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97% of our customers rated their holiday Good or Excellent

2104 Total Reviews

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★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Sicily

Walking the Islands and Volcanoes of Sicily

Good communication from beginning with all questions answered and prompt and helpful responses. Good variety of tours. All round good experience.

By Fiona from Meikirch | 17 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Madeira

Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira

Everything about the trip was fabulous, from the communications prior to the trip, to the organisation of the hikes and accommodation, and the excellent guide, Nuno. This was my first hiking holiday and I couldn't have picked a better one. Our guide, Nuno, was brilliant. His experience, leadership and organisational skills were great. Being a local, his knowledge of the levadas and mountains, and the history of Madeira, was excellent. The accommodation was as expected and all hotels were cl ean and comfortable with good food and service.

By Cheryl from Royston | 16 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A “Winter” Ascent of Mont Blanc … in June!

Climb Mont Blanc

What an epic and hugely rewarding trip this turned out to be!

Our (simply brilliant) main guide, Etienne, had made a number of previous ascents of Mont Blanc, as you’d expect, but he believed he’d never known it so cold as on our summit-attempt day, even on the winter ascents of the mountain he’d made in the past. Closed “uplifts” / “down-lifts” that necessitated some very long days with large amounts of additional ascent and descent compared to the itinerary; almos t unprecedented amounts of snow for the time of the year with a snow line much lower than normal; unrelenting high winds and very low temperatures on summit day - all these things conspired to turn our venture into, what Etienne described as, “a full winter mountaineering ascent of Mont Blanc” (due to the conditions) … by what he termed “fair means” (due to the closed uplifts / down-lifts and resultant very significant additional amounts of ascent and descent). All I know is that these things turned an already tough trip into a gruelling but immensely rewarding epic that I will never forget!

Apparently, only twenty percent of attempts on the summit succeeded on the day we made our summit attempt: we were lucky enough to get three out of the five of us successfully on the summit, and I was lucky enough to be one of the successful ones. I’ve undertaken some very tough challenges over the years, but I think the weather, the conditions, and the significant additional ascent and descent all made this, very likely, the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life - and simply BRILLIANT for it (in hindsight … after I’d started to recover a little bit!)

Our guides were top-notch. Our main guide (Etienne) was our sole guide during the acclimatisation part of the trip - always vigilant for our safety, but fabulous at motivating us in the face of the significant challenges, and a great fella to boot. Etienne was joined by two other guides for the summit attempt - Bruno and Didier, giving the group a ratio of at least one guide to every two of us. Bruno and Didier were clearly hugely experienced and great guys to be with.

The huts were surprisingly good, although dormitories are dormitories - expect a lot of snoring (ear plugs are essential) and not the greatest of nights’ sleep. However, food at the huts was just fantastic - and they all catered well for vegetarians. And the hotel used in Chamonix (La Faucigny) is a great little hotel with character, charm, a superb central location and the most amazing breakfasts.

The acclimatisation programme seemed to work very well. For this, we crossed glaciers and a high col over into Switzerland where we spent the night at a hut that had just that day reopened (late, due to the large amounts of snow), then returned back over the high col into France the next day. The additional amounts of ascent and descent at the beginning and end of this due to the closed uplifts / down-lifts possibly made this acclimatisation even more effective.

If you’re genuinely open to being flexible in relation to itinerary changes due to weather, conditions, etc, then this is an absolutely fabulous trip to go for. And the ability to eat amazing cakes and drink fabulous coffee in Chamonix at the end of your endeavours is fantastic too!

A fabulous, fabulous adventure!

By Adrian from Leeds | 13 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Madeira

Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira

Great holiday. Comfortable hotels with excellent food. Daily itinerary well planned. Well organised and a fantastic way to see every aspect of beautiful Medeira.

By Joan from Swindon | 11 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Levada Trails and Peaks

Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira

The whole trip from booking to arriving home was so well organised. Anytime I spoke to someone at KE they were so helpful and professional. Andre is absolutely fantastic as a guide. So informative, helpful and engaged with all the group. His knowledge and love for Maderia shone through is every walk and made the whole trip so special. So glad that Andre was our leader - he made the trip so special.

By Heather from Falkirk | 11 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

The entire experience was incredible

Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

I wanted to take a few days at home to process before answering, there is simply just too much to go over. The entire experience was incredible, and I feel lucky that I was trekking with KE Adventure. There is simply so much to express, so I will list each Sherpa/Guide/Support Staff that made a difference and are the reason why I loved this holiday so much and why I strongly recommend KE Adventure in the strongest possible terms.

Sam - Sam was instrumental in ensuring I had the o pportunity to explore Nepal. I got food poisoning on the flight over from Doha to Kathmandu. I needed to go to the hospital to get cleared to trek. My phone wasn't working, my CC wasn't working, and to pay for my hospital visit, I had to hand over over half my folding money that I brought with me. Sam was the one that stepped up and took care of me. She got me to the hospital in Kathmandu. She spoke to the doctors for me. She arranged that I stay in the Hotel Shanker for one extra day. Sam arranged for my fight up with a Team Doctor. I could have very easily been put on a flight home, but Sam ensured that I'd have the chance to explore Nepal. Without Sam, I wouldn't have gotten to meet Sherpa Team :Raj, Treejan, Mani, Binod. Without Sam, I wouldn't have had the most delightful time with our group. Without Sam, I never would have seen Everest, met so many amazing people, discovered the incredible culture, or run the marathon. Sam is the reason I got to go. Without her help on Day 1, my whole trip could have fallen apart. Sam gave me the experience of a lifetime. I cannot thank her enough or express how much Sam means to me for helping me. Sam is incredible, wonderful, and is the primary reason I got to explore Nepal.

Raj - Sherpa Lead Guide. King Raj! That's the nickname the team gave Raj, and it's fitting. What a tremendous joy to be around. He made us laugh and smile at every opportunity. His wealth of knowledge and experience was incredible. By end of the trek, the whole team would go silent just to hear what Raj had to say, whether he was sharing a piece of history, lore, facts of the biodiversity, or sharing a joke, his voice was that valuable to us. He was always there, happy to answer our questions, to help set expectations, make sure we were healthy, eating enough, sleeping enough, drinking enough. I accredit his leadership, his humility, and his example as the reason why everyone in our group achieved the goals we had set out to do. He helped us acclimate at a steady pace, going high and coming down lower, going slow, not to fast, not to high, so none of us were too badly affected by the altitude. Raj showed us breathtaking sights and wonders. I was moved to tears when we saw Everest. That never would have happened without Raj's guidance. I learned so much from Raj and will apply what I have learned to my future high altitude treks. It was truly bittersweet at the Party at Shankar Hotel. We were all happy, satisfied, but no one was truly ready to part ways yet. Raj is truly The King, and I would want no one else guiding me in Nepal.

Treejan - Managed Logistics, meals, hotels, and porters. A very important man. Treejan quickly became one of the highlights of the trip. After trekking for multiple hours and arriving in a village or settlement, the entire team always looked for Treejan's smiling face to greet us as we trudged in. He'd always greet us with a fist pump, hand shake, or hug, bring us a moment of levity, and help us with our rooms, our bags, team tea, and meals. If was had any questions, he was always happy to answer and provide assistance. It was a delight whenever we came across him on the trail, hiking along with his one pole. The entire team always looked for to lunch stops with anticipation, partly because of the food and a break, but because Treejan was there. Treejan personally greeted me at the finish line of the marathon. He helped me to the medical tent to help get rehydrated, and personally assisted me in collecting my race certificate, race medal, and finishing photo. When it came time to say goodbye to Treejan at Lukla, a few of us were holding back tears. We were happy and pleased to see Treejan moving on to his next adventure, but it was still bittersweet. There's no one better to pull up with and have lunch with.

Mani - Sherpa Guide. Mani is the man. Smooth, classy, usually at the back of the pack, he never stopped and was always there. He always had a smile on his face and always made us laugh. It was a comfort knowing he was there watching us, and he provided a firm but steady hand in helping us in our trek. When it came to meals, Mani, was constantly there making sure that we were well fed and getting the nutrients our bodies needed. He was gracious to take pictures with us all the time, and everyone in the group took turns chatting with Mani, to learn more about him, his family, and his wealth of knowledge of Nepal. I know there were probably moments he was tired, but he never showed it. His confidence and leadership was indispensable. And he was gracious enough to join the group if we asked him to join on us on a run to a local coffee shop. Mani really is an up and coming expert in the field of trekking. I trust him and would gladly follow him to the end of the Himalayas.

Binod - Sherpa Guide. Oh what a delight. If there was anyone that could make you laugh, it was Binod. He was a beacon of fun and a steady hand on our trek. It was incredible seeing him know and communicate with every other sherpa we came across. From Namche to Base Camp, Binod was there, helping us with meals, lodging, coffee runs, and has very keen eyes. He'd spot something the rest of us missed and point it out, letting us enjoy the wonders of the nature of Nepal. And he always made you laugh and feel secure. Everyone in the group loved being around Binod and we would take turns to chat with him, take pictures with him, and try to see the world through his eyes. He has a unique perspective and proved himself a leader and an expert guide. You couldn't ask for someone better to help lead you through the mountains of Nepal.

Truly, everyone made a difference on this trip. Without them, it wouldn't have been as incredible as it was, and I truly desire to return to explore of Nepal someday.

The comments and words that I've given are not enough. They're just not enough to describe my joy, my gratitude, my humility for getting to go on this trip. Everyone was incredible. Sam is an incredible young woman, a true delight to be around, and the reason I got to trek in Nepal. Raj is the best there is, and I wouldn't want anyone else guiding me. Treejan made you feel secure and at ease. And Mani and Binod were the stars of the show. My entire experience from booking, to traveling, and trekking with KE Adventure was wonderful, it goes beyond the power of words to describe. I would gladly book through KE Adventure again over any other travel agency any day.

By Ben from Colorado | 11 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A unique experience not to be missed

Lake Khuvsgul Dog Sled Adventure

Circumnavigating Lake Khuvsgul with Joel and team and those wonderful Huskies, was incredible. When I first arrived at the Lake with us all, I thought Kim what are you doing and within an hour sledding on the lake I thought this is amazing. Joel was so supportive in teaching us how to use the sleds and work with the dogs, his team were brilliant and felt part of the team, but not as hard working of course. Heading north towards the mountains on the border was inspiring each day getting closer. I enjoyed when the sledding was at times a bit technical with the effect of the wind and the lakes surface changes, we were lucky the weather which was perfect, as long as I dressed well the cold was fine. Actually at night in the tents we were well looked after with one of the team stoking the fire. After a great day sledding, I was surprised to be able to go for a walk each day enjoying the lakeside landscape which varied a lot. Of course the team had set up the tent before we arrived, or our ger was waiting. It was all action and fascinating to experience the arrival each day of a new camp site, first priority was the dogs, and then wood to be cut, fires started and cooking. Each evening was social, with stories from Joel and aperitif before dinner, we were well fed and everything was taken into consideration. Heading south along the lakes east shore the border mountains were slowly getting further away. We arrived to base with memories of an unforgettable experience. I believe most people could do this trip as along as you have the right gear, and what an experience.

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By Kim from Scotland | 06 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Victoria Falls to Cape Town Bike Epic

Victoria Falls to Cape Town

This trip has a varied itinerary with enough cycling to satisfy the need for activity. Some of the gravel cycling was tough with corrugation, rockiness and sand, at times all at once. Overall, the hilly sections of the trip were comfortable to do with a good fitness level. The guides were flexible with each day's cycling details in order to accommodate everyone. I had a flat tire three days in a row. The guides were very good at fixing problems, especially the effects of the sand/dust. Arri ving a day early allowed for a better experience of Vic Falls (still with high water in May) and enjoy the beautiful pool at Shearwater campground. Some of the Botswana scenery became a bit monotonous, but there were wildlife sightings that compensated for this (including a herd of 6 ostriches racing beside and across the road). The safaris were great (as good or better than a Masai Mara safari week that I had done in the past). An elephant crossing the Chobe river was truly memorable. After a switchback downhill on day 9, the scenery with late day light was magical. Taking the time to stop for photos was very worthwhile. (If you bring a camera, have a backup: the sand caused my camera to seize up mid-way through the trip). We drove to Dune 45 on Day 11 for the sunrise and some of us cycled back the 60 km in a headwind (challenging but I thought it was worthwhile). None of us cycled from camp to the Fish River canyon viewpoint on Day 14, with no regrets when we saw the condition of the road on driving there. The optional 50km ride and the canoeing both on day 16 are to be highly recommended. The day 18 petroglyphs and nearby rock caves were fabulous (we skipped the Maltese Cross hike). The camping was in very large tents, and the food was amazing (great cooking by the guides). Baboons got into our tents at Ai-Ais: a small lock would be advisable for the tent zippers. The final cycling day via Chapman's Peak was amazing! We only had a bit of rain on one day. The highest temperature was 35 degrees (heat exhaustion for me on day 12 and I gave up by 1 pm after 3 hours of nausea). Electrolyte tabs with magnesium are a very good idea for the hot conditions. Our small group all stayed an extra day in Cape Town to climb Lion's Head (there were ladders, chains and scrambling only near the top, but this section was not for this chicken), then Table Mountain (Platteklip Gorge route--steep but no exposure), very recommended. This trip can be a challenge at times, but it's worth it.

By Johanne from Canada | 04 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Memories that will last a lifetime

Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

Outstanding customer service and perfect organisation. Every aspect of this trip ran like clockwork. If I had any queries I could phone KE and got an instant response from someone who knew all about what I was asking and knew the answers. All the accommodation was very clean and the food supplied under very difficult conditions was outstanding. Raj was an amazing tour guide. He took exceptional care of the entire group, making sure we were always properly acclimatised, no one in our group suffer ed any form of altitude sickness. His humour and manner towards us fostered a wonderful team spirit and he was always watching each member to ensure they were comfortable. He was always informative and taught us all a great deal about Nepalese culture, its environment and the challenges it faces. We were able to observe other tour groups during the trip and it was obvious we had the best tour guide, the best support team (who all showed him great respect both as a person and a leader) and as a result the most cohesive group on the trip. This trip was planned as a 'trip of a lifetime', I have come away from it with memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you everyone at KE travel but especially Raj who made it so special.

By Roger from Aboyne | 04 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Walking Slovenia's Lakes and Mountains

We have travelled with KE before and have always felt them to provide a good holiday experience in terms of location, accommodation and trekking support. Our trekking guide was Massa. She was a delight. Always punctual to pick us up every day. Spoke excellent English and was able to tell us about the places we visited. She chose the best treks for the weather we had and took us to some caves on the last day as it rained heavily all day. The group meals she arranged were excellent too.

By Janette from Worcester | 03 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Everest Base Camp/ Marathon

Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon

First class organisation,all the staff who were controlled by Raj were first class.Everything was great,the trek up ,acclimatisation was spot on,the whole experience was great and then the Marathon was superb and very well organised

By Philip from Wales | 01 June 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Nakasendo Trail and Kumano

Japan: Nakasendo Trail and Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage

Fantastic guide and well thought out trip. Pietro was an amazing ambassador for Japan. His knowledge of the country and culture were very impressive. His enthusiasm for his adopted country was infectious. He made the trip very special. Caring, commutative, knowledgeable, friendly, all round nice guy. Truely amazing trip, great palces visited and really got to know the Japanese way of live especially rural locations.

By Elizabeth from West Malling | 30 May 2024

★ ★ ★ ★

Excellent all round

Japan: Nakasendo Trail and Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage

The trip was very thoughtfully put together. Pietro our guide was outstanding. Knowledge, enthusiasm, professionalism, sense of humour, going the extra mile - he is great.

By Lynne from Helensburgh | 29 May 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Excellent

Cycling Amsterdam to Bruges

Excellent holiday. Really well organised. Lovely country and lots of wildlife.

By Simon from Hartlepool | 29 May 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Always well organised and as described in notes

Cycling in Puglia

Excellent well planned holiday. Hotels of a good standard and bike service excellent. Variety of scenery and quiet roads

By Cara from Chester | 22 May 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A company I trust

Hiking Greece's Menalon Trail

Second time I have travelled with KE and I have found it just as good and well organised as the first. Certainly a company I trust. Highlights incude: Discovering new places, reasonably challenging, unspoiled villages and nature.

By Chris from Keighley | 22 May 2024

★ ★ ★

Interesting but challenging

Rolwaling Valley Trek and Climb - Yalung Ri

'I did this trip in November 2023 and while there were some good points there were also issues. The hotel in Kathmandu
was the Aloft, very comfortable and convenient for Thamel. The journey to Simigaon was by coach, plenty of space and on
mostly decent roads so a good journey. The trail was generally good, many paved sections with stone steps and very quiet.
The lodges were better quality than I expected, on a par with many in the Khumbu and some better. The first few days were
mainly in forest but it then opened out with better views, particularly the acclimatisation day to the Tsho Rolpa. The quality of
the food ranged from very good to quite poor, the best being at base camp. It was noticeable how much cheaper extras like
soft drinks, beer and snacks were compared to the Khumbu and Annapurna regions. Also, I did not have to pay for charging
electrical devices. Consequently, the suggested spending money was far too much. Base camp was a great location, ample space, tents pitched on grass and superb views.

However, there were issues. The bags were carried by yaks and despite have them ready by 0730, often the yaks were still
being rounded up by the time we left so the bags arrived long after us. Consequently I had to carry extra clothing, duvet jacket
etc. to keep warm on arrival until the bags arrived.

There is a problem with the itinerary as the acclimatisation was poor. The trip goes from 2800m to 5000m in 5 days followed
by the summit day to 5630m. This is much faster than the generally accepted 300m/day plus a rest day every 3. Compare
this to the Everest base camp trek which goes from 2610m to 4910m in 7 days. As there are no internal flights it would be better to swap the last day in Kathmandu for an extra day at base camp and extend the trip to include one more day.

The other difficulty was the extremely challenging conditions. I believe the description and photos on the website relate to the trip in 2022. In 2023 there had been much less snow so getting onto the glacier was not by a 'gentle snow slope' but involved
jumaring up around 60ft of near vertical ice up a fixed rope. The next section was a tiring slog over boulders, scree and snow
patches. Despite leaving base camp at 0215 the group arrived back at base camp at 1445 and after a quick drink/snack
reached Na Gaon at 1815, well after dark and a total of 16 hours. Clearly conditions do change from year to year and I
completely accept that. What is disappointing is that in Dec 2023 we informed KE about the conditions yet the website
description and trip dossier still refer to conditions as they were in 2022. This is misleading and I feel that the description
could be more balanced.

In summary, it was an interesting trip to a new, much quieter area but could be much improved, and give more chance of
summit success with better acclimatisation.'

By Ian from Norfolk | 22 May 2024

KE Adventure reply

Thank you for your review Ian. We're glad you came back with the view that this was 'an interesting trip to a much quieter area'. Last year (2023) was a particularly 'dry' year in this region and the condition of the route as described on our website and in the photos is the norm. We're sorry that the lateness of the Yaks meant that you sometimes had to wait for your personal bags after you had arrived in camp. Our professional leaders always encourage the Yak men to be as speedy as possible, but the pace of life in this part of the world is not always as we would like it. Acclimatisation on this trip should not be an issue. Although, unlike popular trails such as Everest Base Camp, we are limited by the places it is possible to camp, we adjust for this by having two nights at Bedding (3650m) and then two nights at the next camp, Na Gaon (4200m), before moving up to the base camp at 4985. The 'free' day in Kathmandu at the end of the trip is actually a contingency day. It can be used for unexpected delays or for an additional acclimatisation day at the leader's discretion. KE groups have been successfully summiting Yalung Ri since our first ascent in the early 1990s, so we know this acclimatisation profile works well.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Levada Trails and Peaks of Madeira

Guides are spectacular, and accommodation's meals and transport are well planned. I feel that KE does an amazing job working with clients, and their guide staff. Nuno was such a joy. you could tell he loved his home, and the natural beauty abound. His care and approach to each day was thoughtful, and informative. I would seek out another trip just to go with him again. He was friendly, funny, and easily fit in with the group. He made our adventure so very wonderful!

By Nathan from Portland | 21 May 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Everything was as advertised. Very well organised

Ultimate Albania Cycling Tour

Although I have been cycling for many years, this was my first guided tour. It won't be my last! KE Adventure's organisation ensured a flawless week's cycling in the most beautiful country with incredibly friendly locals.

Mateo was the perfect guide/leader. Nothing was too much trouble. His breadth of knowledge was second to none. His talks about Albania's history were eagerly anticipated by the group and intently followed by all. Mateo attended to every need of the group with great humour, care and consideration. He was ably assisted by Bedri who completed the dream team! Bedri constantly ensured we all had sufficient water, snacks and well tuned bikes. Always with good humour and humility.

Highlights - There were so many; Korce, Butrint, the meals, the raki distillery! The great new friends I have made!

By Paul from Stowmarket | 21 May 2024

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

A Rewarding Spiritual Experience

Walking Camino - The Portuguese Way - 2 Weeks

Unlike KE trekking adventures of grade level 7 and above which have plenty of physical and mental challenges, this long-distance pilgrimage walk is a spiritual and religious experience that offers something unique and complementary. People from all walks of life, fit and not-that-fit, slim and not-that-slim, old and young, dedicated a good chunk of their lives to this classic pilgrim’s route for the common goal of reaching Santiago by walking day after day rain or shine, one step at a time. We had several rainy days in a row, typical in this coastal region of Portugal and Spain, which made the walk somewhat harder.
 
The provided GPS track was definitely a plus, even though the Camino signs along the way were clear and frequent most of the time. The program’s variety of accommodations gave us a good dose of the exposures of Portugal and Spain alike. We liked the Portugal’s section better as the people there were friendlier and excellent foods were better/cheaper in general.
 
Planning wise, a worthy addition would be to spend an extra day in Porto prior to the self-guided walk and another day in Santiago after.
 
Room for improvements:
(1) Some of the provided info was out of date, e.g. Stage 3’s lunch stop recommendation no longer had restaurants open and we had to keep walking, and Stage 3’s overnight accommodation stopped serving dinner after the lodge’s owner change.
(2) It would be more convenient and useful if the end-to-end GPS track (a gpx file) is divided into 12 separate GPS tracks, one for each of the 12 stages.

By Jin from Lisle | 20 May 2024