! From Northern England, I’m not sure I’d recommend the Heathrow/ Madrid/Buenos Aires route we used. Even a slight delay at Heathrow caused an extremely stressful run through Madrid airport. Manchester/Amsterdam/Buenos Aires looks more relaxed, as evidenced by another couple on the trek. That said, the Madrid route worked fine on the return. You need to be flexible in relation to the land transport. We all got a bit frustrated when a 5-hour journey extended to nearer 10 – but closed border routes and scanning the baggage of all the passengers on a double-deck coach are not within the gift of KE or EcoCamp (who act as the local agent to KE). Taking snacking food (but not fresh fruit or veg – contraband) and water on the bus is wise! The return trip was much faster. The food and accommodation at EcoCamp were truly marvellous. Restaurant quality food, quirky dome pods, a good bar and friendly staff. The food whilst on trek was also excellent – including one night when EcoCamp shipped in a chef when they were not confident that the on-site refuge could provide adequate catering. On all but one of the camping nights, the tents provided were very good. On one night we were allocated tiny backpacking tents – which I gather EcoCamp are complaining about on our behalf. This is a long and demanding trek. 140km and max 1200m altitude doesn’t sound too bad. However, the Torres del Paine guidebook recommends 10-11 days; though I assume that this is carrying your own gear. Doing the circuit in 7 days involves 3 long days (10-11 hours), with an additional long day walking up the Ascension Valley. KE rate this trek as ‘7’ which I feel is accurate. The only significant ‘negative’ we felt was that even on the easier days, the pace was fast, with fast walkers getting behind and ‘pushing’ the guide. Despite raising this, the issue remained throughout the trek, with those who like to walk a bit slower or take photos being hurried. Whilst on the long days this is to some extent inevitable, it was frustrating at times. Everyone on the trek was more than capable of completing it – but the speed was often that of the fastest. To an extent this is a result of group dynamics – but perhaps these more challenging treks tend to attract speedy walkers. It’s worth noting that the camping is in the wilderness – but it’s not wilderness camping! At each location there are refugios and the food (dinner and breakfast) is served in these. At all but one you could buy beer and wine – and credit cards were accepted at most, especially on the ‘W’ (south) side of the trek where it was akin to camping next to a large youth hostel. The ‘W’ trek is very popular so enjoy the solitude of the first three days on the north side, leading to the John Gardner Pass and the descent towards the fantastic Grey Glacier. The ‘swing bridges’ are spectacular – but that’s in the eye of the beholder, with some finding them a bit scary! Overall we really enjoyed the trek and met some great people – fellow trekkers, our two guides, our porters and the staff. Any ‘niggles’ are truly secondary and I’ve expressed them only in the sense that they reflect personal experience and help others decide if this is the holiday for them. Thank you to KE, EcoCamp, our fellow trekkers, the porters and staff and especially our two guides Diego and Tomas, for such as wonderful time.
By Neil from Barnsley | 23 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A well paced tour of a fascinating country
Vietnam from North to South
Vietnam North to South covers most of the key points of Vietnam in a well paced journey. It mixes some easy trekking staying at homestays with some fine hotels. There are good short bike rides and a short kayak trip in Halong Bay - perhaps the highlight of the trip. The food was very good throughout with great seafood, fresh vegetables and very tasty fruit everywhere. The local people were incredibly friendly, warm and welcoming which is astonishing when you consider the atrocities the country h as experienced in the not too distant past. This is not a difficult trip at all but it is full of interest every day.
By Neil from Hope Valley | 23 November 2017
Patagonia - Torres Del Paine Circuit. November 2017
Patagonia - The Classic Paine Circuit

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By Neil from Barnsley | 23 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★
A whistle stop tour, and a great introduction to wonderful India.
Best of Northern India
A fully escorted tour with an expert guide, we were very well looked after. I have always wanted to visit India and wasn't disappointed. Might be a culture shock if you have never travelled outside of Europe before though. The dirt, pollution, squalor, beggars, overcrowding, smells, sights and sounds are what make it what India is. Add to that the fabulous culture, monuments and wildlife, and the food, Oooo, the food! Vegetarian paradise, meat is on most menus but with everything so tasty y ou won't miss it. I did miss eating fresh salads and fruit though. (Bananas and fruit you can wash in mineral water and peel yourself is fine though.) Alcohol is available but relatively expensive in the hotels and you have to wary of having ice in drinks. Our guide was very good at keeping us safe from any food or drinks which could have been made using tap water, or in a way which could have started the dreaded "Delhi belly" so no one was ill. There is no time in the busy itinerary for a down day, So heed the advice and stay well. Outside of the hotels, you probably won't want to use the public toilets more than necessary. This trip really packs in the sights and there is a lot of travelling on the roads and railways, spending a lot of time on the road. Our vehicle was spotless and very comfortable, the trains, even in 1st class a bit less so, but regard it as all part of the Indian experience and not just the means to the next monument or hotel and you'll be fine. If you are thinking about visiting India for the first time, go for it!
By Andrew from Canonbie | 21 November 2017
Our happy Guide
Everest Base Camp Trek

By Jonathan from Staines-upon-Thames | 21 November 2017
Boarding at Lukla
Everest Base Camp Trek

By Jonathan from Staines-upon-Thames | 21 November 2017
Base Camp
Everest Base Camp Trek

By Jonathan from Staines-Upon-Thames | 21 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Good adventure to a stunning part of the world with a lovely group of strangers.
Everest Base Camp Trek
Had a wonderful group (just 10 of us) and a good laugh that made for a memorable trip. Trip was well organised and excellently supported by the Sherpa team, led by Lhapkha, who were very kind, helpful, knowledgeable and attentive. Fantastic scenery and experience even if the route was busy with other trekkers and very dusty at times (you need that buff!). Bedrooms chilly but fine once in sleeping bag, but main dining room warm and plenty of food at meal times. Bathroom facilities often very basi c and not always running water, so you need hand sanitizer and wet wipes. I was affected by altitude, as indeed most of us were to varying degrees, despite good slow pace. Agree with others - take plenty of your own painkillers, Lemsips, throat sweets and Vicks/tiger balm. But you can't but help have a wonderful time!
By Katherine from Shrewsbury | 20 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
An excellent insight into different lifestyles and landscapes within Vietnam.
Vietnam from North to South
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to Vietnam, the variety of experiences offered was excellent. It was fascinating to see how life for local people ranged between traditional mountain to modern city. Our favourite part of the holiday was walking and staying in the mountain villages, warm welcomes and beautiful scenery throughout. We also particularly enjoyed our overnight junk cruise to Halong Bay and stays in Hoi An and the Mekong Delta. Our guide Nyan was outstanding, he was not only extremely kn owledgeable but had a great sense of humour and quickly developed an excellent rapport with all members of our group. All food was of a high standard and another highlight of our holiday. The only slight negative was the amount of travelling involved, appreciate that this is inevitable to see highlights throughout Vietnam.
By Kevin from Taunton | 20 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★
Well organized trip trough a beautiful country
El Salvador's Eight
This thoroughly enjoyable trip will guide you through many parts of this small country. Several of the volcano hikes are stunning but can be challenging. Visiting coffee farms, tour of the guerrilla war, and the finish at the beach were big positives as well. Pupusas were great way to experience some of the local culinary flavours. Locals are very pleasant and I felt safe during the whole adventure. Transportation, logistics, hotels well all well executed and no major issues occurred. It was nic e to have the same bus/driver for the majority of the trip. The guide was very good and receptive to requests. Note that this is a small country and many places visited have limited tourism infrastructure (e.g. restaurant choices, hotel amenities, etc). The trip notes underestimated some of the extent of hiking on couple of days. Also, many locals do not speak english and some basic Spanish is an asset if eating on your own in a restaurant (but not a must) I found that the amount of food provided was not enough for me and had to supplement with multiple snacks throughout each hike. We were all responsible for supplying our own water. This would be a great fix to make this trip outstanding.
By Mirek from Toronto | 20 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A great walking holiday for banishing those early winter blues
Secret Sierras of the Costa Blanca

A very enjoyable week's walking. The group, ranging in ages from early 30s to late 60s, gelled really well and our guide Jose was excellent. A very experienced guide with a great knowledge of the local area and with a super sense of humour. Staying in 3 separate locations during the week made it feel like 3 separate holidays. Plenty of peaks with fantastic 360 degree panoramic views with "guaranteed" sunshine thrown in.

By Adrian from Hatfield | 20 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Because it's there!
Everest Base Camp Trek

10/10 For me a true experience, i have never attempted something like this nor ever dreamed of joining a bunch of like minded people in such an adventure. No matter what you read, its hard and Altitude sickness is a real leveller, the fast got slow and the slow found pace. Whatever your level of fitness you wont be prepared so just do it! Loved every minute!

By Neil from Lynbrook | 20 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Beautiful traverse
Bernese Oberland Haute Route - West
I went on this trip in July 2017 and loved it. It was far less traveled than the more famous Haute Route, which gave us the trail to ourselves, and the huts were usually only half full, which gave us plenty of room in what can otherwise be close quarters. I did both the West and East trips to make a full traverse, and I thought it was beautiful and challenging. Together, I think the trips might be rated higher than an 8, especially the first week (West) which is quite challenging because you are rarely on actual trails, and the terrain is very diverse--scree, glacier, rocks, scrambling, ladders, etc., and because there is one very long day. I think the second week (East trip) was a bit easier, but has more time on the glaciers, which was my primary goal, and was well worth the effort. Just beautiful. Great leaders, great huts, and an overall awesome experience!
By Leslie from BROOKLINE | 19 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Totally amazing
Everest Base Camp Trek

The kit list was excellent and an accurate representation of what was needed. The guides were excellent, very experienced and attentive to everyone eating and drinking the required amounts of food and drink needed to complete the trip. A special Thanks for organising sparkling sunshine for the duration :-)

By Barbara from Egremont | 19 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
excellent guide
Annapurna Sanctuary and Poon Hill Trek

Well organised trip. Wonderful scenery. Careful guide who kept group together. We all achieved.

By Alison from Stone | 18 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★
Great mix of wildlife, coastal activities & walking in the Drakensburg mountains
South Africa Walking Safari
A great variety of experiences on this holiday. We saw at close range all the wildlife we could ever have hoped for, we experienced the vastness of the Kruger scrubland, the lushness and sounds of the jungle during the camping trip, the beauty of the coast at Kozi Bay and St Lucia and the spectacular amphitheatre of the Drakensburg mountains. The accommodation was always comfortable, offering a unique experience in each location. Our only criticism; the driving was longer and the walking shorter than we expected from the itinery.
By Adventure from PRESTON | 16 November 2017
60 Second Review
Everest the Hard Way Trek

By Glenn from United Kingdom | 16 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
A demanding but hugely rewarding trek into the incomparable Sanctuary
Annapurna Sanctuary and Poon Hill Trek
Be prepared. Lots and I mean lots of ascents and descents with mostly on steps. So, get plenty of hill miles in your legs before you go. We had an absoutely excellent leader in Rabi Gurung - the best I have trekked with. Fully committed to his clients, knowledgeable, humorous with a great personality to match. This is a worthwhile objective with some stunning scenery to match. The Yak and Yeti is a great hotel and the restaurants we ate at in Kathmandu were superb. Prepare well and you will have a great trek be it your first time in Nepal or one of many such trips.
By Christopher from Dronfield | 15 November 2017
★ ★ ★ ★
Wild, beautiful scenery & wild, unspeakable long-drops
Mountains and Marvels of Central Asia
A brilliant holiday with wild & beautiful scenery in the Fann mountains & wild, unspeakable long-drops. They featured prominently because 9 out of 11 (all experienced) travellers joined the Tajik Tummy club to varying degrees, from mild discomfort to full explosions from both ends. Take more loo roll, hand sanitizer, baby wipes & underwear than usual. Charcoal tablets, antibiotics & Imodium were all deployed with varying degrees of success. This was mainly during the camping & although we all had our own mugs there was nowhere to wash them & the handwashing station in camp was intermittent. A suggestion to provide separate serving cutlery was implemented but I’m not entirely sure extra precautions would have made much difference? Tipping. This caused too much discussion, with no guidance around splitting $80 between Tajikistan & Uzbekistan. In the end we split $50:$30, but in retrospect would have loaded more towards Tajikistan. The friendly efficient trekking team expected set amounts so e.g. 6 would have to cover the same total: $60 x4 Donkey team; $65-75 x2 Cooks; $5 x3 Drivers (from homestay village to boarder). We tipped our excellent Guide & hard working Interpreter $100 each, though again there were huge discussions around giving $200 to our Guide (also owner of the local agency), to share at his discretion or giving the (essential) Interpreter her’s direct. The former was decided on by a majority vote – so much for gender equality! Very little need for Tajik currency (possibly a couple of beers); the market visited was interesting but it was a local working market & most who had changed any money had to swap it right back before crossing the border. The driver from the Uzbek boarder to the hotel & then to Tashkent airport also expected a tip. We gave $5, in line with Tajikistan – no idea if this was correct. In Uzbekistan our Guide booked all meals & helped celebrate someone’s birthday, organising a cake & local bubbly (!) for a tiny contribution to cover the cost. However his knowledge of the stunning sights was patchy & didn’t always match the guide books. He also wanted us to stay in the lobby of the hotel at the end of our trip & was disappointed when we all insisted on having the 3 hours in our rooms to shower, repack & rest a little before leaving for the airport at 11.30pm (initially insisting our flight was 8.30am instead of 2.40am). We split the remaining $30 between our main driver (very safe & kept the bus immaculate) & the Guide at our own discretion, having reached tip-discussion fatigue point. Lots of craft markets in Uzbekistan & prices in $ were generally better than in Uzbek som. Som were required for supermarkets, evening drinks & for many toilets (carry a wodge of 1,000 notes) which sometimes you don’t have to pay for if you are eating/ drinking at the establishment & sometimes you do; our Guide wasn’t at all clear on this, though he got cross when we got it wrong! As warned there was a lot of time spent on the bus on poor roads, so we were all massively looking forward to a train journey as a change. This prospect hovered like an oasis in the desert but proved to be a mirage. We never found out the actual reason because the stories from KE & the Uzbek agency never entirely tallied. KE said the agency said the train was fully booked as soon as it came on line, 2 months in advance & our Guide said KE said that the fast train (leaving at the right time) was too expensive. I suspect the likelihood of a train journey actually happening is like the promise of jam tomorrow & should be removed from the itinerary. I hope you find the info above useful & enjoy your trip!
By Claire from Shifnal | 15 November 2017

KE Adventure reply

Thank you for your detailed review, which I am sure will be helpful to future travellers to Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. We are pleased that you had such a good trip despite the tummy troubles you describe. We believe this was most likely a bug being passed around from one trekker to another and we have now introduced additional defences to guard against this. We do have to correct you on one factual inaccuracy in your review.  Your group drove to Tashkent because there were no tickets available on the afternoon train.  In fact tickets for this train were sold out as soon as booking opened, 2 months prior to departure! The only other available train would have seen the group arrive in Tashkent just hours before their international flight departures, and we therefore arranged for the group to travel by private vehicle. The majority of our 'Mountains and Marvels' groups have taken the train to Tashkent and there was no cost saving whatsoever to KE by your group travelling by road.

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