Quito
Ecuador | Jan 1 - Jan 5, 2019

Amy
Amy P.
Panama | Reviewed on Jan 06, 2019

Our trip was fantastic!!! Everyone in my family enjoyed it! The tour company, Darcar tours, that we had our driver and our tour guide through were outstanding. Super knowledgeable, patient with my kids, and very flexible. They had excellent suggestions throughout the tour to accommodate our needs, even on our arrival day when our flight was delayed. They communicated very easily with us and offered insider knowledge about every facet of Ecuador. Selfides, our chofer was excellent. He had a wealth of knowledge about plants, animals, foods and unique culture in Ecuador. David, our tour guide, was professional, knowledgeable, and extremely flexible and patient with our young children. He made sure to give us all of the highlights while considering their ages and our time constraints. The tour itinerary Matthias gave us was excellent and creative. We saw some really off the beaten path things including the artisans of Peguche and the cooking class. The Hacienda Pensaqui, although historical, charming, and set in a beautiful landscape, was unfortunately dirty. There was dust everywhere. The food was mediocre, and the office staff were very unorganized. Apparently, the owner passed away a year ago and is now being cared for by his family. It appears very run down which is a shame because it has such potential! We still loved our stay there due to its historical charm and familial feel, however, I think it is necessary that you be aware that it may not be what it once was. The cooking class was phenomenal!!! Chef Edwin was funny, patient, and extremely talented! My kids participated in everything and loved it!!! Termas de Papallactas was exactly as we had hoped. Relaxing, breathtaking views, and good service.

We loved our stay in the Andes Mountains of Quito and would love to return!!! I will use KImKim again for sure! It was so much less stressful and may be our new way of travel. Thanks again!!!

Local specialist:
Mathias
Mathias O.
Ecuador | Replied on Jan 08, 2019
Hi Amy, I'm glad that you and your kids enjoyed the tour, especially the cooking class, which is a real hands-on experience!
As for the Hacienda PinsaquĆ­, I am a bit surprised about your comments, I was there a couple of weeks ago and found it in good condition. Maybe the dust was due to refurbishments taking place currently. Maybe you can send me more information through chat? I could forward it to the Hacienda to help them improve those points.
I'm glad you liked the Termas de Papallacta...
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Hi Amy, I'm glad that you and your kids enjoyed the tour, especially the cooking class, which is a real hands-on experience!
As for the Hacienda PinsaquĆ­, I am a bit surprised about your comments, I was there a couple of weeks ago and found it in good condition. Maybe the dust was due to refurbishments taking place currently. Maybe you can send me more information through chat? I could forward it to the Hacienda to help them improve those points.
I'm glad you liked the Termas de Papallacta with its natural hot springs, it's a great place to spend some relaxed time after an exciting tour.

We are looking forward to having you in the future to explore the rest of this beautiful country!