Custom Private Tours in the Galapagos Islands

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Meet our Local Travel Specialists

Experienced travel agents with a passion for Galapagos Islands
Travel specialist Maria Jose Jaramillo
active 2 hours ago

Maria Jose Jaramillo

I grew up in a family with roots in different parts of the country. From a young age, I had the chance to travel and explore the culture, history, and nature of Ecuador and South America. These...

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Travel specialist Jacquie Granda
active 2 hours ago

Jacquie Granda

I am an Ecuadorian woman, born and raised in Quito, deeply proud of my cultural heritage. I was fortunate to grow up in a lush valley surrounded by mountains, snow-capped volcanoes, thermal...

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Travel specialist Alvaro Pereira
active 18 mins ago

Alvaro Pereira

Born and raised in the vibrant country of Ecuador, I am the ideal person to craft a unique and unforgettable trip within my homeland. My passion for travel and exploring new and exciting places...

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Travel specialist Paola Vera Feijoo
active 4 hours ago

Paola Vera Feijoo

Born and raised in Ecuador, I´m the second of four sisters. I love to make people´s dream vacations come true. Helping travelers to be the happiest is my big desire and, so far, one of my favorite...

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Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

The latest reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim

Our trip to Quito, Galápagos and the Ecuadori...
Galapagos Islands | Mar 21 - Apr 2, 2026

Mark
Mark N.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Apr 14, 2026
Our trip to Quito, Galápagos and the Ecuadorian jungle was largely amazing. We have used KimKim once before and will use again in future trip planning. Anthony did an excellent job in helping to plan our trip and was very patient as we worked out the details. Although nothing interfered with our trip experience overall-there were two occasions when Anthony was difficult to reach-one actually had to do with just a quick clarification on transportation. We figured out the time inconsistency... Read more

Our trip to Quito, Galápagos and the Ecuadorian jungle was largely amazing. We have used KimKim once before and will use again in future trip planning. Anthony did an excellent job in helping to plan our trip and was very patient as we worked out the details. Although nothing interfered with our trip experience overall-there were two occasions when Anthony was difficult to reach-one actually had to do with just a quick clarification on transportation. We figured out the time inconsistency ourselves going with the earlier time but Anthony did not respond for over 24 hours. The other issue was something that Anthony wanted to do for us because of an issue with a hotel room . Anthony wanted to treat us to dinner and arranged transportation. Unfortunately when we got to the restaurant they knew nothing about our arrival. After trying to reach Anthony and not hearing back, we tried two other phone numbers we were given by transportation guides on the island. The numbers were clearly not workable as those answering the calls had no idea what was going on and were not bilingual. We then called the operations center where they were very helpful. Apparently our reservation was for the following night but they worked it out with the restaurant. We ended up having a nice dinner and an enjoyable walk back to the hotel. With all this feedback, I don’t want to leave a negative impression. The Ecuadorian jungle was absolutely incredible and I would recommend it to anyone. Sasha itself was an excellent immersive experience and the way it is run is exceptional. The staff there love what they do and it clearly shows in their customer service. Galápagos of course is also exceptional and is clean, safe and beautiful. Our hotels in Quito, Sasha Lodge, Ikala and Iguana crossing were also great with really good food as well. Transportation was also great from place-to-place and always timely.

Hotel Reviews
Iguana Crossing Boutique Hotel
Galápagos

Iguana crossing is a beautiful beach side hotel. It embodies everything exceptional about the Galápagos island. Sun, sea and of course wildlife. The staff there was very friendly and courteous and our room was very clean and overlooked the ocean.

Authenticity & Character
Every thing about this hotel from its breezeways to our room overlooking the ocean and pool captured Galápagos feel. Believe it or not the iguanas even crossed the road at the iguana crossing sign.
Location
Beach side hotel at the end of the beach strip but still very close to town and restaurants.
Staff
All staff was courteous and pleasant and never balked at holding our bags before we checked in and after we checked out.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel was very clean and comfortable. The push button shower to conserve water was a challenge first time but we understood the necessity.
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

We spent the most time at this hotel and it was a great experience. It was close to shops and the amazing pier on Santa Cruz and also had a beautiful rooftop restaurant.

Authenticity & Character
The pool looked nice although we didn’t use it and the courtyard was beautiful. We also enjoyed the outdoor restaurant by the pool as well as the rooftop restaurant during our stay.
Location
Close to shops, restaurants and pier. Really appreciated the walk ability here and safety.
Staff
The people working the desk were always willing to answer any questions.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nothing stands out but do appreciate the cleanliness of the rooms.
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

Really didn’t spend a lot of time there. It was clean, restaurant was good and of course very convenient to airport.

Authenticity & Character
There was nothing that really stood out either way. It was like most other airport hotels so absolutely fine.
Location
The main reason for staying there was the convenience to airport. Not really close to anything else but not really expecting it to be.
Staff
Felt welcome but not a lot of time for staff interaction
Cleanliness & Comfort
Seemed clean and comfortable- no issues
Sacha Lodge
Coca

Sasha lodge is truly incredible and we do sincerely appreciate Anthony for recommending it. From the moment you land there after a “journey” which is an adventure itself, you appreciate what it takes for Sasha to run so extraordinarily well. From the Manager, to the guides, to the Chef there is a tremendous pride as there should be. Of course, It is not the place to go if you want to do your own hiking etc. for obvious reasons but if you find their daily agenda appealing as we did then you will have a once in a lifetime experience.

Authenticity & Character
It truly has a unique character to it with no outside locks, boardwalks over the river and a pool unlike any other. Meals were also extraordinary and meal settings were incredible.
Location
I literally retired the three days before we went to Sasha. After taking a plane, boat, hike, and awesome canoe trip, I couldn’t think of anywhere else that would have immersed me so quickly into a different world.
Staff
All provided great service and our guide was outstanding. The Manager was also very visible and friendly. He obviously was very proud of a first class operation.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The room was clean and comfortable. Rooms also had air conditioning which I didn’t learn until later that Sasha is the only out there with AC. It was hot and largely dry so worked out very well for us.
Go Quito Hotel
Quito

Although we didn’t have a long stay here, this hotel was in a great location. It was modern and the food and view from the top floor was terrific. Hotel staff also very accommodating.

Authenticity & Character
Modern as appropriate to the middle of an urban area
Location
It was located in the middle of the city accessible to a lot. Commuting around Quito takes some time as traffic is an issue.
Staff
NA
Cleanliness & Comfort
NA
Activity Reviews
Transfer to the Galapagos Airport, flight back to Quito
Transfer to the Galapagos Airport, flight back to Quito
Galapagos Islands

All transportation was efficient and organized. No issues at all.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Discovering Bartolome a full day yacht experience
Discovering Bartolome a full day yacht experience
Isla Santa Cruz

This snorkeling tour was an excellent last day activity for us. The snorkeling was great as we saw sea lions, turtles, sharks and other colorful fish and my wife was very confident in herself and our guide. There is a big stair climb but we did it with no issues.

Quality of Experience
Food
Actually had the same chef as on North Seymour yacht trip and he is extraordinary
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was extremely patient with the snorkeling so that everyone experienced to the fullest extent.
Transport
Breeding Center (Giant Tortoise) + Wetlands Isabela Island
Breeding Center (Giant Tortoise) + Wetlands Isabela Island
Isla Isabela

We were excited to spend another day with the Tortoises and we were not disappointed. However, I think our guide could have shared more with us about the place and its inhabitants. It seemed like other tours were getting that experience.

Quality of Experience
Very interesting place doing good work for Tortoises and turtles.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was certainly friendly but I think he could have been a little more informative.
Transport
Hiking to the Sulfur Mines (Side of Sierra Negra Volcano)
Hiking to the Sulfur Mines (Side of Sierra Negra Volcano)
Isla Isabela

This was an amazing hike and a truly fascinating place. Although the hike was labeled as easy to moderate the terrain was relatively easy with a major uphill climb at the end.

Quality of Experience
Beautiful and unusual landscape. Good paced hike.
Food
Loved the food at the end. I think people were confused when they received boxed food at the beginning.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tintoreras
Tintoreras
Isla Isabela

This was one of only.two excursions that we thought could have been improved for all on board. While tintoreras is amazing we thought the snorkeling could have been improved for weaker snorkelers. While my wife and I were confident in the first snorkeling site there and saw some amazing things, there was more of an open water swim to the other site. Since the boat went over there anyway, we thought those (about a half dozen) that did not want to swim over there could have been transported over by boat there to continue their snorkeling.

Quality of Experience
Mentioned above about snorkeling opportunities for less advanced.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was good and engaging on the way out to Tintoreras. On the way back however, he totally focused on the half of our group that spoke fluent Spanish. It felt like we were now on two different trips. We did notice that the guide got of the bus at the same hotel in town as the Spanish speaking group so maybe he had been their tour guide all day. It just felt a little strange for those of us less fluent in Spanish.
Transport
Speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island
Speed boat from Santa Cruz to Isabela Island
Galapagos Islands

Not our favorite activity but necessary to get from one island to the next. Luggage coordination on this ride and every ride was very efficient and helpful.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Embarking on the North Seymour Yacht Adventure
Embarking on the North Seymour Yacht Adventure
Isla Santa Cruz

This was a great experience. The hiking was a great overview to Galápagos wildlife and the snorkeling that day was excellent.

Quality of Experience
Great introduction and clear water snorkeling.
Food
Food was great on the boat. Chef took a lot of pride in meal preparation.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide that day was exceptional. While we have been snorkeling about a half dozen times, my wife had a more unpleasant experience in rough waters off the Florida Keys. She was a little hesitant but our guide was very patient basically towing her around until she got comfortable. This also put her at ease for our next two snorkeling days.
Transport
Santa Cruz Highlands, Lava Tunels and Charles Darwin Research Station (if times allows)
Santa Cruz Highlands, Lava Tunels and Charles Darwin Research Station (if times allows)
Isla Santa Cruz

We thought this was a great introduction to the Tortoises in a very relaxed environment. Lunch was also great. Cave experience was just Ok. Nothing special although we didn’t go all the way through as our guide thought it may have been wet.

Quality of Experience
Introduction to the Tortoises in this environment was a really great introduction.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was good this day but thought she could spend a little more time with us at Darwin. We basically self-toured there. Maybe that’s the way it is supposed to be.
Transport
Timely-no issues.
Transfer to the Airport for your domestic flight to the Galapagos Islands.
Transfer to the Airport for your domestic flight to the Galapagos Islands.
Quito

No issues. Easy and timely.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Transfer from Quito Airport to Nearby Hotel
Private Transfer from Quito Airport to Nearby Hotel
Galapagos Islands

We had anticipated finding the hotel shuttle on our own but as an extra step, people were waiting in the terminal to take us to shuttle. This is an extra touch that KimKim does and one of the reasons why I will use them again.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sacha Lodge  - Return to Quito
Sacha Lodge - Return to Quito
Yasuni National Park

You need to go out the same way you came in which makes you appreciate the entire experience. No issues with transportation or flights.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
All transportation worked hard to make sure you weren’t just dropped off but comforted getting to next destination.
Sacha Lodge Day 3
Sacha Lodge Day 3
Yasuni National Park

On this day we visited an indigenous village which was very enjoyable. We sampled food and drink that they had made and learned more about their culture in a pretty isolated environment. Very positive experience for us and the group.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sacha Lodge Day 2
Sacha Lodge Day 2
Yasuni National Park

Day 2 was somewhat similar to day one in that there was a hike and a pretty major stair climb up a Kapok tree. There was also the Chocolate experience which was also interesting as we learned more about history and ingredients. Piranha fishing also added some fun for our group.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sacha Lodge Day 1
Sacha Lodge Day 1
Yasuni National Park

As I’ve already said the Sasha experience was excellent throughout. Day 1 was about a reasonable hike. Lots of stairs. Beautiful overlook bridges and bird watching. If cousins it was also about the beautiful jungle around you and the phenomenal meals waiting for you.

Quality of Experience
The bridges were phenomenal and the birds were beautiful although May want to bring binoculars if have them. Guide will provide scope as well.
Food
The quality and way food was served was excellent. Just thinking about how it all got there was mind-blowing.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide for all three days at Sasha was the same and she was excellent.
Transport
No issues with transportation here. Mostly by canoe and it was incredible.
Discover Quito's Best-Kept Secrets: A Full-Day Tour of the Historic and the Middle of the World
Discover Quito's Best-Kept Secrets: A Full-Day Tour of the Historic and the Middle of the World
Quito

Javier was a great guide for our day in Quito. The Middle of the World exhibition was a little touristy but clearly no trip to Quito Ecuador would be complete without out it. The rest of our walk was very pleasant and our guide was both friendly and knowledgeable. The Chocolate tasting is really just that. Not really much history(a few pictures) but the rest of it was really about buying something at the store. I am a chocolate lover so worked about for me.

Quality of Experience
Middle of the world is something that should be experienced as well as touring of square and churches with a very nice lunch in a pretty setting.
Food
Food was excellent throughout.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Javier was excellent…..
Transport
All transportation was timely, clean, friendly and bilingual.
Local specialist: Anthony Zambrano
Anthony
Anthony Zambrano
Local specialist in Ecuador Quito | Replied on Apr 14, 2026
Hi Mark, Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review. I’m really glad to hear that your overall experience in Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands, and the Amazon was such a positive one. It’s great to know you enjoyed places like Sacha Lodge and that everything from hotels to transportation met your expectations. At the same time, I truly appreciate you pointing out the moments where communication fell short. You are absolutely right, and I sincerely apologize for... Read more

Hi Mark,

Thank you very much for taking the time to share such a thoughtful review.

I’m really glad to hear that your overall experience in Ecuador, the Galápagos Islands, and the Amazon was such a positive one. It’s great to know you enjoyed places like Sacha Lodge and that everything from hotels to transportation met your expectations.

At the same time, I truly appreciate you pointing out the moments where communication fell short. You are absolutely right, and I sincerely apologize for the delay in my response and for the confusion around the dinner arrangement.

As context, this was meant to be a small gesture from my side following the hotel situation. There was a coordination error with the local team in Galápagos, and you were taken to the restaurant one day before the confirmed reservation, which is why nothing was registered upon arrival.

At that moment, communication was also more difficult than it should have been. I understand you tried reaching me by phone while on roaming, but unfortunately the calls were not coming through to my number. I was in contact with you via chat and trying to return your call, but I know it was not immediate and I completely understand how frustrating that must have felt.

I’m very glad that, together with our operations team, the situation was resolved and that you were still able to enjoy the evening, but I agree it should have been much smoother.

Your feedback is truly valuable, and I’m already taking steps to improve both coordination and communication during trips to avoid situations like this in the future.

Thank you again for your trust, your patience, and for traveling with me. It was a pleasure planning this journey with you, and I would love to assist you again in the future.

Warm regards,
Anthony

A wonderful family trip to Galapagos!Just returning from an incredible 10 day fami...
Galapagos Islands | Mar 11 - Mar 22, 2026

Elinore
Elinore J.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Mar 23, 2026
Just returning from an incredible 10 day family trip to Ecuador and Galápagos Islands.
Our planning for this trip started with Alvaro, who worked tirelessly planning a trip that would appeal to all ages and abilities.
The communication with so many “moving parts” , was outstanding!
A short time before our trip was going to start, Alvaro introduced us to Ibeth, who was our contact person until we touched ground back in Canada. I’m not sure if she actually sleeps, because she responded...
Read more

Just returning from an incredible 10 day family trip to Ecuador and Galápagos Islands.
Our planning for this trip started with Alvaro, who worked tirelessly planning a trip that would appeal to all ages and abilities.
The communication with so many “moving parts” , was outstanding!
A short time before our trip was going to start, Alvaro introduced us to Ibeth, who was our contact person until we touched ground back in Canada. I’m not sure if she actually sleeps, because she responded instantly with all questions and requests! We met her on a video call before leaving which was very helpful for all.
Our guides in each and every stop were knowledgeable, kind and extremely flexible with our requests. True professionals!
Matteo, in Quito, communicated to Fabricio in San Cristobal that our youngest granddaughter was showing signs of altitude sickness, so that he was aware and offered a stop at a pharmacy if needed.
Fabricio was so passionate and knowledgeable at the breeding station.
Gabriel, on Isabella Island was the very same when it came to our snorkeling adventures as well. Gabriel was also able to obtain a missing suitcase for our 11 year old- so she didn’t miss out on our snorkel trip - he really came through for us!
As you can see, there is a theme here- kudos to James, Phillipe and Andreas as well!
Our accommodations were perfect for our family- small, family run hotels, with good breakfasts in the am and locations to restaurants, beaches, etc, were excellent.
Thanks to all that made this a once in a lifetime trip for our entire family!

Hotel Reviews
Plaza Luna Suites
Puerto Ayora

This is a gem!! Lovely, quaint accommodations, locally owned and with a history to go with it! Rooms were perfect with amenities well thought out. Breakfast on the terrace was a lovely way to start the day. Beach towels provided, unlimited filtered water and location couldn’t be better

Authenticity & Character
Authentic- but updated so well!
Location
Right on the Main Street, but you didn’t know it until you walked out of the high gate - all right there!
Staff
Delilah (owner) greeted us in a very personal way, learning about her family and their role in th Galápagos Islands. Us
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lovely- even a small communal kitchen area where we used the dishes for a take out dinner one night.
Albemarle
Puerto Villamil

The picture…is exactly the way it looks outside our room - but I would recommend requesting an exterior room. That being said - all the rooms were spacious and clean.

Authenticity & Character
The small pool and gardens were lovely and the rooftop pool view was stunning!
Location
Perfect- on a quiet sandy road - steps away from town!
Staff
Excellent- because of the island holiday celebrations, she warned us of noise/music that would go on quite late and offered ear plugs proactively!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Beach towels and robes provided
SeaSide Hotel
Galapagos

This was a quaint hotel - very quiet - perfect location to local beach and to town as well. It was perfect for a family stay with a small pool outside our door. Breakfast was home cooked and the “honour” fridge was really convenient with soft drinks and beer.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to local Beach and restaurants and stores, but secluded.
Staff
Provided towels and bag breakfasts for early morning trips.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The air conditioning worked well
EB Hotel by Eurobuilding Quito
Quito

Relaxing, accommodating hotel! We spent three nights total and we found that staff were very helpful and professional! We were able to store a bag for our return and they found an e-book that was left in the safe! Their complimentary breakfast was 5 Star! My only criticism would be the lack of a wine list - very little choice, considering the abundance of South American wines.

Authenticity & Character
I wouldn’t say it’s authentic decor- but the local roses in the lobby were unbelievable!
Location
Good location for airport - not great for exploring around unless with a taxi.
Staff
Covered in initial review
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island - Family Activities
Wildlife Encountering at Lobos Island - Family Activities
Isla San Cristóbal

This involves a boat ride and a stop at Lobos where we hiked about an 1 1/2 hours - we couldn’t believe our eyes being able to see the male frigate birds with their red expanded breasts hoping to be picked by a female. Also, blue footed boobies, iguanas, baby frigates.

Quality of Experience
The mating Frigates!
Food
Local restaurant - great food!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Very helpful, but there was really no alternative to not have to walk on the unstable rocks.
Transport
Unforgettable Day Trip to Bartolome Island
Unforgettable Day Trip to Bartolome Island
Puerto Ayora

Our last full day in Galapagos and it couldn’t have been more enjoyable! Our family of 8 and 6 others gave us lots of space on a lovely cabin cruiser - with great staff and a delicious lunch!

Quality of Experience
Our skipper was skilled and the ride was smooth and relaxing
Food
A delicious full hot lunch! Very tasty- with a cash bar !
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Philippe was a wealth of information! And for those that did not want to walk up to the top, a zodiac ride around the island - pointing out a baby penguin, baby sea lions and many varieties of sea birds!
Transport
Safe and relaxing
Exclusive Experience at The Agave Route in the Middle of the World!
Exclusive Experience at The Agave Route in the Middle of the World!
Quito

This was our second time to visit - bringing family this time…very cool experience for all ages - during the tasting, our 11 and13 yr old in the group was able to participate as well - with non alcoholic agave tastings.

Quality of Experience
The bartender was the same person as last year and he makes it all very fun during the cocktail making.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
As stated
Transport
Safe and prompt
Visit Intiñan Museum
Visit Intiñan Museum
Quito

Great guides - super experience!

Quality of Experience
The guide!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide!
Transport
Good driver
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 24, 2026
Hi Elinore, Reading your message truly made my day thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and detailed review. It was an absolute pleasure to have your family visiting Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. I feel very lucky to have joined you along the way and the trip definitely reached your expectations. Your kind words about the team truly mean a lot. I’ll be sure to share your feedback with Ibeth, Matteo, Fabricio, Gabriel, as well as James, Phillipe, and Andreas... Read more

Hi Elinore,

Reading your message truly made my day thank you so much for taking the time to write such a thoughtful and detailed review.

It was an absolute pleasure to have your family visiting Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. I feel very lucky to have joined you along the way and the trip definitely reached your expectations.

Your kind words about the team truly mean a lot. I’ll be sure to share your feedback with Ibeth, Matteo, Fabricio, Gabriel, as well as James, Phillipe, and Andreas they will be very happy to know they helped make your experience so memorable.

I hope we can welcome you back for another unforgettable journey in the future!

Hugs,
Alvaro

Thank you for another GREAT adventure!
Galapagos Islands | Feb 28 - Mar 13, 2026

B
Brooke C.
Morristown, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 20, 2026

Our guides (Sebastian & Edwin) were absolute ROCKSTARS! We are so grateful for the time that they spent with us. Tamer, once again, helped to create and organize another spectacular experience in Ecuador & The Galápagos Islands. Thank you!

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 21, 2026

Dear Brooke! Thank you so much for your kind words and positive feedback. It warms my heart to know again that this trip was a success and that you and the group have had a great time. Shoutout indeed to Sebastian and Edwin, I'll make sure to share your comments with them.
Looking forward to planning future amazing trips for the beloved students of Forman School!
Best,
Tamer

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