Wonderful adventure in Ecuador
Ecuador | Apr 30 - May 19, 2025

G
Ginger F.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Jul 11, 2025

We had an absolutely wonderful time on our trip to Ecuador and Paul was a big part of making it so special and memorable. Everything from the airport pickups/dropoff to checking in at the hotels and airports was effortless for us. They helped us pick out wonderful hotels, lodges and cruises. Our tours were fun and informative and they even suggested a cooking class which was one of the highlights.

Paul met us at our hotel in quito, gave us a welcome gift of coffee, chocolate and wine, and was always available for any questions. He even picked up the phone on a saturday morning when we thought we missed a pick up but we actually missed the time change going to the Galapagos.

I would absolutely recommend Kimkim for a trip to Ecuador. Ask for Paul!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Mama Cuchara
Quito

We loved this hotel. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful. We had a few early mornings and if we couldn't make the buffet and they gave us a to go breakfast. Although I would try to make their breakfast. It was delicious. There are treats left in your room every night. They even left gluten free versions. The bar/restaurant on the roof is wonderful with views of the city, great food and drinks, heaters and they'll bring you out a poncho if it's chilly. The hotel is beautiful with an interior covered courtyard. You can walk to old town or get a cheap uber.

Authenticity & Character
It is such a beautiful hotel. I loved the courtyard and rooftop bar.
Location
walking distance to historical center/old town
Staff
They were so great. They went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sacha Lodge Yasuní
Quito

what a beautiful place. The journey to get there is kind of crazy - flight, boat, hike and canoe, but it was absolutely worth it. Our guide, Fausto, was from the area and knew so much - plants, animals, birds, bugs and snakes. The food was delicious. They were so accommodating with our dietary restrictions (gluten free) and walked us through the buffet and dinner menus. They even made gluten free versions. The rooms and shared space were clean and inviting. Days included walks, canoe rides, chocolate making, animal spotting. There were also places to just sit and listen to the birds, watch the monkey and enjoy the experience.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Fausto was an amazing guide. The staff was friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Quito Cooking Class
Quito Cooking Class
Ecuador

This was one of the highlights of our trips. I'm so glad it was suggested. We met the chef in a amazing restaurant that had a side kitchen set up. The chef made the class fun. The food we cooked was amazing - coconut shrimp, soup and chocolate and fruit for dessert. All the ingredients came from the market that morning. We had a bowl of 10+ different types fruit to choose from. We only recognized the bananas and strawberries. The rest of the fruit was a tasty mystery. Do this!

Local specialist: Paul Cisneros
Paul
Paul Cisneros
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Jul 12, 2025
Dear Ginger and Rob, I have no words to express my gratitude for your kind message and for knowing that your trip to our country was such a wonderful experience. 😊 It was a pleasure meeting you and planning every detail of this adventure so you could explore the Amazon, the Andes, and the Galapagos Islands. Hearing that you had such a great time and enjoyed your experiences at the hotel, the lodge, and on the cruise makes me very happy, and I’ll make sure to share your review with our team... Read more

Dear Ginger and Rob,

I have no words to express my gratitude for your kind message and for knowing that your trip to our country was such a wonderful experience. 😊 It was a pleasure meeting you and planning every detail of this adventure so you could explore the Amazon, the Andes, and the Galapagos Islands.

Hearing that you had such a great time and enjoyed your experiences at the hotel, the lodge, and on the cruise makes me very happy, and I’ll make sure to share your review with our team 🤗

I’m so glad you enjoyed the cooking class and discovered new flavors! I’m sure you'll recreate what you learned at home and share our cuisine and your experiences in Ecuador with your family and friends.

Once again, thank you for trusting us to organize your trip.

Wishing you all the best and sending you a big hug from your friends in Ecuador!
Paul