Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 17,328 ratings
Read 17,328 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.

Superb & Scenic Scotland!
Scotland | Jun 3 - Jun 10, 2023

Jessica
Jessica S.
Germany | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2023
Thanks to Kimkim we were able to experience yet another amazing vacation! Taking us through the breathtaking Highlands of Scotland, this trip left nothing to be desired! We were able to enjoy every minute of it and are already reminiscing of our great hiking trip on the West Highland Way. We booked a roundtrip through the Scottish Highlands and were assigned Stephen as our local travel specialist from the High Point Holiday Team. He customized our trip and included all our special requests... Read more

Thanks to Kimkim we were able to experience yet another amazing vacation! Taking us through the breathtaking Highlands of Scotland, this trip left nothing to be desired! We were able to enjoy every minute of it and are already reminiscing of our great hiking trip on the West Highland Way.

We booked a roundtrip through the Scottish Highlands and were assigned Stephen as our local travel specialist from the High Point Holiday Team. He customized our trip and included all our special requests such as visting the Isle of Skye, taking the Jacobite train and including some cultural activities (e.g. visit Culloden battlefield).

Hiking the West Highland Way was our highlight and gave us the long desired opportunity to really experience the Scottish wilderness and raw beauty.

The accomodations along our journey were very well chosen and also included a brand new hotel, with cute little eco pods, spa facilities and delicious dining options (The Bracken Hide)!

The local travel agency "High Point Holidays" was very responsive and helpful, especially in assisting us in altering some of our travel plans due to a missed flight connection. Here, the emergency number they provided us with turned out to be of crucial help more than once! Moreover, they definitely managed to sweeten our journey along the West Highland Way by providing a great roadbook, a personal hand-written message and a little customized gift. A thoughtful gesture that made us feel very welcome in Scotland.

The Isle of Skye day tour seemed a bit rushed and touristy, leaving us almost little to no time to explore certain places (e.g. 20 minutes at Dunvegan Castle, only a quick pit stop at the Talisker distillery). Thus, we got to see plenty of nice spots, yet, we personally would have prefered to visit less places in order to be able to walk around and have more time to take it all in. The tour advertised whisky tasting and local hikes, but gave us no chance to actually do these activities. Nonetheless, the Isle of Skye was a beautiful place and definitely an absolute must-see!

Our specialist Stephen was very helpful in organizing this amazing trip and always showed interest in our well-being by checking in with us multiple times throughout our journey. A minor point of critizism would be the slight lack of responsiveness to the questions we asked prior to our travel departure. We did make use of the KIMKIM platform by commenting on specific details of the trip plan and posting some questions below the descriptions but often did not receive any answers to those questions. Stephen did, however, initiate a final call to ensure that we were sufficiently prepared for our journey. Worth mentioning is also that all members of the travel team seemed to really care about the successful conclusion of our trip. We very much appreciated this personal touch to our journey and would like to thank Stephen and the team once again for making it such a memorable trip!

All in all this is a travel itinerary that we can highly recommend.
Warmest Regards,

Marc, Nelly & Jessy

Hotel Reviews
Blackfriars Hotel
Inverness
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Bracken Hide
Portree

Some ongoing constructions. Tools and nails on the floors of the spa area. Pretty dangerous and also unprofessional

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Restaurant is overpriced and the staff is really young and inexperienced.
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Garrison Hotel
Fort William
Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to the Loch. Plenty of shops and restaurant nearby
Staff
Didn't feel very welcome here. The woman at the reception barely noticed us. During breakfast the crew wasn't very helpful either (e.g. did not notice us or offered us a seat)
Cleanliness & Comfort
MacDonald Hotel and Cabins
Kinlochleven

The manager was really friendly and helpful! Breakfast was also really good. Might be good to have some additional healthy options, like fruit. Facilities were nice and clean.

Authenticity & Character
The Bothy Bar is a truely iconic place.....
Location
Very close to the WHW; Nice view from the restaurant!
Staff
They failed to consider dietary requirements for the lunch package. The sandwiches were soggy and inedible
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kings House Way Inn
Glencoe

Definitely book way in advance to secure a spot in the hotel. The bunkhouse is very rustique and does not offer the same level of comfort some may seek after a long day on the WHW.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bunkhouse was quite hot & smelly. No one told us that we could borrow some towels. The quality of breakfast was not very good and badly organized: Coffee machine needed to be fixed in the morning. Toaster was only brought after asking for it for several times. Only jam was offered but no cheese, no yoghurt, no scrambled eggs or fruit - so no healthy options. The crew was friendly but incredibly slow.
Bridge of Orchy Hotel
Bridge of Orchy
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Very helpful and responsive. Ramona deserves a special thanks for helping us with some special requests made due to our late arrival (after midnight)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Experience the best of Isle of Skye from Portree - day tour
Experience the best of Isle of Skye from Portree - day tour
Portree

The tour was an overall nice experience and offered many beautiful sights such as Neist Point, the Fairy Pools, Fairy Glenn and particularly the Quiraing-formation as well as the notorious Old man of Storr. However, the driver Martin seemed quite rushed and on a very thight schedule, which led to interesting driving manoevers as well as some hasty visits without the necessary time to really appreciate places. The "visit" at Dunvegan Castle for example was meant to be a lunch-break or gift-shop-consumption-stop instead of an opportunity to explore the castle - which we actually did not see at all! The tour was advertised as a "guided tour" which was somewhat misleading, as the guidance offered was merely the drive-around! Martin was friendly and did his best in offering some explanation, but those turned out to be more anecdotal. Personally, we would choose quality over quantity.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Less "Need for speed", more time at scenic places such as Neist point
Culloden Battlefield private tour
Culloden Battlefield private tour
Inverness

The privat tour with our very experienced guide Rhona was a special highlight for us. She really was able to vividly describe the battle of Culloden and patiently answered the many questions we had. She definitely knew all the true and untrue tales and stories about what had happened on this historic field and impressed us with her knowledge of the gaelic language. We highly recommend this tour and especially Rhona as a guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Stephen Molloy
Stephen
Stephen Molloy
Local specialist in Dorset and Lyon | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Thanks so much Jessica for your review of this high-end hike in Scotland. It was a pleasure looking after you!

It was an amazing trip to Iceland and so perf...
Iceland | Jun 17 - Jun 24, 2023

M
Meg R.
South Peabody, MA | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2023
It was an amazing trip to Iceland and so perfectly planned! Highlights include the puffin tour (including sand dune slides!), dog sledding, and horse back riding!!! And all the amazing waterfalls and natural wonders!!! We and the kids loved it! The only note - the ice caves were too much for half of our family - not for the height challenged. Thanks to Eric for all his help in planning! Read more

It was an amazing trip to Iceland and so perfectly planned! Highlights include the puffin tour (including sand dune slides!), dog sledding, and horse back riding!!! And all the amazing waterfalls and natural wonders!!! We and the kids loved it! The only note - the ice caves were too much for half of our family - not for the height challenged. Thanks to Eric for all his help in planning!

Activity Reviews
Horses and Hotsprings
Horses and Hotsprings
Iceland

We had a great time. We’ve gone horse back riding on other trips - this was too on the list. Beautiful

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
ATV to the Black Beach and Plane Wreck
ATV to the Black Beach and Plane Wreck
Iceland

So fun!!!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
They were great
Transport
Katla Ice Cave Superjeep tour
Katla Ice Cave Superjeep tour
Iceland

My daughter loved it despite getting soaked. It was very challenging - walking over boards suspended above rushing water. I’d call it a challenging activity

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dog sledding on dry-land
Iceland

We loved it. Our guide was adorable and so fun even when the dogs were a little naughty. Lolz We all had a great time!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Puffin watching tour at the Ingolfshofdi cape
Puffin watching tour at the Ingolfshofdi cape
Iceland

It was really great. Puffin were adorable! And added bonus of sand dune slides - kids didn’t want to leave!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Èric D
Èric
Èric D
Local specialist in France / Iceland | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Hi Meg!

Thank you for the amazing review! I'm thrilled you had an outstanding trip in Iceland with your family. Apologies if the ice cave was challenging for some family members - your feedback will help me better inform and guide future travelers . I truly enjoyed helping you plan your trip and I'm delighted to hear that you and your family loved it!

All the best,
Èric

A great 3 days in Kuching
Malaysia | Jun 21 - Jun 24, 2023

Sarah
Sarah G.
New Zealand | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2023
It was really easy to plan our trip with Nick and he made everything seamless. Even at the last minute when our flight was disrupted, he managed to change our Orangutan trip so we didn't miss out.
We wouldn't stay at the Ranee Boutique Hotel again. The room itself was OK but the breakfast is very average - weak orange juice, weak filter coffee, only bananas if you wanted fruit for breakfast (most other places at least have watermelon, pineapple or papaya.
It also advertises that there's a...
Read more

It was really easy to plan our trip with Nick and he made everything seamless. Even at the last minute when our flight was disrupted, he managed to change our Orangutan trip so we didn't miss out.
We wouldn't stay at the Ranee Boutique Hotel again. The room itself was OK but the breakfast is very average - weak orange juice, weak filter coffee, only bananas if you wanted fruit for breakfast (most other places at least have watermelon, pineapple or papaya.
It also advertises that there's a bar but there isn't. We wouldn't want to stay in a Hilton or Pullman but somewhere with a bit more ambiance and better breakfast would have enhanced everything.
On the plus side, all our organised tours were great. John was an excellent guide, as was Farhah who took us on the cycle tour and we felt very lucky to see proboscis monkeys, silver leaf monkeys and the orangutans (though no dolphins).
All in all, I'd definitely recommend Kimkim and we would book with them again as the itinerary felt well balanced and still gave us free time to explore on our own.
Some other companies like yours do suggested other things to do while in an area and some recommended restaurants so if you were to enhance anything then this could be something to add - just a suggestion based on our experience in the tourism industry.

Hotel Review
Ranee Boutique Suites

The rooms are fine for a short stay with a safe and daily bottled water. We thought the breakfast was very average with a poor selection of continental options.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Great location on the riverside in Kuching near the Chinese and Indian area - good access to a variety of restaurants.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Departure Transfer to the Kuching Airport
Departure Transfer to the Kuching Airport
Kuching

All good - John dropped us directly to the airport after we'd seen the orangutans

Arrival Transfer from Kuching Airport to Hotel
Arrival Transfer from Kuching Airport to Hotel
Kuching

All good. John was at the airport to welcome us

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mangrove & Dolphins Cruise
Mangrove & Dolphins Cruise
Kuching

We really enjoyed being out on the water for this tour. You will join a small group to do the trip even if you start out with a private guide. We didn't see dolphins or crocodiles but did get a glimpse of a proboscis monkey and a group of silver leaf monkeys. A snack - fruit, cake and biscuits along with water are provided on the trip which was good as we didn't get back to Kuching until around 8:30 pm

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Really enthusiastic and vey informative about the local fishing village and the area we visited. They so wanted us to see the wildlife, even if it was a bit elusive on our trip
Transport
Bako National Park Daytrip
Bako National Park Daytrip
Kuching

Loved our trip to the National Park. John is really informative. We were able to see proboscis monkeys and do an add on trip around the shore line to see the rock erosion and rock stacks nearby.

Quality of Experience
Food
John took us for an authentic noodle lunch - very inexpensive
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Best of Kuching Cycling Tour
Best of Kuching Cycling Tour
Kuching

Farhah was an excellent guide and took us around a great variety of areas. Being able to have good e-bikes made it easy for us to experience this trip although it is pretty much all on the flat so we needn't have worried. We had plenty of time to get off and take photos while she explained the history and significance of each of our stops. We visited back lanes, the spice market and the local produce market as well as historic places which made for an interesting variety. Highly recommend

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
E bikes were good quality and easy to use
Semenggoh Orangutan Centre Visit
Semenggoh Orangutan Centre Visit
Kuching

Loved this trip and seeing the orangutans. It is quite commercialised with a lot of people visiting at the same time, however, seeing these amazing animals in the wild was a wonderful experience. There are set feeding times each day so you have to fit in with these for a chance to see the orangutans and the park does warn that you are less likely to see them in fruit season. We saw 6 orangutans in all including a large male and a mother with baby.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Rangers had walkie talkies to communicate where the orangutans had appeared
Transport
Local specialist: Nick Jansen
Nick
Nick Jansen
Local specialist in Malaysia | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Hey Sarah,

Thanks for your review and detailed feedback. I am happy to read you managed to see quite a lot of wildlife and had a good time in Kuching and surroundings. I'll make sure to pass on your comments to Farhah and John - they'll be happy to read your comments.

I will take note on your feedback regarding the Ranee Boutique Suites. This is valuable feedback - thanks for this.

If there is anything we can do for you in the future, feel free to reach out!

Nick

We had a wonderful time exploring Ireland. Ou...
Ireland | Jun 12 - Jun 18, 2023

T
Tom W.
Canada | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2023

We had a wonderful time exploring Ireland. Our accommodations were top notch all around. Especially we would like to say how much we enjoyed the hospitality at our B&B stay in Cork. Our rental car from Hertz workedut inspite of the stress over the age restrictions we learned of only after full payment of our trip was made. Our only complaint was not receiving our driving and points of interest instructions.until we were already in Ireland. Overall your planning made this a very good experience. Thank you.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jul 19, 2023
Hi Tom Many thanks for your wonderful review, and travelling with us this year. We are delighted to hear you had a great time in Ireland. I am sorry about the situation with the car rental, since then we have made it a top priority to make sure we request the age of the main driver before the booking is made. As for the route notes we have checked our records and we did send them to you 2 weeks before you arrived which is standard process so you can have the chance to go over them. It... Read more

Hi Tom

Many thanks for your wonderful review, and travelling with us this year.

We are delighted to hear you had a great time in Ireland.

I am sorry about the situation with the car rental, since then we have made it a top priority to make sure we request the age of the main driver before the booking is made.

As for the route notes we have checked our records and we did send them to you 2 weeks before you arrived which is standard process so you can have the chance to go over them. It may have fallen into your spam/junk folder.

We hope to have the chance to welcome you back to our amazing country in the near future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Mar and fenne were excellent in quickly putti...
Norway | Jun 16 - Jun 24, 2023

J
Julie B.
Big Rapids, MI | Reviewed on Jun 25, 2023
Mar and fenne were excellent in quickly putting together a jam packed active vacation. After weeks of trying to plan it on my own, in frustration I turned to Kimkim especially after seeing the WSJ approval. Our agent put together 2 plan options complete with costs and schedules. We chose one then changed one or two things. They had a detailed itinerary, addresses, phone numbers, confirmation numbers, emergency contact numbers…It was brilliant. I will definitely use this service again. Thank... Read more

Mar and fenne were excellent in quickly putting together a jam packed active vacation. After weeks of trying to plan it on my own, in frustration I turned to Kimkim especially after seeing the WSJ approval. Our agent put together 2 plan options complete with costs and schedules. We chose one then changed one or two things. They had a detailed itinerary, addresses, phone numbers, confirmation numbers, emergency contact numbers…It was brilliant. I will definitely use this service again. Thank you Mar and Fenne

Hotel Reviews
Scandic Neptun
Bergen

Comfortable clean. Great location and view

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Quality Hotel Ålesund
Ålesund

Really nothing wrong with this hotel but it was our least favorite of our trip. The rooms were small. Not really much of a view from our rooms. The very young woman at the front desk seemed new and lacked warmth as well as critical knowledge which made our interactions and stay a bit too much work, and a bit less pleasant. The slightly older woman at the front desk seemed top notch. The view from g to be patio bar was tremendous. No parking so you must fend for a spot.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Small rooms
Kviknes Hotel
Balestrand

Views, space, right in town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Best Western Hotel Lægreid
Sogndal

Clean, spacious. Easy parking.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Loen Apartments
Loen Apartments Fjordvegen

Clean large space. Nice balcony and views.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tyssedal Hotel
Tyssedal

Amazing view. The industry near the waterfront was a bit loud as we like to sleep with the windows open. Dinner menu was good and slightly more affordable than others. Near enough to town if you have a car.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Got stuck in a quad with our grown sons. Wasn’t too bad as there was an extra toilet across the hall. We enjoyed our stay very much. Most of our time was spent outside hiking.
Fleischer's Hotel
Voss

Beautiful woodwork, patio and views. Loads of charm.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy stroll to town, the gondola, right at the train station, near the mountain bike rental
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
E-Mountain Bike Guided Tour
E-Mountain Bike Guided Tour
Voss

Amazing what the e mountain bikes can get up and over. Different than traditional mountain biking but still a heck of a work out and fun.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our Nepali guide whose name meant sunflower (sumann??) was great. Kind patient supportive I’d highly recommend him
Fjord Safari by RIB
Fjord Safari by RIB
Flåm

Beautiful scenery.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I do not remember the young man’s name that gave the tour but he captained with Maya. He was great. He had interesting quirky stories and facts. He was funny and worked to keep all ages engaged.
Transport
Smooth
Art Nouveau Kayaking in Ålesund
Art Nouveau Kayaking in Ålesund
Ålesund

Nice to get out on the water and see the city from a different perspective. Got lucky on the weather and the never ending twilight.

Quality of Experience
Our guide Daniel was great.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Daniel was professional and kind. He shared interesting stories about the history of the city as well as insight into Scandinavian culture and traditions. He recommended a good place to eat as well.
Transport
Deep Sea Fishing Excursion
Deep Sea Fishing Excursion
Balestrand

Loved being out on the fjord. Had a great time with our captain Mons. Caught a blue ling, a sea pike and a dogfish.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mons had a great sense of humor, was kind, patient, very knowledgeable. He shared some interesting stories about living in the fjords.
Transport
Guided Hike to Trolltunga
Guided Hike to Trolltunga
Odda

Jostin our guide was fantastic. The hike the views the stories…we loved it. Definitely a trip highlight. We also had no crowds no lines and brilliant weather.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jostin was top notch
Transport
Local specialist: Mar Quiñones
Mar
Mar Quiñones
Local specialist in Kristiansand | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Dear Julie,
Thank you for this amazing review! Our team is truly very happy that you had a great time here in Norway, and we are super glad to hear that you will be using KimKim for your future trips too!
It was a pleasure working together with you.
My very best,
Mar

Life changing!
Latvia | Jun 11 - Jun 17, 2023

Catherine
Catherine H.
Highland Springs, VA | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
These are the only places on earth where eastern and western architecture can now meet in harmony. The architecture tells a social history translated into excellent English on this tour! The hotels were clean, comfortable, and safe. The food was outstanding as well, I only wish I had more time! Read more

These are the only places on earth where eastern and western architecture can now meet in harmony. The architecture tells a social history translated into excellent English on this tour! The hotels were clean, comfortable, and safe. The food was outstanding as well, I only wish I had more time!

Hotel Reviews
Grand Palace Hotel
Riga

This hotel was clean, comfortable and safe. The staff were very friendly, accessible and helpful. The food at the restaurant was truly enjoyable. The location cannot be beat and overall this hotel is definitely a fabulous deal for the money.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Neringa Hotel
Vilnius

This hotel was clean, comfortable and safe. The staff were very accommodating and friendly. It's location was a bit far from sites that I was interested in seeing but overall a great deal for the price.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Valdis Čeičs
Valdis
Valdis Čeičs
Local specialist in Riga, Latvia | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Thank you fAor such a nice review! We are really happy that you enjoyed the trip!

Scotland was an excellent adventure!
Scotland | May 6 - May 21, 2023

Frank
Frank L.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023

Scotland was an excellent adventure, that was not on my radar. Kim Kim soothed the rough edges, and made our visit a memorable experience.
Parking was an issue twice, due to major concerts near our accommodations. The last required turning in our rental car a day early, just because of the parking issue in Edinburgh.

Local specialist: William Armstrong
William
William Armstrong
Local specialist in UK | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Thanks for this review Frank. We appreciate your detailed feedback!

Erika planned an amazing trip for us. Every l...
Galapagos Islands | Jun 14 - Jun 23, 2023

Suzie
Suzie L.
San Francisco, CA | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Erika planned an amazing trip for us. Every little detail was thought of. From the Birthday cake waiting in my room to the welcome I received at each and every place we stayed and activity that we took part in. The guides were incredible. Very knowledgeable and able to answer all of our questions and take care of us really well. Christian is a walking encyclopedia of plants, birds, geography, you name it! He knows it! We also adored Francisco! The highlights, are too many to name,... Read more

Erika planned an amazing trip for us. Every little detail was thought of. From the Birthday cake waiting in my room to the welcome I received at each and every place we stayed and activity that we took part in.

The guides were incredible. Very knowledgeable and able to answer all of our questions and take care of us really well. Christian is a walking encyclopedia of plants, birds, geography, you name it! He knows it! We also adored Francisco!

The highlights, are too many to name, but in Ecuador: Hamadryade Lodge in Tena was magical and their food was five star!! River rafting on the Jatunyaku River was incredible. I wish I had stayed 2-3 nights in the Hamadryade Lodge. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But alas, we did not have the time.

Highlights in the Galapagos: The snorkeling at Kicker Rock was outstanding!! This is not something you can do with any cruise ship. Only if you stay on land. I highly recommend it. We went to a private beach later where we were the only ones with turquoise waters, sea lions, and Boobies!! My husband won't stop talking about the Hammerhead shark he saw on that trip as well as the 30 to 40 sea turtles.

There is just so much we did and I can't thank Erika enough for all of the work she did in planning this trip.
All of the places that were booked were incredible except one. Avoid Hotel Blue Marlin in San Cristobal. The Acacia Hotel in Santa Cruz was Really great and we had a balcony overlooking the town and sea. Just perfect. Our guide, Sophia, took us to see the Tortoises in the highlands and she was pure joy. We absolutely adored her. She also took us on a lot of side trips that were extra special and not on the itinerary.

Things to avoid or beware of: Always bring plenty of water and 100 sunscreen. No matter where you go. A couple of times we were caught off guard and not quite prepared as we should have been. Even a short walk can be difficult in the heat. And we had a few long ones. Pack extremely light! only a carryon. It really helped to get us from place to place and all the travel on taxis, boat taxies, etc. Beware of altitude sickness in Ecuador. HIGH elevation even in Quito.

Again, Erika's knowledge of Ecuador and the Galapogos is beyond anything we could have hoped for. She and Andrea planned the best trip. Made us feel welcome, and cared for. I hope to plan another trip with her soon.

Hotel Reviews
Hamadryade Lodge
Tena

This is one of those Once-in-a-lifetime places that is not to believed. The pictures don't do it justice. Because it is even more amazing in person. The staff are incredible. The owners wonderful. Clean, exotic, fabulous. Plan for at least three days. No less. You won't want to leave. The food should be Michelin rated it was so outstanding! Incredible dining that is not to be believed. All locally grown and fresh ingredients. What a magical place.

Authenticity & Character
Something out of a magazine. Just incredible.
Location
It is in the middle of the Amazon, yet no mosiquitos were encountered. Just amazing.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
JW Marriott Hotel Quito
Quito

Pretty nice!!! Great spa, great restaurants. Outstanding customer service everywhere.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Sangay
Baños de Agua Santa

Pleasant enough.

Authenticity & Character
The chandlier in the bedroom is hysterical. Very pleasant. Nothing outstanding.
Location
Right next to a beautiful waterfall. Just on outskirts of very noisy town. So perfect.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Acacia Galápagos Boutique Hotel
Puerto Ayora

We got in at 9:00 am and they had already finished serving breakfast, but they reopened the kitchen just for us and quickly made our rooms available. The staff were warm and friendly and did everything possible to make us feel taken care of. Caroline was fantastic as well as the night manager. Our room was clean, fabulous, and in perfect working order. The view from the balcony overlooking the sea was exceptional. I can't recommend this place highly enough.

Authenticity & Character
It was a villa apparently that they turned into a hotel. Quite fantastic!
Location
It is nice that it is two blocks off the hustle and bustle of Main st. Quiet and fantastic.
Staff
Caroline was amazing. Sweet, patient, joyful, and took care of us so greatly. The night desk clerk was also fantastic.
Cleanliness & Comfort
perfect.
Hotel Blue Marlin
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, Galapagos

Moldy room, lacking in basic necessities. Just terrible. Staff didn't provide breakfast for us which was paid for. Noisy. Run down. Everything about it is bad.

Authenticity & Character
everything
Location
four blocks from the main street and no views of the island
Staff
Didn't make us feel welcome or provide breakfast we were promised
Cleanliness & Comfort
Moldy room, to get the lamp to work you have to find a decent outlet and then screw the lightbulb in to turn it on. OMG. Janky. Beds were hard as rock. Bathrooms were modly. Awful.
Activity Reviews
Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería
Welcome to San Cristóbal Island! Visit the Interpretation Center, Tijeretas Hill, or La Lobería
Galapagos Islands

Interesting museum. Tijeretas Hill was just ok. The swim at the beach with all of the Sea lions everywhere was fun!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit Highlands Tortoise Reserve & Charles Darwin Research Station
Visit Highlands Tortoise Reserve & Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

So many giant tortoises! Beautiful place. Even the lunch was fantastic. Not to be missed!! our guide Sophia was fantastic. Took us to many places that were off the beaten track and felt very exclusive. Lucky us! Delicious lunch on the preserve as well. Highly recommend.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sophia was fantastic. Really lucked out with her. She was so great!!
Transport
Reconnecting with Nature at Baños de Agua Santa
Reconnecting with Nature at Baños de Agua Santa
Baños
 Afternoon Visit to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)
Afternoon Visit to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)
Quito

We really liked this strange little museum. It was quite fun and extremely interesting. We didn't get to the acutal monument as we just loved the museum so much and after our long day decided to head back and relax.

Quality of Experience
Food
Francisco took us to a very authentic dining experience which we really enjoyed.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Francisco was so wonderful!
Transport
Transfer to Airport on Baltra Island - Flight back to Mainland
Transfer to Airport on Baltra Island - Flight back to Mainland
Galapagos Islands

It is quite tricky getting from town to the airport. Car taxi, to boat taxi, to bus. It really helped to have a guide take us. Especially as it was at 6;45 for a 9 am flight. It went really well. In great hands.

Quality of Experience
everyone was very nice and helpful in handling our three carry on suitcases.
Food
Food was provided by our hotel. They got up extra early to help us out. so nice. Hotel Acacia.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay & Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island
Kayaking Adventure in Tortuga Bay & Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island
Puerto Ayora

This was not one of our better trips. The guide got double booked. So we had to walk to the trail head from our hotel. Really hot day, trail is about 3 or 4 km to the bay. HOWEVER, it was a really lovely walk and the beach is unbelievable. Sand like flour. SOOO many igunas. Eventually , we got to the bay for kayaking and had to wait two hours for the kayak person to show up. The bay is perfect for swimming and the water was warm. It is difficult to see much in the water. We had to then walk back and it was very hot. And find our way back to hotel as guide left us. Also no guide with kayak either. Not my favorite trip, but still worth going out there.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito - Cotopaxi National Park - Baños
Quito - Cotopaxi National Park - Baños
Galapagos Islands

Couldn't summit as it was too windy. We are talking REALLY windy. But it was fun to get up there.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Christian was full of knowledge about the place.
Transport
Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure
Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure
Isla San Cristóbal

The rock formation itself is stunning! Hammerhead sharks, white fin sharks, sooooo many sea turtles and So Much More! Amazing. I believe this is only available on land tours, not cruises, so I would opt for the land stay. It really is something spectacular. And they took us to a private beach with turquoise waters and sea lions afterwards. We had the place all to ourselves. So wonderful.

Quality of Experience
Food
Food was pretty good for a sea tour on a small boat. :)
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Jatunyaku River Rafting - Misahualli
Jatunyaku River Rafting - Misahualli
Galapagos Islands

We really enjoyed seeing the Amazon from the perspective of the river. Outstanding. Ronnie, our guide, was fantastic! So much fun.

Quality of Experience
Food
In the middle of the rafting trip they served a delicious meal! Just yummy!!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Ronnie knows this river inside and out! Felt safe and he made sure to have surprises for us at every turn. Tricks up his sleeve that were quite entertaining. We had a blast!
Transport
Morning at Teleferico
Morning at Teleferico
Quito

The most difficult part was doing this the first day. You need aclimating to the climate first. But that said, I was still able to do the short hike at the top and REALLY< REALLY enjoyed the swings at the top! So fun and incredible view. Best swings in the world.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Francisco was so great!! Loved him so much. He was very helpful, friendly and entertaining. Helped with the altitude as well.
Transport
Local specialist: Erika Bermeo
Erika
Erika Bermeo
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Jun 29, 2023

Hi Suzie, I hope you are doing very well, as well as Daniel and Enya. Thank you very much for the comment you left us on KimKim; we are so happy you enjoyed your trip to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands. It was a pleasure for me to organize this incredible experience for you. I hope that your memories in this beautiful country will remain in your memory forever. Do not hesitate to contact us again if you decide to return to Ecuador; we will be glad to help you with everything you need. I hope to hear from all three of you soon.

Greetings from Ecuador.

Amazing Traveling Experience in Morocco
Morocco | Jun 8 - Jun 17, 2023

S
Sandro C.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Review from my girlfriend (who was also traveling with me): I recently went on an amazing private tour in Morocco, and it was absolutely fantastic! We had a bunch of friendly local guides and an awesome private driver who made the trip incredible. The best part was how the tour was tailored just for us. The company really listened to our interests and preferences, so every day was filled with activities we loved. And whenever we needed help or had questions, they were always there to... Read more

Review from my girlfriend (who was also traveling with me):

I recently went on an amazing private tour in Morocco, and it was absolutely fantastic! We had a bunch of friendly local guides and an awesome private driver who made the trip incredible.

The best part was how the tour was tailored just for us. The company really listened to our interests and preferences, so every day was filled with activities we loved. And whenever we needed help or had questions, they were always there to support us.

The accommodations they picked were top-notch. From charming riads in bustling cities to breathtaking desert camps, each place was comfortable and in a great location.

Overall, I highly recommend this tour. With the local guides, private driver, and personalized service, it was an unforgettable experience.

Local specialist: Sharon Louthian

Tasos is, in a word, fantastic. He had his wo...
Greece | May 26 - Jun 17, 2023

Sharon
Sharon J.
Berkeley, CA | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Tasos is, in a word, fantastic. He had his work cut out for him, creating a 3-week trip to disparate parts of Greece, for us 2 couples with some varying priorities and preferences, and yet equally perfectionistic in our own ways, all hoping to devise a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We decided on legs in Athens, the Peloponnese, 5nights on a private sailboat around the main Cyclades islands, and a week on Crete. The trip planning was protracted, then stymied and postponed by Covid, and yet... Read more

Tasos is, in a word, fantastic. He had his work cut out for him, creating a 3-week trip to disparate parts of Greece, for us 2 couples with some varying priorities and preferences, and yet equally perfectionistic in our own ways, all hoping to devise a once-in-a-lifetime experience. We decided on legs in Athens, the Peloponnese, 5nights on a private sailboat around the main Cyclades islands, and a week on Crete. The trip planning was protracted, then stymied and postponed by Covid, and yet Tasos and Kimkim effortlessly allowed for this, honoring the trip plan details such as the same hotels/villas, day trips, and guides without penalty or hiccup. From the initial lengthy phone call with Tasos, to the many many email exchanges over 2 years, Tasos demonstrated complete professionalism, enthusiasm, keen attunement to our trip planning vision and wishes, as well as gentle push-back and welcome guidance when inherent contradictions called for it. Quite simply, his listening and planning skills are A+. I had never used a trip consultant before, having previously researched our own trips in extensive detail, and so was skeptical of relinquishing some control. However, I most certainly would do it again with Tasos. My husband and my favorite guides and day trips revolved around a blend of in-depth history and archeology, picturesque scenery, plus learning of local cultures and foods; for example, one fabulous day trip was to Nemea, where Dominic toured us around the fascinating ruins and archeology undertaking of the Temple of Zeus and ancient stadium, then a bike ride through the gorgeous vineyard hillsides and on to a boutique winery, followed by a visit to a local vinegar manufacturer whose mother also cooked us our best meal of our trip! Another memorable day trip was hiking the castle of Acrocorinth with Niko, and hearing all about ancient history as well as more modern challenges for Greeks. I could go on…
My husband and my only regrets, in retrospect, were not weighing more carefully the pro’s and con’s of hotel/villa locations vs amenities: were we to plan it over, we would prioritize being within a small city vs 15-30minutes drives to our beautiful remote hotels. I plan to offer Tasos lots more detailed feedback and shout outs to our favorite guides, hotels, and restaurants, but hopefully this review will highlight just how much Tasos and Kimkim has to offer!

Hotel Reviews
Villa Kyma - Chania, Crete
Akrotiri, Chania

The modern villa itself was beautiful, clean, and comfortable, with spectacular views and pool, but it was a 30minute drive to Chania. We now regret choosing a large pool over the convenience and ambiance of a luxury hotel in Chania. The villa was clearly luxurious, yet simple things were lacking like no screens on one of the view-centric master bedroom’s sliding doors and windows (lots of mosquitoes on Crete in summer!), and strangely, this large master bedroom also had no en suite bathroom, like the other, smaller bedrooms did.

Location
Too far from Chania for us, but pretty spot.
Cleanliness & Comfort
See above.
The Vasilicos
Santorini

Absolutely gorgeous in all ways, elegant but not stuffy, supremely comfortable, with artistic character and many beautiful touches, and stellar service to boot. Ideal setting, postcard perfect views, spacious rooms and storage, and they seemed to think of everything. Couldn’t be better. Well, the only disappointment was the in-house chef’s dinner on our private patio, which we had expected to be superb but was only mediocre in quality and presentation.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Away from the crowds, yet walking distance to many upscale restaurants and cafes all along the gorgeous caldera.
Staff
Extremely solicitous, attentive, and friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Perivoli Country Hotel & Retreat
Nafplio

This hotel was situated in a pretty spot with beautiful views, and it had its comforts, but overall really underwhelming. We regret staying so far from Nafplio (though we had requested a large pool, so this must have been the deciding variable), and the location did not really allow for walks despite advertising itself as such. The common areas and rooms were quite sterile and basic, though there was plenty of room to spread out. Breakfast buffet was plentiful but mediocre. Similarly, we were pleased they had prompt laundry service, but they returned the clean laundry stuffed, completely unfolded and wrinkled, in the bag. Overall, more of a 3-star experience, where we had anticipated a more luxurious hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Zillers Boutique Hotel
Athens

My husband and I really enjoyed Zillers and would stay there again. It had immense charm and character, something we look for when traveling abroad, and a terrific location for easy walking to historic sites. It was informally elegant, as we prefer. The pretty rooftop restaurant breakfast was a highlight of the stay, serving a gorgeous array of foods and treats, with excellent service. We wish we had had dinner there! The only con’s regarding the hotel was the tight hotel room space: though we apparently had the most expensive rooms, there was limited space to walk and especially store our belongings, to the point that we couldn’t really unpack our suitcases due to insufficient closet and bureau capabilities, yet also not adequate room to keep two suitcases open either. We made it work, but this issue was a large drawback and something Tasos should know and discuss with clients in advance.

Authenticity & Character
It’s unique. As a former residence, it retains a warmth while providing a casual elegance and charm.
Location
Close to all historic sites, cafes, and on a pretty square.
Staff
Excellent customer service all around.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Only big problem Re comfort, as stated, was the poor storage space in the rooms.
Activity Reviews
Useful Information
Greece
The Athenian Democracy tour
The Athenian Democracy tour
Athens
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cretan Villages Food & Culture Tour
Cretan Villages Food & Culture Tour
Greece
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rethymno & Palace of Knossos from Chania
Rethymno & Palace of Knossos from Chania
Chania
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Old Town of Chania guided walk
Private Old Town of Chania guided walk
Chania
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Santorini Panorama
Private Santorini Panorama
Drama
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Santorini Villages Walking tour
Private Santorini Villages Walking tour
Santorini
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Farm Tour with Lunch
Private Farm Tour with Lunch
Paros
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Naxos Mythology Private Tour
Naxos Mythology Private Tour
Naxos
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Delos Guided Tour
Private Delos Guided Tour
Mykonos
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
At sea in the Aegean
At sea in the Aegean
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Epidaurus Guided Tour
Private Epidaurus Guided Tour
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Nemea Farm, Wine & Mythology Tour
Nemea Farm, Wine & Mythology Tour
Greece
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Nafplio & Acronafplia Guided tour
Nafplio & Acronafplia Guided tour
Nafplio
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hike the Castle of Acrocorinth
Hike the Castle of Acrocorinth
Greece

One of our best days of the trip! Outstanding guide Niko, who provided not just a great hike to the castle as well as the fortress, but also extremely knowledgeable and open about life and current events and challenges in Greece, which was especially fascinating. The day ended with a fantastic luncheon at a seaside taverna, one of the other best meals of our trip.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Acropolis of Mycenae Guided Tour 
Acropolis of Mycenae Guided Tour 
Greece
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Premium Riviera & Cape Sounion Guided Tour
Premium Riviera & Cape Sounion Guided Tour
Athens
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Premium Dinner in the Athenian Riviera
Premium Dinner in the Athenian Riviera
Athens

(See my prior note; already reviewed).

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tasos Mylonas

I think we made the most of the 11 days we had
Japan | Jun 13 - Jun 23, 2023

J
Jim B.
Mequon, WI | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
I think we made the most of the 11 days we had in Japan. Instead of going to Shibuya, we went to the Skytree and instead of going to Nikko, we went to Koriyama to visit family. The subways and trains are very convenient and efficient, there was no need for us to get a taxi or ride service.
Without KimKim, we would not have gotten the guided tour of Nara and our guide Emi was amazing. In addition to her knowledge of Nare, we asked her a lot of questions about Japan in general.
We also...
Read more

I think we made the most of the 11 days we had in Japan. Instead of going to Shibuya, we went to the Skytree and instead of going to Nikko, we went to Koriyama to visit family. The subways and trains are very convenient and efficient, there was no need for us to get a taxi or ride service.
Without KimKim, we would not have gotten the guided tour of Nara and our guide Emi was amazing. In addition to her knowledge of Nare, we asked her a lot of questions about Japan in general.
We also would not have booked the traditional tea ceremony without KimKim and that was another great experience. The hosts were very informative and allowed us to stay a little longer to ask additional questions. The kimonos made for a very nice family photo.
The running routes suggested by Myaen were very useful although I did like the path going north along the Kamo river better than the path going south. We also visited the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium to swim per her guidance. I would warn people to bring a towel. The gyms that I go to in the states provide locker room towels but the Tokyo gym does not.
Myaen was frequently checking in with us to make sure we were getting along well and was quick to answer our questions.

Local specialist: Myaen Verzosa
Myaen
Myaen Verzosa
Local specialist in Tokyo | Replied on Jun 30, 2023
Dear Jim,
Thank you for the positive feedback! I'm glad to hear that you were able to visit Skytree and spent quality moments with your family in Koriyama. Japan's subways and trains are indeed convenient and efficient, making them an excellent choice for getting around. I'm delighted that you got to experience their benefits firsthand.
I'm thrilled to learn that your experience with Kimkim was valuable and enhanced your trip. The tea ceremony and having a tour guide added to your enjoyment,...
Read more

Dear Jim,
Thank you for the positive feedback! I'm glad to hear that you were able to visit Skytree and spent quality moments with your family in Koriyama. Japan's subways and trains are indeed convenient and efficient, making them an excellent choice for getting around. I'm delighted that you got to experience their benefits firsthand.
I'm thrilled to learn that your experience with Kimkim was valuable and enhanced your trip. The tea ceremony and having a tour guide added to your enjoyment, and sometimes it's the unexpected activities that become the most memorable. We feel privileged to have played a part in making your vacation enjoyable. We hope that your time in Japan has left you with wonderful memories to cherish.
Wishing you and your family many more incredible adventures ahead! It has been an absolute pleasure assisting you throughout your trip, and we look forward to the opportunity to assist you again in the future.
Best regards,
Myaen

Perfect family vacation
Iceland | Jun 15 - Jun 22, 2023

A
Alison G.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
I just returned from a one week trip to Iceland with my teenage daughters. It was an incredible trip including Reykjavik, the Snaefellsness penninsula, the south coast, and east to a see a glacial lagoon. The organization and planning of the trip by Janel enabled a seamless vacation. Janel took time to answer all my questions and very helpfully, arranged an hour phone conversation the week before the trip to verbally go over the whole itinerary. Ironically, the things I was most concerned... Read more

I just returned from a one week trip to Iceland with my teenage daughters. It was an incredible trip including Reykjavik, the Snaefellsness penninsula, the south coast, and east to a see a glacial lagoon. The organization and planning of the trip by Janel enabled a seamless vacation. Janel took time to answer all my questions and very helpfully, arranged an hour phone conversation the week before the trip to verbally go over the whole itinerary. Ironically, the things I was most concerned about initially - all the driving and staying at so many different hotels - turned out to be my favorite aspects of the trip. The driving is easy and the scenery beautiful. It felt like a real adventure. We loved every single hotel Janel picked. They were clean, modern, charming and easy to navigate. Langaholt hotel on the west coast was a real standout. Do not miss their nightly buffet dinner! I also want to give a shout out to a lovely, woman-run shop called Llomalind Farmer's Market in the the small fishing village of Borgarnes also on the west coast about 1 hour north of Reykjavik. Everything was handmade (with the name of the person who made it!) and that was where I finally landed on a fabulous Icelandic sweater. And some soaps. And some felt decorative sheep. Better than the more commercial findings along Laugevegur street in Reyjavik. Also, there is an adorable cafe one block from the Skuggi apartments where we stayed in Reyjavik called Emilie that served these amazing Nutellacinnos. Don't miss it!
The waterfalls and the hikes were aces. Highly recommend going all the way east to the big glacier. Great food truck serving lobster rolls. I would return to Iceland in a heart beat. Oh! And Janel was right on with starting the trip at the Sky Lagoon. Set the mood perfectly for the rest of the trip. We will be back to Iceland in the future and will certainly be using kimkim again for future travels.

Hotel Reviews
Akkeri Guesthouse
Stykkisholmur

The Akkeri Guesthouse was very small. It required ducking to navigate up the stairs. It was just okay for me, nothing spectacular, but it was clean and organized.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Stracta Apartments Orustustaðir
Kirkjubæjarklaustur

The Stracta Apartments were adorable and comfortable, albeit a bit challenging to access. Their location was a 15-minute drive on a gravel road from the main highway. The doors were quite difficult to open and close, which was a bit of a hassle. However, once inside, the apartments were fantastic and the kitchen was well equipped.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Langaholt
Stadarstadur

Charming hotel! It is the perfect blend of hotel and bed and breakfast. Gorgeous location. Helpful staff. Comfortable and welcoming. I like the sitting areas near check in. There was coffee, tea and hot chocolate available at all times near the dining area. The rooms were clean and spacious. Best breakfast of anywhere we stayed. The dinner buffet was absolutely fantastic - filled with unique local and other European dishes. I live in NYC and I can say it was still one of the best meals I've ever had. Great fish soup. When I return to Iceland, I would stay another night or two at this hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Absolute charm. More like a B&B
Location
right next to Ytri beach where there are seals. Feels like the Hamptons!
Staff
friendly, efficient and yet never you felt like you had the place to yourself
Cleanliness & Comfort
Clean like everywhere in Iceland. Big rooms
Activity Reviews
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon amphibian boat tour
Jokulsarlon glacier lagoon amphibian boat tour
Iceland

The glacier tour was really good and a real standout during my visit. It was a unique and memorable experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Reykjavik Food Walk
Iceland

This food walk was the highlight of my trip. It was a fantastic experience, highly enjoyable and I highly recommend it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Janel Doyle

Andrew (tour guide/driver) is the best guide ever!!!
Kenya | Jun 12 - Jun 21, 2023

Monique
Monique M.
McDonough, GA | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
I would like to give a special acknowledgement to Jospeh our local specialist for being extremely responsive, professional and helpful, before during and after our trip. Also, want to acknowledge our driver/tour guide Andrew Kamau Monge. He was an absolute pleasure and added so much knowledge and enjoyment to our trip. It truly was like having a friend show us around Kenya. He is truly appreciated and will be missed. He is a special person and a beautiful asset to Nariku Travel. I... Read more

I would like to give a special acknowledgement to Jospeh our local specialist for being extremely responsive, professional and helpful, before during and after our trip.

Also, want to acknowledge our driver/tour guide Andrew Kamau Monge. He was an absolute pleasure and added so much knowledge and enjoyment to our trip. It truly was like having a friend show us around Kenya. He is truly appreciated and will be missed. He is a special person and a beautiful asset to Nariku Travel.

I highly recommend working with Joseph and Andrew for Kenya trips.

Hotel Reviews
Diani Sea Resort

Most staff were awesome, a few were snooty. The water was intermittently hot and/or cold and extremely salty. The power went out occasionally, but for short periods. The pool and ocean were lovely. The snorkeling excursion was amazing. The evening entertainment was so-so. Room amenities were an issue. I had to change rooms due to telephone and shower not working. In my new room, AC stopped working. Friends had to change room due to AC not working. Food options were plentiful and offered almost around the clock. Cocktails included in the all inclusive package were prepared well and not watered down. Onsite amenities were basic but enough. Massage was priced well and enjoyable. Overall, a nice stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ashnil Mara Camp
Maasai Mara

Very cute and well-appointed luxury tents. The property allowed us the visit of many animals and spottings along the river. The food was okay, but the scenery and lodging made up for what it was lacking.

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

I don't really know how to rate this establishment. On the one hand, the staff, food and overall experience were memorable. On the other hand, the owner was extremely off putting and offensive. The owner also owns Nariku Travel. She is a white woman and served as the face of the cultural camp during our stay. She "educated" us on the life of the Maasai people. She often spoke harshly and in a condescending manner to the staff, attended all meals and most events with us and was overheard telling her husband (the chief) that she was not going to sleep outdoors with us because she could not go another night without running water. She should serve her function behind the scenes. It was mentioned that she lives in a house with running water and electricity not far from the camp; while all the members live in much less modern conditions. She found a way to profit from what used to be a journeyman's layover location. What a shame. I wish I knew more before attending. Despite her interference, the Maasai people deserve your love and support.

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

No hot water in the shower, room untidy and full of insects. However, the property is charming.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Naivasha Sopa Lodge
Nairobi

Reserved a room for 3 people. Was given a third make-shift bed in the sitting area that did not include a mosquito net around the bed. Felt we did not get what we paid for. The food was really good though and grounds are beautiful. Recommendation is for carpeting to be removed from rooms and dining in order to reduce the musty odors.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Rudi

The hotel and staff are lovely. We felt special and like part of the family. Two issues: the amount of time it took to prepare meals, considering we were on time constraints and being charged for a bottle of wine that was placed on our table that no one requested. We assumed that it was included, only later to be charged. Deceiving practice that should be eliminated.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Lake Nakuru National Park Game Drive
Nakuru

The guides were excellent, ensuring that we saw all the "big five." They were well-coordinated with other tour guides, sharing information about animal sightings so that we could have the best experience possible.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lake Naivasha Boat Tour
Lake Naivasha Boat Tour
Kenya

This was an enjoyable experience. The boat driver worked hard to give us the best experience, even arranging for us to see a bird catching a fish. We also saw hippos and crocodiles, which were impressively large.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
 Giraffe Center
Giraffe Center
Kenya

This activity was well-organized, allowing us to arrive before larger groups for a more individualized experience. The staff was informative and cautioned us about getting too close to the giraffes.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Joseph Thuo
Joseph
Joseph Thuo
Local specialist in Nairobi, Kenya | Replied on Jul 20, 2023
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, I am humbled by your kind words for our planning and preparation, which was my pleasure to provide. I’ll pass along your high praises for Andrew, who is truly a treasure. We have also taken note of your feedback on where things were not up to your expectations and assure you that we will be looking into where we can do better on all counts. It was such a pleasure to work with you and appreciate for trusting us with your trip... Read more

Thanks for sharing your thoughts on your travel experience with us, I am humbled by your kind words for our planning and preparation, which was my pleasure to provide. I’ll pass along your high praises for Andrew, who is truly a treasure. We have also taken note of your feedback on where things were not up to your expectations and assure you that we will be looking into where we can do better on all counts. It was such a pleasure to work with you and appreciate for trusting us with your trip plan. We hope to see you again in the near future with more trips to East Africa (Tanzania, Uganda or Rwanda) or any other part of the world.

Best wishes for your future travel journeys.

Ashe oleng, Many Thanks
Joseph

45th anniversary trip to Crete and Rhodes
Greece | May 25 - Jun 5, 2023

D
Debby V.
Rockville, MD | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Kimkim and most especially, Chris, planned the most wonderful trip to Crete and Rhodes for us. I spent a long time with Chris in the planning, and made some changes, but he was wonderful about being flexible. Everything worked beautifully. Transportation was easy, our hotels were amazing (really amazing), we had several excellent private walks, and many recommendations for activities to do on our own. Chris arranged rental cars for us for a few days both in Crete and Rhodes, and that was... Read more

Kimkim and most especially, Chris, planned the most wonderful trip to Crete and Rhodes for us. I spent a long time with Chris in the planning, and made some changes, but he was wonderful about being flexible. Everything worked beautifully. Transportation was easy, our hotels were amazing (really amazing), we had several excellent private walks, and many recommendations for activities to do on our own. Chris arranged rental cars for us for a few days both in Crete and Rhodes, and that was easy as well. Chris even arranged a fabulous dinner for us on the last night of our trip, which was our 45th anniversary. The attention to detail was what stood out for me. Our hosts in Chania and Rhodes were lovely and helpful. Somehow Chris managed to arrange good weather as well.
We had used kimkim once before, this was our second experience, and I'm sure it won't be our last.

Hotel Reviews
Kokkini Porta Rossa
Rhodes

This is a small hotel inside the walls of Rhodes town. The owners are wonderful, very welcoming and extremely helpful in helping you decide where to go and what to do. There's a lovely inner courtyard for a wonderful cooked breakfast and for later in the day. It's decorated beautifully, and is quiet inside. A lovely place to stay.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The owners are very involved with guest needs and so helpful in planning activities and itineraries.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Delfino
Chania, Crete

What a lovely hotel! Beautifully located, helpful staff, a lovely rooftop bar, gorgeous views... There was also a fabulous breakfast, with much of cooked by the proprietress. Breakfast was located on a beautiful terrace, covered if needed, a wonderful way to start the day. As I said, the location was fabulous, we could walk everywhere. Highly recommended.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Always helpful, staff at all levels.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Tour of Rhodes Old Town
Private Tour of Rhodes Old Town
Rhodes

Our guide knew EVERYTHING about Rhodes. I was especially interested in the Jewish Quarter, so he started with that and probably delved into that topic more than he might have otherwise. This was a 4 hour tour, so he was good about letting us sit and rest once in a while. He even introduced us to his friend who ran a gelato shop, and we had a perfect snack about halfway through. I would recommend him for a tour for anyone, so knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private Old Town of Chania guided walk
Private Old Town of Chania guided walk
Chania

We found out things we never would have known otherwise. The pace was perfect, and the young woman who was our guide was extremely knowledgeable and friendly.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Chris Leontopoulos

Great knoledge and service !
Spain | Jun 15 - Jun 21, 2023

Catherine H.
Catherine H. M.
Graham, WA | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Working with Yuri, a travel specialist, was a pleasure. He provided a wide range of options for tours and accommodations, showing great expertise in the areas we were visiting. Despite a few hiccups, Yuri promptly addressed our concerns and questions. Highly recommended! Read more

Working with Yuri, a travel specialist, was a pleasure. He provided a wide range of options for tours and accommodations, showing great expertise in the areas we were visiting. Despite a few hiccups, Yuri promptly addressed our concerns and questions. Highly recommended!

Hotel Reviews
Casa Bonay
Barcelona

I recently had the opportunity to stay at Casa Bonay Hotel, but I must say it wasn't my preferred choice, and I wouldn't rank it high on my list of recommendations. The hotel has a distinctive hipster vibe, which may appeal to some, but it didn't quite resonate with me. First and foremost, the rooms were disappointingly tiny. It felt cramped, and the lack of space was exacerbated by the limited storage options. The only storage available was two small drawers and open hanging for clothing. As someone who appreciates convenience while traveling, I found this arrangement impractical and inconvenient. However, one redeeming feature of the room was the wonderful balcony. It provided a sense of openness and helped alleviate the feeling of being confined. It was a much-needed respite from the claustrophobic atmosphere inside the room. On a positive note, Casa Bonay does offer a fantastic rooftop deck. Unfortunately, during both of my nights there, I encountered difficulties finding available seating. The rooftop area was reserved for an event, leaving guests without the opportunity to enjoy this feature. This situation was quite frustrating and left me feeling disappointed. Considering the overall experience, in my opinion, Casa Bonay Hotel is overpriced. Given the limited amenities, cramped rooms, and the inconveniences I encountered, I believe that the room rates should be significantly lower. While the hotel does have its positive aspects, such as the balcony and the rooftop deck (if accessible), they do not compensate for the overall shortcomings. In conclusion, if you prefer a hipster atmosphere and are willing to overlook the small rooms and limited storage space, Casa Bonay Hotel might be worth considering. However, based on my personal experience, I would not prioritize this hotel as my first, second, or even third choice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
URSO Hotel & Spa
Madrid

Truly, an exceptional hotel! Review of URSO Hotel & Spa Reviewed 5 days ago My recent stay at the URSO Hotel and Spa was an absolute delight! From the moment I entered the premises, I was captivated by the outstanding experience provided. The bed and pillows were nothing short of amazing, providing me with a truly restful and rejuvenating sleep. The rooms were spacious, impeccably clean, and tastefully furnished. I was impressed by how well-appointed the accommodations were, catering to my every need and ensuring a comfortable stay. However, what truly set this hotel apart was the impeccable service and genuine care shown by the staff. They paid meticulous attention to every detail, making sure that our stay was nothing less than exceptional. Their warmth, attentiveness, and willingness to go the extra mile left a lasting impression

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Private Gothic Quarter Walk
Private Gothic Quarter Walk
Barcelona

My partner and I had the pleasure of going on the Barcelona's Gothic Quarter walking tour with Jared as our guide, and I must say, it was an absolutely wonderful experience! From the very beginning, Jared went above and beyond to ensure that the tour met our expectations. He took the time to understand our interests and preferences, asking if we wanted in-depth history or had a particular fascination with architecture. Jared’s approach of involving us in the design of the tour was fantastic. It made the experience feel personalized and tailored to our specific interests. Knowing that he genuinely cared about making the tour engaging and relevant to us made a big difference. The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is a treasure trove of history and architectural wonders, and with Jared as our guide, we were able to fully immerse ourselves in its charm. Exploring the narrow streets, ancient buildings, and significant landmarks of the Gothic Quarter was a delight, especially with Jared’s vast knowledge and passion for the area. He shared fascinating historical facts and architectural details, making the tour both educational and entertaining. Jared’s enthusiasm and expertise were evident throughout the tour. He was always available to answer our questions, provide valuable insights, and share captivating stories about the area. His passion for his work shone through, and it made the entire experience truly memorable. I can't recommend the Barcelona's Gothic Quarter walking tour with Jared enough. If you have the opportunity to join him, don't hesitate. You'll be treated to a personalized and captivating journey through Barcelona's history and architecture, guided by someone who genuinely cares about delivering an exceptional experience. Thank you, Jared, for making our tour unforgettable!

Quality of Experience
Toledo Day Trip and Winery Experience
Toledo Day Trip and Winery Experience
Madrid

We recently took part in the Toledo Day Trip and Winery Experience, and while the overall tour had the potential to be wonderful, the unexpectedly large group size of 27 people diminished the experience. Originally anticipating a small group tour, the crowd and the number of participants greatly exceeded our expectations, making it challenging to fully enjoy the tour. Toledo, with its rich history and fascinating cultural heritage, was undeniably interesting. The ancient city's architecture, narrow streets, and significant landmarks painted a vivid picture of its past. However, the large number of people on the tour made it difficult to hear our guide and fully engage with the information being shared. The crowds created a sense of disconnection, and the opportunity to absorb the historical insights and anecdotes became a struggle. However, it was the winery experience that truly stood out. The knowledgeable hosts at the winery brought the art of Spanish winemaking to life. Their expertise and passion for their craft were evident as they guided us through the vineyards and shared insights into the winemaking process. It was a delightful addition to the tour, offering a unique perspective on Spanish wines and the opportunity to learn about their distinct characteristics.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private Day Trip to Costa Brava's Coastal Villages
Private Day Trip to Costa Brava's Coastal Villages
Barcelona

We had the pleasure of going on a private day tour to Costa Brava's Medieval Villages, and I can't express enough how amazing the experience was. The history and sights of this region left us in awe, and our guide truly made the past come alive. What truly made this tour exceptional was our guide. Their knowledge and passion for the region were evident at every turn. With a remarkable ability to weave together historical facts, local legends, and anecdotes, they brought the rich tapestry of Costa Brava's past to life. The tour not only showcased the architectural wonders of the medieval villages but also provided insights into the daily life and customs of the people who once inhabited these enchanting places. Walking through the narrow cobblestone streets, exploring the well-preserved buildings, and admiring the ancient churches, it felt as if we had stepped into a different era. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who has the opportunity. A heartfelt thank you to our guide for their expertise, enthusiasm, and the personalized touch they brought to the tour.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist:

Our driver (one of us) was excellent. He rep...
Ireland | Jun 9 - Jun 15, 2023

J
Jane B.
Ada, OH | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023

Our driver (one of us) was excellent. He reports driving in Ireland was intimidating at first but then was ok.

Local specialist: Dean Garrison
Dean
Dean Garrison
Local specialist in Ireland | Replied on Jul 06, 2023

Hi Mary

Many thanks for your wonderful review, and travelling with us this year.

We are delighted to hear you had a great time in Ireland.

We are happy to hear that you got comfortable driving on the opposite side of the road during your trip.

We hope to have the chance to welcome you back to our amazing country in the near future.

Kind Regards

Dean

Kind Regards

Dean

Norway Honeymoon
Norway | Jun 12 - Jun 22, 2023

D
David M.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
My wife and I recently traveled to Norway for our Honeymoon and had the most incredible experience. We had a rough idea of the type of trip we wanted, but the thought of trying to create an itinerary from scratch in a country we had never been to before was a bit overwhelming. After being put in touch with our local specialist, Christina, and providing our preferences of what we were looking for, we were able to gradually craft a travel plan that suited our needs. From the onset,... Read more

My wife and I recently traveled to Norway for our Honeymoon and had the most incredible experience. We had a rough idea of the type of trip we wanted, but the thought of trying to create an itinerary from scratch in a country we had never been to before was a bit overwhelming. After being put in touch with our local specialist, Christina, and providing our preferences of what we were looking for, we were able to gradually craft a travel plan that suited our needs.

From the onset, communication with Christina was seamless and she provided us with detailed travel plans to review so that we can could provide feedback along the way. Christina was extremely responsive to our questions, and we always felt comfortable reaching out to her for any type of inquiry (even minor ones). Every level of detail was accounted for in the planning of the trip- lodging accommodations, transportation, and activities. On days where we were not sure if we wanted a formal planned activity, Christina would leave plenty of detailed options for us to review and consider.

Additionally, once we arrived in Norway, it was comforting to know that we had Christina as a resource to reach out to in case anything went wrong during our travels.

We had the best time and would definitely use this platform again when planning our next adventure!

Local specialist: Christina Wang
Christina
Christina Wang
Local specialist in Kristiansand, Norway | Replied on Jun 26, 2023

Thank you for leaving this nice review, David.
It was a pleasure planning this special trip with you and I am so glad you had a great time!
Do not hesitate to reach out again, if you decide to pay another visit to Norway :)

Wishing you and Cindy all the best :)

Oyu was responsive to questions/requests. Ho...
Mongolia | Jun 4 - Jun 17, 2023

I
Isaac T.
Erlanger, KY | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Oyu was responsive to questions/requests.
However there was an add on charge at the last minute
The airport pick up & drop off was well arranged.
Guide Norbull in the western Mongolia section out if Ulgii was excellent. Very creative with problem solving.
As a guide he left a few opportunities too many for things to go wrong. Perhaps needed more manpower. His catering crew & meals were superb.
Nomin our Ulan Bator based guide was “very green”. Multiple examples of being dis interested or...
Read more

Oyu was responsive to questions/requests.
However there was an add on charge at the last minute
The airport pick up & drop off was well arranged.
Guide Norbull in the western Mongolia section out if Ulgii was excellent. Very creative with problem solving.
As a guide he left a few opportunities too many for things to go wrong. Perhaps needed more manpower. His catering crew & meals were superb.
Nomin our Ulan Bator based guide was “very green”. Multiple examples of being dis interested or her lack of application. Extremely poor knowledge of basic information of Mongolia.
Presume that its a tough place to have everything go according to plan with a grp trip. Hence the appreciation of all that we got in western Mongolia.

Local specialist: Oyunerdene Battulga

Fantastic!
Vietnam | May 25 - Jun 3, 2023

Ketesse
Ketesse H.
Australia | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
Hien facilitated an excellent trip, exactly what I was after! Nothing was too much trouble. The accommodation was lovely, and the arranged day trips/tours hit all the highlights I had wanted to see. Everything was arranged, which just made it so easy and enjoyable, especially for a relatively short trip in which I wanted to see a lot. Huge shout out to Cuong, who was my guide for several days. Had a fantastic time, and would definitely recommend. Read more

Hien facilitated an excellent trip, exactly what I was after! Nothing was too much trouble. The accommodation was lovely, and the arranged day trips/tours hit all the highlights I had wanted to see. Everything was arranged, which just made it so easy and enjoyable, especially for a relatively short trip in which I wanted to see a lot. Huge shout out to Cuong, who was my guide for several days. Had a fantastic time, and would definitely recommend.

Hotel Reviews
La Pandora Cruises
Hai Phong
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tam Coc Luxury Homestay
Mai Chau With Love Homestay
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Splendid Star Grand Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Hien Do
Hien
Hien Do
Local specialist in Vietnam | Replied on Jun 25, 2023

Dear Ketesse,
Thank you so much for such a detailed review. We are so glad to know that you has enjoyed your trip to Vietnam and that you are happy with our services. It was our great pleasure to organize and support you on this vacation. Thank you again for trusting our company, and hope to welcome you again in the near future!
Sincerely,
Hien

EXCELLENT TRIP IN CHILE
Chile | Jun 18 - Jun 23, 2023

R
ROSITA F.
Australia | Reviewed on Jun 24, 2023
My client Karyn Anderson and her child Sebastian were delighted and have nothing but praise for all the arrangements made by Kimkim and Ana who was extremely helpful right through the booking process. For starters, I would like to commend Ana for her selfless and prompt responses and excellent suggestions.
There were many changes but she handled the challenges with great expertise, otherwise for me, an unknown destination.
My client has written that everything went without a hitch,... Read more

My client Karyn Anderson and her child Sebastian were delighted and have nothing but praise for all the arrangements made by Kimkim and Ana who was extremely helpful right through the booking process.

For starters, I would like to commend Ana for her selfless and prompt responses and excellent suggestions.
There were many changes but she handled the challenges with great expertise, otherwise for me, an unknown destination.

My client has written that everything went without a hitch, the arrangements were superb and Paloma was a fabulous attraction. Staff along the way were great and the day tour was more than satisfactory.

Thank you Ana and Kimkim - I will certainly be back in the future

Local specialist: Ana Maibach Cikes
Ana
Ana Maibach Cikes
Local specialist in Córdoba | Replied on Jun 30, 2023

Dear Rosita,
Thank you so much for your kind words!

We are absolutely thrilled to hear that Karyn and Sebastian had a fantastic trip with us in Chile :D

Working with you has been an absolute pleasure, and we are excited to continue collaborating together in creating unforgettable journeys for our passengers!

We genuinely appreciate all your support and collaboration.

Wishing you a wonderful day!

Warm regards,
Ana and the entire Trips South America team

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

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Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

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Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.