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active 3 days ago

Jimena Salazar

For me, traveling is about much more than just visiting places. It’s about opening new paths in your life—through the people you meet, the flavors you try, and the landscapes that take your breath away, even if it’s just once in a lifetime. Peru is my home, and it’s a place full of these moments. I would love to help you discover its beauty in a way that feels personal and real to you.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"Experiences around Peru. I mainly specialize in cultural activities and wildlife and nature activities, adding in one of them unique experiences along the way. "

How did you get involved in travel?

"When I was a child, I could spend hours watching travel and gastronomy programs about my country and around the world. I realized sharing with others the passion for travel was so contagious and magical. I dreamed of having a program like this for years! Later, as a teenager, I decided to study tourism professionally. I learned tourism could also transform lives into better ones in the social, cultural, and environmental aspects, and also was a fantastic way where everyone could create impactful connections and have fun! Then, I joined Peruvian Soul, where I felt the passion and authenticity in everything, wanting their travelers to live the best journey in Peru! "

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"In 2023, I had the opportunity to visit Tambopata Research center, an authentic place for those wishing to explore the jungle at its best! I stayed in a nice lodge and had the chance to learn more about its wildlife and conservation projects, hear the sounds of monkeys and different species of birds each morning and walk around its forest. I felt so much peace there. It was a unique and beautiful experience! "

Top itineraries and travel advice
Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries

Favorite experiences

Peruvian Amazon Nature Tour

The southern Peruvian Amazon region is a veritable wonderland of natural attractions. The best way to experience as many of them as possible is on a series of short, guided adventure treks. The home base for this tour is a jungle lodge near the border with Bolivia, and the first mini-trek is...

Private Machu Picchu Experience

Step back in time with a deep dive into Inca civilization as you explore the UNESCO-protected Machu Picchu and its ruins on a half-day, privately guided experience. After a short bus ride from your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you'll set out to visit the 15th-century citadel with your guide, who'll...

Lima Food Tour

One of the best ways to discover Peru's capital city of Lima is through its food. With an eclectic combination of indigenous, African, Asian, and European culinary influences, Lima is one of the world's most impressive gastronomic and cultural centers. This food tour begins early in Lima's...

Recent trip reviews for Jimena

We loved having local guides and support everywhere we went!
Peru | Aug 22 - Sep 1, 2025

K
Kerri S.
Dallas, TX | Reviewed on Sep 09, 2025
We had a wonderful trip thanks to KimKim and the Peruvian Soul team! They helped guide our itinerary to make the most of our 10 days in country and saved us from activities that would likely have been disappointing. Once we were in Peru, we had a local guide in each town who picked us up/took us to the airport and around to our tours which made it so much easier for us. We got to stay in vacation mode the whole time we were there despite several transfers and activities. The team went... Read more

We had a wonderful trip thanks to KimKim and the Peruvian Soul team! They helped guide our itinerary to make the most of our 10 days in country and saved us from activities that would likely have been disappointing.

Once we were in Peru, we had a local guide in each town who picked us up/took us to the airport and around to our tours which made it so much easier for us. We got to stay in vacation mode the whole time we were there despite several transfers and activities.

The team went above and beyond when flights we booked separately were canceled helping us to find alternatives.

The team was super responsive and made sure we had the best time! Thank you!!

Hotel Reviews
Antigua Casona San Blas
Cusco

This is my new favorite hotel, ever. Not only is it beautiful, in a great location, but the service and the staff is truly incredible. Our room was beautiful and the hotel provided so many helpful amenities including water in every room and plenty of it (unlike most hotels that give you one bottle per day…). They offered a turndown service each night with tea, chocolates, and a warm water bottle to make our beds cozy. The restaurant on site is truly delicious (the stuffed peppers and ceviche were AWESOME) and the breakfast includes the buffet and a menu to choose from. When we checked out for a night during our stay to camp at Machu Picchu, they provided breakfast to go for our 4am pick up and loaded us up with snacks for our full day hike. They managed our bags too so we didn’t have to lug them from our rooms so early. I can’t say enough about Katie, Kevin, and Michael. Excellent service all around. I encourage everyone to stay here!!

Authenticity & Character
The rooms are very authentic and the service is beyond excellent.
Location
Cute shops, good restaurants nearby and a 7 min walk to the main square. No outside noise.
Staff
They went above and beyond for every ask and anticipated every need!
Cleanliness & Comfort
My only tiny issue was the noise from the hallways.
La Hacienda Bahía Paracas
Paracas

The hotel is beautiful and the restaurant is good, though I felt very much like a tolerated tourist here. We were 2 of only 24 people staying at the hotel in off season, and while the staff wasn’t exactly unfriendly, I didn’t feel as welcome here as I did at other hotels throughout the country. All prices were shared in USD vs local currency. The hotel had an interesting smell and we left congested. Not sure if that was from the desert dust or something in the rooms.

Authenticity & Character
The rooms were nice though lacking in character somewhat. The restaurant served food from the local bay and was delicious!
Location
We liked Paracas and the views of the bay were nice.
Staff
The staff was fine, just nothing over and beyond.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The rooms appeared clean, though there was a bothersome smell. We also were given just one bottle of water each day in a place where we can’t drink from the tap. I would have thought a luxury hotel like this would provided more.
Local specialist: Jimena Salazar

You HAVE to use KimKim on your next Peru trip!!!
Peru | Aug 22 - Sep 1, 2025

L
Lauren S.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Sep 08, 2025
Where to begin-Jimena was AMAZING in helping my friend and I plan our Peru trip!!! We were not very familiar with the country and felt a travel advisor would be the best way to nail down an itinerary that would suit what we were looking for. She was so thorough and quick in putting a schedule together, helping with any changes, and most importantly, she and Jesus (also equally as helpful and responsive) were so accessible WHILE we were in Peru. We had a contact in each city, who were the... Read more

Where to begin-Jimena was AMAZING in helping my friend and I plan our Peru trip!!! We were not very familiar with the country and felt a travel advisor would be the best way to nail down an itinerary that would suit what we were looking for. She was so thorough and quick in putting a schedule together, helping with any changes, and most importantly, she and Jesus (also equally as helpful and responsive) were so accessible WHILE we were in Peru. We had a contact in each city, who were the best-shoutout Bosco in Lima who did everything from give us recos, take us through the airport all the way to security, and ensure we got to where we needed to go efficiently, Robinzon in Cusco who helped us navigate the town and translate during our cooking class, and Alverro who drove us from Lima to Paracus, stopping in his home town for a local brunch, and giving the best energy as we had fun on the sand dunes. Not only were everyone great, but we were also able to easily contact them easily on WhatsApp to coordinate. KimKim just made is SO EASY that we could show up and have fun. We had a lot of transportation needs, and that would have been so stressful to navigate by ourselves. I've raved about our trip and told them one of the best things we did was use KimKim to book an amazing Peru trip. THANK YOU to everyone who helped make our first trip to South America great!!!

Local specialist: Jimena Salazar

The best two weeks in Peru we could have imagined!
Peru | Jul 20 - Jul 31, 2025

Jillian
Jillian T.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Aug 04, 2025
Our family (2 adults, 2 children - 8 & 10 years old) just returned from one AMAZING two-week trip to Peru! Our local specialist, Jimena, understood right from the start the sort of trip our family was looking for and made the planning process extremely easy. She made all of the arrangements for us to see everything we had on our wish list, but also included many stops and sites along the way that we didn't even know about but made the trip all the more special. Upon arrival in Lima, we were... Read more

Our family (2 adults, 2 children - 8 & 10 years old) just returned from one AMAZING two-week trip to Peru! Our local specialist, Jimena, understood right from the start the sort of trip our family was looking for and made the planning process extremely easy. She made all of the arrangements for us to see everything we had on our wish list, but also included many stops and sites along the way that we didn't even know about but made the trip all the more special. Upon arrival in Lima, we were greeted by Bosco (at like 2:00 in the morning!) who was exceptionally friendly got us to our hotel and ensured an easy check-in. While we had some free time in Lima, we took a food tour that was arranged by KimKim through the Barranco neighborhood that was exceptional. After Bosco got us back to the airport a couple of days later, we were then greeted in Cusco by our private guide Guido and driver, Alan. I cannot say enough good things about these two gentlemen. Guido has been leading tours in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu for many years, and his deep knowledge and easy manner enriched each of the six days we spent with him. I even ended up needing to go to a clinic one day because of food poisoning and Guido and Alan stayed with me and ensured I got the meds I needed and got back to the hotel, even though it extended their day by a lot. I'm forever grateful them, and our entire time in Cusco/Sacred Valley was so much richer than I expected it to be because of them. After our time in the Cusco area, we headed back to Lima where we met with Bosco again. He traveled with us from Lima to Paracas and while he wasn't leading our tours, it was reassuring to know he was nearby if we needed anything at all. Our tours of the Ballestas Islands, Paracas Nature Reserve, and overflight of Nazca lines were fantastic. I highly, highly recommend any and all parts of this trip to others. It was truly a trip of a lifetime and one that our family will remember forever. Many, many thanks to the entire team who made this happen!

Hotel Reviews
La Casona de Yucay
Ollantaytambo Urubamba

We loved staying here during our time in the Sacred Valley! Not only were the accommodations fantastic, but the staff was very friendly and helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hatun Inti Boutique Machupicchu
Machu Picchu

This was a wonderful place to stay during our days visiting Machu Picchu. Our family enjoyed two adjoining rooms, so there was plenty of space to spread out and relax. Highly recommended.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Lunch at Tunupa Buffet
Lunch at Tunupa Buffet
Sacred Valley

Delicious! A great place for lunch, especially since we could try so many different foods and our whole family could tailor our plates to our own preferences. Thank you!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Walking food tour at Barranco
Walking food tour at Barranco
Lima

Our guide, Shayla, was so much fun to take this tour with! She was great with our whole family, and it was very appreciated that she was able to take us to so many restaurants and they could accommodate our two vegetarians during the tour as well. Not only did we get to try many authentic Peruvian dishes, but Shayla gave us so much history and preparation info as well. Five stars!!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Shayla was AWESOME!
Transport
Join us to Rainbow Mountain
Join us to Rainbow Mountain
Cusco

What a day this was! The 3 1/2-hour drive from Cusco felt daunting at first when we heard about it, but the drive was so beautiful that in the end it didn't even matter how long it took. Our driver had picked up boxed snacks and lunches, so our needs were taken care of. Arriving at the Rainbow Mountain was an adventure in itself, as the road to it is picturesque, but steep and narrow. Our first steps at 16,500 ft. above sea level were SO TOUGH, but Guido helped coach us through the altitude and helped us take our time as we summited the trail for the best views. Even though the hike was challenging, it was worth every step to see this beautiful spot!

Quality of Experience
Food
These snacks and boxed lunches were DELICIOUS!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pass by Pisac Market & an Andean camelid Farms
Pass by Pisac Market & an Andean camelid Farms
Sacred Valley

The camelid farm just outside Cusco was a great first stop after leaving the airport. Our kids (and, honestly us adults, too), enjoyed seeing, petting, and learning about the different camelid animals that live in Peru. We even got to see condors, guinea pigs, and Peruvian dog, and a very small and interesting deer. After looking at the animals, a lady in the shop offered us tea (good for elevation) and gave us a quick lesson on the quality of different camelid products found in Peru. This not only helped us when buys a few souvenirs here, but also throughout out tour. Unfortunately, our flight was delayed so we didn't have much time in Pisac, but our guide made sure we stopped quickly to pick up some AMAZING empanadas for a snack along the way.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ceramic Workshop - Ramos Kintu
Ceramic Workshop - Ramos Kintu
Peru

Our whole family (2 adults, 2 children ages 8 & 10) REALLY enjoyed this experience!! Ramos Kintu showed us all a lot of patience during the lesson and we created pieces we could take home. We loved it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Maras Salt Ponds
Maras Salt Ponds
Sacred Valley

Because I got sick on the day this tour was supposed to happen, we rescheduled it for the following day quite early in the morning. It was so amazing and refreshing to see this site first thing in the morning when it was quiet and no other visitors had arrived yet. It's a beautiful spot and its a bit mind-blowing to understand how long the salt ponds have been in use and just how much salt comes from them!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Amaru Community
Amaru Community
Peru

I missed out on this experience because of being sick, but my husband and two children came back with the MOST AMAZING photos and stories from their experience here. Getting to try on traditional clothing, trying out farming techniques, and eating food prepared that day was an experience my children will remember their entire lives!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pisac Archaeological Site
Pisac Archaeological Site
Peru

Again, I was sick this day and could not join my family at this site, but my kids came back and told me all about these farming terraces. They were blown away by the scale of the site. Big thumbs up!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cusco Walking City Tour with San Francisco Church
Cusco Walking City Tour with San Francisco Church
Cusco

Our guide, Guido, took us around Cusco center on a fun and informative walking tour. Seeing the sites, including the food market, helped us get a sense of the amazing vibe Cusco has. I'd love to explore this city more. Guido also took us inside the cathedral and gave us a lot of history on the building and art inside. SO GOOD!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Visit to Ollantaytambo
Morning Visit to Ollantaytambo
Peru

This is a definite must-see site! The beauty and scale of the archaeological site, and also of the town and setting, were so rich! I could have stayed here twice as long as we did just because the setting was so gorgeous. The town was hopping because this is where we boarded the train for Machu Picchu, and while we didn't have time to explore, I loved the vibe here.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon at Machu Picchu - Lower Terraces
Afternoon at Machu Picchu - Lower Terraces
Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu

Our first of two visits to Machu Picchu during our trip was just as fabulous as we expected it to be. There's something about that first glimpse of the site that we've waited decades to see that was extremely special. Our guide, Guido, was exceptionally informative about everything here, and after getting a good fill of the view from above, he took us through the village itself and told us all about history of the site, pointing out special places along the way. We were over the moon with this visit.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Second Visit to Machu Picchu (Morning)
Second Visit to Machu Picchu (Morning)
Peru

This second visit to Machu Picchu was especially good for us. Not only did our guide Guido take us on a different route so we could see Machu Picchu from above again (and maybe the more picturesque views), but then we hiked up to the Sun Gate along the Inca Trail. Our family enjoys hiking, so getting to take these steps along the Inca Trail and then viewing Machu Picchu from the Sun Gate felt particularly special. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Paracas Reserve Exploration
Paracas Reserve Exploration
Paracas

This tour was only 2 hours long, but we could have spent all day bird watching and enjoying the shores here. The reserve is full of beautiful and interesting birds, and the sights are beyond gorgeous! Our guide during this portion (Juan, I think? Apologies I can't remember for sure) was really informative. He kept us on schedule, but was also happy to answer all of our questions. He also pointed us toward the best restaurant in Paracas for after our tour (we ate there twice!).

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ballestas Islands
Ballestas Islands
Peru

Our first boat ride out the the islands was interrupted because of a tsunami advisory, so we asked our KimKim guide, Bosco, to re-book the tour for the following morning. OH, we are so happy we went again and were able to go all of the way this time. The sights and animals you see of this tour are so cool (Humbolt penguins! South American sea lions!). On our way back to shore, our boat sped along a very long line of migrating birds (like thousands and thousands), which was definitely a highlight of the trip!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Overflight Nazca Lines
Overflight Nazca Lines
Peru

This experience was pretty awesome, but the flight is challenging to say the least! We all got a little air sick, but it was worth it to see the Nazca lines we've heard so much about!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Aug 06, 2025

Dear Jillian

Thank you so much for your kind words. It was a true pleasure to help create lasting memories for you, Lowrie and your kids through these experiences across my country. I’m so glad you were able to connect with the true essence of our culture and landscapes.

I’ll be sure to pass along your lovely message to Guido, Alan, Bosco, and Sheyla so they know how much you appreciated all the care and dedication they put into making your trip special.

Wishing you all the best in your future adventures,
Jimena

Wonderful trip to Peru
Peru | Jul 18 - Jul 25, 2025

Jordan
Jordan K.
Columbus, OH | Reviewed on Jul 26, 2025
Absolutely stellar collaboration of accommodations, activities, resources. Jimena did an outstanding job organizing a trip that needed to be adjusted to a solo trip after my brother suffered an injury last minute that did not enable him to go. Edwar was exceptional as a guide. He was interesting, funny, knowledgeable, authentic. I would highly recommend him and Peruvian soul to anyone going to Peru! Read more

Absolutely stellar collaboration of accommodations, activities, resources. Jimena did an outstanding job organizing a trip that needed to be adjusted to a solo trip after my brother suffered an injury last minute that did not enable him to go.

Edwar was exceptional as a guide. He was interesting, funny, knowledgeable, authentic. I would highly recommend him and Peruvian soul to anyone going to Peru!

Hotel Review
Casa San Blas Boutique
Cusco

Wonderful quaint mini suite in the heart of Cusco! Walkable and close to everything

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Walking food tour at Barranco
Walking food tour at Barranco
Lima
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Moray Terraces
Moray Terraces
Peru
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hike to the turquoise Lagoon of Humantay  (Group Tour)
Hike to the turquoise Lagoon of Humantay (Group Tour)
Cusco
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Join us to Rainbow Mountain
Join us to Rainbow Mountain
Cusco
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Exploring Cusco & Sacsayhuaman
Exploring Cusco & Sacsayhuaman
Cusco
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Aug 01, 2025

Hi Jordan

Thank you so much for your kind review! It was a real pleasure to have you with us for a few days in Peru. I’ll be sure to share your words with Edwar and the rest of our team. If Peru ever calls you back, I’d be more than happy to help you explore new places and experiences that make our country so special.

Wishing you many more wonderful adventures ahead around the world!

All the best
Jimena

Jimena was wonderful!
Peru | Jul 10 - Jul 18, 2025

E
Emily F.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Jul 23, 2025

Jimena was wonderful! She listened to and understood what was most important to us, and she planned a great trip that met our wishes and preferences. When we needed to make a big, last minute adjustment, she handled it professionally and promptly, making it very easy for us to replan. Jimena was also very responsive throughout the process, answering my many questions. Once we arrived, everything went smoothly and according to plan! I also appreciated having Jimena and Jesus available to answer questions as they came up.

Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Jul 24, 2025

Hola Emily

What a lovely review—thank you so much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure to support you throughout this journey and help ensure your trip was memorable. We really appreciated your enthusiasm to experience new places and traditions that are such an important part of our country. That meant a lot to us!

I hope you’ll return someday to keep exploring, maybe next time with Caroline too!

Wishing you all the best in your future adventures
Jimena

. Fell in love with Peru.
Peru | Jul 7 - Jul 15, 2025

Susan
Susan O.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jul 22, 2025
This was an amazing trip that was well organized. From the pick up at the airport to the food tour in Barranco to the dune buggy rides to the walking tour in Cusco and visiting all of the sites at the sacred Valley, as well as Machu Picchu it was a memorable an amazing trip that left me in love with Peru Willi our guide in couscous was amazing. He was very patient and took the time to explain every important detail to us. The walking food tour with Andrea was also awesome in our ride to... Read more

This was an amazing trip that was well organized. From the pick up at the airport to the food tour in Barranco to the dune buggy rides to the walking tour in Cusco and visiting all of the sites at the sacred Valley, as well as Machu Picchu it was a memorable an amazing trip that left me in love with Peru Willi our guide in couscous was amazing. He was very patient and took the time to explain every important detail to us. The walking food tour with Andrea was also awesome in our ride to Huacachina with Alavore was one of the best experiences ever.

Hotel Reviews
Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco
Lima
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Abittare Hotels
Cusco
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
I
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Jul 22, 2025

Dear Susan

Thank you so much for this lovely review!

It truly makes me happy to know you fell in love with our country and that you had memorable experiences with everyone you met along the way. I was genuinely pleased to design this trip for you and Sandy, especially since it was your first time here!

We'll make sure to pass along your kind words to Willy, Alvaro, and Andrea. If you ever come back to Peru and decide to keep exploring other destinations, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you the very best in your future journeys!

All the best,
Jimena

Great experience despite falling sick
Peru | Jul 1 - Jul 8, 2025

D
Daisy J.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jul 12, 2025
Unfortunately, most of our group experienced the "travelers diarrhea" on different days of the tour. Despite, our guides were patient and understanding, still trying to make the best experience possible. Willy was our guide most of the trip and he is very knowledgeable. He also suggested switching day tour to a different day to allow our group to recover (which was much needed and appreciated). The whole tour was well planned by Jimena, hitting all the spots we wanted to see and the hotel... Read more

Unfortunately, most of our group experienced the "travelers diarrhea" on different days of the tour. Despite, our guides were patient and understanding, still trying to make the best experience possible. Willy was our guide most of the trip and he is very knowledgeable. He also suggested switching day tour to a different day to allow our group to recover (which was much needed and appreciated). The whole tour was well planned by Jimena, hitting all the spots we wanted to see and the hotel selection was perfect. Despite falling sick, the food experiences were amazing (don't think that caused the sickness).

Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Jul 14, 2025

Dear Daisy

Thank you so much for your kind review. My team and I are truly happy to hear that both families had a great experience overall, even with the unexpected sickness along the way. We were fully committed to making sure you felt cared for and we’re glad we were able to support you during those moments.

These situations can happen during a trip, but our goal is always to provide comfort, flexibility, and personalized attention so that everyone returns home with beautiful memories.

Wishing you all the best in your future travels!

Sending my best from Lima, Peru,
Jimena

Amazing Trip
Peru | Jun 19 - Jun 29, 2025

Phillip
Phillip W.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Jul 03, 2025
Luis was exceptional. He gave us his undivided attention every moment of every day we were with him. His knowledge of the history and culture of the Cusco/Sacred Valley region facilitated extremely education experiences, and his energy kept us active and ensured days full of adventure. Though we spent less time with them, our guides in Lima and the Altiplano were wonderful too. Read more

Luis was exceptional. He gave us his undivided attention every moment of every day we were with him. His knowledge of the history and culture of the Cusco/Sacred Valley region facilitated extremely education experiences, and his energy kept us active and ensured days full of adventure. Though we spent less time with them, our guides in Lima and the Altiplano were wonderful too.

Hotel Reviews
Terra Andina Mansion Colonial
Cusco

The breakfasts and staff were very good. Unfortunately, the accommodations left quite a lot to be desired. The room was very cramped, had no windows or other means of ventilation, and was way too warm at night. There was no room for unpacking luggage. The bathroom smelled of sewage. The hot water was unreliable. And, the soap and shampoo dispensers remained empty, despite our requests that they be refilled. The building has a beautiful interior, but we would opt for a Motel 6 over such an uncomfortable facility.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful colonial interior
Location
Close to main square, market, and other attractions
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cramped. Sewage smell. Hot at night. No window or other means of ventilation.
Urubamba Ava Valle Sagrado Spot
Urubamba

Beautiful rustic hotel with great staff. Unreliable hot water and no bathroom ventilation.

Authenticity & Character
Pleasantly rustic
Location
Close to town and restaurants
Staff
Great staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very comfortable except for lack of hot water and bathroom ventilation
Sonesta Posadas del Inca Puno
Puno

Beautiful view, great staff, good restaurant, comfortable room. More modern than our other accommodations while in Peru.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Lakefront with mountain view
Staff
Very helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tierra Viva Miraflores Larco
Lima

The accommodations were comfortable, and the locations was convenient. There was no electricity or hot water the first night.

Authenticity & Character
I'm not sure what's meant here by authenticity. This is a modern boutique hotel without a lot of character, but it was comfortable. The breakfast was good.
Location
Close to restaurants and a short drive to Barranco.
Staff
The staff were courteous.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was comfortable, but the lack of electricity the first night was a little inconvenient. The room was clean.
Tierra Viva Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu

Beautiful hotel in a great location. Close to all the in-town attractions. Very friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Modern but with a lot of character. Spacious room. Welcoming entrance atrium with an interesting glass door elevator.
Location
Close to everything in Aguas Calientes.
Staff
The staff were very helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The accommodations were clean and comfortable.
Activity Review
Walking food tour at Barranco
Walking food tour at Barranco
Lima

Ceci was a great guide. The tour was very informative, and we got to try quite a lot of different foods. Most of the food was prepared in front of us with the chefs explaining the process as they went. Barranco is beautiful. A must-do tour.

Quality of Experience
Great guide, beautiful area, great food, and helpful demonstrations and explanations.
Food
All the food was great.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ceci told us about her and her families experiences and customs with particular foods and drinks. This helped us to understand the food within the greater context of the local culture. All the chefs and hosts were courteous and eager to provide detailed explanation.
Transport
It was a walking tour, which suited us and made for a more relaxing experience.
Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Jul 04, 2025
Hi Phil! Thank you so much for your nice review. We’re really happy to hear that you had a wonderful trip overall and that each of your guides made the experience memorable for you and Melyssa. I also appreciate your honest feedback about the hotels. I’m glad you loved Sonesta Posadas in Puno and had a good experience with the staff at Ava Valle and Terra Andina. I’m sorry that the cleanliness and comfort at those two hotels didn’t fully meet your expectations. Wishing you all the best in... Read more

Hi Phil!

Thank you so much for your nice review. We’re really happy to hear that you had a wonderful trip overall and that each of your guides made the experience memorable for you and Melyssa.

I also appreciate your honest feedback about the hotels. I’m glad you loved Sonesta Posadas in Puno and had a good experience with the staff at Ava Valle and Terra Andina. I’m sorry that the cleanliness and comfort at those two hotels didn’t fully meet your expectations.

Wishing you all the best in your future travels. And if you ever plan to come back to Peru, I’d be very happy to help you again!

Best,
Jime

One of the best trip of my life. Everything w...
Peru | Apr 18 - Apr 27, 2025

G
Gianmarco S.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Apr 29, 2025

One of the best trip of my life. Everything was perfectly planned. In 10 days we were able to explore the amazon, climb the andes, and even sandsurf in the desert. Lima is such a vibrant city. Peruvians are extremely nice, and their culture is very fascinating. A special mention for the food, which was simply amazing.
Highly recommended!

Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on May 06, 2025

Hola Gianmarco!

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave this lovely review! It was a real pleasure to help you and Laura with your adventure in Peru, especially while celebrating your birthdays!

I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed our food and culture 😊

If you ever plan to come back, I’d love to help you create another special trip.

Best
Jime

Our trip to Peru was absolutely amazing. Kimk...
Peru | Apr 23 - Apr 24, 2025

L
Laura M.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Apr 27, 2025
Our trip to Peru was absolutely amazing. Kimkim / Jimena did a WONDERFUL job with our itinerary. We saw so much in only 9 days, she really maximized our time in this country. We saw the Amazon, cities, archeological /historical sites, animals, had amazing food and took great pictures. Jimena incorporated everything we asked for and even arranged for special surprises for mine and my partner’s birthdays. She was also always available for questions. It was fantastic. Could not recommend it more. Read more

Our trip to Peru was absolutely amazing. Kimkim / Jimena did a WONDERFUL job with our itinerary. We saw so much in only 9 days, she really maximized our time in this country. We saw the Amazon, cities, archeological /historical sites, animals, had amazing food and took great pictures. Jimena incorporated everything we asked for and even arranged for special surprises for mine and my partner’s birthdays. She was also always available for questions. It was fantastic. Could not recommend it more.

Activity Review
Full Day Machu Picchu Exploration
Full Day Machu Picchu Exploration
Peru

Wonderful, amazing place, including the vistadome train ride (complete with musicians and dancing!)

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jimena Salazar
Jimena
Jimena Salazar
Local specialist in Lima, Peru | Replied on Apr 28, 2025

Dear Laura

Thank you so much for your kind words! It truly makes me so happy to hear that you had such an amazing experience with Gianmarco. It was a pleasure helping you plan this special trip, and I'm so glad you enjoyed every moment. Wishing you many more wonderful adventures ahead! 🌟