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active 13 hours ago

Lorena Huidobro

I believe that those of us who love to travel tend to have a more open mind and free spirit. Being open to experience new adventures, explore the unknown, see the beauty in the simple things, taste unique foods, connect with the local culture, and in the process, become a more round individual.

What places and activities do you specialize in?

"I craft bespoke travel experiences to Chile, from the Atacama Desert to Patagonia, including Easter Island and Antarctica. I also love combining Chile with Argentina, Bolivia, and Peru. Each trip is tailored to the client, with personalized suggestions and a focus on quality. I'm flexible on budget, but quality's my top priority, with 24/7 support throughout the journey."

How did you get involved in travel?

"I was born and raised in Chile and have lived both in Spain and the USA. Nature has always attracted me for the peace it brings about. It fills my heart and soul. I have been to North, Central, and South America, Europe, part of Asia, and Australia. I still have a lot of places on my bucket list, hopefully Machu Picchu is next!
"

Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.

"Being on an exclusive (but rather affordable!) cruise that travels the remote area from Punta Arenas at the very south of Chile, through fjords and glaciers, the legendary Cape Horn, and arrives in Ushuaia, Argentina. We had daily land expeditions, enjoyed amazing food, and explored a completely virgin area, with zero communication with the world, nothing to keep your mind busy except the beauty of the scenery. It just fills you up."

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Family itineraries
Luxury itineraries
Road trip itineraries

Recent trip reviews for Lorena

Stellar service from KimKim
Chile | Nov 1 - Nov 13, 2025

T
Teri H.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Nov 15, 2025
My husband and I looked at several tour agencies to help us plan a trip to the Lake District of Chile. KimKim came out of the gate with quick, helpful replies. Lorena was awesome as she helped tailor a 2 week visit with accommodations that met our needs and then some, as well as activities and tours . She was flexible as we went back and forth, as we did not a cookie cutter tour, but one that met our interests. One of the many experiences she recommended was an adventure cruise on the... Read more

My husband and I looked at several tour agencies to help us plan a trip to the Lake District of Chile. KimKim came out of the gate with quick, helpful replies. Lorena was awesome as she helped tailor a 2 week visit with accommodations that met our needs and then some, as well as activities and tours . She was flexible as we went back and forth, as we did not a cookie cutter tour, but one that met our interests. One of the many experiences she recommended was an adventure cruise on the Skorpios 2… probably the highlight of our trip. If anyone gets the chance to take this cruise… do it. The service and sights were outstanding.
Lorena stayed in communication with us from start to finish… she deserves a big bonus!
We were also very happy with Vaale who was our local KimKim contact. The Whatsapp chat was very helpful and always answered quickly. There wasn’t one hiccup on this trip… all drivers, guides and accommodations were perfect. We will definitely be using KimKim again in the future. Thanks for making this a memorable trip.
Teri and Rob

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Eco Boutique Bidasoa
Santiago

Wow… a beautiful boutique hotel that was reasonably priced. The breakfasts were outstanding and included. The staff was attentive and friendly. The rooms and beds were comfortable and clean. The hotel is not close to the center of Santiago, but Uber is easy and quick to use and less expensive than in the US. There are plenty of good restaurants nearby if you don’t eat at the hotel’s restaurant. It is very safe to walk around the area of the hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Wyndham Puerto Varas Pettra
Puerto Varas

This hotel is situated on a hill above the huge lake and if you get a room with a view… which I highly recommend…you can sit on a balcony looking at the 2 different volcanoes across the lake. It is a 5 minute walk to center of Puerto Varas… a cute town with many good restaurants nearby and shops. The rooms were spacious, clean and comfortable. The breakfasts were typical Chilean breakfasts and more than fueled you for a busy morning exploring the area and national parks. It was a perfect place to stay to explore the Lake District.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
M/V Skorpios II Cruise
Santiago

If you get the chance… book this adventure cruise. The attentive service is outstanding. They sat us at a dining table of other English speaking people, as we were definitely the minority. But they made sure they provided English translations for any announcements or lectures. We soon became fast friends with the people at our dining table. The stops and sights along this cruise were memorable, with the visit to the San Raphael glacier being the highlight. Often we needed to take a smaller boat to visit the sights. The ship and its rooms were very comfortable and clean. The food was plentiful and delicious. A couple of our dining partners had food allergy issues that the staff were mindful of and provided good alternatives as needed. We loved that the cruise was small… we had only 70 people on board on our cruise in early November. We all dressed for an active trip. We didn’t want the typical large cruise experience and you won’t find it here, as it is geared to getting out and exploring the area along the route. We would highly recommend this cruise.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
City Tour in Puerto Montt & Puerto Varas
City Tour in Puerto Montt & Puerto Varas
Puerto Varas

After a quick flight from Santiago to Puerto Montt we were met by a great guide arranged by KimKim and its affiliate LS. He took us around Puerto Montt and Puerto Varas, pointing out the local history, interesting sights and giving us helpful suggestions for our stay.

Quality of Experience
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transport
Maipo Valley Wine Experience
Maipo Valley Wine Experience
Santiago

We enjoyed seeing both a small winery and one of the biggest ones in Chile. The tour guides were excellent and well informed. The lunch was very good. Our driver was very nice, always early and fun to be with.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Day Trip to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
Day Trip to Vicente Pérez Rosales National Park
Puerto Varas

Beautiful national park with easy paved trails. It was a time of year the schools are winding down before their big break , so it was filled with alot of very happy teenagers . They were well behaved, but made it a bit crowded to stand at the over looks at times. The highlight was when our guide drove up to the big inactive volcano where we took a chairlift up to the bottom of the snow covered part of the volcano. You could hike around the area. We were lucky to have clear skies so we could take lots of pictures of the views. The lunch we stopped in as part of the tour was delicious and loved that it was a local spot.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Trekking in Alerce Andino National Park
Trekking in Alerce Andino National Park
Puerto Varas

A great all day experience hiking about 5 miles on mainly flat terrain through an old growth forest. There are several steps at end to the waterfall, but it was safe and well maintained. Our guide was very knowledgeable about the park and we enjoyed may conversations with him on a variety of subjects .

Quality of Experience
Food
This was no fault of our guide, it just wasn't the best meal, as we are not big sandwich eaters. Perhaps a list of potential food options could be given to tailor a box lunch to our tastes.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skorpios II - 6 days/5 nights Cruise
Skorpios II - 6 days/5 nights Cruise
Chile

Please see my detailed review of our KimKim experience in the first review in the list of reviews, as I gave specific information about this outstanding adventure cruise.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Fly fishing on the Río Maullín
Fly fishing on the Río Maullín
Chile

My husband wanted to do this activity as he is an avid fly fisherman. He raved about how accommodating the guide was to meet his specific interests and needs. It was a fun experience that allowed him to catch several big lake trouts.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Nov 15, 2025

Hi Teri and Rob,

Thank you so much for your beautiful review! It truly means the world to me. Planning your Lake District adventure—especially crafting something unique—was an absolute pleasure. I’m thrilled that the Skorpios II cruise became such a highlight and that everything ran smoothly from start to finish.

Your kind words about Vaale and our teamwork made our day. I’d be honored to help you and Rob again whenever your next adventure calls in South America.

A big hug from Chile,
Lorena

I travelled to Chile and Argentina from 10/03...
Chile | Oct 4 - Oct 17, 2025

Neil
Neil M.
Philadelphia, PA | Reviewed on Oct 20, 2025
I travelled to Chile and Argentina from 10/03/25-10/17/25. I asked Lorena my travel expert to provide me an action adventure vacation that included the W trek in Torre Del Paine park Patagonia.
Lorena hit a home run with my itenary.
All the hotels I stayed in were very modern in awesome neighborhoods where I could walk to restaurants and shopping. She also arranged a bike tour in Santiago that was great
I had a friendly driver to take me to and from the
airports.
She arranged a...
Read more

I travelled to Chile and Argentina from 10/03/25-10/17/25. I asked Lorena my travel expert to provide me an action adventure vacation that included the W trek in Torre Del Paine park Patagonia.
Lorena hit a home run with my itenary.
All the hotels I stayed in were very modern in awesome neighborhoods where I could walk to restaurants and shopping. She also arranged a bike tour in Santiago that was great
I had a friendly driver to take me to and from the
airports.
She arranged a local travel expert Valentina who was my WhatsApp go to for all my questions and on the ground support throughout my travel adventure. She was always available which took all the worry out of my vacation plans
The Wtrek 4day 3 nite in Torre Del Paine national park was amazing! It was a very challenging hiking experience but the scenery is stunning. Lorena picked the perfect amount of days for me to spend in the park. She also arranged my stay in the above ground tent which was a cool experience and all my excellent vegetarian meals.
My travel on the ground included extremely comfortable buses and it was awesome to sit back and view the beautiful landscape as I travelled from Chile to Argentina.
The hotels in Argentina were also super comfortable and the local hiking in El Chalten was great.
Lorena and Valentina did an amazing job providing me with a well thought out action adventure itenary in Chile and Argentina within my budget.
This is exactly what I wanted.

Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Oct 20, 2025

Hi Neil,

I'm thrilled to hear that your action-packed adventure to Chile and Argentina exceeded your expectations! The W Trek in Torres del Paine sounds like it was a highlight, and we are proud of you for such an inspiring achievement going solo.

Thank you for sharing this fantastic experience with us. We're delighted you enjoyed this adventure. Please know we're here if you have any future travel dreams – we'd love to help craft another unforgettable journey for you!

All the best,
Lorena (and Valentina)

The Perfect Trip
Chile | Jan 3 - Jan 26, 2025

David
David K.
Bend, OR | Reviewed on Feb 19, 2025
This trip to Chile was for four of us. We are experienced travelers (including two prior trips to Argentina) and it is from that perspective that we have unqualified praise for Lorena and her team. We provided a general idea of what we wanted to do, she provided options and then helped us make final decisions. With only minor exceptions, (which we have already told her about) everything she booked for us was perfect--the lodging, the tours, the boat trip and the transfers. We had one... Read more

This trip to Chile was for four of us. We are experienced travelers (including two prior trips to Argentina) and it is from that perspective that we have unqualified praise for Lorena and her team. We provided a general idea of what we wanted to do, she provided options and then helped us make final decisions. With only minor exceptions, (which we have already told her about) everything she booked for us was perfect--the lodging, the tours, the boat trip and the transfers. We had one transfer fail to show at the Balmaceda airport, but she had us rebooked with someone else within 30 minutes. Also, we had some itinerary adjustments along the way, including adding a land transfer to Argentina.
Lorena was just super helpful with everything
Other Highlights:
-- Soledad, our guide in Santiago and Valparaiso was top notch. We really enjoyed the two days we spent with her.
--Dinner with Gloria: We felt so fortunate to be able to enjoy a home cooked meal in Glorias home. This feels like a special touch that most travelers don't get.
--The Skorpios Cruise: The perfect way to experience the fjords and archipelago of southern Chile. The crew and program on the ship was very high quality.
--Vicente Perez National Park Tour: Our guide Christian was excellent and proved invaluable in solving a minor medical issue one of us had in Puerto Varas
--Transfers: We had a lot of them and with the one exception noted above, they were perfect. The drivers were on time, interesting to talk with and helpful

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Wyndham Puerto Varas Pettra
Puerto Varas

Great location with great views. We had two separate one night stays during our trip

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
M/V Skorpios II Cruise
Santiago

Incredible cruise. The archipelago is stunningly beautiful and the San Rafael glacier was amazing. Highly recommend it. The crew is knowledgeable and helpful Everything is well organized. The food was really good.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Don Luis
Puerto Montt

Do not recommend. Conveyed this to Lorena earlier

Hotel NOI Blend Colchagua
Santa Cruz, O'Higgins

Set among the vinyards and close to many excellent wineries.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Boutique Le Reve
Santiago

Great location, lovely garden for breakfast, friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Skorpios II - 6 days/5 nights Cruise
Skorpios II - 6 days/5 nights Cruise
Chile

The Skorpios II cruise was absolutely fabulous. It was easily one of the highlights of our trip. Everything about it was just incredible. Highly recommend it!

Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Feb 20, 2025

Dear David,
It was my pleasure to help coordinate and bring to life this fantastic trip for Pam, you, and the MacNichols. I truly appreciate your kind words and I also learned a lot in the process.
Travelers like you make our job more interesting by finding hidden treasures that allow them to enjoy nature and experience the local culture.
I wish you all the best and hope you return to South America soon for more adventures.
Warmest regards,
Lorena

Lorena did an outstanding job all the way aro...
Chile | Jan 3 - Jan 26, 2025

C
Carter M.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Feb 07, 2025
Lorena did an outstanding job all the way around. Our accommodations were excellent. Transfers (with one exception) excellent and timely. Lorena always responsive and helpful. This was an epic trip for us and we owe great thanks to Lorena for that! Read more

Lorena did an outstanding job all the way around. Our accommodations were excellent. Transfers (with one exception) excellent and timely. Lorena always responsive and helpful. This was an epic trip for us and we owe great thanks to Lorena for that!

Activity Reviews
Fly-Fishing Program Magic Waters Patagonia
Fly-Fishing Program Magic Waters Patagonia
Puerto Bertrand
Skorpios II - 6 days/5 nights Cruise
Skorpios II - 6 days/5 nights Cruise
Chile

Definitely a trip to do., Small ships. Greater food. Incredible experiences.,

Quality of Experience
Montes Winery - Tour Premium
Montes Winery - Tour Premium
Chile

Great restaurant, and great wine.

Quality of Experience
Valparaíso & Wine Tour - Private
Valparaíso & Wine Tour - Private
Santiago

Old town Valparaiso was excellent! Highly recommended. Sole took us on an awesome tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Dinner Experience
Private Dinner Experience
Santiago

Gloria and Leonids were suggest gracious hosts and it was an honor to have a meal in their home. Highly recommend this to anyone who has the chance. Just an amazing experience. I will never forget the “third flavor”.

Quality of Experience
Food
Gloria prepared an amazing dinner, paired with Leonides excellent wines. What a gift it was to be with them!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Santiago City Tour - Private
Santiago City Tour - Private
Chile

Sole was fantastic! Great tours. Deep and thoughtful knowledge. A pleasure to be with Sole!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Feb 07, 2025

Dear Jenny and Carter,
Muchas gracias for your kind words! It truly means a lot to hear that your trip was such a memorable one. It was my pleasure to assist and I'm so glad everything went smoothly (well, almost everything!). If you plan another trip to South America in the future, don't hesitate to reach out.
Always the best,
Lorena

Great Itinerary and Great Experience in Patagonia
Chile | Jan 22 - Jan 28, 2025

D
Dave C.
Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Reviewed on Jan 29, 2025
I thought the itinerary that Lorena worked with on turned out to be fantastic! A great mix of normal touring and experienced based activities! Specifically our guides for Torres De Paine, Ramiro - W Circuit Patagonia and our Torres Overview Tour Guide - Jose Gonzalez were outstanding. In addition I wanted to give a shout out to Valentina our local KimKIM Operations leader in Chile did a great job. The Magdelena Island / Penguin Colony and the Lago Grey Glacier are don't miss events. Read more

I thought the itinerary that Lorena worked with on turned out to be fantastic! A great mix of normal touring and experienced based activities! Specifically our guides for Torres De Paine, Ramiro - W Circuit Patagonia and our Torres Overview Tour Guide - Jose Gonzalez were outstanding. In addition I wanted to give a shout out to Valentina our local KimKIM Operations leader in Chile did a great job. The Magdelena Island / Penguin Colony and the Lago Grey Glacier are don't miss events.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Lago Grey
Torres del Paine

Lago Grey was outstanding! Yes, it is remote within the National Park....but that was made it terrific. The on-site restaurant was fantastic, staff were very supportive and customer focused, and the rooms were big with knock out views of Lago Grey. The room did have a TV, but no refrigerator, but the staff were super accommodating to helping us get medications properly stored. I can't say enough great things about this property...a definite must go!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Vendaval
Puerto Natales

If you are looking for a higher end accommodation, this may not be your place. It is centrally located in Puerto Natales, but the rooms were small and you won't be able to control room temperature from individual rooms. The room didn't come with a TV (which was ok, but not great), and no refrigerator...which was an issue because my wife has medications that required that. If you go upstairs to the hotel bar be prepared at checkout to have to pay in Chilean Pesos...since they wouldn't allow credit cards to finalize the bill...just a couple of small amenities that could have been better.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Ilaia
Punta Arenas

We were only there for a quick overnight ~8 hours. The hotel was fairly comfortable, and the staff was friendly. Probably not the best location or option if you are going to stay more than a couple of nights

Authenticity & Character
Location
Outside of town, not centrally located
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Boat Trip to Glacier Grey
Boat Trip to Glacier Grey
Chile

One of our highlights..especially since we stayed right at the Hotel Lago Grey! The boat trip was fantastic and the views of the glacier were awe inspiring!! This is a can't miss excursion if you are anywhere near Lago Grey.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Torres del Paine National Park Private Tour
Torres del Paine National Park Private Tour
Puerto Natales

This overview type tour was fantastic. Jose Gonzalez was one of the best tour guides we have ever experienced anywhere. This tour gives a great taste of many aspects of Torres Del Paine National Park...which was a great way to see a lot of things in half a day! The provided lunch at the Lago Grey cafeteria was very good and needed !! Nicely done to Jose!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jose's knowledge and presentation style made this a great tour
Transport
Base Torres Hike
Base Torres Hike
Chile

Spectacular...but be forewarned, this hike is a difficult trek (not close to moderate) and not for the faint of heart. Views were spectacular and the guides were fantastic. 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) with elevation changes and variable trail conditions and weather conditions made this an experience of a lifetime, but also challenging!

Quality of Experience
Food
The provided lunch bag was not nearly enough nutrition to support this type of hike...bring energy bars and other food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Penguin Colony on Magdalena Island
Penguin Colony on Magdalena Island
Patagonia

Worth the effort to go to the island and view the penguins and other birds in their natural environment. A great tour for the Punta Arenas time of our itinerary

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Feb 01, 2025

Dear Dave and Rosana, I loved reading your kind review. Thanks for the sweet words and the details on the hotels and tours. I shared your compliments with Jose and Valentina, they were happy to hear them!
After several years of planning this adventurous trip it finally became true. Please come and visit us again, there’s so much more to see and do in South America and I’d love to plan another great experience for you.
I wish you both an amazing rest of the year.
All the best,
Lorena

Felt in good hands
Patagonia | Jan 5 - Jan 24, 2025

Bruna
Bruna I.
Australia | Reviewed on Jan 29, 2025
We visited Patagonia in Chile and Argentina. Undoubtedly, Patagonia is the most spectacular environment I have ever visited. Biodiversity is still noticeable in that part of the world and I hope it will be forever preserved that way. The Andean Condor, Uppland geese, culpeos and guanacos are still common sight. I wish I had seen the timid armadillo! It was suggested by Lorena that we rented a car to travel within North Patagonia and then Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine. The roads from... Read more

We visited Patagonia in Chile and Argentina. Undoubtedly, Patagonia is the most spectacular environment I have ever visited. Biodiversity is still noticeable in that part of the world and I hope it will be forever preserved that way. The Andean Condor, Uppland geese, culpeos and guanacos are still common sight. I wish I had seen the timid armadillo!

It was suggested by Lorena that we rented a car to travel within North Patagonia and then Punta Arenas to Torres del Paine. The roads from Balmaceda Airport to Puerto Guadal and around Torres del Paine were unpaved or filled with craters in the paved roads, which made the driving conditions dangerous and so it became necessary to drive between 20 - 60 km/h. Nevertheless, the scenery in those areas were breathtaking! Also, petrol stations are hard to come by and we needed to make that planning ourselves. We were not given this information beforehand. A bus trip from Puerto Natales to El Calafate was added to our itinerary and it was not the 4 h stated on our itinerary, but 6 h. It was the most uncomfortable part of the trip, as we were crammed in like sardines.

In the plus side, all hotels suggested were excellent. My top picks were Lago Grey Hotel and Mirador Puerto Guadal, plus the food at the Yegua Loca restaurant. The best boat trip was to Spegazzini glacier.

Lorena was always very prompt at helping us when needed, even when we were still in Santiago. We felt safe under her care and she sorted issues very quickly. On the improvement side, the itineraries could have been checked a few hours in advance to avoid some of the issues.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Kosten Aike
El Calafate

Good location and good facilities. A hotel working towards environmental sustainability.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Lago Grey
Torres del Paine

Incredible location! We could still see the glacier from our room. We saw so many wild animals, like the caracara, culpeo zorro and Magellanic woodpecker. It is a walking distance to easy walks in the forest through Rio Pingo and Grey Glacier. Restaurant staff were very friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Mirador del Guadal
Puerto Guadal

Stephan was an amazing host, always checking in with us to provide us with local tips on what to do or just have a friendly chat. The local chef was excellent and we enjoyed the quality of the breakfast and dinners. The best of all was the superb view from the cabin and the amazing nature surrounding us.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Spectacular nature
Staff
Friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore the Brazil Side - Foz do Iguaçu
Explore the Brazil Side - Foz do Iguaçu
Argentina

We only spent two hours on the Park and we were hoping for at least 4 h. We felt rushed again and could not enjoy the beautiful sight standing before us for long enough. We stayed in the Argentinian side so had to travel to the Brazilian side and be subjected to passport control, but we stayed inside the van and the guide handled everything. We also stayed in the van to enter the park as opposed to take their double decker bus.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Iguazú Falls (Argentine Side) & Great Adventure
Explore Iguazú Falls (Argentine Side) & Great Adventure
Argentina

The trails were great but we were rushed throghout the whole experience. It was very busy with lots of tourists queuing everywhere. We also did the Great Adventure in the boat where we soaked from being underneath some of the falls! We loved that part of the day. Beautiful place and it would be great to do it without a guide rushing through, so that we can enjoy the natural surroundings. The guide should have also spoken in Spanish to the group member who did not speak English but he ignored her most of the time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boat Tour Through The Glaciers
Boat Tour Through The Glaciers
El Calafate

This is a must tour! We loved it! The catamaran was really modern. We loved the iceberg sculptures. It is a real shame that these beautiful glaciers are disappearing as a result of anthropogenic climate change.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Tour from El Calafate to El Chaltén
Guided Tour from El Calafate to El Chaltén
El Calafate

The guide was wonderful! She had great knowledge of the area and very happy to answer extra questions in English. Before we reached El Chalten, we stopped at the Hotel Las Leonas for a coffee, photo, souvenir opportunity and/or toilet break. And she stopped for two other photo opportunities on the way. There was only one hike going up but not for that long. The second walk was at ground level towards the waterfall.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Perito Moreno Blue Safari
Perito Moreno Blue Safari
El Calafate

When we reached the National Park, we could view the glacier from the wooden platforms from the yellow and blue trails. This was also during the time allocated for lunch break. After that, we took the boat to enjoy a walk closer to the glacier where we could touch it and even ‘drink’ a piece of ice from it. It is a real shame that these beautiful glaciers are disappearing as a result of anthropogenic climate change.

Quality of Experience
Food
The sandwich was too dry.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wildlife Photo Safari in Patagonia
Wildlife Photo Safari in Patagonia
Punta Arenas

The guide was exceptional! She knew so much about the birds in the area. We observed several species and watched several condors fly!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Penguin Colony on Magdalena Island
Penguin Colony on Magdalena Island
Chile

The guide was excellent at covering the information in both Spanish and English. It was good to see the park rangers on watch on the island to protest the welfare of the animals. We saw other bird species, like the Upland Geese and Seagull. The trip to the Marta island was shorter than to observe the penguins, because we needed to stay on the boat not to upset the sea lions, which was sensible.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Marble Caves Boat Tour
Marble Caves Boat Tour
Chile

The marble caves are really worthwhile a visit! The guide gave some good basic scientific background as to how they were formed and those not listening could still take some amazing photos of the beautiful geological formations.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was knowledgeable and had good sense of humour. Staff back in the office were a bit rude.
Transport
Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Mar 01, 2025

Dear Bruna and Rod, I sincerely appreciate your insightful review and am glad to know you enjoyed beautiful Patagonia. We will take into consideration all of your comments to offer a better experience for future travelers. We are always happy to provide in-trip support to ensure a smooth holiday.
All the best to both of you,
Lorena

Spot on Communication and Service
Chile | Dec 26 - Jan 4, 2025

Mike
Mike T.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Jan 11, 2025
The KimKim Team's planning was spot on. Lorena and her on the ground team in Chile were communicative, clear, and patient with our questions and needs. The trip delivered on every planned meeting, excursion, driver, and connection. The team on the ground was helpful with airline check-ins, local recommendations, and thoughtful check-ins. Tours, hotels, and excursions were exactly as described and were well done. The Stargazing tours in the Atacama desert were a once in a life time... Read more

The KimKim Team's planning was spot on.

Lorena and her on the ground team in Chile were communicative, clear, and patient with our questions and needs. The trip delivered on every planned meeting, excursion, driver, and connection. The team on the ground was helpful with airline check-ins, local recommendations, and thoughtful check-ins. Tours, hotels, and excursions were exactly as described and were well done. The Stargazing tours in the Atacama desert were a once in a life time experience. Lorena did a very nice job taking into account the ages and ability level of my traveling party which made the trip more doable and memorable.

Thank you for a wonderful experience.

Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Jan 11, 2025

We appreciate your kindness and gratitude! It was a pleasure to plan this trip for both of you. We are always happy to assist with questions and ease the mind when traveling to a far country with a foreign language so that you never feel alone. If you plan on visiting South America in the future, let us know and we will take great care of you once again.
All the best,
Lorena

Trekking Torres del Paine with Patagonia Adventures
Chile | Dec 29 - Jan 3, 2025

G
Gavin D.
Australia | Reviewed on Jan 06, 2025
Trekking Torres del Paine with W Circuit on day 1 was a good introduction to the sights of Patagonia, however the mini bus was poor with cramped seating on rough roads.
Boat tour to Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers was a highlight as the fiords were spectacular, however the boat had poor worn seats and was best viewed from the upper deck. Also ranch lunch was poor as meat full of crissle and salad only lettuce.
Full day tour of Torres del Paine Park partly doubled up on the first day trekking,...
Read more

Trekking Torres del Paine with W Circuit on day 1 was a good introduction to the sights of Patagonia, however the mini bus was poor with cramped seating on rough roads.
Boat tour to Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers was a highlight as the fiords were spectacular, however the boat had poor worn seats and was best viewed from the upper deck. Also ranch lunch was poor as meat full of crissle and salad only lettuce.
Full day tour of Torres del Paine Park partly doubled up on the first day trekking, however while overcast and raining on first day the Full Day vehicle tour was better with clear skies and superior comfortable vehicle from Patagonia Planet which is highly recommended.
Last day trekking and Condor watching was the highlight as the guide Patagonia Adventure Jorge was brilliant and spoke fluent English. He went out of his way to find condors and we were treated to clear skies and a condor aerial display.
Hotel accommodation at Puerto Natalie's Hotel Vendaval offered small modern rooms which were ok however very noisy as sound travels through the floor and walls.

Hotel Review
Hotel Vendaval
Puerto Natales

Small modern rooms which were ok however no sound proofing and very noisy.

Authenticity & Character
Distinctive red multi storey building and modern by Puerto Natalie's standard.
Location
The hotel is located between the waterfront and the town square and good facilities nearby.
Staff
No problem with English communication
Cleanliness & Comfort
Good modern facilities and large king bed.
Activity Reviews
Boat Tour to Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers
Boat Tour to Balmaceda & Serrano Glaciers
Chile

Great scenery on the fiords.

Quality of Experience
Food
Lunch at the ranch poor.
Trekking and Condor Watching
Trekking and Condor Watching
Puerto Natales

Beautiful scenery and expert guide.

Quality of Experience
The guide was excellent at finding resting condors.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great information, very personable and fluent English.
Transport
Private car for 4 people.
Full-Day Tour of Torres del Paine National Park
Full-Day Tour of Torres del Paine National Park
Chile

Good driver and guide and comfortable vehicle.

Quality of Experience
Food
The lunch provided at the Rio Pingo restaurant was expensive and terrible.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Trekking Torres del Paine Active
Trekking Torres del Paine Active
Chile

Good tour guide, however poor mini bus.

Quality of Experience
Food
The food served at the Rio Pingo restaurant is expensive and terrible.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Jan 06, 2025

Gavin, we really appreciate the time to leave a thorough review of your Patagonia trip. I will pass on the comments to our providers. It is good to know that you were able to enjoy various activities in the area, ending with the best!
We wish all the best to you and Ruth and hope you will continue to enjoy visiting new places around the world,
Lorena

A year in the making
Argentina | Sep 30 - Oct 15, 2024

Aris
Aris D.
Hilo, HI | Reviewed on Oct 21, 2024

This trip took a year to plan, though that time Lorena was so patient and communicated very well. The itinerary that she made for me was tweaked for my liking. Everything was to the T from pick up, tour, hotel, bus. The hotel that she picked was great. Lorena did an excellent job and her team was great.I was going to this trip knowing it's going to be a good trip but it exceeded my expectations it was great!!

Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Oct 24, 2024

Hola Aris, I am so happy to hear you enjoyed this fully customized trip to Chile. You are an adventurous traveler who got to see so many different places in our country and experience a variety of activities. Come back to visit the rest of South America any time, we'll be excited to host you again!
Best always,
Lorena

Our guides, Lorena and Johnny; and our driver...
Chile | Sep 27 - Oct 10, 2024

D
Dan B.
Sedona, AZ | Reviewed on Oct 18, 2024
Our guides, Lorena and Johnny; and our drivers, William, Ivan, and Carlos were excellent. The driver who took us to and from the Chilean/Bolivian border knew the procedure very well. The guides were exceptional, having very good local knowledge, cultural, political, geologic, archeological, etc. information. Their English language skills were very proficient and this was helpful for us non-Spanish speaking visitors. The guides listened to our needs and wants and adjusted schedules... Read more

Our guides, Lorena and Johnny; and our drivers, William, Ivan, and Carlos were excellent. The driver who took us to and from the Chilean/Bolivian border knew the procedure very well. The guides were exceptional, having very good local knowledge, cultural, political, geologic, archeological, etc. information. Their English language skills were very proficient and this was helpful for us non-Spanish speaking visitors.

The guides listened to our needs and wants and adjusted schedules accordingly. They understood that our group was photographically oriented and they readily accommodated our needs. They also were aware of good photo locations. They were customer-focused and attended to our needs. The afternoon snacks and beverages offered by the guides was a classy touch. Guides and drivers were on time.

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Noi Borde Loa
Calama
Authenticity & Character
Well appointed and decorated
Location
Convenient location to the airport
Staff
Staff was somewhat lackluster, especially with the dinner service.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tayka Del Desierto
Ojo de Perdiz
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tayka de Piedra
San Pedro de Quemes
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel de Sal Luna Salada
Uyuni
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Staff was unresponsive to our requests to control the noise made by 80 high school students running, yelling, etc. in the halls and rooms until 3:00 am on the two nights we stayed.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mallku Cueva
Villa Mar

Clean, quiet, nicely decorated. Simple meals. Friendly staff.

Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel La Casa de Don Tomás
San Pedro de Atacama

Friendly and attentive staff. The restaurant served very good food a reasonable prices.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Explore Yerbas Buenas & Rainbow Valley
Explore Yerbas Buenas & Rainbow Valley
San Pedro de Atacama

Good breakfast, nice scenary. Felt a bit rushed with the photography, as we were a private group.,

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ancestral Convoy with Llamas
Ancestral Convoy with Llamas
San Pedro de Atacama
Quality of Experience
Competent local guide, just wasn't interesting for me.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Knowledgable, competent, friendly, helpful
Transport
On time, clean vehicles, comfortable
Local specialist: Lorena Huidobro
Lorena
Lorena Huidobro
Local specialist in Houston, TX & Santiago, Chile | Replied on Oct 18, 2024

Dan, I appreciate you leaving such a detailed review of your Chile/Bolivia adventures. I will contact our local providers with this information to either congratulate them or suggest improvements. Thanks again for trusting Kimkim and me to plan a unique multi-country experience. I hope you will return to visit the rest of South America for new explorations.
All the best,
Lorena