Kimkim Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

We had a wonderful time in the Galapagos, partly on our own and partly with guides and drivers arranged by Isabel. We loved staying on two different islands (Santa Cruz and Isabella) to experience the contrast -one developed and busy, the other slow slow slow with a dirt road as main street.
Snorkeling at Concha de Perla and las Tuneles and kayaking at las Tintoreras were highlights. Beware the boat ride to Los Tuneles on a rough sea, it can be pretty exciting.

Isabel was lovely - patient and helpful throughout the planning with many changes on our part including a delay in our trip due to unexpected surgery for one of us.

Thank you Nick and Tamer for creating an excellent itinerary for our trip to the Galapagos. We appreciated your willingness to work with us to find suitable day dive trips as well as land activities. We were fortunate to have wonderful guides and support as we explored islands in just 7 days. Thank you again for helping us plan such a memorable vacation!

All the best,
Tessa and Jimmy

Hotel Reviews

Acacia Galápagos Boutique Hotel

Puerto Ayora

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

SeaSide Hotel

Galapagos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Embracing Nature: Discovering Wildlife on Española Island

Isla San Cristóbal

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discovery dive in Santa Cruz Island

Galapagos Islands

Upon arriving the day shop realized we had our licenses and thus a discovery dive was not appropriate (only for travellers without a dive license). Luckily the dive shop was able to take us on a different dive that was more suitable for our experience level! Thank you to the dive shop for being so accommodating!!

Dennis, Humberto and Alex were excellent guides. They were friendly, knowledgeable and had positive attitudes

Alvaro and Daniela were absolutely amazing to work with and helped so much in planning our trip. They knew the places to stay and where to go and made sure to find a way to add the places I really wanted to see in Galapagos. Even when we got sick they were there with info on local pharmacies and any info we could ask for! It was so nice having someone(s) there during our trip to answer any pop up questions we had as well. It went flawlessly and was even more amazing than we could have even imagined. Well done!

Hotel Reviews

Wyndham Quito Airport

Quito

Insanely easy to get to and super nice if you have a late or early flight.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Las Plazas

Quito

Location was perfection and staff were so loving and nice

Authenticity & Character

Location

Right in the plaza

Staff

Sooooo nice

M/Y Solaris

Perfection! Loved the staff and the itinerary

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

La Isla Hotel

Puerto Ayora

Great location and beautiful view and rooms

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Colonial Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo - Middle of the World- Transfer Airport

Quito

Loved our guide Leo. 5 stars

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Exploring the Santa Cruz Highlands

Galapagos Islands

Loved our guide Dario, super cool tunnel and tortoises and food were awesome

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay & Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island

Puerto Ayora

Great tour, our guide was wonderful

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería

Galapagos Islands

Great time with our guide Patricio! He was just as cool as the places we visited

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island

Galapagos Islands

Great guide (Paulina I believe) and a ton of fun

Quality of Experience

Oh

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Embracing Nature: Discovering Wildlife on Española Island

Isla San Cristóbal

Carlos was awesome! So much info and great time with the people on the boat, crew of boat and naturalist

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island

Puerto Ayora

North Seymour island was cool and the guide was awesome too - Andreas. I’m not big into birds but thought the island was so cool and the babies were so cute!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure

Isla San Cristóbal

Martin was an awesome guide and the whole tour was awesome. Sooooo many sea lions and kicker rock we saw hammerheads! He was super intuitive and really tried to find us them even though we were snorkeling, it def paid off!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had the most amazing trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands - a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From the initial interaction with KimKim and Alvaro all the way through to our last day - everything was flawlessly planned and executed. Alvaro put together the perfect itinerary for us, and was always available during the course of the trip, and managed to change our plans at the last minute during our trip.

All of our guides, drivers, tour operators, etc. were excellent - special mentions to Chris and Alejandro!

Ecuador is a spectacular place to visit. I would highly recommend a trip - from the volcanos, cloud rainforest, jungle, Galapagos Islands, and the wonderful people.

Thanks again Alvaro for planning such an epic visit!

I started working with Kimkim and Tamer 8 months in advance of our trip - as we were trying to decide if visiting the Galapagos Islands was what we wanted to do for our family vacation. It was not until the spring that we started to get serious and make commitments on dates, days and what we wanted to do. Tamer was very patient with me as we went back and forth quite a bit. We are a family of five, include three 'kids' (20, 17 and 12). We opted for land based which we loved. We did two nights in Quito and had an all day tour one day. That was fabulous. If you have the oppt to do that go for it. We had our tour guide from 9a to 6p - Danny was great. He knew soooo much about Quito and the history of the city and country. Favorite part of the tour for the kids: middle of the earth and the cooking class (fabulous).

We then spent three nights in Santa Cruz and three nights in San Cristobal. We really enjoyed Santa Cruz because it was bigger and offered more things in town, and after a day out on excursions it was nice to come back, relax a bit at the hotel and then walk the town to visit stores, see the people and eat at a local restaurant. We learned that when you are land based, the money one spends goes back directly to the people of the town and their local economy. Also, from the moment we landed n Santa Cruz everything was perfect: our guide (naturalist) Astrid met us, we went to a Tortoise farm and had a wonderful lunch, walked around before going to our hotel. It was a great introduction to the Galapagos Islands. Astrid was an A+ guide. My kids really enjoyed her. We also enjoyed our naturalist on our excursion to Bartolome Island (Candy). She was definitely interested in making sure everyone on the boat was safe - and took time to speak with everyone. Our boat (a yacht with a motor) served a three course lunch (and wonderful sit down breakfast - you can't beat that!). Our other guide on Santa Cruz was Viviana. Also great and someone who knew so much. Our trip to Tortuga Bay was fantastic.

Our trip to San Cristobal did not start on the right foot - literally. The speedboat between the two islands is not faint for the heart. We knew that and everyone took anti-nausea medication but two people in the family still got sick. So when we landed we were definitely a bit "off" and it didn't help that our guide had sent in a backup guide - but that was not clearly communicated (and the backup guide did not know English as well) and immediately she wanted us to drop off our bags at the hotel and get wetsuits for our next boat excursion - the idea of getting boat after that ride was certainly NOT something my family wanted. Thankfully we we were able to check into our hotel, get our bearings for a few hours before going on the next excursion (and that boat ride was like being in canoe on still water compared to the speed boat!). By this time we also had our booked guide; unfortunately because of the confusion at the start (we didn't even know we had the backup guide until one time they both showed up to switch up!) we never clicked with this guide as well as the others. However that did not mean we still did not enjoy our visit, our tours, etc. Just interesting that when you click it does make a difference. My kids can probably name the three guides in Santa Cruz but not the one on San Cristobal for example.

Overall it was a great trip, despite the rough seas. We loved learning about Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. We loved the people we met. Also, we were told that this would not be a culinary trip of sorts but we had some great meals! The islands have some good restaurants and the food on our excursions were always great. So much fresh food: fruit and fish certainly!

Hotel Reviews

Patio Andaluz

Quito

Really glad we stayed here. The location was perfect for our tour of Quito the next day: the guide met us and we started walking! The hotel is traditional so that was nice and different. The inside reminded my family of the house in Encanto. The staff was also very nice and helpful. They met us when we arrived at 1 am, helped us with our bags and explained things. The food at the hotel was also good. We had breakfast two day. We also ate dinner there after our tour of Quito - we were too tired to leave. Everyone liked what they ordered.

Authenticity & Character

Not your typical hotel that you would stay at in the US.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very clean. They also provide a water jug for you in the room - liked that!

Ikala Galapagos Hotel

Puerto Ayora

This hotel was GREAT. It may be located 'right downtown' and on a side street, but once you enter the outdoor area it's like a resort. The rooms very spacious, clean. They had a nice pool area and very close to the downtown shops and restaurants. Also close to the dock where you catch the speedboat to San Cristobal. Make sure you have breakfast on their rooftop. Not only is it nice but the breakfast is GREAT. I wish we could have eaten there more than just once but we had early departures on two mornings - and they do provide breakfast to-go so ask for that if you have an early excursion (except if you are getting on the speedboat!!).

Authenticity & Character

A bit authentic ~ maybe? More like a mini resort feel.

Location

It is located off the main street, a side street across some urgent care.

Staff

Very friendly.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Galapagos Sunset

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Nice hotel. You cannot beat the location: right there in the middle of it all! Our balcony faced the water and every time someone walked by they would check out the hotel. Small, boutique like. The rooms were a bit stark: nothing on the walls and we noticed there were no chairs. The beds were also full size (vs. King at the two other hotels). Clean. We had an issue with the hot water and water pressure was not the greatest. Oh, and no lobby - if you are into that sort of thing. We went to Hotel Indigo up the street one afternoon for drinks as they have a really nice lobby/bar area.

Authenticity & Character

Location

We liked that it was accessible to the shops and restaurants.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The water pressure, hot water, chairs in the rooms + the only hotel that did not have a pitcher of water in the bathroom for us.

Activity Reviews

Colonial City Tour, Cooking Class & the Middle of the World Monument

Quito

This was a fabulous experience. I am so glad we opted to do this. I think if we had not, I would be very disappointed. We saw as much as one can in a nine-hour day. Everyone in the family loved it. It was a good mix of going into buildings and churches and just walking. We did drive to the middle of the world - the 'museum' there was great. Highlight for the kids. I think we enjoyed having our own guide and going at our (and his) pace. The cooking class also turned out to be a highlight of the entire trip. My 17yo and 12yo were skeptical of a cooking class but it was so much fun - and the food was so good! I would not miss this. I think next time we do a trip I may have to look for a cooking class.

Quality of Experience

Food

The cooking class! Dinner at the hotel was also great.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Danny was great! Also the driver, we had the same person for our tour and for the ride to the airport.

Transport

Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station

Puerto Ayora

Landing at the airport, being met by Astrid and then going to the farm + the research station was a perfect way to be introduced to the Galapagos Islands. (We also liked that someone took our bags to the hotel!)

Quality of Experience

Food

The food at the farm as wonderful. Fresh! Just what we wanted after our flight.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Astrid was fabulous! I think she might be some sort of celebrity on the islands given her family's history :)

Transport

Loved being picked up by a driver with our guide!

Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island

Puerto Ayora

Our first excursion was to Bartolomé Island and it was wonderful. The boat ride as GREAT. The staff so friendly (and so hard working). My kids really liked being served a full breakfast and a three-course lunch on the boat. The hike was nice and not strenuous. The views were beautiful!! We also snorkeled and that was a lot of fun - the water is so blue.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Morning at leisure - Afternoon kayaking

Galapagos Islands

This was also a family favorite: we did five mile round trip walk/hike to Tortuga Bay. The water was beautiful! The beaches pristine! We enjoyed the leisurely morning followed by the leisurely kayaking.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Vivian was our guide for this and she was fabulous! Another guide that our family will remember.

Transport

Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island

Galapagos Islands

Our first activity on San Cristobal. My oldest missed out because he was still trying to recover from the speedboat ride :) This was an ideal boat excursion though: short (20 min?) and very calm and peaceful. It was great! We did a hike and then went to the beach. We had a good group with us.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Embracing Nature: Discovering Wildlife on Española Island

Isla San Cristóbal

We almost skipped out on this. The family was hesitant to get back on a 2+ hour boat ride after the speedboat, however, everyone said it would be more like the excursion we had on our first day and that Espanola is just beautiful. So we did it - and we are glad! When we landed we did a two hour hike and then snorkeled. Our guide John was great - knew a lot about birds. And we did see birds including the blue footed boobie

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore San Cristobal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill & La Lobería

Galapagos Islands

Our last activity on the last full day. It was nice not to have a packed day and to take it easy. We took a shuttle to the interpretation center and then walked back via trails. It was great to hear more about the wildlife, the land and the impact of El Nino and climate change - it is an issue for the people and the islands. For example, even though it is winter, the weather has been warmer than usual - yes, good for us tourists because we can swim in the water but bad for the wildlife this continues. Plus our guide pointed out that trees that should be bare have leaves and are blooming because it is warmer than usual.

Quality of Experience

Food

We had an amazing lunch at Del Mar Bar and Restaurant.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Kim Kim provided a great trip itinerary. All of the guides and transportation were on time. The local guides were very knowledgeable and helpful and kind. We very much enjoyed the time we spent a Kicker Rock and Bartolomé Island.

Erika planned an amazing trip for us. Every little detail was thought of. From the Birthday cake waiting in my room to the welcome I received at each and every place we stayed and activity that we took part in.

The guides were incredible. Very knowledgeable and able to answer all of our questions and take care of us really well. Christian is a walking encyclopedia of plants, birds, geography, you name it! He knows it! We also adored Francisco!

The highlights, are too many to name, but in Ecuador: Hamadryade Lodge in Tena was magical and their food was five star!! River rafting on the Jatunyaku River was incredible. I wish I had stayed 2-3 nights in the Hamadryade Lodge. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But alas, we did not have the time.

Highlights in the Galapagos: The snorkeling at Kicker Rock was outstanding!! This is not something you can do with any cruise ship. Only if you stay on land. I highly recommend it. We went to a private beach later where we were the only ones with turquoise waters, sea lions, and Boobies!! My husband won't stop talking about the Hammerhead shark he saw on that trip as well as the 30 to 40 sea turtles.

There is just so much we did and I can't thank Erika enough for all of the work she did in planning this trip.
All of the places that were booked were incredible except one. Avoid Hotel Blue Marlin in San Cristobal. The Acacia Hotel in Santa Cruz was Really great and we had a balcony overlooking the town and sea. Just perfect. Our guide, Sophia, took us to see the Tortoises in the highlands and she was pure joy. We absolutely adored her. She also took us on a lot of side trips that were extra special and not on the itinerary.

Things to avoid or beware of: Always bring plenty of water and 100 sunscreen. No matter where you go. A couple of times we were caught off guard and not quite prepared as we should have been. Even a short walk can be difficult in the heat. And we had a few long ones. Pack extremely light! only a carryon. It really helped to get us from place to place and all the travel on taxis, boat taxies, etc. Beware of altitude sickness in Ecuador. HIGH elevation even in Quito.

Again, Erika's knowledge of Ecuador and the Galapogos is beyond anything we could have hoped for. She and Andrea planned the best trip. Made us feel welcome, and cared for. I hope to plan another trip with her soon.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Blue Marlin

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Galapagos

Moldy room, lacking in basic necessities. Just terrible. Staff didn't provide breakfast for us which was paid for. Noisy. Run down. Everything about it is bad.

Authenticity & Character

everything

Location

four blocks from the main street and no views of the island

Staff

Didn't make us feel welcome or provide breakfast we were promised

Cleanliness & Comfort

Moldy room, to get the lamp to work you have to find a decent outlet and then screw the lightbulb in to turn it on. OMG. Janky. Beds were hard as rock. Bathrooms were modly. Awful.

Acacia Galápagos Boutique Hotel

Puerto Ayora

We got in at 9:00 am and they had already finished serving breakfast, but they reopened the kitchen just for us and quickly made our rooms available. The staff were warm and friendly and did everything possible to make us feel taken care of. Caroline was fantastic as well as the night manager. Our room was clean, fabulous, and in perfect working order. The view from the balcony overlooking the sea was exceptional. I can't recommend this place highly enough.

Authenticity & Character

It was a villa apparently that they turned into a hotel. Quite fantastic!

Location

It is nice that it is two blocks off the hustle and bustle of Main st. Quiet and fantastic.

Staff

Caroline was amazing. Sweet, patient, joyful, and took care of us so greatly. The night desk clerk was also fantastic.

Cleanliness & Comfort

perfect.

Hotel Sangay

Baños de Agua Santa

Pleasant enough.

Authenticity & Character

The chandlier in the bedroom is hysterical. Very pleasant. Nothing outstanding.

Location

Right next to a beautiful waterfall. Just on outskirts of very noisy town. So perfect.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

JW Marriott Hotel Quito

Quito

Pretty nice!!! Great spa, great restaurants. Outstanding customer service everywhere.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hamadryade Lodge

Tena

This is one of those Once-in-a-lifetime places that is not to believed. The pictures don't do it justice. Because it is even more amazing in person. The staff are incredible. The owners wonderful. Clean, exotic, fabulous. Plan for at least three days. No less. You won't want to leave. The food should be Michelin rated it was so outstanding! Incredible dining that is not to be believed. All locally grown and fresh ingredients. What a magical place.

Authenticity & Character

Something out of a magazine. Just incredible.

Location

It is in the middle of the Amazon, yet no mosiquitos were encountered. Just amazing.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Morning at Teleferico

Quito

The most difficult part was doing this the first day. You need aclimating to the climate first. But that said, I was still able to do the short hike at the top and REALLY< REALLY enjoyed the swings at the top! So fun and incredible view. Best swings in the world.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Francisco was so great!! Loved him so much. He was very helpful, friendly and entertaining. Helped with the altitude as well.

Transport

Jatunyaku River Rafting - Misahualli

Galapagos Islands

We really enjoyed seeing the Amazon from the perspective of the river. Outstanding. Ronnie, our guide, was fantastic! So much fun.

Quality of Experience

Food

In the middle of the rafting trip they served a delicious meal! Just yummy!!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Ronnie knows this river inside and out! Felt safe and he made sure to have surprises for us at every turn. Tricks up his sleeve that were quite entertaining. We had a blast!

Transport

Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure

Isla San Cristóbal

The rock formation itself is stunning! Hammerhead sharks, white fin sharks, sooooo many sea turtles and So Much More! Amazing. I believe this is only available on land tours, not cruises, so I would opt for the land stay. It really is something spectacular. And they took us to a private beach with turquoise waters and sea lions afterwards. We had the place all to ourselves. So wonderful.

Quality of Experience

Food

Food was pretty good for a sea tour on a small boat. :)

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Quito - Cotopaxi National Park - Baños

Galapagos Islands

Couldn't summit as it was too windy. We are talking REALLY windy. But it was fun to get up there.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Christian was full of knowledge about the place.

Transport

Visit Highlands Tortoise Reserve & Charles Darwin Research Station

Puerto Ayora

So many giant tortoises! Beautiful place. Even the lunch was fantastic. Not to be missed!! our guide Sophia was fantastic. Took us to many places that were off the beaten track and felt very exclusive. Lucky us! Delicious lunch on the preserve as well. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Sophia was fantastic. Really lucked out with her. She was so great!!

Transport

Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay & Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island

Puerto Ayora

This was not one of our better trips. The guide got double booked. So we had to walk to the trail head from our hotel. Really hot day, trail is about 3 or 4 km to the bay. HOWEVER, it was a really lovely walk and the beach is unbelievable. Sand like flour. SOOO many igunas. Eventually , we got to the bay for kayaking and had to wait two hours for the kayak person to show up. The bay is perfect for swimming and the water was warm. It is difficult to see much in the water. We had to then walk back and it was very hot. And find our way back to hotel as guide left us. Also no guide with kayak either. Not my favorite trip, but still worth going out there.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transfer to Airport on Baltra Island - Flight back to Mainland

Galapagos Islands

It is quite tricky getting from town to the airport. Car taxi, to boat taxi, to bus. It really helped to have a guide take us. Especially as it was at 6;45 for a 9 am flight. It went really well. In great hands.

Quality of Experience

everyone was very nice and helpful in handling our three carry on suitcases.

Food

Food was provided by our hotel. They got up extra early to help us out. so nice. Hotel Acacia.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Afternoon Visit to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)

Quito

We really liked this strange little museum. It was quite fun and extremely interesting. We didn't get to the acutal monument as we just loved the museum so much and after our long day decided to head back and relax.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Francisco was so wonderful!

Transport

Reconnecting with Nature at Baños de Agua Santa

Baños

Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería

Galapagos Islands

Interesting museum. Tijeretas Hill was just ok. The swim at the beach with all of the Sea lions everywhere was fun!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We decided in February to plan a family trip to the Galápagos Islands in June. I was overwhelmed by the prospect of researching such a trip, and turned to KimKim for help. Alvaro reached out to me in less than 24 hours with a jam-packed itinerary that was very insightful. He notes from the questionnaire that we were traveling with 2 teenagers, and intuitively booked us 2 rooms at all our hotels to ensure some space and privacy. He met with us via zoom to go over the itinerary, and we tweaked it accordingly. We had a wonderful trip! Alvaro was VERY quick to respond with an informative answer to any message I sent during our travels. The local guides that we encountered were a wealth of information, and took great care of us. Toward the end of our trip, my husband had a 24 hour stomach illness, and electrolytes and over-the-counter remedies were delivered to the hotel for him, initiated and arranged by the local guides. I will happily use KimKim again, and refer them to all my friends.

Hotel Review

EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Quito

Quito

Very comfortable, and the staff was incredibly accommodating. Breakfast had a wide variety of offerings.

Activity Review

Wildlife Encounter at Los Tuneles (Cabo Rosa)

Galapagos Islands

Without question, this was a highlight of our entire Galapagos trip. Every type of marine life and bird we hoped to see, we found up close. Our guide, Darwin, took photos and videos of everything and everyone, and graciously transferred them to everyone’s phone. We swam with so many sea turtles, sharks, rays, penguins. We found an octopus, a sea horse, and learned about the blue-footed boobies and penguins. It was a truly memorable day!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had a wonderful time on our trip to the Galapagos Islands and Quito. Our guide in Quito, Sebastian, was a great guide and such a nice young man. he was waiting at the luggage area with a sign and explained very clearly everything we would do and when we would be picked up in Quito. We also thought Astrid on Santa Cruz did a nice job.

There was some disconnect on how we were to meet our guides or tour buses (boats) each day. Telling us to stand outside our hotel at 8:00 a.m. and someone would show up to get us, left us feeling a little insecure. Saying that, someone did always meet us but it was the lack of knowing who or how (private driver, bus, no one) we were to be met that left us a little uncomfortable.

Hotel Reviews

Dann Carlton Quito

Quito

Authenticity & Character

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Solymar

Galápagos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Casa Opuntia Galapagos Hotel

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Colonial Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo - Middle of the World- From Quito Airport

Quito

I loved the Galapagos but our tour of Quito old city was by far the best tour we had on our trip. Our guide, Sebastian, was terrific.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Really great driver/guide.

Transport

Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station

Puerto Ayora

We really enjoyed the Highland Tortoise preserve and the restaurant on location was lovely. Because of delays in our flight we were unable to see the Darwin Research Station but the Travel agency added a different trip on for us.

Quality of Experience

Food

The restaurant was beautiful and what an amazing location.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Astrid was a very nice guide and had great information about the Highlands of Santa Cruz.

Transport

Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island

Puerto Ayora

We had a fun day on the boat and loved the snorkeling and hiking around the island.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Just remember it is a long ride on the bus from Puerto Ayora to the boat docks-approximately one hour.

Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería (Speedboat from Santa Cruz)

Galapagos Islands

Once we arrived at San Cristobal we were met by our guide but we decided to go to the hotel for a little bit before heading out for our tour because the boat ride had been so rough. The tour included Darwin's Cove where we hiked and snorkeled. This was my favorite place in the Galapagos.

Quality of Experience

Food

Food in the Galapagos is only so-so because it is hard to transport. Saying that, we did not come on this trip for gourmet food.

Transport

Warnings about conditions. The boat was very cramped and you had to sit below where you couldn't see anything.

Kayaking Adventure in Puerto Baquerizo Moreno Bay

Isla San Cristóbal

The kayaking was fun although the equipment could have been better. The trip out and to Darwin's cove was enjoyable and the snorkeling was fantastic that day. Our guides were "ok" . The young woman ( I don't even know what her name was ) spent a lot of time looking at her phone. On the trip back the water was very choppy and the wind was blowing hard. Our kayak couldn't stand up to those conditions and was flooding badly. We are very experienced kayakers (white water river conditions) but couldn't stop to bale the kayak because the sea was so rough. Our guides were off a long ways away and of little assistance.

Quality of Experience

When we set out to plan a week holiday to the Galapagos, we were overwhelmed with the many awesome destinations, activities and adventures to chose from as well as the logistics to get from one place to the next within the limited time that we had.

We reached out to Kimkim team for help and were really fortunate to have Lucia as our trip advisor.

Thanks to her wealth of knowledge and experience, we were able to plan the perfect trip that included our top destinations and every adventure we wanted to experience, while visiting these wonderful islands.

I must say that dealing with Lucia was exceptionally pleasant and easy, so we have to send special thanks and appreciation to you Lucia!

She made this wonderful trip possible and was so patient, creative and wonderful in finding options that suit our plan, time and budget to make this trip possible and super special!!

Thank you for your amazing support Lucia throughout the planning process, during and after our trip to make sure we were always well taken care of, wherever we were.

We had one helluva adventure being amongst the marine life in the Galapagos.

Hotel Reviews

Andry

San Cristobal

Breakfast was nice, the rooms were clean and kept tidy, they had bathroom toiletries, even offered beach towels etc

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel La Jungla

Puerto Villamil

the rooms were clean and tidy, breakfast and service was not up to the mark as they had shortage of eggs, they did not have basic bathroom toiletries like shower gel, they provided a soap bar only, they did not provide hand towels, just the bath towels

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Coloma Galapagos

Puerto Ayora

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Kicker Rock (San Cristobal Island)

Galapagos Islands

What a start to our trip! Could not have asked for a better day out than what we had. We had one helluva a time snorkelling, spotted sea turtles, sharks, rays, different types of fish. We even did a bit of fishing 🎣 and caught a yellow fin tuna 🍣 which was then served to us in form of ceviche. We were hosted very nicely on the boat by captain and the crew. Loved every bit of it

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Wildlife Tour on Isabela Island

Puerto Villamil

If one is going for the excursion to Los Tuneles then we felt there is no point in doing this activity. We were unfortunate as well that we could not get to spot anything as the visibility was very poor during snorkelling.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Excursion to Los Túneles

Galapagos Islands

We have one helluva a time snorkeling. Sspotted sea turtles, sharks, rays, different types of fish. We were hosted very nicely on the boat by captain and the crew. Loved every bit of it

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discovery dive in Santa Cruz Island

Galapagos Islands

We thoroughly enjoyed the diving experience and we did a bit of snorkeling as well.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Morning Bay Tour & Afternoon at leisure in Santa Cruz

Galapagos Islands

We felt that we could have skipped this tour and done something else. The visibility in the water was not good at all even though it was bright and sunny. Considering we had seen and done so much the last few days, this tour just felt a bit boring)

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Beyond expectations. Kim kim continues to impress with services, professionalism, and utilizing great tour partners. Whether car sevice, private city tours or week adventures. Bonita yatcht in galapogos was amazing, led by guide David

Activity Reviews

Exploring the Enchanting "Calle de las 7 Cruces" on a Morning City Tour

Quito

Guide daniel was very knowledgeable and friendly

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Afternoon Visit to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)

Quito

So interesting, worth the stop

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Arrival Baltra Airport - Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) (M/C Millennium)

Cruise Ship

Quality of Experience

Food

Transport

Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas (Santiago Island)

Cruise Ship

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island) - Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island)

Galapagos Islands

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Afternoon Adventure to Teleferico Cablecar

Quito

Urbina Bay - Tagus Cove (Isabela Island)

Cruise Ship

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Always eye on safety

Transport

Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay - Moreno Point

Cruise Ship

Charles Darwin Station - Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)

Cruise Ship

Twin Craters (Santa Cruz Island) - Transfer Out to Baltra Airport

Cruise Ship

My wife Mala and I had a great trip to Equador and Galapagos. Many thanks to Mathias and his entire team.
Mathias made all the arrangements and even though we had to make multiple changes, it was never a problem.
We had to change dates of travel, no problems
We had to change our cruise ship, no problems
We wanted to do full day birding, no problems
He suggested that we stay at Tombopaxi, in Cotopaxi National park. No problems
Danny Arias was our guide for most of the days. He was very patient and knowledgeable
Neiser Arias was bird watchinf guide. He was very patient, knowledgeable and knew his birds really well. If we do a dedicated bird watchng tour, we will surely use him again
I wish we had a few more days to enjoy more of Equador
Highly recommend Mathias and his entire team for all matters Equador

Tamer is the most amazing travel consultant I have ever worked with for a trip - I've been to over 60 countries and I have to say, hands down, Tamer ensured ever aspect of the trip was covered. He asked questions before we had an opportunity to think about the topic. Thank you so much for making our retirement trip a dream come true!

Tamer did an excellent job planning and arranging our trip. Our guide, Pablo was knowledgeable and personable. The crew onboard our boat were hardworking and attentive. We enjoyed all of the activities provided and we were amazed at all the wildlife we got to see.
However. If you have a chance to read our comment card that we left on our boat, you will see that we were very dissatisfied and disappointed with our boat because of all the roaches and the sewer smell in our cabin.

Hotel Reviews

M/Y Monserrat

Quito

Roach infested and smells of sewage

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Roaches and sewer smell.

JW Marriott Hotel Quito

Quito

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa

San Miguel de los Bancos

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Wyndham Quito Airport

Quito

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Arrival to Baltra Airport - Transfer to Cruise Ship & Santa Cruz Highlands (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Galapagos Islands

Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) - Chinese Hat (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

El Barranco - Darwin Bay ( Genovesa Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

Black Turtle Cove - Flamingos and Relax in Bachas Beach (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

Tagus Cove - Urbina Bay (Isabela Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island) - Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Galapagos Islands

Puerto Egas - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove (Santiago Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

North Seymour Island - Highlands (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

Rabida Island - Bartolomé Island (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

South Plazas Island - Santa Fe Island (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Cruise Ship

Punta Pitt - Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Galapagos Islands

Lobos Island - Tijeretas Hill & Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Galapagos Islands

Gardner Bay - Suarez Point (Española Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D )

Cruise Ship

Cormorant Point - Post Office Bay (Floreana Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)

Galapagos Islands

Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz) (M/Y Monserrat 15D) - Baltra Airport

Cruise Ship

Explore Mindo Cloud Forest at Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa

Ecuador

Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa Experience

Mindo

Another day at Kapari Lodge & Return to Quito

Mindo

We had an absolutely amazing time in Quito, Mindo, and the Galapagos!

I was trying to create the best 30th birthday trip to my adventurous, nature-loving fiance and this trip truly delivered. I only wish we both had more time off from work to explore more of the Galapagos Islands. Our local specialist, Linda, was amazing to work with and very responsive to our questions. She even added the nice personal touch of meeting us in Quito. We got to meet so many interesting people on our trip as well, including backpackers/travelers and locals. Our state appointed tour guides in the Galapagos (including Astrid and Nathalie) were all very knowledgeable: you could literally ask them anything!

Highlights of our trip include:
1. Walking tour around Quito
2. The cloud forest in Mindo which included Zipling, hummingbird preserve (so, so many beautiful species), a chocolate making tour, and early morning bird watching (we got to see 4/5 types of toucans and feed hummingbirds from our hands!)
3. Standing along the ECUATOR!!!
4. Swimming/snorkeling with 20+ hammer head sharks and green sea turtles at kicker rock (near San Cristobal)
5. Exploring the giant tortoise reserve on Santa Cruz. (Did you know that because of the introduction of guava to the islands these gentle giants are developing diabetes? It seems these beautiful creatures have a real sweet tooth and that we sadly have caused!)
6. Spying on nesting Blue-Footed Boopies and frigate birds, looking for marine and land iguanas, and watching sea lions surf on north Seymore island.
7. Swimming with fur seals, sea lions, and other marine animals and fish off north Seymore island
8. Exploring a coffee and chocolate farm on Santa Cruz, as well as learning how they produce a local favor adult beverage.
9. Watching penguins swim and albatross sore, as well as learning about the volcanic creation of the islands at San Bartolome island.

As a former backpacker our accommodations were absolutely fantastic and luxurious. The food was also wonder and a key part of the experiences as well.

Verdict: We will definitely be using Kim Kim again and we will be back to the Galapagos!

Hotel Reviews

La Casona de La Ronda

Quito

Beautiful, centrally located hotel.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Terrabambú Lodge

Mindo

We absolutely loved this treehouse type of hotel with an amazing view. The only thing we had a problem with a large spider (it is the rainforest). The outdoor jacuzzi was a nice touch!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Galapagos Sunset

Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

We loved this centrally located, luxurious hotel where we could hear the sealions. Breakfast on the roof with an amazing view was delightful.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Ikala Galapagos Hotel

Puerto Ayora

We had a blast at this luxurious hotel, which had amazing breakfast and restaurant for dinner.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Excursion to an uninhabited island

Ecuador

We loved seeing all the wildlife at North Seymor. So many amazing species to see. Our guide, Nathalie, was amazing.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Quito City Tour

Ecuador

Danny was an amazing tour guide who showed us so much of his city. We highly recommend him

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Highlands of Santa Cruz Island

Galapagos Islands

Astrid was an amazing tour guide! She was so knowledgeable. We really enjoyed the highlands, tortoise reserve, adn laval tunnels despite the extensive downpours

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Snorkel at Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)

Galapagos Islands

This was an amazing experience to snorkel with hammerhead sharks and sea turtles. This is also a great place to scuba if you are certified.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit to another uninhabited island

Ecuador

This was an amazing excursion where we learned a lot about the topography and origin of the islands. The sea-life was also amazing.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The crew of the Nautilus were fantastic

Transport

Transfer to Mindo & Activities in the cloud forest

Galapagos Islands

We enjoyed Zipling, birdwatching and feeding hummingbirds, and enjoying the chocolate making tour

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Mindo & Return to Quito

Galapagos Islands

We really enjoyed the Equator excursion!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

I had a really great experience planning and booking this trip for my family. Alvaro was great - very patient, accommodating, and willing to revise the trip a number of times based on our requirements. However, our experience on the trip was not great. According to our trip plan, a guide was supposed to meet us at the Baltra airport in the Galapagos and help us navigate from the airport, onto a bus, onto a ferry to Santa Cruz island, take us to our hotel and help us get to our afternoon activity. The guide did not meet us. Cell coverage in the Galapagos is very poor, so we were basically stranded trying to figure this all out on our own. When we finally connected with Alvaro, he told me that he did not know why the guide didn't meet us and that "this never happens." Not particularly helpful. The woman who finally met us at our hotel in Santa Cruz provided no explanation about what had happened and where our guide was. Also, she did not speak any English. That was fine because we speak Spanish, but it would have been a problem if we did not. On the last day of our trip, we were returning to Santa Cruz from Isabela Island and, again, a guide was supposed to meet us on Santa Cruz (which I confirmed several times in advance) and no one met us. Ultimately, the Galapagos-based tour operator refunded us $110 for the missing guides. I do not think that was enough of a refund for the inflated cost of the trip or for our stress and inconvenience. I would not recommend booking with KimKim. There seems to be a major disconnect between KimKim and the Galapagos-based tour operators. We spent a lot of time on our trip dealing with coordination and logistics and stressing out about the next steps in our itinerary. It was disappointing.

Hotel Reviews

Posada del Mar

Santa Cruz

We had a lot of trouble with our tour operator and the hotel owner went above and beyond to try to help us and make our experience better.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Fiesta

Puerto Ayora

This was a great hotel! Good location, awesome pool, very comfortable and nice rooms!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hostal Loja

Puerto Villamil

The owners/operators of this hotel were really helpful and kind.

Authenticity & Character

Staff

Activity Reviews

Hola Galapagos! Arrival to Santa Cruz Island

Puerto Ayora

The guide never met us and we were stranded at Baltra airport trying to navigate the bus to the ferry to the hotel all on our own. There is very limited cell reception in the Galapagos and we weren't able to connect with anyone from KimKim to help us out.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

No one met us

Transport

Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island

Puerto Ayora

The guides were great! We enjoyed this activity.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island

Puerto Ayora

The guide, captain, boat staff were all excellent! The food was fantastic!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano (AM) & Speedboat to Santa Cruz Island (PM)

Galapagos Islands

Rain was in the forecast, but the guide did not offer us the chance to turn around or change our plans. We were absolutely soaked and the clouds obscured any view we would have had. The park rangers were unhelpful and refused to help us call a taxi to come "rescue" us from the volcano.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The guide was not looking out for our safety or comfort.

Transfer to Airport on Baltra Island - Flight back to Mainland

Galapagos Islands

Dario was a great guide. He was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the entire experience.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity

Puerto Villamil

Sebastian was a great guide! Very friendly and knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We are so happy we used Kim Kim in partnership with Responsible Travel to plan our school’s excursion to Ecuador. It was a pleasure working with Tammer, who oversaw our entire trip and whose attention to detail goes unmatched by any other travel company. He made sure we always had exceptional lodging, punctual private transportation, delicious meals, and the friendliest tour guides to work with our students. By the end of the trip, it was like Tammer was a true part of our Forman family!

Our tour guide for the Galapagos Islands, Legendary Wilson, was fantastic and always went above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience while there. He taught us so much about the history of the islands and Charles Darwin, as he led us on snorkeling, hiking, and sightseeing adventures. We saw every form of wildlife we were promised!

Our tour guide in Quito, Sebastian, made Ecuadorian history and culture come alive for us as we explored the city on a walking tour, participated in an authentic cooking class, and visited el Mitad del Mundo. It is sometimes hard to keep high school students engaged, but Sebastian made it look easy with his easy nature and funny stories.

We HIGHLY recommend using Kim Kim & Responsible Travel for your next travel expedition. You will not be disappointed!

Out trip to Peru was fantastic. Mathias was extremely helpful with all aspects of planning. When we were in country we got a respiratory virus and Mathias went out of his way to help us and get us home safely. We did get to enjoy a week of travel in Peru. The country is amazing. Our guide, Aldo Sanchez was marvelous. He was extremely knowledgable about the Incas and all aspects of life in Peru. He took excellent care of us and also was a tremendous support when we became ill. I would %100 recommend KimKim and Aldo for any adventure in Peru.

Hotel Reviews

Casa República

Barranco, Lima

Excellent service and a wonderful breakfast.

Authenticity & Character

Lovely inner courtyard

Location

Beautiful sunset views at the end of the street.

Staff

Wait staff at the restaurant were very accomodating

Cleanliness & Comfort

Andean Wings

Cusco

Lovely old hotel with beautiful courtyard and great bar.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Very close to the historic center of Cusco

Staff

We became ill and they went out of their way to help us.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Nice and clean

Hotel Florencio Casa Hacienda

Pisac

Lovely room. The owner made us a fire in our room in the evening and walked us to dinner. No breakfast in the morning though, since it was a holiday.

Authenticity & Character

Beautiful courtyard and authentic furniture

Location

Just off the square

Staff

Very accommodating. We used google translate to communicate.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo

Ollantaytambo

Very lovely peaceful setting. The food was great. We had a wonderful welcome drink!!

Authenticity & Character

Eco lodge with luxury

Location

Just outside of town on a river. The sounds soothed us to sleep.

Staff

We met the part owner. He was very interesting and passionate about the hotel.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Taypikala Boutique Machupicchu

Machu Picchu

It was fine for the night before we went to Machu Picchu. Great location, beautiful view.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

El Albergue Ollantaytambo Boutique Hotel

Cusco

Amazing hotel right at the train station. Large bathtub! Good food. Beautiful gardens.

Authenticity & Character

Lots of little special things like fresh flowers in the room

Location

Right at the train station

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

City Tour Lima

Lima

Arthuro was excellent. We ate our way through a local market. We learned so much!!!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

City Tour Cusco

Cusco

Aldo was very knowledgable and friendly. We saw so many cool things.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Exploring Pisac

Pisac

Aldo was amazing. He is very knowledgeable, funny and kind. He totally made our trip!!

Quality of Experience

Food

Guinea Pig!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hot springs and biking

Peru

Hot springs were very authentic. Only saw one other group of tourists while we were there. Bring a towel though! The biking was super fun. Downhill almost the whole way. The road was next to a beautiful river with waterfalls. Really got to see the countryside.

Quality of Experience

Food

Great boxed lunch. Something for everyone.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Pietra was a fantastic guide.

Transport

Coffee and chocolate in Chichubamba - Train ride to Aguas Calientes

Peru

We learned all about the process of making chocolate and coffee. It was not at a farm though.

Machu Picchu Excursion: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

Peru

Aldo was fantastic. Best guide ever. Machu Picchu was out of this world.

Quality of Experience

An amazing place with an amazing guide!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Aldo took us to the museum which most people do not see. It was so interesting!

Transport

Ruins, Weavers & Inca Salt Factory

Ollantaytambo

Not to be missed. Who knew that is how salt was made?

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Aldo was wonderful!

Transport

Mathias was a joy to work with. Was flexible and helpful when we needed to make trip adjustments and was always there for us. Tour guides were great along the way. Always on time and knowledge. Made every minute of the trip memorable. Aldo Sanchez was an amazing guide from Cusco, Peru. Stayed with us for four days through the entire Sacred Valley leg of our trip. He made sure we had plenty of activities planned and had clean, safe water and food. Our Mtn Bike tour guide was also great. Knowledgeable and kept us from flying off the Andes on our endless descent down from 14k feet. All in all, they put together an amazing team to make sure every need was met without complaint.