Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 19,713 ratings
Read 19,713 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

Fabulous
Vietnam | Jan 4 - Jan 17, 2025

Rhina
Rhina B.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2025
I had an amazing experience with all the touring. Our tour guides are very accommodating and most are on time. They respected our time and they made sure to take a photo of us, I’m guessing this is a proof that we got picked up and dropped off 😊
The only comment and recommendation I have for the tour is to let the travelers know that there are shops in the tour area and that cash must to have as there is no ATM machine or use of credit cards available in the tour area/ destination....
Read more

I had an amazing experience with all the touring. Our tour guides are very accommodating and most are on time. They respected our time and they made sure to take a photo of us, I’m guessing this is a proof that we got picked up and dropped off 😊
The only comment and recommendation I have for the tour is to let the travelers know that there are shops in the tour area and that cash must to have as there is no ATM machine or use of credit cards available in the tour area/ destination.
Overall the tour is phenomenally beautiful.

Hotel Reviews
Le Journey Halong Cruise

You can tell the ship/boat is aging but they kept it clean and organized. The 17 crew member and the manager/captain done a tremendously well on the journey. The captain/ manager is well English and well spoken, he is very knowledgeable about the tour and history. Very accommodating to request and mandate. Some diverse groups are stubborn but he was able to hold his guard well and kept it up as planned. The only thing that I can see is that was a constant concern and struggle with the crew’s are getting everyone a hot water request and getting the coffee hot and ready on time. This is something to improve to the services needed in the journey to make everyone happy and comfortable drinking their coffee. 😊 especially in very cold morning and night.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hanoi Matilda Hotel
Hanoi

Very clean and sophisticated design. On spot massage and the front desk staff Micheal made are stay even more satisfying and comfortable even for only night. We wished we had stayed longer but we had a drive to Halong Bay. ATM outside- very convenient. Restaurant and shops surrounding. The only thing is the traffic, because it’s a busy area and the street are narrow.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Micheal- he went above and beyond. Our expectations were high met and he was exemplar. Employee like him deserves to be recognize.
Cleanliness & Comfort
King Fivitel
Da Nang

The hotel is located in the Main Street which is busy and a busload of guys are happened to there when we were staying. First, they made a mistake giving us a wrong reservation room which they moved us to another room that smells smoke. The hallway is very narrow and small so while waiting for the elevator you can hear the conversation from all the rooms adjacent to the elevator. I like the most was the bathroom that has a window view.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kokotel Krabi Ao Nang

Accessible to main strip and the beach where the day trips for island hopping.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
De Charme Hotel
Amphoe Muang, Si Phum, Chiang Mai

The location is great for night walks, dine in and also massage. The hotel was very accommodating, they even let us use the bathroom and pool even after we checked out to change from out water trip adventure.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The front desk short lady
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Quart Ruamrudee
Bangkok

The only comment I had was that the shower door doesn’t closed all the way.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
There’s not that many places to eat but there’s a small business center that has a good massage.
Local specialist: Tina Oo
Tina
Tina Oo
Local specialist in Thailand | Replied on Feb 11, 2025

Hi Rhina,

Thank you so much for your thoughtful feedback. I'm thrilled to hear that you had such a wonderful time during the trip. It was truly a pleasure to assist you!

Best regards,
Tina

KimKim does it again
Australia | Jan 23 - Feb 4, 2025

Charlie
Charlie K.
Hilo, HI | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2025
Through no fault of our planner, Paula, planning with three tavlers can be unweildly at times and arduous at best. She did well to manage the circus but spotty miscommunication had its challenges on both sides. Once arriving at each location, mind you we had 5 intracontinental flights, pick up for hotel transport was easy, flawless, classy and often filled with city tips and history by our drivers. Hotels were all amazing. 4.5-5 star. Great views of lakes, oceans or harbours, and amazing... Read more

Through no fault of our planner, Paula, planning with three tavlers can be unweildly at times and arduous at best. She did well to manage the circus but spotty miscommunication had its challenges on both sides.

Once arriving at each location, mind you we had 5 intracontinental flights, pick up for hotel transport was easy, flawless, classy and often filled with city tips and history by our drivers.

Hotels were all amazing. 4.5-5 star. Great views of lakes, oceans or harbours, and amazing included breakfast buffets. Locales allowed for dining and shopping ease.

The itinerary was chalk full of each locations showcased must sees.

All our guides were professional, articulate and experts at their craft. Their delivery, authentic and genuine. A couple, also validated our next activities, going forward, saying that they were choice selections.

We found enough spare time to chill or create our own town, cultural or shopping experience.

The Intercontinental Sydney provided stunning views of the Harbour Bridge (whuch I climbed),and Opera House, ( which we attended La Traviata). Both were personally pre arranged by us.

The trip was so amazing and super memorable. A couple of things were weather deterred, cancelled or unviewable
but it did not dampen our efforts to see, alter or be flexible to a shift or just enjoy the moments and places we were visiting.

Each city,... not a bad meal or glass of wine.
Thank Paula, Mahalo for the great guidance and high level of activies. We appreciate the private transport, small group activities and the activities that were of high quality.

Hotel Reviews
Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns

Ocean view. Great rooms

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
InterContinental Sydney by IHG
Sydney

Amazing 5 star hotel. You felt it in every aspect. Service, view food and rooms. I'd stay there again fir sure.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to opera house, botanical garden and Harbour Bridge.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Scenic Suites Queenstown
Queenstown

Little quirky layout. One area for 4 elevators and long walk to our room

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Could do laundry. That was a plus
M Social
Auckland

Great location and view. Very modern

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to ferry and restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Full Day Silverswift Cruise - Snorkel Great Barrier Reef From Terminal
Full Day Silverswift Cruise - Snorkel Great Barrier Reef From Terminal
Australia

Unfortunately it was cancelled due to weather. The 1 start rating is in no way indicative of the experience. We had none, but we were refunded. All good. We went to the Aquarium, lunch and shopped instead.

Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

So educational and worth an easy hour of your time. Behind the scenes of the structure and it's history

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half Day Wilderness Safari - Jetboat
Half Day Wilderness Safari - Jetboat
Queenstown (NZ)

Exhilarating. Great joyride with outstanding views. Should not be missed

Quality of Experience
9th
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The ride out and back let's you see more of the lake and countryside
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Queenstown (NZ)

Epic. Our bus driver was flawless. Beautiful country. We opted, on our own, to fly back to Queenstown. Best choice. The experience in the 10 seater cessna was priceless.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skyline Gondola Ride
Skyline Gondola Ride
Queenstown (NZ)

Great vistas but we had to buy three luge tickets minumum when only I wanted to do it in my group. We ended up not doing the luge

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Flavours of Our City (Shared Small Group Walking Tour)
Afternoon Flavours of Our City (Shared Small Group Walking Tour)
Auckland

Our guide was authentic and entertaining. The foods were perfect. We enjoyed ourselves. Great set up.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Paula Adams
Paula
Paula Adams
Local specialist in California and Australia | Replied on Feb 12, 2025

G'day Charlie,

Thank you for sharing your feedback and experiences from your recent vacation to Australia and New Zealand. I am truly grateful. Your feedback is invaluable, and I'm delighted to hear that you had a memorable experience with the exception of missing the Outer Barrier Reef Tour.

It was a pleasure assisting you and Susan in planning your journey, and I appreciate your trust in our services. Should you have any future travel plans, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Take care and please keep in touch.
Cheers,
Paula

Personalized itinerary
Colombia | Jan 20 - Feb 5, 2025

D
Denise S.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2025
Michael Gold with KimKim organized a very personalized itinerary for us. He was always available on Whats App when we had questions. We experienced a nice variety of experiences in Columbia and had quick and easy transfers between the activities. We felt very safe and welcome in the country. The guides all spoke English and were knowledgeable and helpful at all times. Read more

Michael Gold with KimKim organized a very personalized itinerary for us. He was always available on Whats App when we had questions. We experienced a nice variety of experiences in Columbia and had quick and easy transfers between the activities. We felt very safe and welcome in the country. The guides all spoke English and were knowledgeable and helpful at all times.

Hotel Reviews
GHL Hotel Armería Real
Cartagena

Nice location where we could walk through the Getsemani area and also the old historical district. The staff was very helpful. Pool on roof was refreshing and had a great view.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Chiniuu

When we arrived we didn't like our room and the staff upgraded us to nice room on the second story with a beautiful room with a view of the beach and two swim pools. The hotel was advertised as 4 star but we felt it was more like a 3 star. The wifi didn't work unless we walked over to the restaurant. At one point we were locked in the room for over an hour because of old locks. The staff was kind and did their best and actually changed out the lock that same day and even provided us with a free dinner which was one of the best dinners we had on the whole trip. The restaurant was slow but the food was amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Senda Koguiwa
Santa Marta

A beautiful hotel with very nice landscaping and swim pool. Big clean room. Nice restaurant next to the pool.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Movich Casa del Alferez
Cali

Modern hotel with nice restaurant. It was a nice retreat in the middle of our trip.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Homestay in Silvia

An interesting stay with a local couple in their home. Clean and comfortable room. Hostess Vivi was super kind and friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Camino Real

The staff was helpful in moving us to an inside courtyard room which was quieter. Great old building right next to the downtown plaza.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Finca El Maco
San Agustin

We stayed in the Tiki hut which was fun. Outdoor shower with tropical flowers and bird sounds was fun. Restaurant on sight was good. Not close to town though.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel De La Opera
Bogotá

Great location! Nice rooms in historical building. Friendly and helpful staff.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Social Dinner-Experience: Colombian Food
Social Dinner-Experience: Colombian Food
Bogotá

A highlight of the trip. We were a little concerned about what was going on the drive and the arrival at an apartment building. Once we got into the apartment we were treated to a very special dinner made by two cooks and a kind hostess. It was fun getting to see a modern apartment in Bogota suburbs. The hostess was very helpful and told us about the local fruit and vegetable market which we visited the next day on our own.

Quality of Experience
Food
Excellent!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bogotá Walking Tour
Bogotá Walking Tour
Bogotá

There was confusion and miscommunication several times on the tour where we didn't understand what was included and what we really wanted and expected. At the end we felt disappointed we didn't get more history of Bogota and Columbia.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the Salt Cathedral at Zipaquira
Visit the Salt Cathedral at Zipaquira
Colombia

We wished we had skipped this activity because it took so much time to drive their and back.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Michael Gold
Michael
Michael Gold
Local specialist in San Agustín, Huila, Colombia | Replied on Feb 11, 2025

Dear Denise,
We’re so glad that you enjoyed your trip through Colombia and felt safe and welcome throughout. It’s great to hear you enjoyed the unique accommodations and that the team at Chiniuu was able to improve your stay. We also appreciate your honest feedback on the walking tour in Bogotá - this helps us refine our recommendations for future travelers. And we’re thrilled the Social Dinner was a highlight for you!
Thanks again for traveling with us, and we’d love to help plan another adventure in the future!
Best,
Michael & The Chaska Tours Team

Fantastic Greece Journey
Greece | Feb 1 - Feb 9, 2025

Melanie
Melanie D.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Feb 11, 2025
The KimKim team was on top of it all from the get go. They very much listened to what we wanted and we got a great itinerary. Besides the beauty of the Greek landscape, the sights we saw were sublime. What made it all even better were the wonderful guides we had. Special shout outs to our hiking guide Helen who provided us with a country lunch of home made goat cheese, olives and bread, Maria who shared her incredible knowledge during our 6 hour tour of Athens and the Acropolis, and... Read more

The KimKim team was on top of it all from the get go. They very much listened to what we wanted and we got a great itinerary. Besides the beauty of the Greek landscape, the sights we saw were sublime. What made it all even better were the wonderful guides we had. Special shout outs to our hiking guide Helen who provided us with a country lunch of home made goat cheese, olives and bread, Maria who shared her incredible knowledge during our 6 hour tour of Athens and the Acropolis, and Ekaterina who was an enthusiastic fountain of knowledge for our tours of Mycenae and Epidaurus. Our drivers were great and very service oriented. And the hotels were well located and well appointed. KimKim was with us every step of the way. We will definitely use the service again.

Activity Reviews
Private Mycenae & Epidaurus Day Trip
Private Mycenae & Epidaurus Day Trip
Nafplio

Ekaterina was a stellar guide. Deeply knowledgeable, very enthusiastic and a lot of fun. She was incredibly dedicated and we learned so much from her about the architecture and how the Greeks did it (or how we still often do not know how they did it). We appreciated the time allotted to tour the ruins on our own, armed with the thorough overview. It was a good way to do the tours.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Acropolis & Highlights Walk with Food Tastings
Private Acropolis & Highlights Walk with Food Tastings
Athens

Our guide Maria was terrific. She had a degree in the Classics so was incredibly knowledgeable. Her explanations were so great that they served us well when we came back to Athens for our last evening and went to the Acropolis museum. She was an excellent guide who spends her free time going on other tours so she can learn and grow in her job. The dedication paid off for us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guided Olive Grove Hike to Chrisso Village
Guided Olive Grove Hike to Chrisso Village
Delphi

The guide was amazing and we had a wonderful day absorbing the countryside. It was a terrific counterpoint to the afternoon that we spent at Delphi. One of the best days we have ever had on any vacation.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Gustavo Camperos
Gustavo
Gustavo Camperos
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Apr 02, 2025
Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that your trip to Greece exceeded expectations and that the itinerary we crafted together was a perfect fit for you. It’s great to know that the guides—Helen, Maria, and Ekaterina—made such a lasting impact, and I’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to them. I’m also so happy that the drivers and hotels met your needs, and that you felt supported every step of the way. It was a true pleasure working with you, and I can’t... Read more

Thank you so much for your wonderful review! I’m thrilled to hear that your trip to Greece exceeded expectations and that the itinerary we crafted together was a perfect fit for you. It’s great to know that the guides—Helen, Maria, and Ekaterina—made such a lasting impact, and I’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to them. I’m also so happy that the drivers and hotels met your needs, and that you felt supported every step of the way.

It was a true pleasure working with you, and I can’t wait to help you plan your next adventure. When you’re ready for another unforgettable journey, we’ll be here to make it happen!

Loved the Trip, the activities were really co...
Colombia | Jan 29 - Feb 8, 2025

C
Casey P.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025

Loved the Trip, the activities were really cool. the glamping in the coffee region was fantastic. Only drawback sometimes was commute to / from activities. Would like to waste less time in the car if possible.

Local specialist: Margarita Moreno
Margarita
Margarita Moreno
Local specialist in Bogota | Replied on Feb 11, 2025
Hola Casey!
Thank you so much for sharing your feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you and Marcela loved the trip and had a fantastic time, especially the glamping in the Coffee Region.
We get your point about the commutes. Colombia’s landscapes are stunning, but we know that spending too much time in the car can be a bit much. We appreciate your insight, and we’ll keep this in mind to craft even smoother itineraries next time, more adventure, less time on the road! We’d love to have you both... Read more

Hola Casey!
Thank you so much for sharing your feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you and Marcela loved the trip and had a fantastic time, especially the glamping in the Coffee Region.

We get your point about the commutes. Colombia’s landscapes are stunning, but we know that spending too much time in the car can be a bit much. We appreciate your insight, and we’ll keep this in mind to craft even smoother itineraries next time, more adventure, less time on the road!

We’d love to have you both back in Colombia soon for another unforgettable journey. There’s still so much more to discover!

Margarita

Stig was an excellent guide
Norway | Jan 28 - Feb 3, 2025

Eric
Eric B.
Minneapolis, MN | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
Stig was an excellent guide in Oslo. We learned a lot on our tour. Read more

Stig was an excellent guide in Oslo. We learned a lot on our tour.

Hotel Reviews
Quality Hotel Grand Tromso
Tromsø

Location was great. One elevator and very small. Room was comfortable. Breakfast was just ok.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Radisson Blu Airport Hotel, Oslo Gardemoen
Gardemoen

Great hotel right next to the airport.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Thon Hotel Opera
Oslo

Central location. Good food. Helpful staff. Comfortable room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Short walk from the train station
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems with a Local Expert
Explore Oslo's Hidden Gems with a Local Expert
Oslo

Our guide, Stig, was awesome.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tom Christer Larsen
Tom Christer
Tom Christer Larsen
Local specialist in Oslo, Norway | Replied on Feb 11, 2025

Hi Eric.

Happy to hear you liked the guided tour with Stig, I agree he is a very cool guy :)
And how great with the pics you have posted, looks great. And Northern Light!

Its very nice you had a great trip here in Norway.

All the best.

Best regards,
Tom

Amazing 3-week trip to Peru arranged and managed by Peruvian Soul
Peru | Jan 8 - Jan 28, 2025

John
John O.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
Our 3-week trip to Peru in January (rainy season!) was spectacular from beginning to end because of the care and attention from Ann Godoy at Peruvian Soul. We found Ann on the kimkim.com platform for the complexity of trip planning because we wanted to visit so many places. She worked closely with John to tailor the trip to what we wanted to do. She gathered a lot of info about our choice of a daily schedule, hotel types/levels, and much more. The itinerary was perfect for us! -2... Read more

Our 3-week trip to Peru in January (rainy season!) was spectacular from beginning to end because of the care and attention from Ann Godoy at Peruvian Soul.

We found Ann on the kimkim.com platform for the complexity of trip planning because we wanted to visit so many places. She worked closely with John to tailor the trip to what we wanted to do. She gathered a lot of info about our choice of a daily schedule, hotel types/levels, and much more.

The itinerary was perfect for us!

-2 days in Lima (met by Ann and Andres) with 1 full day of touring with Blanca who was a great guide.

-Abraham took us back to Lima airport for our flight to Puerto Maldonado.

-Met at the airport by Oscar (guide from River Expeditions) who helped us shift our luggage for the boat trip to Tambopata (Amazon basin) for 4 days at the Posada Amazonas. Oscar was an excellent guide and John, a birder, was thrilled to see so many new bird species. We did have one full day of heavy rainstorms, but other days were short rain showers that didn’t affect our expedition plans. [Note that the lodge’s website isn’t updated to state that it now has electricity 24/7 in the guest rooms, and its internet (in the common area) was quite good but occasionally went off because of storms.]

From Puerto Maldonado airport, we flew to Cusco and were met by Miguel and driver, Ronald who took us to the Sacred Valley and the first of the 3 Casa Andina hotels (excellent) we stayed in. We had very good weather and not much rain. Miguel was an excellent guide and easily sensed what level of activities we could do as we were adjusting to altitude. And gave us history and cultural info on the Inca and Spanish eras in small chunks, which was helpful and made it easier to absorb.

After 3 days in the Sacred Valley, we spent an overnight in Machu Picchu (taking the train with Miguel who was our guide there too) with bright sunshine (despite predictions of rainstorms) for our 1600-step climb up to MP and the tour there. And then back to Cusco (and Casa Andina hotel in an historic building) for 3 days of touring with Miguel. Ronald’s driving was masterful, and he was very attentive to us.

We then flew from Cusco to Arequipa, met by Gerber and driver Diego. Our 3rd Casa Andina hotel was in the old mint (historic) building. Just lovely. We had a walking tour of Arequipa with Gerber, and it gave us so much perspective on why Arequipa is known for its architecture and is considered to be a European city.

Sergio and river Benigno collected us from the hotel for a drive to Colca Canyon with amazing tours stops along the way. (John got to see even more birds and we saw vicuna and guanacos in the wild.) We stayed 2 nights and mostly had no rain and quite a bit of sun. The highlight was driving to the lookout point for the condors – and arriving to see 7 condors soaring over the space of an hour (rare for the rainy season).

From there, we made our return to Lima and back to the US.

Ann gave us individual care and attention before we left the USA. And the in-country service was what we needed. We were met at every location (primarily flights) by the guide (and often, a driver), and they also delivered us to the airports when we were departing

We set up a Whatsapp group before we departed the US connecting us to Ann and Jesus (our emergency contact) who answered our weekend questions. That was invaluable as we needed boarding passes and guide contact info.

The full trip details were on the kimkim platform which was pretty easy to use and had most of the details we needed.

An amazing trip that exceeded our expectations!

Hotel Reviews
Colca Lodge
Cercado, Yanque

Colca Lodge was delightful with its natural surroundings and the rushing river. We really enjoyed the onsite hot springs and the tranquility of having them mostly to ourselves. It was a serene and rejuvenating part of our trip.

Casa Andina Premium Arequipa
Arequipa

Casa Andina Premium Arequipa was conveniently located in the middle of the city but provided a unique rooftop view of snow-capped volcanoes. The city setting was central for sightseeing, and discovering the rooftop views was an unexpected highlight.

Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado
Urubamba

Casa Andina Premium Valle Sagrado was perfect for bird lovers like us. The expansive property offered plenty of space for bird watching and exploring, and we enjoyed the serene environment. It was a great retreat away from the hustle of travel, and the setting was simply beautiful.

Posada Amazonas Lodge
Puerto Maldonado, Madre de Dios

Posada Amazonas Lodge offered a truly authentic Amazon experience. Our room had one wall completely open to the jungle, allowing us to hear monkeys and birds while being surrounded by nature. We loved the natural setting, but be careful about water consumption!

Activity Review
Andean Textiles with Parobamba Community
Andean Textiles with Parobamba Community
Peru

The visit to the Parobamba Community for the Andean textiles experience was fantastic. We got to see a demonstration of how textiles are made, and enjoyed interacting with the local community. The villagers even performed a traditional dance for us, which was a delightful surprise. It was a fantastic way to connect with the culture and meet locals.

Local specialist: Anne Godoy
Anne
Anne Godoy
Local specialist in Lima | Replied on Feb 24, 2025

Hi John & Sue,

It was truly a pleasure helping you craft and organize your trip to Peru! I’m especially glad we had the chance to meet in Lima—it made your visit even more special for us.

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your kind words. We truly appreciate it! It was exciting to go through every detail of this journey, and it makes me so happy to know you both had a wonderful experience.

Wishing you the very best on your future travels, and I hope our paths cross again someday! 😊

Best regards,
Anne

The best and greatest tour guide is Vicky of ...
Australia | Jan 20 - Feb 3, 2025

Karey
Karey H.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
The best and greatest tour guide is Vicky of VIO and KImKim.
Vicky was always quick to provide assistance when we needed it.
We were happy with Vicky's selection of Hotels and Activities.
Please let her know how we feel about her services,
Sincerely,
Karey Hobbs and the Travel Crew
Read more

The best and greatest tour guide is Vicky of VIO and KImKim.
Vicky was always quick to provide assistance when we needed it.
We were happy with Vicky's selection of Hotels and Activities.
Please let her know how we feel about her services,
Sincerely,
Karey Hobbs and the Travel Crew

Hotel Reviews
QT Auckland
Auckland
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
SKYE Suites Sydney
Sydney
Hilton Melbourne Little Queen Street
Melbourne

The best part of our stay was the Daily Buffet Breakfast. Thank you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Reef House Adults Retreat
Palm Cove
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Great Ocean Road Scenic Tour Private Car
Great Ocean Road Scenic Tour Private Car
Melbourne

The Drive was very long and therefore, very tiring, however, we really liked our driver and guide. The vehicle was small and uncomfortable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Feb 10, 2025

Dear Karey and the Travel Crew,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It truly means the world to hear that you had such a wonderful experience. I’m so glad you were happy with the hotels and activities we selected—it was a pleasure helping you plan your trip!
I hope you all made fantastic memories along the way
Wishing you all more amazing travels ahead!
Warmest regards,
Vicky 😊

The trip was absolutely amazing! The cooking ...
Galapagos Islands | Jan 17 - Jan 27, 2025

Carolyn
Carolyn O.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
The trip was absolutely amazing! The cooking class in Quito with Denis was delicious and fun. We enjoyed visiting the markets with Denis and he is so knowledgeable and fun.
Once aboard My Angel, the service was incredible ( as were all the smooth transfers). I loved the hot chocolate and towels when we got back from snorkeling.
The amount of wild life we saw was amazing! Sea lions, penguins, sharks, rays, turtles, tortoises, frigate birds, iguanas and blue footed boobies!!!!
Andre our...
Read more

The trip was absolutely amazing! The cooking class in Quito with Denis was delicious and fun. We enjoyed visiting the markets with Denis and he is so knowledgeable and fun.
Once aboard My Angel, the service was incredible ( as were all the smooth transfers). I loved the hot chocolate and towels when we got back from snorkeling.
The amount of wild life we saw was amazing! Sea lions, penguins, sharks, rays, turtles, tortoises, frigate birds, iguanas and blue footed boobies!!!!
Andre our guide was incredible. So funny, knowledge and just a pleasure to be around!
Paula did a fabulous job with dining room, bar etc. Housekeeping was fabulous. You take a nap, come back to room and beds been made again! So clean.
The food was very delicious! The entire staff was so responsive and helpful.
My only suggestion would be to organize the bar tab in a better way than writing down in paper and handing you the bill right before departing. Luckily I noticed that we were charged for 3 bottles of champagne instead of 2 and adjustments were made.

Otherwise, it was an incredible trip of life time. Thanks so much

Hotel Review
M/Y Galapagos Angel
Galapagos
Authenticity & Character
Incredible crew, incredible guide ( Andre), and food was delicious
Location
The boat was awesome
Staff
The smoothness of transfers, hot chocolate and towels after snorkeling, food delicious, housekeeping wonderful
Cleanliness & Comfort
You take a nap, come back to room and someone’s made up your bed. Very clean!
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Feb 14, 2025
Hi Carolyn, Thank you so much for your glowing review! I’m thrilled to hear that you had an amazing time and that the trip was everything you had hoped for (and maybe more). It was a pleasure working with you to organize this adventure for your group - you make a great tour leader! I’ll be sure to pass along your feedback to everyone involved, including the cooking class team, as well as the cruise staff. They will be so happy to hear how much you enjoyed the experience. I also appreciate... Read more

Hi Carolyn,

Thank you so much for your glowing review! I’m thrilled to hear that you had an amazing time and that the trip was everything you had hoped for (and maybe more). It was a pleasure working with you to organize this adventure for your group - you make a great tour leader!

I’ll be sure to pass along your feedback to everyone involved, including the cooking class team, as well as the cruise staff. They will be so happy to hear how much you enjoyed the experience. I also appreciate your suggestion regarding the bar organization and will forward it to the cruise operator for their consideration in the future.

Wishing you many more unforgettable trips ahead!

All the best,
Mathias and the Authentic Ecuador crew

Incredible adventure in Cambodia and Vietnam
Vietnam | Jan 29 - Feb 3, 2025

Howard
Howard K.
Lake Zurich, IL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
We had an incredible adventure in Cambodia and Vietnam! KimKim paired us with Hien at Realistic Asia, who organized a fantastic six day, five night customized adventure for us. In each country, we were paired with fantastic guides and drivers who took care of us from arrival to departure, and everything in between. In Cambodia, our amazing guide, Mr. Lon Vong, walked us through Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom, Angkor Thom and the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. His knowledge about the ruins,... Read more

We had an incredible adventure in Cambodia and Vietnam! KimKim paired us with Hien at Realistic Asia, who organized a fantastic six day, five night customized adventure for us. In each country, we were paired with fantastic guides and drivers who took care of us from arrival to departure, and everything in between.

In Cambodia, our amazing guide, Mr. Lon Vong, walked us through Angkor Wat, Ta Phrom, Angkor Thom and the floating village on Tonle Sap Lake. His knowledge about the ruins, the Cambodian people and history of this country was incredible. He was friendly, flexible, wonderful to be with and always had a smile on his face. Highly recommend him and these stops to anyone coming to this wonderful country.

In Vietnam, we were paired with Jimmy, another fantastic guide. Jimmy taught us so much about Vietnam, as we toured sites in Hanoi, Ninh Banh and Ha Long Bay. He taught us so much about the history of Vietnam and how the Vietnamese people have adapted to the present day. He was friendly, personable and a joy to be with. He even took us to one of his favorite street food restaurants in Hanoi. We are proud to now be part of the“Jimmy Family!”

Looking back, Hien at Realistic Asia put together the incredible trip for us. Hotels, Cruise, Sites and Guides were wonderful. They spent a lot of time working with us to put together the perfect itinerary. They communicated to us frequently before the trip to make sure we were prepared and all of our paperwork was in order. They even stepped in to expedite a visa as the Vietnamese government was shutting down for the Lunar New Year and we might have had issues getting into Vietnam. They also checked in with us frequently during our tour to make sure everything was going well. If you are traveling anywhere in SE Asia, I’d recommend this group to anyone. Thank you KimKim for pairing us with Realiatic Asia!

Activity Reviews
Explore Dark & Bright Cave - Disembarking Ambassador Cruise
Explore Dark & Bright Cave - Disembarking Ambassador Cruise
Ha Long Bay
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit Iconic of Hanoi-  Temple of Literature
Visit Iconic of Hanoi- Temple of Literature
Hanoi
Discover Lan Ha Bay - Viet Hai Village - Onboarding Ambassador Signature cruise
Discover Lan Ha Bay - Viet Hai Village - Onboarding Ambassador Signature cruise
Ha Long Bay

Fantastic cruise. Great room, food and views!!!!!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Exploring Hang Mua - Tam Coc Boat Riding  - Bich Dong Pagoda
Exploring Hang Mua - Tam Coc Boat Riding - Bich Dong Pagoda
Vietnam
Quality of Experience
Food
Great meal, food was fantastic.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jimmy was a fantastic guide. Fun to be with and he taught us so much about Vietnamese history.
Transport
Comfortable vehicle, great driver
Explore the Complex of Angkor
Explore the Complex of Angkor
Siem Reap

The ruins at Angkor are incredible. Recommend getting up early to see sunrise over Angkor Wat. Ta Phrom and Angkor Thom are also must visits! A fantastic tour!

Quality of Experience
Aww
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our Guide, Mr. Lon Vong was amazing. Friendly, knowledgeable and taught us so much about Cambodian history. He was fantastic!
Transport
Local specialist: Hien Do
Hien
Hien Do
Local specialist in Vietnam | Replied on Feb 12, 2025

Dear Howard,

Thank you so much for taking your time to sharing with us your esperience.
I am thrilled that you had such a wonderful time in Vietnam and Cambodia with us in a very short time.
I passed your compliment to Mr Lon Vong and Jimmy and They are very happy that you enjoyed the time with you too.
It was a big pleasure for us to organize your holiday. Thank you again for trusting our company, and we hope to see you again!

With my best regards from Hanoi !
Hien

Great Costa Rica Trip to Maximize Vacation with KimKim!
Costa Rica | Jan 31 - Feb 6, 2025

Ashley
Ashley A.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
Our trip to Costa Rica was such a great experience thanks to KimKim with guidance from Holden! Really appreciated him taking the time to meet with us, walk us through options, make adjustments to the itinerary and activities based on our interest and physical level. We were able to book a trip with only a couple of months with a maximized schedule. Loved every detail in the trip, the places we went, the hotels booked and the ease to attend all the activities. Really appreciated the KimKim team. Read more

Our trip to Costa Rica was such a great experience thanks to KimKim with guidance from Holden! Really appreciated him taking the time to meet with us, walk us through options, make adjustments to the itinerary and activities based on our interest and physical level. We were able to book a trip with only a couple of months with a maximized schedule. Loved every detail in the trip, the places we went, the hotels booked and the ease to attend all the activities. Really appreciated the KimKim team.

Hotel Reviews
Karahé Beach Hotel
Manuel Antonio

By far the best view in a stay on vacation! We stayed in bungalow #8 and while the stairs are a killer, that view was worth it every time. Loved this spot in relation to the overall town layout, the proximity to other bars, restaurants and the Manuel Antonio National Park

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Establo Mountain Hotel
Monteverde

This place is beautiful and in a great setting! The wind up there really gets to high MPH, so the door on the back patio really rattles through the night. Still a great spot to stay. Great food too!

Authenticity & Character
Location
It's on a mountain with incredible views!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Arenal History Inn
Arenal

Really liked this spot overall. It's just right off the highway and the noise from all the traffic, especially motorbikes, makes it really hard to sleep. I think guests should know that going in. It is a beautiful location with great breakfast and amenities.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Right off the main road
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hampton by Hilton San José Airport
Alajuela

It's a standard Hampton hotel. Overall it's good, not great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling
Ocean Kayaking & Snorkeling
Manuel Antonio

Super fun day of kayaking and snorkeling! Great sightings of fish during snorkeling. Loved the entire trip!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Guided Hike
Monteverde

Overall this was pretty cool. We really liked our guide, Elvis, and he did his best to help give a good experience. We definitely had a lot of people in our group and in general there were a lot of people on the pathways with guides. It makes it hard to enjoy parts of the walk.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna

A beautiful area around Arenal. Great to have a guide! Not a huge fan of the La Fortuna Waterfall due to the amount of people but it was still pretty cool overall.

Quality of Experience
Food
Mariano took us to the Red Frog Cafe and it was delicious!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
EcoTermales Hot Springs & Meal
EcoTermales Hot Springs & Meal
Costa Rica

A great hot spring and meal overall. We showed up for a night swim and the pools were much larger than expected! A great layout and experience overall.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 10, 2025

Thank you for your review Ashley, I'm glad to hear that you and April had a great time on your fast-paced trip to Costa Rica. I'm especially glad to hear that you liked Karahé and the Ocean Kayaking activity in Manuel Antonio! I hope you both have great memories of your time here in Costa Rica with us.
Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Amazing Morocco Trip
Morocco | Jan 22 - Feb 1, 2025

B
Bhakee N.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
The whole experience from start to finish was amazing. Hassan and his team was very responsive to the numerous questions I had prior to booking and also communicated all the changes promptly. The trip plan took into consideration our priorities and was very well crafted. Khalid Ouzayd was our driver for the whole trip and was excellent. He was very knowledgeable and helped us with numerous tips on how to navigate each city. Always on time and made sure we are enjoying out trip. All of the... Read more

The whole experience from start to finish was amazing. Hassan and his team was very responsive to the numerous questions I had prior to booking and also communicated all the changes promptly. The trip plan took into consideration our priorities and was very well crafted. Khalid Ouzayd was our driver for the whole trip and was excellent. He was very knowledgeable and helped us with numerous tips on how to navigate each city. Always on time and made sure we are enjoying out trip. All of the local guides were also hand selected and did an amazing job. Overall money well spent.

Hotel Review
Riad Salam Fes
Fes

One of the best places we have stayed. The architecture and the service was fantastic. Provided us with a complimentary upgrade as well. We used their Hamam service too.

Authenticity & Character
Fantastic Architecture and artwork!
Location
Very close to the Medina
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Hassan El Amrani
Hassan
Hassan El Amrani
Local specialist in Morocco & USA | Replied on Feb 10, 2025

Hello Bhakee,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm thrilled to hear that you had an amazing experience from start to finish. My team always strive to provide clear communication and well-crafted itineraries, so it’s wonderful to know that you felt well taken care of. I'm glad that Khalid made your journey even more enjoyable with his knowledge and punctuality. Your feedback means a lot to us, and I appreciate you choosing our services. I hope to welcome you on another adventure soon.
Best,
Hassan

Fantastic family trip in the Yucatán
Mexico | Feb 2 - Feb 8, 2025

M
M Z.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Feb 10, 2025
So many fantastic memories for our young family!
When we first contacted kim kim, I was not sure it was even possible to organize a trip at such short notice, but Rene delivered a plan custom made for us, with just 3 weeks to go. All the activity providers were top notch, knowledgeable and supporting local communities.
Luz Ma followed us online through the trip, she was able to help when an hotel assigned us to a very traffic noisy room, she helped us get a much quieter, and better room...
Read more

So many fantastic memories for our young family!
When we first contacted kim kim, I was not sure it was even possible to organize a trip at such short notice, but Rene delivered a plan custom made for us, with just 3 weeks to go. All the activity providers were top notch, knowledgeable and supporting local communities.
Luz Ma followed us online through the trip, she was able to help when an hotel assigned us to a very traffic noisy room, she helped us get a much quieter, and better room the following night. We had one other organizational mishap, but it could be solved thanks to all the information provided by kim kim team.
The activities where perfect for our family friendly tour, and we did more than we would have thought possible.

Hotel Reviews
Hacienda Morelos
Puerto Morelos

As of February 2025, the only reason to be at hacienda Morelos is the location. It is located right in the center of Puerto Morelos, with direct access to the beach and with sea view of most rooms. The rest however, is in grave need of attention. There is a feeling in the hotel that there is no management, the employees where often uncourteous and lacked initiative. There are renovations going on in the restaurant, so you are walking in a building site and to reach the pool and sea you have to go through all the kitchen equipment left in what would be otherwise a nice restaurant area. We constantly had to request extra towels and toilet paper for our 4 people room, like it was not possible to give anything extra. The coffee in the foyer was alway empty, in a container way too small for the demand. The pool and other part of the hotel cleanliness is questionable. The fee parking was half a building site, we were blocked in by a van at one point. They should have closed during the remodel and train their staff better.

Authenticity & Character
Felt like a bleak motel. Lots of dirt and dust, not even an evening reading light.
Location
Beautiful location with views and right on the beach front!
Staff
Unfriendly, lacked initiative and professionalism
Cleanliness & Comfort
Pool was dirty, lots of dirt around the hotel. Not help by remodel and building sites around.
El Mesón del Marqués
Valladolid

This is a beautiful hotel right in the center of Valladolid, with an authentic, traditional character. The staff is courteous and attentive, the grounds are beautiful and the courtyard and pool provide a peaceful setting. Unfortunately the first night we were assigned to an extremely noisy room overlooking a busy street. We could not get any sleep. After we were moved to a different room, our stay was much more pleasant. The restaurants is very good. I wish we knew about the roof terrace bar while there!

Authenticity & Character
Wonderful historical character, kept throughout the building, nice art and decor
Location
Right in the center of town
Staff
Very professional
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great service
Activity Reviews
Snorkeling in the beautiful marine park of Puerto Morelos
Snorkeling in the beautiful marine park of Puerto Morelos
Puerto Morelos

Friendly staff, great equipment, eco conscious tourism, a great experience. Joaquin was so friendly and our captain Arturo took care of our children on the boat. I love how everybody receives and explanation before snorkeling on how to protect the environment. The floatation devices definitely limits people diving down and grabbing things or inadvertently damaging corals. We saw a lot of fish!.

Quality of Experience
Great place to snorkel! We saw manta, morel eel, turtles, angel fish, barracuda.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Lovely staff , family friendly, helpful
Transport
Good boat
Scuba Diving in the Cozumel Sea for Certified Divers
Scuba Diving in the Cozumel Sea for Certified Divers
Mexico

Beautiful dive, great staff, small group and great equipment. Knowledgeable and eco conscious owner of the diving service. Despite the mishap with my diving start time, Ernesto Hevia was quick thinking into finding a solution for me, he also took care of me picking me up from the ferry and taking me back there after. There needs to be more direct communication between the diving center to the client directly. I understand the diving did not have my direct contact info. I filled in the questionnaire but at that point I should have also scheduled a call or have a direct message to the provider to go over details and questions.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Great staff
Transport
Boat and road transport were great
Cooking Class in the Mayan community Nuevo Durango & Punta Laguna Natural Reserve
Cooking Class in the Mayan community Nuevo Durango & Punta Laguna Natural Reserve
Mexico

Overall a fantastic day. Francisco was accomodating as we arrived 30 min late. I had flagged the start time of 10 as too early from valladolid , with the time change. He was extremely friendly and professional. Francisco was so nice and friendly, a father himself he was caring and engaging with the kids and explained a lot about his culture but also took great interest in us! The cooking was a fantastic experience with the children, we picked and made everything from scratch! The family cooking was super hospitable and jovial. The laguna tour was very special and packed with activities !

Quality of Experience
Genuine cooking experience
Food
We cooked ! It was fantastic!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
All amazing! Francisco was great
Transport
Na our car
Ek Balam Archaeological Site, Cenote & Village Tour
Ek Balam Archaeological Site, Cenote & Village Tour
Mexico

What an amazing place, a world a part from the crowds of Chicen Itza. I hope ek balan retain its character. The local guide , Baldasar, was knowledgeable and friendly to us and our children. We learnt so much! The team managed to change around our booking times to see the cenote after the archeological visit. The cenote was beautiful, with a nice relaxing area with hammocks, changing rooms and lovely staff explaining the site facilities and rules. I wish we had longer there. After that we went to the village tour that felt authentic, again with welcoming and friendly people, showing their homes and their craft. We purchased locally made crafts, although we never felt pressured into it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
N.a. Our transport.
Visit a peaceful cenote and enjoy traditional mayan food
Visit a peaceful cenote and enjoy traditional mayan food
Yokdzonot

Beautiful peaceful cenote, staff explained well how to reach it and showering procedure. Friendly staff and nice food at lunch, lovely environment.

Quality of Experience
The character of the cenote
Food
Great traditional food
Local specialist: Rene Rodarte

Kimkim made choosing my travel plan so much e...
Iceland | Jan 31 - Feb 7, 2025

Brittany Leslie Lynn
Brittany Leslie Lynn S.
Canada | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
Kimkim made choosing my travel plan so much easier. When I first started planning my trip to Iceland, I had a vague idea of what I wanted to do. The to-do list quickly begins piling up when you book a multi-city trip, so having all of your bookings in one place makes a huge difference.
On our way to Iceland we were delayed 24h, meaning we were missing 1 night at our first hotel, 1 day of our rental car usage, and one of our planned/paid for tours. Rather than having to contact each place I...
Read more

Kimkim made choosing my travel plan so much easier. When I first started planning my trip to Iceland, I had a vague idea of what I wanted to do. The to-do list quickly begins piling up when you book a multi-city trip, so having all of your bookings in one place makes a huge difference.
On our way to Iceland we were delayed 24h, meaning we were missing 1 night at our first hotel, 1 day of our rental car usage, and one of our planned/paid for tours. Rather than having to contact each place I simply contacted Othman with the details of my delay, and he connected me with the local tour operator and they took it from there. Because of the hectic weather we had to make several adjustments to our itinerary and having it booked through Kimkim was a big stress reliever since they did all of the rebooking.
Othman was very kind and checked in with me before, during, and after our trip and was always there to answer questions when needed.
I look forward to booking with kimkim again in the future!

Activity Reviews
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
Crystal Blue Ice Cave
Iceland

The ice cave was very crowded and was a lot of stopping for prolonged periods of time before moving to the next area, where you waited for a very long time. Our group was small, which was nice, however we had a few individuals who were always lagging behind to take photos and it really slowed us down. What could've taken 30 minutes took more than over an hour. I feel like there were too many people inside the cave and that it would've been better if the tours were more staggered so you weren't constantly waiting around. Another tour that we did had a nice idea of bringing us to the end fairly quickly while still being informative and not rushing, and then gave us all the option of exploring and making our way back at our own pace. This way people could take photos and take their time if they wanted to while others could make their way back quicker. This doesn't exactly work with the ice cave tour as they transport tour-goers to and from base, however maybe there could be a couple of options for departure from the cave.

Quality of Experience
Less tours happening at the same time, or having an option for a longer tour for those who want to stay longer/take more photos
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Vatnshellir lava cave tour
Vatnshellir lava cave tour
Iceland

This was an activity that I underestimated and had booked for something to do, not necessarily because I really wanted to do it. We had visited The Lava Show in Reykjavik which gave us some education regarding lava tunnels and it was actually a really cool experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was very friendly and cracked a few jokes with us and made the experience more enjoyable.
Local specialist: Othman A
Othman
Othman A
Local specialist in Montreal / Iceland | Replied on Apr 08, 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words Brittany!
I’m really happy to hear that planning your trip through Kimkim made the process easier, especially with all the unexpected twists that travel can bring. It was a real pleasure helping you shape your Iceland adventure, and I’m thrilled to know it turned into such a memorable experience.
Whenever you’re ready for your next trip to Iceland, I’d love to help you plan it!
Warm regards,
Othman

Amazing Family Trip in Morocco
Morocco | Dec 26 - Jan 9, 2025

TINA
TINA A.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
Wow. My family (a small group of 15-19 adults depending on the day) traveled from Tangier to Fes to Marrakech to the desert in 15 days, following a packed itinerary (we wanted to see it all!) put together by KimKim travel consultant, Louis. Louis was fabulous in working not only with me as the group's point person, but another adult on the trip who himself was acting as "agent" for about 8-9 of the travelers. It was of knives in the air to juggle, and Louis managed to take this small group... Read more

Wow. My family (a small group of 15-19 adults depending on the day) traveled from Tangier to Fes to Marrakech to the desert in 15 days, following a packed itinerary (we wanted to see it all!) put together by KimKim travel consultant, Louis. Louis was fabulous in working not only with me as the group's point person, but another adult on the trip who himself was acting as "agent" for about 8-9 of the travelers. It was of knives in the air to juggle, and Louis managed to take this small group through an amazing taste of Morocco. We traveled Christmas day through January 10th; the weather throughout was perfect for travelling - never too hot or too cold. We had a wonderful local driver, Younes, who stuck with our group the entire way, and made traveling the many miles we covered absolutely a dream for those of us chatting, playing games, and sleeping on the comfy van between stops. All the lodging arranged by KimKim was great in terms of location, cleanliness, efficiency, and staffing - we never had any complaints (except when the Fes riad put our 86-year mother on the 3rd floor of a riad in Fes with very a very windy staircase - they moved her after the first night and were very apologetic). Highlights and not-to-miss include the medina in Tangier overlooking the Med Sea, Chefchaouen (the blue city), Rabat's Chellah and Kasbah, the Hassan Mosque in Casablanca, Essaouira medina, the Fes medina and quick visits to the tanneries and pottery factory, the argan oil collective, roof-top dining and shopping in the Marrakech medina, and every day of our 4-day trip to the Western Sahara desert to glamp under the stars. Thank you to again to Louis and Youness and the rest of the crew at KimKim. You took a rowdy bunch of family members and got us through Morocco in style.

Hotel Reviews
Riad Jona
Marrakesh

Out of the 7 different hotels and riads we stayed in during our 2-week-plus trip to Morocco, this was my favorite. Location was perfect, and the riad itself was stunning on the inside. The artwork and crafts all about were beautiful, and the various rooftop terraces and pools made it stand out from others.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Really close to everything, just a couple of blocks from the medina and main square.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kasbah Isfoula
Ait Ben Haddou

This place in the middle of nowhere surprised us with its sophisticated decor and well-appointed dining room. Highly recommended.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Luxury Camp Chebbi
Merzouga

This place was SO COOL! We all loved being out in the desert, no other campsite in sight. Wonderful staff, great food and music to entertain. The tents were furnished with a very comfortable bed and more than what you would expect in a desert setting! The stars at night, the Berber music, the endless sands and dunes to climb on - what an amazing time. Oh, and the camel ride to the camp was a kick! What a wonderful way to experience the dunes and arrive at the camp.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Wonderfully friendly and hospitable. Also talented (the musicians on staff)!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ksar Sultan Dades
El Hart
Authenticity & Character
Beautifully furnished, appointed, decorated. Art was phenomenal. Food at breakfast bountiful
Location
The location was actually AMAZING - but the rocky unpaved road up a steep hill to get to the riad was a little hairy. It was worth it though!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hôtel Riad Marraplace
Marrakesh
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Sayeda Alhora
Fes
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hilton Garden Inn Tanger City Centre
Tangier
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Overnight in the Sahara Desert with Sunset Camel Ride
Overnight in the Sahara Desert with Sunset Camel Ride
Morocco

The desert portion of our 15-day trip was definitely a crowd favorite. Everything went really well, including our camel ride to the campsite with a stop just short to watch the sunset and climb the dunes. Drop dead breathtaking! The campsite itself was very pretty, comfortable, and a great way to watch the stars, share a good meal, and listen to Berber music. Don't miss the opportunity to go to the desert - even though it is quite a long side-trip from Marrakech, all of our small group of 6 who did it were so glad we did!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
yay camels!
Day Trip to Sefrou: The Garden City of Morocco
Day Trip to Sefrou: The Garden City of Morocco
Morocco

Sefrou was the one disappointment on our trip of 15 days. We were dropped off on a holiday (January 1st) early in the morning, and either because of the holiday or early hour, the city was quiet and shops were all closed. Even though our group had asked KimKim about the holiday's impact on our visit, we were assured it would still be worth the visit to go to Sefrou. Without the artisan shops open and bustling, our group felt like intruders on a small town. We had a great rest of the day traveling to Ifrine and hiking, but be aware of holiday closures in your trip planning.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore the Vibrant Gateway to Africa
Explore the Vibrant Gateway to Africa
Tangier

The group all enjoyed Tangier quite a bit - all of the imperial cities sited on the ocean or sea scored very highly with us! We had 3-4 days in Tangier, so were able to explore it more thoroughly than some of the other cities we visited. The medina on top of a bluff was our first taste of old walled cities in Morocco, and it did not disappoint. We had a great tour and guide (Yasmine) as we explored the old city, including an old synagogue and Jewish cemetery that were fascinating. The views and vista over the Med Sea were breathtaking - we were able to see Spain across the sea as well.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Yassine Echcherki
Yassine
Yassine Echcherki
Local specialist in Morocco, New York, Spain | Replied on Feb 10, 2025
Wow! Thank you for such a thoughtful and detailed review. It truly warms our hearts to hear that your family had an unforgettable journey through Morocco. It was a pleasure working with you and your group to create an itinerary that allowed you to experience the diverse beauty and culture of the country. Louis and Younes will be thrilled to know they helped make your trip smooth, fun, and memorable. Traveling with a large group can be quite the puzzle, and we’re so happy to hear that... Read more

Wow! Thank you for such a thoughtful and detailed review. It truly warms our hearts to hear that your family had an unforgettable journey through Morocco. It was a pleasure working with you and your group to create an itinerary that allowed you to experience the diverse beauty and culture of the country.

Louis and Younes will be thrilled to know they helped make your trip smooth, fun, and memorable. Traveling with a large group can be quite the puzzle, and we’re so happy to hear that everything—from the accommodations to the itinerary—came together to create a seamless adventure. Your highlights, from the medinas to the Sahara, perfectly capture the magic of Morocco!

We also appreciate your understanding regarding the Fes riad and are glad they were able to accommodate your mother quickly. Your feedback helps us continue improving our services.

Thank you for choosing KimKim and MOBT Global and for allowing us to be a part of your incredible journey. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure in the future!

Use A Travel Agent!
Australia | Dec 30 - Feb 1, 2025

Sue
Sue K.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
We wish to thank Paula Adams for all her assistance and guidance to make our trip to Australia and New Zealand so memorable.
To make our trip easy, we wanted to elicit the help of a travel agent. Neither of us had used one before. I literally found KimKim on the internet. They connected us with Australian native and expert, Paula Adams. We quickly lowered our guard as her credibility shined through. She answered every question. Conversed via email and always on the phone when we wanted. She...
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We wish to thank Paula Adams for all her assistance and guidance to make our trip to Australia and New Zealand so memorable.
To make our trip easy, we wanted to elicit the help of a travel agent. Neither of us had used one before. I literally found KimKim on the internet. They connected us with Australian native and expert, Paula Adams. We quickly lowered our guard as her credibility shined through. She answered every question. Conversed via email and always on the phone when we wanted. She listened to us and tailored our trip to what we wanted to experience. She also advised us against visiting an area that would have been too hot and humid with monsoon rains. That was good to know! We found all her hotel and excursion selections to be just what we wanted in the area we wanted. She arranged all the transfers for us too so we didn’t have to drive on the wrong side of the road! We loved the Penguin Parade (albeit crowded), the Great Ocean Road, and the entire city of Melbourne. New Zealand didn’t disappoint either! We like a more natural experience and loved the ferry from Wellington to Picton and the coastal train between Picton and Christchurch. Such amazing views. Zealandia was a great experience for us and we saw a kiwi bird!
Utilizing a travel agent does cost a little more money, but for us, it was so worth it. Paula advised us, suggested things we never knew about, and found proven accommodations and professional excursions. Additionally, while in Australia, I got sick. We needed to rearrange our schedule and cancel one of our segments. Paula took care of everything! It was so worth it to us to have her in our back pocket. I completely recommend her services! Thank you Paula!

Hotel Reviews
Edit Picton (formerly Picton Yacht Club Hotel)
Picton

Nice hotel with balcony overlooking their pool and the Sound.

Authenticity & Character
Room was nice. Not over the top.
Location
Very close to their downtown area. About two blocks walking.
Staff
Friendly and helpful.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean and neat.
Mercure Welcome Melbourne
Melbourne

Hotel was right in the middle of the Central Business District of Melbourne. Great location! Pretty basic room.

Authenticity & Character
Pretty basic hotel and furnishings. Room was a little small.
Location
Right in the heart of Melbourne’s Central Business District. Close to shopping and excellent and varied cuisine.
Staff
Very helpful and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
We could get extra towels, Kleenex whenever asked. Rooms were clean and neat.
Activity Review
Great Ocean Road Day Trip
Great Ocean Road Day Trip
Melbourne

Oceania and Nick provided our 8 person van with a memorable trip. He took us off road to a golf course so we could see kangaroos in the wild. He also took off the main road to a grove of eucalyptus trees and we spotted 6 koalas in the wild. A treat for me! The 12 Apostles rock formations and Arch were breathtaking. It was a perfect excursion. The right amount of informative narrative.

Quality of Experience
I enjoyed our Oceania driver and guide, Nick. He was informative and really provided us with a great experience.
Food
Food options were undesirable so we we got scallop pies nearby that were awesome.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A bit bumpy in the back! Good amount of bathroom breaks.
Local specialist: Paula Adams
Paula
Paula Adams
Local specialist in California and Australia | Replied on Feb 10, 2025
G'day Sue & Paul, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback about your recent trip with us and sharing some amazing pictures. We truly appreciate your kind words and are delighted to hear that you had a wonderful experience. I'm sorry you had to miss out on Port Douglas. We will just have to plan another trip. :) Your review means a lot to me, and it helps us continue to provide exceptional service to valued clients like you. If there's anything else we can do to make... Read more

G'day Sue & Paul,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your feedback about your recent trip with us and sharing some amazing pictures. We truly appreciate your kind words and are delighted to hear that you had a wonderful experience. I'm sorry you had to miss out on Port Douglas. We will just have to plan another trip. :)

Your review means a lot to me, and it helps us continue to provide exceptional service to valued clients like you. If there's anything else we can do to make your future travels even more memorable, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

I look forward to assisting you with your next adventure!

Cheers,
Paula

Trip to Thailand - great experience!
Thailand | Jan 31 - Feb 7, 2025

N
Nicole G.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
I have never used a booking service before so was a little nervous but this was a great experience overall. Kien our booking specialist was very helpful, responsive and helped us plan a great trip to Thailand while answering our many questions and being very patient with us. He even helped us with our last minute flight cancellation and helped rebook some tours and experiences on short notice so we didn’t miss out on anything. Everyone we interacted with on our trip was very kind,... Read more

I have never used a booking service before so was a little nervous but this was a great experience overall. Kien our booking specialist was very helpful, responsive and helped us plan a great trip to Thailand while answering our many questions and being very patient with us. He even helped us with our last minute flight cancellation and helped rebook some tours and experiences on short notice so we didn’t miss out on anything. Everyone we interacted with on our trip was very kind, knowledgeable and professional and it was great to have such a nice itinerary planned in advance. Would definitely recommend!

Local specialist: Kien Nguyen

Wonderful Costa Rica trip!
Costa Rica | Jan 23 - Jan 29, 2025

L
Lisa E.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
Our first accommodations were unique and comfortable. Mariano was our guide through Serendipity for the Volcano hike and La Fortuna waterfall. He was wonderful. Full of knowledge and personable. Highly recommend.
The coffee and chocolate tour was great!
The Villa Sol hotel was also lovely! The sail/snorkel through Kuna Vela trip was fabulous! Thanks to everyone who helped organize the trip.
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Our first accommodations were unique and comfortable. Mariano was our guide through Serendipity for the Volcano hike and La Fortuna waterfall. He was wonderful. Full of knowledge and personable. Highly recommend.
The coffee and chocolate tour was great!
The Villa Sol hotel was also lovely! The sail/snorkel through Kuna Vela trip was fabulous! Thanks to everyone who helped organize the trip.

Activity Reviews
Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Costa Rica
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar Cane Farm Tour
Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar Cane Farm Tour
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal Volcano Hike & La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mariano. Knowledge, great personality
Transport
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Feb 10, 2025

Thank you Lisa for taking the time to review your trip to Costa Rica 🦋 I'm glad to hear that everything went well and that you enjoyed your accommodations in Arenal and the Gulf of Papagayo! It's fantastic that your guides were able to show you the best time on your tours and that you had a relaxing sailing trip along the coast with our friends at Kuna Vela! ⛵

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Our driver, John was amazing. The whole trip ...
Kenya | Jan 28 - Feb 6, 2025

Lauren
Lauren T.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
Our driver, John was amazing. The whole trip was made by having him with us every day and in every park. Since all the accommodations were over 4 hours apart we spent a lot of time together, (in my opinion this is something that should have been explained during the booking process and planning).
I will say the accommodations started off strong but got worse as the time went on. The first place, Fair acres was nice although the bathroom area did not seem to clean. The second accommodation,...
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Our driver, John was amazing. The whole trip was made by having him with us every day and in every park. Since all the accommodations were over 4 hours apart we spent a lot of time together, (in my opinion this is something that should have been explained during the booking process and planning).
I will say the accommodations started off strong but got worse as the time went on. The first place, Fair acres was nice although the bathroom area did not seem to clean. The second accommodation, Sweetwater was by far the best. The ease of being in the park was well worth the money. The food was absolutely amazing and the wait staff was so attentive. Lake Nakuru lodge was okay, with food that was just okay. We were glad to only stay there for one night. The Masai Mara cultural camp was amazing, and I wish we were able to stay in the regular accommodations for a night. The food was delicious. We did the bush camp which I wish was explained a little better before we booked, but it was a good experience. The last camping was Mara Kimana which was the worst accommodation by far. I would have rather stayed in the park to bypass the streets everyday and made the game drives easier. The caliber of food was not nearly as good as we were used to. The staff was nice, but I had to ask about my laundry multiple times. For dropping it off the bag was forgotten, and then for the delivery we did not get it until around 9pm, when we were leaving early the next morning.
After the safari was completed we went to the airstrip to get a flight to Nairobi to connect to Diani. It was disappointing to learn when we got to the airstrip that an option to go straight to Diani and not stop in Nairobi was an option. I wish this would have been provided for us and given as an option to upgrade for additional cost, we lost most of our day traveling. when we arrived in Diani we were disappointed in our accommodations. We personally do not like all-inclusive, and this place was just that. While the beach was beautiful, the room was okay and the bug net was impossible to work. Any time you tried to close it, the other side opened. Which was stressful in the middle of the night when you got up and then basically had to rearrange all the sides of it.

All in all we appreciate everything Kim Kim did but we would have liked a better explanation of the trip and what it entailed. We did not previously look up anything about traveling to Kenya so we knew nothing of what to expect and I feel like that could have been discussed and explained better.

Hotel Reviews
Diani Sea Lodge
Diani Beach

I had read some reviews on google and trip advisor and requested to change this accommodation but only when it was too late. This was an all-inclusive hotel which would have been nice to know before it was booked. Me and my husband personally do not like these sorts of accommodations and would have rather been booked elsewhere. The room seemed clean, except the bathroom shower pretty much couldn’t drain due to the way it was built and water would get everywhere since there was no door. One of the weirdest things they did was have reusable water bottles full of “clean water” to brush teeth with and such but the fact that they were plastic reusable bottles was very weird. I didn’t want to put my mouth on something someone else had used. They had no water bottles anywhere for purchase, they just used a big jug to fill up everyone’s water. While this is fine, I would have liked to have access to water bottles while in the room. I could see how people get sick from the food. During all services some of the food that probably should have been cold was just left out, who knows how long this was for considering they had to set up for the service. We stuck to food that had been heated or was cooked right in front of us and I think that’s why we didn’t get sick. The bug net that was in the room was a mess. If you tried to close it on one side it opened on the other and felt like it was constantly open. It’s not that hard to have an easy to use bug net so this was really frustrating. We were worried about this because when you closed the door it still looked like it was open, there was cracks on all side that were decently big for plenty of insects to come in. I was thinking since this accommodation was on the beach that there would be beach loungers but unfortunately there was not, all the loungers are on the grass overlooking the beach. It felt like unless you got out there early you couldn’t get a lounger which was pretty annoying. People would leave their stuff there even if they weren’t using it all day. The service was pretty slow since it was all-inclusive. The outside pool bar usually had 2-3 guys working and about 10+ people waiting. At one point I waited 15 minutes for a coffee before I gave up because there was still someone in front of me that hadn’t ordered yet. there was an inside bar but everytime I went over there it was closed, so I’m not sure if they even use that. This place was close to the airport which was nice, but I would not recommend anyone else stay here. It was just okay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Mara Kimana Camp

We would not recommend this hotel to other travelers. Because it was outside the park getting into the park every day was a hassle, and you had to go through town and be swarmed by people trying to sell you stuff. The tent we were booked was entirely too big for us and had a master and a separate bedroom with 3 beds in it as well. For us, it seemed like a waste and we would have rather been booked inside the park at a nicer accommodation. When we got there I asked about laundry and they informed me they would bring a bag before dinner. This did not happen and I had to go to the front desk to remind them. The shower we took there was freezing and they had to work on the water heater. They did not have many food options for dinner. The WiFi in the tent did not work at all, you basically had to be in the reception area to be able to do anything on your phone. I was told the laundry would be completed before dinner the next night, when we left to go to dinner we still did not have the laundry. I was in the room during turn-down service and she said she would have it after dinner which left us not a lot of time to pack considering we were leaving early in the morning.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp
Maji Moto

We had a wonderful time here learning about the community and what they have created. We would have liked to have more of an explanation of what this camp entailed. The walk to the bush camp was quite a hike and I would not recommend it for everyone. Once you are up at the camp there is no running water. While they do have a “washroom” it is just a wooden toilet that is covered by an enclosure. We were hesitant to participate in eating the goat, but after seeing it cooked we became much more comfortable. They had informed us that no one has every gotten sick from eating it and that was also comforting. I would have felt better if this was explained to me beforehand. All the staff was very sweet, and we really enjoyed the food offered.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lake Nakuru Lodge
Nakuru

I would say the only positive thing about this hotel is that it is located in the park. The bed we slept on was by far the most uncomfortable and felt the same as sleeping on the floor. The food was okay, but they did not have that much variety. We would not recommend this place to other travelers.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sweetwaters Serena Camp
Nanyuki

This was the best hotel we stayed at, we loved the staff and the cleanliness of the accommodations. The front desk was so welcoming, they had tea and coffee available at all hours, and the food for breakfast, lunch and dinner was amazing. There was a decent amount of options every time. At night they would give you a heating pack to sleep with since the tent can get a little cold, and it stayed warm almost all night. We loved staying inside the park so the game drive began as soon as we left in the morning.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Fair Acres Boutique Hotel
Karen, Nairobi. P. O Box 1121 – 00208 Nairobi.

This place was a little far from the airport, and considering we had to drive back closer to the airport on our first day of travel it probably would have been better if we were in a different location. The staff made it easy to check in, the food that was available was okay. It was close to Karen Blixen and Bomas which we did that day. When we arrived the shower did not have any clean towels, but the staff brought some right away. The shower did seem like it needed to be cleaned, especially the doors and the floor.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Maasai Mara Game Drives
Maasai Mara Game Drives
Masai Mara
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Maasai Mara National Reserve
Masai Mara
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp
Maji Moto Maasai "Olpul" Bush Camp
Maji Moto

Should be explained more what this entailes with pictures of where you will be staying, that there is a hike up there, etc.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Nakuru
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mount Kenya Day Hike
Mount Kenya Day Hike
Kenya

This was a much more difficult hike than I thought it was going to be and we are very active, working out daily and have been on previous hikes before. We would not recommend this activity to other travelers, it is basically all uphill with very little plateaus.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Moses was an amazing guide even though we didn’t go all the way
Transport
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy
Ol Pejeta Conservancy

We enjoyed both drives

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Feb 10, 2025
Dear Lauren, Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback about your trip. We’re so glad to hear that John made such a positive impact on your experience—having a knowledgeable and reliable guide truly makes all the difference! We appreciate your honest thoughts on the accommodations and travel logistics. Your input is invaluable, and we regret that some aspects did not meet your expectations. We understand how important it is to have clear communication during the planning... Read more

Dear Lauren,

Thank you for taking the time to share your detailed feedback about your trip. We’re so glad to hear that John made such a positive impact on your experience—having a knowledgeable and reliable guide truly makes all the difference!

We appreciate your honest thoughts on the accommodations and travel logistics. Your input is invaluable, and we regret that some aspects did not meet your expectations. We understand how important it is to have clear communication during the planning process, especially regarding travel distances, accommodation details, and available flight options. Your comments will help us improve how we present these details to future travelers.

We’re also sorry to hear that the last accommodation and the experience in Diani did not align with your preferences. We aim to match each traveler’s expectations with the best possible options, and your insights highlight areas where we can refine our recommendations.

That being said, we’re thrilled you enjoyed Sweetwaters, the cultural experience in Maji Moto Maasai Cultural Camp, and the incredible wildlife encounters in Maasai Mara. We truly appreciate you choosing KimKim for your adventure in Kenya.

Thank you again for your valuable feedback.

Best regards,
Joseph

Fantastic South Africa Trip with KimKim – Gre...
South Africa | Jan 26 - Feb 8, 2025

Martin
Martin D.
Argentina | Reviewed on Feb 09, 2025
Fantastic South Africa Trip with KimKim – Great Itinerary, Some Communication Gaps We booked our trip to South Africa through KimKim, and overall, it was a 5-star experience! Our agent, Lucy, put together a very good itinerary, perfectly tailored to our interests. The accommodations, activities, and recommendations were excellent, making for an unforgettable adventure. However, when weather contingencies arose, leading to multiple cancellations, we experienced a lack of communication... Read more

Fantastic South Africa Trip with KimKim – Great Itinerary, Some Communication Gaps

We booked our trip to South Africa through KimKim, and overall, it was a 5-star experience! Our agent, Lucy, put together a very good itinerary, perfectly tailored to our interests. The accommodations, activities, and recommendations were excellent, making for an unforgettable adventure.

However, when weather contingencies arose, leading to multiple cancellations, we experienced a lack of communication from Lucy, which left us uncertain about the next steps. Fortunately, after reaching out to a KimKim agent by phone, everything was quickly sorted out, and the rest of the trip went smoothly.

One of the absolute highlights was our stay at Shamwari. The experience was absolutely gorgeous, and every aspect of that part of the trip exceeded our expectations. From the stunning landscapes to the incredible wildlife encounters and top-notch service, it was truly unforgettable.

Our guides in South Africa, Henrik and Brian, were absolutely first-class and took care of all our needs while we were there.

South Africa was absolutely thrilling, and our entire family came back fascinated and already excited to plan our next adventure. We would definitely use KimKim again!

Hotel Reviews
Belle Maroc
Bloubergstrand

Great Location, but Maintenance Could Be Improved – Belle Maroc Hotel Belle Maroc Hotel is exceptionally well located, making it a convenient spot for exploring the area. However, the general maintenance falls a bit short compared to the other hotels we stayed at. We encountered some electrical issues, which were resolved by running a cable to our TV—not the most elegant solution. The staff was okay, as was the breakfast—nothing exceptional, but nothing to complain about either. Overall, it’s a decent stay with a fantastic location, but it doesn’t quite reach a five-star experience.D

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Shamwari Sindile Lodge

A Once-in-a-Lifetime Safari Experience at Sindile Lodge Our stay at Sindile Lodge was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment we arrived, we were met with exceptional service, breathtaking accommodations, and world-class hospitality. The lodge itself is stunning—beautifully designed to blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings, offering luxury, comfort, and an intimate connection with the wilderness. The suites are spacious, elegantly furnished, and provide unparalleled views of the reserve. The food was outstanding, with every meal exceeding our expectations. From gourmet breakfasts to exquisite dinners, each dish was crafted to perfection, making dining an experience in itself. A special thank you to our ranger, Siya, whose knowledge, passion, and enthusiasm made every game drive unforgettable. His deep understanding of the wildlife and the environment added incredible depth to our safari experience. Another heartfelt thank you to our butler, Siya, who went above and beyond to ensure our stay was nothing short of perfect. His warm and attentive service made us feel truly special, and his attention to detail was impeccable. Sindile Lodge is a true gem, offering a perfect blend of adventure and luxury. If I could give it 6 stars, I absolutely would! If you’re looking for an unforgettable safari experience, this is the place to be. We can’t wait to return! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (but truly a 6-star experience!)

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
6 star service
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hunter's Country House

Exceptional Stay at Hunter’s Country House Hunter’s Country House was an absolute gem! The setting is beautiful, with a peaceful and elegant atmosphere that made our stay truly special. The rooms were spacious, charming, and perfectly maintained, offering a luxurious yet cozy experience. The service was outstanding—the staff was incredibly attentive, warm, and always ready to help. The food was excellent, and every detail of our stay exceeded expectations. For those wishing to visit Plettenberg Bay, the hotel is a bit too far away, and you will need a car or driver to go back and forth. That would be the only drawback for staying there. A perfect retreat for anyone looking for tranquility, comfort, and top-notch hospitality. Highly recommended!

Authenticity & Character
Location
It’s not walking distance from Plett
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Whale Coast All Suite Hotel
Hermanus

Great Stay at Whale Coast All Suite Hotel Whale Coast All Suite Hotel was a fantastic choice! The apartment was spacious, and very convenient, located just one block from the beach and inside a shopping mall, making it easy to get groceries and essentials. The breakfast was very good, and the staff was absolutely excellent—super helpful and attentive. A perfect place for a comfortable and hassle-free stay. Good 4 star option

Authenticity & Character
Location
Did not have views of the ocean
Staff
Súper Friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
LawHill Luxury Apartments
Cape Town

Perfect Location & Modern Comfort – Lawhill Apartments Lawhill Apartments is the perfect place to stay in Cape Town! The location is unbeatable—right in town and within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront. The apartment itself was very modern, spacious, and well-equipped, making for an extremely comfortable stay. The pool was a great bonus, and every aspect of our experience was excellent. Would highly recommend Lawhill Apartments for anyone looking for a stylish and convenient stay in Cape Town!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Depart Africa
Depart Africa
South Africa

Smooth and Well-Organized Departure from Africa Our departure was seamless and well-organized. On Saturday morning, our driver arrived on time and took us swiftly to the airport, making the process stress-free. Everything went smoothly, allowing us to finish our incredible trip on a relaxed note. A well-handled end to an unforgettable adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand Beach
Kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand Beach
Bloubergstrand

Kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand Beach – A Missed Opportunity but a Great Day We arrived the afternoon before our scheduled kitesurfing session and were lucky to witness Bloubergstrand in all its glory—hundreds of kitesurfers on the water, showing why this is one of the world’s best spots for the sport. It was an incredible sight! Unfortunately, on the actual day of our session, the wind didn’t show up, and we had to cancel. Looking back, we had to cancel other activities earlier in the trip due to strong winds—had we planned kitesurfing on one of those days instead, we probably would have had the perfect conditions. If I could redo the trip, I would definitely make that adjustment. In place of kitesurfing, we made the most of our time with a relaxing walk along the beach, enjoying lunch and dinner at seaside restaurants. It turned out to be a great and chilled-out way to wrap up our trip before heading back to Argentina!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
On Safari
On Safari
South Africa
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Shamwari Experiences
Shamwari Experiences
South Africa

Shamwari Experiences – A 6-Star Adventure in Every Way As I mentioned before, Shamwari was a truly 6-star experience. We had incredible opportunities to see all the animals in their natural setting, making every game drive unforgettable. The wildlife, the landscapes, and the expert guidance from our rangers made it an exceptional adventure. Beyond the safari itself, the gourmet experience was outstanding. A special highlight for us was the care and attention given to my three kids, who are gluten-intolerant. The staff went above and beyond to create a special menu for them, ensuring they had the same high-quality dining experience as everyone else, despite their dietary restrictions. Shamwari exceeded every expectation, not just in wildlife and luxury but in its outstanding hospitality. It was truly an experience we’ll never forget!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arrive at Shamwari Game Reserve
Arrive at Shamwari Game Reserve
South Africa

Arriving at Shamwari Game Reserve – A 6-Star Welcome! Shamwari was the absolute highlight of our trip. From the very first moment, we were warmly welcomed with hot tea and the friendliest staff, setting the tone for an incredible stay. We were fortunate to go on a safari the same day we arrived, making our first day at Shamwari already a 6-star experience. Everything about it—service, atmosphere, and the excitement of the wildlife—was beyond expectations. From the start, it was clear that Shamwari is a truly special place. We couldn’t have asked for a better beginning to this unforgettable adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bloukrans Bungy with Bridge Zipline
Bloukrans Bungy with Bridge Zipline
South Africa

Bloukrans Bungy & Bridge Zipline – A Thrilling, World-Class Experience Only Valentina was brave enough to take on this adventure, and it turned out to be one of the absolute highlights of our trip! Bloukrans Bungy holds the world record for the highest bungee jump, and the entire operation is run with the utmost professionalism. The facility is extremely safe, with top-quality, well-maintained equipment that gave us full confidence in the experience. The jump itself was absolutely awesome—pure adrenaline! They also offer a video package, which is a great way to relive the moment and make the experience even more memorable. For anyone looking for the ultimate thrill, this is a must-do. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour
Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour
South Africa

Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour – A Well-Run and Fun Experience The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour was a very good experience—safe, well-organized, and professionally run. The guides were great, and everything was done with a high level of care. Since we had done a similar experience in Costa Rica, this felt familiar, so it didn’t have the same thrill for us. Some of the ziplines were a bit less exciting than others, but overall, it was still a fun and enjoyable activity. If you haven’t done a canopy tour before, this is definitely a great option and worth trying!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tsitsikamma Segway experience
Tsitsikamma Segway experience
South Africa

Tsitsikamma Segway Experience – Fun and Unique! This was a really fun activity, especially since we had never ridden Segways before! It was a great way to explore the area in a different and exciting way. What made the experience even better was our guide—absolutely fantastic! They made sure we felt comfortable, kept the tour engaging, and added to the overall enjoyment. It was a very, very nice experience, and I would definitely recommend it for anyone looking to try something new and have a great time in Tsitsikamma!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
A very special note on the guide for this experience
Transport
Kayak, Lilo and Cliff Jumping on the Storms Rivier
Kayak, Lilo and Cliff Jumping on the Storms Rivier
South Africa

Kayak, Lilo, and Cliff Jumping on the Storms River – A Fantastic Adventure! This was a very good experience and one of the highlights of our time in Tsitsikamma. We loved the kayaking, especially going out into the ocean—it was safe, well-organized, and the guides were excellent. After paddling into the river, we continued through beautiful surroundings with top-quality equipment. The experience was a mix of adventure and fun: we hiked, paddled to some rocks, crossed them, and then floated on inflatable rafts (similar to lilos). It was a unique and relaxing way to enjoy the stunning scenery. We took some great pictures and had an amazing time. Definitely an experience worth doing!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tsitsikamma National Park Walk (guided or self-guided)
Tsitsikamma National Park Walk (guided or self-guided)
South Africa

Tsitsikamma National Park Walk – A Scenic and Enjoyable Experience Our visit to Tsitsikamma National Park was a nice and enjoyable experience. We did the walks, took in the beautiful views, and had a great time exploring the area. The landscapes were stunning, and it was a peaceful way to connect with nature. Compared to some of the more mind-blowing experiences on our trip, this one felt like a step below, but it’s still definitely worth doing. If you enjoy scenic walks and coastal beauty, it’s a great addition to any itinerary!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Cango Caves
Explore Cango Caves
South Africa

Explore Cango Caves – A Good Stop, but a Long Journey Visiting the Cango Caves was a good stop during our trip, offering an interesting and well-organized experience. The caves themselves were impressive, and the guided tour was engaging and informative. However, the downside of that day—especially since it was my birthday—was the incredibly long drive. We spent about 6 to 7 hours in the car, which made the day feel exhausting. Looking back, I might have chosen to take a short flight instead of enduring such a long drive. That said, the caves were worth seeing, and overall, it was still a good experience despite the travel time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Shark Cage Diving
Shark Cage Diving
South Africa

Shark Cage Diving – A Truly 6-Star Experience! One of the absolute highlights of our trip! Everything about this experience was flawless. The company that took us out was incredibly professional—they explained everything clearly, provided an excellent introduction, and made sure we had top-quality wetsuits. Their attention to detail was exceptional. We were extremely lucky to see plenty of sharks, and the feeling of being in the cage, up close with these incredible creatures, was absolutely mind-blowing. After getting out of the water, we were welcomed with a hot shower inside our wetsuits—something we had never experienced before—and a cup of hot chocolate, which made it even more special. This was truly an unforgettable adventure, and I would highly, highly recommend it. If I could give it 6 stars, I absolutely would!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Marine Big 5 Boat Tour
Marine Big 5 Boat Tour
South Africa

Marine Big 5 Boat Tour – Canceled but Great Replacement! Our Marine Big 5 Boat Tour was unfortunately canceled due to weather conditions, but we were offered a quad biking experience instead—and we ended up really enjoying it! The quad biking was different from what we originally planned, but it was safe, fun, and a great way to explore the area. We had a fantastic time and truly enjoyed the experience. Although we missed out on seeing marine life on this tour, our cage diving experience gave us a great feel for the ocean and its incredible wildlife. In the end, everything worked out, and we had an amazing adventure!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dinner/ Lunch Recommendation: Authentic Coastal Dining at Perlemoen Restaurant
Dinner/ Lunch Recommendation: Authentic Coastal Dining at Perlemoen Restaurant
Hermanus

Authentic Coastal Dining at Perlemoen Restaurant Perlemoen Restaurant was a nice stop during our trip. The highlight was definitely the food—we had the best fish of the entire trip, cooked to perfection with fresh, high-quality ingredients. However, the restaurant was quite crowded, and we couldn’t find a great table with a view of the ocean, which would have made the experience even better. Despite that, the meal itself was excellent, and it’s a good spot for those looking for fresh seafood in a coastal setting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Noordhoek Beach Horse Rides
Noordhoek Beach Horse Rides
South Africa

Nice Horse Ride, But Not What We Originally Planned Our original plan was to do a beach horse ride at Noordhoek, which we were really looking forward to. However, due to weather conditions, it was changed to a ride along the mountains instead. The experience itself was pleasant—the guide was very friendly and experienced, and the scenery was beautiful, with a peaceful ride through the vineyards. However, it was a very easy walk, and I would have liked the opportunity to trot or gallop a bit. The timing of our ride made it quite hot, and we couldn’t help but feel that the beach would have been a much better setting. That being said, we understand that the change was necessary due to the weather. Overall, it was a nice experience, just not quite what we had hoped for.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was a Pro
Transport
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
Cape Peninsula & Penguins Excursion
South Africa

Spectacular Cape Peninsula – Penguins Were Okay Our trip to the Cape Peninsula was absolutely outstanding—definitely a 5-star experience! The landscapes and views were breathtaking, making for an unforgettable day. Every stop along the way was stunning, and we truly enjoyed exploring this beautiful region. The visit to the penguins was okay, but a bit too crowded for our taste. It was still nice to see them, but it didn’t quite match the spectacular experience of the Cape Peninsula itself. We were originally supposed to do a kayaking tour, which would have been a great addition, but unfortunately, it had to be canceled due to the weather. Despite that, it was a fantastic day overall!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Table Mountain Adventurous Hike & Cable Car Descent
Table Mountain Adventurous Hike & Cable Car Descent
Cape Town

Amazing Alternative Hike – Lion’s Head Instead of Table Mountain Our original plan was to hike Table Mountain, but due to weather conditions, we had to switch to Lion’s Head at the last moment. The change was handled seamlessly, and honestly, we couldn’t have had a better experience! The hike was excellent—challenging but rewarding, with breathtaking views throughout. Our guide was exceptional, making the experience even more enjoyable with great insights and a perfect pace. Although we missed Table Mountain, this alternative turned out to be an unforgettable adventure. Highly recommended!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lucy Berndt
Lucy
Lucy Berndt
Local specialist in Cape Town | Replied on Feb 10, 2025
Dear Martin, Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed and thoughtful review. It truly means a lot to me and the SALTY Travel team to hear about your experience, and I’m thrilled that your trip to South Africa was such a memorable one! I want to acknowledge your comment about the communication gaps during weather contingencies. Initially, I wasn’t actively involved in the communication process, as I had full confidence in my team to handle everything smoothly. However,... Read more

Dear Martin,

Thank you so much for taking the time to leave such a detailed and thoughtful review. It truly means a lot to me and the SALTY Travel team to hear about your experience, and I’m thrilled that your trip to South Africa was such a memorable one!

I want to acknowledge your comment about the communication gaps during weather contingencies. Initially, I wasn’t actively involved in the communication process, as I had full confidence in my team to handle everything smoothly. However, once you expressed that you’d prefer to deal directly with me, I made sure to step in and communicate with you personally. So it wasn’t a lack of communication but rather a reflection of my trust in my team’s ability to manage things effectively. That said, I appreciate your feedback, and we’ll refine our approach to ensure an even smoother experience for future travelers.

I’m especially happy to hear that you and your family were pleased with the selection of properties—I always aim to choose accommodations that best suit the needs of each traveler, and it’s wonderful to know that the stay at Shamwari, Lawhill Apartments, Whale Coast All Suite Hotel, and Hunter’s Country House all lived up to your expectations. Shamwari truly is an unforgettable experience, and I’m delighted that you enjoyed every aspect of it.

Your detailed insights on the activities, accommodations, and logistics are incredibly valuable, and we’ll use this feedback to fine-tune things even further. We will be looking into improving how we handle last-minute changes due to weather and making sure there’s always clearer communication around contingencies so guests feel reassured every step of the way.

Thank you once again for trusting us with your South African adventure! I’m so happy to hear your family loved the experience and that you’re already looking forward to planning the next one. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I’d love to assist with any future travels.

Wishing you all the best, and I hope we get to plan another unforgettable journey for you soon!

Best regards,
Lucy Berndt
SALTY Travel

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