Paint & Hike: Blue Waterholes

Exciting, restorative and transformative are some words that jump to mind when I reflect on the Paint and Hike trip I did with The Adventure Gene this week.

Despite not having hiked or camped for over a decade, Maddie made us feel empowered and confident as we navigated a full nature immersion experience. With delicious meals, clear communication and impeccable organisation, our time together was calm and enjoyable. Artist Ineka fostered a group environment that not only led to inspired art-making, but also deep reflection and connection. The strangers I met on day one became wonderful friends over the course of the trip.

There is something special about getting out of your comfort zone and doing something hard together, and in my opinion, achieving those things was wonderfully worthwhile.

I went on this hike to discover the great outdoors, but along the way I discovered more of myself.

Well organised professional, once in a life time experience

I met some really lovely people, as a solo traveller. Maddy and Ineka were friendly and professional. The hiking experience was well organised and communication was clear and honest. We were walking in remote areas and Maddy knew exactly where we were going and how long it would take to the next rest stop. The whole experience was pleasant and enjoyable because of them, and despite the warm and windy weather, we had a great time. The remote landscape was amazing and for me a once in a life time experience. Brumbies running, rabbits, icy mountain creek crossings and waterholes were a feature I will never forget. I made some life long friends and we talked about such a wide range of subjects. A really rich experience. The painting side of things was amazing - we got to see and record in paint some breathtaking vistas of the Snowy Mountain area, the pioneer huts, the waterholes. Maddy is a creative and passionate camp chef who ensured we were well fed! I learned so much about modern camp craft and new technologies in ultralite hiking/camping. This has inspired me to explore other places I can go to paint landscapes and capture viewpoints that are not your everyday experience. Thanks!

What an adventure.

From the food supplied, the gear check, the painting - to the hike, nothing but pure professionalism from TAG.

With an extremely limited diet, due to allergies, TAG made it possible for me to attend. My diet was completed catered for, and I did not go hungry at all.

The hike was amazing, gear supplied was the highest quality and it far exceeded my expectations of quality hiking gear. I was toasty warm in the sleep set up even though we woke to ice on the ground in the morning. Everything needed was supplied, it was great to not have to worry about already having expensive gear so that you could hike.

Our hike guide Maddie was very knowledgeable and cared for the group so well, leading us on our wonderful adventure. Our painting guide Inika was amazing, so passionate about painting, and her love of art shone through with how she spoke and taught her techniques. Two beautiful passionate women who are there to share their love of nature, hiking and art. Thank you for your passion, caring and inspiration.

Thank you TAG for a wonderful experience. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who wants to get away from it all, switch off, relax and paint to your hearts content.

I can’t thank Maddie and Ineka enough for guiding this journey and making it feel so special, so fun, and so beautifully adventurous. From the gear check to preparing every meal on the trail, their professionalism made everything unfold with such ease and care.

Maddie’s cooking felt like a little kind of magic - lifting our spirits each day. I never imagined I’d be eating warm, delicious pancakes in the bush on a chilly morning, but there they were, comforting and unexpected.

Ineka’s love for art and nature, and the gentle way she cares for everyone, warmed my heart. She encouraged us to explore the joy of painting and to see the landscape with new eyes, new colours, new softness.

Thank you both for shaping a trip that felt memorable and precious in a way I’ll carry for a long time.

I highly recommend this experience to anyone who wants to try something new but feels hesitant to go alone. You’ll be supported, encouraged, and guided with all the knowledge you need to build confidence and skills on the trail.

I booked this tour very much at the last minute, and the only way I could even contemplate it was if I knew I didn't have to then run around and collect piles of hiking and camping gear. I rocked up to day 0 (prep day) and found an exceptionally organised team waiting. They had all of the ultra light gear ready for us to learn about and pack into a hiking pack (also provided). We went upstairs and were kitted out with fleece, down and rain layers as well as accessories like gaiters, buffs and gloves. Back downstairs we packed our own snacks from a wide range of nuts, dried fruit, lollies, chocolate, chips, muesli bars and hot drink supplies.

The organisation and good vibes continued throughout the trip. Our guide Maddie was positive and supportive and led us on quite an adventure over 4 days. We all carried a share of the group meals, which were filling and tasty. I am vegetarian and that was no problem either. One of my concerns was that I would be cold, especially at night. It was chilly when the sun went down with some winds that came up that week but the sleep system was amazing and I was toasty in bed.

The route was a great variety of canyons, plains, caves, forests, and wetlands. I also enjoyed visiting the historical huts, in particular the one with the newspaper from the 1940s lining the walls.

If you are looking for an adventure in a supportive environment with top notch gear supplied, I can highly recommend Maddie and The Adventure Gene.

This tour popped up on my feed and sparked a long-held desire as I hadn’t multi-day hiked or remote camped in almost 30 years.

What a wonderful opportunity to experience the beauty of the alpine landscape and the amazing night sky, camp beside historic huts, and immerse myself in this environment by putting it down on a page. The painting workshops helped develop skills in capturing both colour and texture.

The meals provided were delicious and well planned to maximise our energy levels – and enjoyed with a side of camaraderie from our leaders and likeminded hikers.

Right from the intro session and gear provision/check – TAG had everything covered: tent, sleeping kit and camp chair as well as lightweight warm outer gear – even mini toothpastes, sanitiser, sunscreen, moisturiser and expandable wipes!

Thank you TAG team for enabling this wonderful experience – my best off-the cuff decision ever!

Paint & Hike = Perfect Soul Food.

I just completed a 4 day Paint & Hike trip and absoutely loved it. Perfect soul food! I haven't hiked in years, and was so impressed by all the super lightweight gear, delicious meals, stunning scenery and star gazing. The guides were so competent and an absolute joy to adventure with. Everything was planned and executed to perfection, which meant our group of 8 could really unwind and enjoy. I went solo, but met the most incredible bunch of women. There is something very special and nourishing about connecting, walking and creating together in nature. I've learned so much. I can highly recommend the experience.

What an incredible four-day hiking and painting adventure in the beautiful Snowy Mountains! The scenery was absolutely spectacular, and combining hiking with afternoons spent painting in such stunning surroundings was a wonderful experience.

The hiking was certainly challenging at times, particularly carrying a heavy backpack over uneven terrain, but it was also incredibly rewarding. The guides were exceptional – knowledgeable, well organised, encouraging and, above all, incredibly supportive and respectful of everyone’s individual abilities. Their patience and encouragement made such a difference, particularly during the more challenging sections of the hike. I always felt safe and in very capable hands.

Having an art teacher along was a wonderful addition, giving us the opportunity to experiment with different painting techniques while surrounded by magnificent scenery.

It was a fantastic combination of adventure, creativity and stepping outside my comfort zone. I came home with wonderful memories, a real sense of achievement and a greater appreciation for this beautiful part of Australia.

I’d highly recommend this experience with The Adventure Gene to anyone who enjoys hiking, nature and a little creativity. Just be prepared for the physical challenge of carrying a backpack – it’s absolutely worth it!

This review is a pale shadow of the absolute joy that I experienced on my first Paint & Hike with Adventure Gene.

Yep, the first was so brilliant, I’m planning my next one.

Maddie & Ineka have designed a thoughtful balance of beautiful walks, on & off the track, with painting ‘en plein air’.

If you love walking, nature, fresh air, tapping into your creativity & gourmet hiking food you will love this.

It’s for you if you have an art practice or if you’ve never picked up a paintbrush before and can’t tell your gouache from your water colour. You will be safe in Ineka’s hands. Her exercises and instructions come from her own practice and her experience as an arts educator.

It’s for you if you want to walk anywhere from 2 to 4 hours a day with 10 kgs on your back, if you have the gear or you don’t.

It’s for experienced and novice campers – even I learned how to set up my tent.

Having one’s basic needs - water, food & shelter – met in the Australian wilderness is vital. Adventure Gene go beyond basic needs.

I did the paint and hike 4 day walk with Maddie and Ineke. It was a fabulous trip with a mixture of adventure hiking and an introduction to watercolour painting. For the trip they provided fabulous equipment which was lightweight (we carried 10kg packs). It is a great way to experience the beauty of the natural environment - taking time to look at the changing shadows and the colours has reignited my love of the Australian bush. Maddie and Ineke were always conscious of safety and keeping up with changing weather conditions. The provided some of the best camping food I've ever eaten - quite a challenge when everything has to be carried. I'd join them again for another adventure!

I did the Blue Waterholes paint and hike trip recently and loved it so much. I can’t recommend it highly enough. It was the perfect level for me and I learnt so much about overnight hiking and all the gear I need etc. Ineka and T outstanding and I could not imagine better guides. I felt safe all the time. The painting was great too and I wanted to take Ineka home with me for more lessons! I really hope I can do the light to light and the new snowies alpine four night hikes sometime soon. The food was also great and by incredible luck our group was so good too. Hard to go back to usual life!! I am painting all the time now too and planning more hikes locally.

I've just returned from the Paint and Hike Blue Waterholes 4 day trip and could not have had a better time. As an inexperienced hiker I was keen to give a multi-day hike a go. Any understandable pre-trip anxieties I had soon disappeared as the guides (Ineka and Dan) were so experienced, relaxed, and friendly that you knew you were in very safe hands. The painting lessons were fun and educational and a perfect way to spend a mindful afternoon after a morning of hking through the beautiful scenery. An unexpected bonus was hking with a wonderful group of characters who started the trip as stangers but ended as friends who felt like we'd known each other for ages. We had a lot of laughs. Cheers to Ineka and Dan, and the new hiking friends :-)

I recently completed the 14-day Australian Alps Walking Track (AAWT) from Canberra to Thredbo with Maddie and Tom, and it was honestly one of the most incredible experiences I’ve ever had.

While I had done some basic hiking before, this trip was definitely outside my comfort zone when I first signed up. But what I quickly learned is that if you trust their system and follow their process, you will be absolutely fine.

One of the biggest things for me was letting go of the traditional hiking mindset I’d been taught in the past — heavy packs, lots of “just in case” gear, and old methods of packing. Maddie and Tom showed us a far more modern, efficient way of doing things. There is no way I could have completed this trek using my old gear and packing methods. So much of what I previously thought was essential simply wasn’t necessary.

The preparation session the day before the walk was incredibly thorough. They covered absolutely everything you could possibly think of — and then some. One of the things that really stood out was that they actually provide and prepare many of the small essentials for you right there on the preparation day. Things like small bottles of hand sanitiser, sunscreen and other essentials are portioned out into tiny labelled containers to keep pack weight down. Even the foot care supplies are thought through and provided. The level of detail and care that goes into preparing everyone properly is incredible.

Before the trip I had plenty of nervous questions, and Maddie and Tom never once made me feel silly for asking them. They answered the same questions over and over again in such a calm, matter-of-fact way and were always happy to guide us. Knowing I could call beforehand if I was unsure about anything was incredibly reassuring.

For me, trusting the layering system for warmth was one of the hardest things to let go of. I kept wanting to pack extra jumpers “just in case”. But they assured me that if I trusted their layering system and wore the gear correctly, I would be comfortable — and they were absolutely right.

The support vehicle and drop bag system was also brilliant. It gave me the confidence to trust the process because I knew that if I really needed something extra, it was there in my drop bag. In the end, I never needed any of my “just in case” items — which really proved how well their system works. The drop bag also allowed for some lovely little luxuries like fresh socks, clean clothes, or even a treat for yourself along the way.

Each morning we’d discuss the day’s weather and they would guide us on exactly what to wear so we didn’t overheat or get cold — whether that meant using the poncho, an insulation layer, or the rain jacket. By the end of the trip I had completely nailed the system myself.

The level of planning, preparation, and organisation behind this trip is incredible. You don’t realise the hours of work that go on behind the scenes because everything feels so seamless when you’re out walking. All that preparation allows you to simply focus on enjoying the experience.

And what an experience it was — walking with an amazing group of people, lots of laughs, breathtaking alpine scenery, and some of the most stunning night skies I’ve ever seen. We also learned so much about the environment and the landscape along the way.

This was the longest walk I’ve ever done in my life, and it felt completely manageable because of how light and comfortable my pack was. The experience has honestly given me a second wind for hiking. I can’t wait to invest in some of the gear and keep exploring now that I know how good it can feel when everything is set up the right way.

Some friends couldn’t believe I would pay to do a walk, but once you see the amount of effort, knowledge, preparation, and support that goes into making this experience so effortless and enjoyable, you honestly feel like you should be paying them more.

If you’re considering doing the AAWT or any guided trek with Maddie and Tom — just trust the system and go for it.

It was unforgettable.

Intro to Snow Camping Aug/Sep 26

I joined the Snowies intro to Snow Camping trip as a solo adventurer, initially filled with self-doubt about my fitness and ability. At the trip briefing, Tom and Maddie’s professionalism, knowledge and approachability put me at ease. There was no judgement and all questions were welcomed. They fostered a team culture from day one and encouraged us to work together and help each other. The initial information session was thorough and comprehensive, and the clothing and accessories provided were top quality. I’ve never packed so light for a trip. Ever! Having two guides allowed the group to walk at their own pace, which makes a huge difference to individual enjoyment. The meals were surprisingly delicious and nutritious, and the eye/boggling snack room meant hunger was not an issue. I learnt so much about snow camping, hiking, camping and my own capabilities and feel confident to pursue solo hiking in the future. This experience was fun, inspiring and unforgettable! Thank you Tom and Maddie for your willingness to share your extensive knowledge, your positivity and contagious passion for the outdoors!

I wasn't sure if I would be fit enough or if my aging body would cope with this trip---which is why I chose to go with Adventure Gene. As it turned out I had a ball! I could feel myself getting stronger as the days progressed.

Tearloch was an exceptional guide. He was hard working and super considerate of my/our requirements. He was always positive about my/our capabilities and gave our group time to gather, rest or spread out a little as we desired. I never got the impression he was worried about our progress. He had a wealth of knowledge about the Australian gear industry and I learnt a lot about the individuals who are making ultralight equipment.

The food was great, the snacks just right and the advice that we got about clothing and gear on the trip was a great learning experience. I tried trail runners for the first time ever and would certainly do that again. The pack weight was as light as I have ever walked with on a multi day hike which made the bigger days easier. And you can't beat ten hours of warm, comfortable sleep.

Adventure Gene is experienced and professional. Walking with this company is a great choice if you want to safely venture into unknown hiking country. You WILL be looked after and come home fitter, stronger and having had a memorable experience. You will want to go again!

I just returned from a 2-day Kosciuszko Summit Hike. I am so glad I went with the Adventure Gene! I am more of day hiker and have little experience with overnight camping. I have always preferred to go back to a warm hut or hotel haha. More than just a hiking trip, I really learned a lot about camping, camping gears and hiking tips from guides with real, lived-in and extensive hiking experience. It really makes a huge difference to the trip and the overall experience.

The experience was a good value of money from start to finish. The process to book was easy and convenient. The guidebook the team sent was so well-thought out in terms of gear preparation and is a fun read. Before we leave, a Watsapp group is created for any questions to be asked.

The hike was around 20km for 2 days. Weather was crazy – fog, wind, rain, hail, snow and everything in between. However, I never felt unsafe. The guides, Maddie and T, are clearly experienced, professional, always prioritize safety, and know where to go. Even with an unexpected stretch of snow hiking (wearing microspikes) and the crazy weather, the journey to the summit was truly memorable!

The campsite was so beautiful and truly felt like we escaped to another world. Love the food provided, especially the satay tofu and freeze dried ice cream! The tents were easy to set up, really held well against the crazy rain and wind, and the quilt/sleeping mat provided kept me so warm. They really use top quality gear and it is so convenient to come on the trip with all the gear provided.

Our guides, Maddie and T, are just two awesome people!! Maddie is so sweet, caring, cheerful and radiates positive energy! T, the team’s newest recruit, is such a chill, cool guy. Both of them are so supportive to everyone in the group, never had I felt pressured to rush beyond my limit. It is a holiday after all, not a race. I just want to thank Maddie and T for really being the highlight of the trip (yes, even better than the quality sunset we saw!) and I really look forward to another trip with the Adventure Gene!

Update: I signed up for a 2nd trip on 11-12 April 2026. It has indeed been another memorable weekend hiking and camping overnight! The area (Blue Waterholes/Clark Gorge/Nichols Gorge/Murray Cave) was so beautiful to explore, such a serene landscape. I would have not gone there without the confidence and leadership of our guides, T and Dan, who were super friendly and top notch. They kept the group together, kept us comfortable and prepped the yummiest food in the backcountry. Hot risoni, freeze-dried ice cream and hot milo was such a good ending to Day 1!

I have definitely noticed that the TAG team are upping their game with now providing outer layers/gear. That was really useful and I appreciated how ultralight were the outer layers provided (definitely lighter than the gear I have). It is also interesting to hear about the niche brands they work with and support.

As someone coming to these trips solo, I appreciate the companionship with the small group, and value for money for a beautiful weekend trip with return transfer, ultralight gear and clothes, delicious food and the support of experienced guides/hikes. I definitely feel TAG trips have increased my confidence to hike and explore the Aussie outdoors, and I hope to sign up for another trip soon!

These guys seriously know how to lead epic adventures! Saw some breathtaking views on the 6 day Mount Jagungal Snow Camping Expedition. From mindful moments nestled between snow gums, to navigating in white out conditions, enjoying warm pumpkin soup in a historic alpine hut, crossing snow bridges and icy rivers, perfecting a blizzard-proof tent pitch, snowshoeing up to the summit and eating nachos at the base of one of Australia's most remote snow-covered mountains. All of it made easier by their provision of world class ultralight gear.

The Adventure Gene's commitment to helping folk access remote wilderness, up-skilling everyone's hiking toolkits and building confidence to go on and tackle the next adventure is second to none. A privilege to have been under the wing of expert guides Maddie and Tom. It's been one week since the trip ended now and can still feel the positive impacts of being immersed in such pristine nature, with lovely humans who held genuine care for each individual's trip goals.

My Budawangs Traverse experience with The Adventure Gene (TAG) met all my expectations and more!

Exploring this part of Australia’s incredible landscape and discovering its hidden treasures was truly eye-opening and unforgettable.

I love hiking and exploring, but I’d never experienced an overnight trek before. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I knew I could rough it, but I like to be warm and I definitely don’t like being hungry! These were two of my biggest concerns, and TAG absolutely nailed it. I’m hooked!

I’ve come away with so much more than just an amazing experience. I’ve gained the knowledge, skills and confidence to tackle future walks, treks and adventures. I now have practical tips, delicious meal recipes, snack ideas, and firsthand experience with lightweight gear and recommended products—all while learning how to manage pack weight.

Throughout the trek, I was warm, well-fed and felt confident and in control, all while being completely in awe of Australia’s breathtaking landscapes.

I couldn’t recommend this adventure more highly! If you love hiking, want to take your adventures to the next level, or are curious about overnight trekking, TAG is the way to go.

Thank you, TAG, for an incredible experience and for equipping me with the confidence and knowledge to keep exploring!

Snowies Alpine Walk with The Adventure Gene was just brilliant. Meticulous attention to detail from the moment we booked (dietary preferences, medical needs…), advice on suitable gear, detailed instructions on preparation for the trip including foot care, having the right shoes and training. 21 years since my last hike so it all mattered and made our trip an enjoyable, educational and epic adventure. A very special father- son experience.

Gus our guide, chef, educator, photographer and weatherman was totally invested in ensuring each of us got what we wanted from the experience. The freeze dried meals were delicious, including the desserts. He even managed a hot lunch despite the driving rain and wind on our way up to Kosciuszko!

All the gear supplied by TAG was amazing.

Can’t speak highly enough of Gus and the entire team at TAG. Thank you for an exceptional adventure. Aziz

The Adventure Gene's Snowies Main Range Traverse is Pure Magic!

Just returned from a 4-day Snowies Main Range Traverse with the team at The Adventure Gene, and I'm still buzzing with the sheer exhilaration of it all! If you're looking for an unforgettable hiking experience that feeds your soul and ignites your adventurous spirit, look no further. This trip was nothing short of extraordinary.

From the moment we met our guides(TAG owners Maddie & Tom), their passion for the Australia Alps and their commitment to our enjoyment was reassuring. Their extensive knowledge of the area, its flora, fauna, and history, enriched every step we took. They were patient, encouraging, and incredibly skilled, ensuring everyone felt safe and supported, regardless of their fitness level or hiking experience. The small group dynamic was absolutely perfect! We quickly bonded with fellow hikers, sharing laughter, stories, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the mountains. It was a diverse mix of ages and backgrounds, all united by a love for the outdoors, creating a truly special camaraderie.

And let's talk about the location! The Snowy Mountains are simply breathtaking. The panoramic views, the pristine alpine landscapes, and the crisp, clean air were a constant reminder of the raw, untamed beauty of nature. Every day brought new wonders, from the unique rock formations, the incredible views over each mountains to the star-studded night skies and the gorgeous sunrises and sunsets!

Tom & Maddie’s attention to detail was impeccable. The gear provided was top-notch, ensuring we were comfortable and well-equipped for the elements. And the food? Absolutely delicious! We were treated to hearty, nourishing meals that fueled our adventures and warmed our spirits. Every meal was a delightful surprise, and best of all cooked with love.

This traverse wasn't just a hike; it was an immersive experience. It was a chance to disconnect from the noise of everyday life and reconnect with nature, with ourselves, and with a fantastic group of people. The Adventure Gene has truly mastered the art of creating transformative outdoor adventures.

If you're looking for a challenging yet rewarding hike, led by exceptional guides, in one of Australia's most stunning landscapes, book your Snowies Main Range Traverse with The Adventure Gene now! You won't regret it. This experience has left me with memories that will last a lifetime, and I can't wait to join them on another adventure soon! Five stars simply aren't enough!

(UPDATE - 31/08/2025)

I've completed my second guided trip with Maddie & Tom which was the Mt Jagungal Snow Camping Expedition, an amazing 6-day snowshoe hike in the Jagungal Wilderness.

The trip was spectacular, in every way. I raved on above in my original review of the first trip.. just book a trip, you will love it!

This is my 2nd trip with TAG and it has indeed been another memorable weekend hiking and camping overnight! The area (Blue Waterholes/Clark Gorge/Nichols Gorge/Murray Cave) was so beautiful to explore, such a serene landscape. I would have not gone there without the confidence and leadership of our guides, T and Dan, who were super friendly and top notch. They kept the group together, kept us comfortable and prepped the yummiest food in the backcountry. Hot risoni, freeze-dried ice cream and hot milo was such a good ending to Day 1!

I have definitely noticed that the TAG team are upping their game with now providing outer layers/gear. That was really useful and I appreciated how ultralight were the outer layers provided (definitely lighter than the gear I have). It is also interesting to hear about the niche brands they work with and support.

As someone coming to these trips solo, it is value for money for a beautiful weekend trip, return transfers, ultralight gear and clothes, delicious food and the support of experienced guides/hikes. I definitely feel TAG trips have increased my confidence to hike and explore the Aussie outdoors, and I hope to sign up for another trip soon!

I was honestly a bit reticent to book a guided hiking tour - I usually like planning my own trips but didn’t have the time or energy for this one. Tom and Maddie seriously know what they’re doing. Not only were they incredibly well planned and prepared, they were also genuinely lovely, informative guides who made every day such a joy.

I came away not only having spent amazing time in nature and hiked through incredible, varied, and beautiful landscapes, but also having met other delightful keen hikers and feeling far more knowledgeable and confident to tackle more multi-day hikes myself. Tom and Maddie have been so generous with their time and education - from gear tips to insights about the local areas and potential future hike spots - it’s clear how much passion they put into what they do.

Could not recommend them more highly. Also grateful for the lovely and interesting other group members who were on the tour too, was great having options for those who wanted to go at different paces throughout - getting taught and try off track navigating was also a highlight. Get in quick before they grow even bigger and are booked out - they absolutely deserve it.

The guide was , positive, kind and supportive. Willing to go above and beyond to ensure we were comfortable whilst keeping us on schedule, hydrated , nourished and smiling. The artist was an inspiration and also very kind Sharing skill and bringing time to a standstill while we could embrace and capture the beauty of the scene we were painting

The company , TAG, were also organised supportive and quick to reply. The equipment and clothing is of high quality and suited the environment. I was always warm at night . That’s a miracle for me! I would easily go again on another’ paint and hike’

with TAG.

The Adventure Gene - Intro to Snow Camping - FANTASTIC!

We couldn't recommend the Snowies Intro to Snow Camping trip with The Adventure Gene more highly! It was beyond expectations in multiple ways, and we have come away with new skills, enthusiasm, confidence and ideas. The organisation from time of booking to the end of the walk was detailed, methodical, helpful and well communicated; it covered everything you need to prepare and plan. Questions were more than welcome and responded to with warmth as well as information. Expert knowledge levels of the area, the skills required for winter trips, ultralight gear, camping and packing tricks, delicious food and every other aspect were demonstrated over and over. It was easy to feel in safe hands at every moment, even in mountain weather. The gear quality was amazing! Each item was carefully selected and did its job extremely well. We learnt so much from the generous sharing of information and experience. The quality of guiding by Tom and Gus was outstanding with extremely high levels of knowledge, but also sensitivity to the needs of each individual participant and sensitivity to the environment and culture of the mountains. And we had fun! Laughter and excitement and new experiences. We've come away with skills and knowledge that will open up further horizons for us. Ivan and I would do another TAG trip at the drop of a hat - it was a learning experience, an adventure, and a holiday.