Kimkim Trip Reviews

Our trip to Egypt included time in Cairo, Luxor, and Hurghada. All of which offered a different and memorable aspect of Egypt. Everyone from Aya, who coordinated and arranged our to trip, to all of our guides were very kind, helpful, and welcoming. Its hard to pick one thing we liked the most. In Cairo, you have to visit the pyramids, try as much food as you can, and take a little ride on a camel. In Luxor, the historic sites and the hot air balloon ride at sunrise were wonderful. And in Hurghada, snorkeling in the Red Sea was amazing. I'd highly recommend visiting Egypt and working with this team on any plans when doing so.

Activity Reviews

Luxor West Bank

Luxor

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Trip Hot Air Balloon Ride in Luxor, Egypt

Luxor

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Luxor East bank.

Luxor

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Our Guide was very knowledgeable and did a great job fielding all of my questions.

Transport

Trip to Pyramids, Memphis, and Sakkara with riding a camel

Egypt

Quality of Experience

Food

When stopping for lunch, would be nice to know you have to pay for your drinks.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Snorkeling at Mahmya Island from Hurghada

Egypt

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had a phenomenal trip to the Lofoton Islands! I don't usually work with travel agents to plan trips, but I am so glad that I found KimKim and Alex and Nick. Alex had traveled there extensively and he listened carefully to the kind of trip we wanted and made perfect suggestions. He figured out quickly that we would prefer rorbuers to traditional hotels and they were perfect. Our 16 year old grandson brought his fishing rod and would fish until midnight after returning from our day's activities. We even spotted a pod of orcas on our midnight sun kayak tour. Our transportation worked like clockwork and when our flight was delayed the travel agent was in touch to let us know. If you had a question, KimKim would get back to you immediately. I would not hesitate to use them again. Their personalization and responsiveness were truly outstanding. You work with a real person who knows the location well and not an AI bot. Thank you KimKim, Alex and Nick for a fabulous trip.

Hotel Reviews

Clarion Hotel Bergen Airport Terminal

Bergen

Perfect place to stay if you have an early morning flight! Restaurant was great and it couldn't have been easier to walk to the airport.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sakrisøy Rorbuer

Reine

This was charming. I loved being in Sakrisoy, but only minutes from Reine which is a more touristy town. Anita's was right across the street and we ate there twice. Don't miss the cod burger! We loved the quietness of Sakisroy yet we were less than 10 minutes from Reine where we met our guide for our midnight kayak adventure. It's a perfect location to explore the southern part of the Lofotons, do the Reinebringen Hike, hire a fishing guide in A or do other hikes in the area. If you have forgotten any outdoor gear, there is a good shop in Reine.

Authenticity & Character

You felt like you were truly in a fisherman's cabin. Loved the ambiance and decor.

Location

Cleanliness & Comfort

Beds were super comfortable!

Grand Hotel Terminus

Bergen

Loved the location and the architectural details from the early part of the 20th century. It was an easy walk to the fish market, funicular and you were right across the street from the train station. There was a wonderful restaurant in the hotel, but you were within walking distance to many fabulous places to eat.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Trollfjord Cruise by Electric Boat

Svolvær

Not only will you travel down a beautiful fjord with waterfalls, but you will see sea eagles up close and personal. You glide along silently as you enjoy the mountains and wildlife.

Midnight Sun Kayaking Excursion

Reine

Monica was a terrific guide and the change in light on the mountains was magical! We were lucky in that we spotted a pod of orcas which Monica said was unusual. This is a trip for beginners to experienced kayakers.

Fjord Cruise to Rosendal

Bergen

It was wonderful to be on the water, but this is not one of the narrow fjord cruises. We loved getting to Rosendal and hiking to the waterfall. We had a wonderful lunch at Gjoa and caught the boat back to Bergen.

Fløibanen Funicular Ticket

Bergen

This is a must do especially on a clear day! We did not explore the hiking trails, but you could spend hours up here. We particularly loved the cashmere goats who keep the area trimmed up. This would be a great place to sit, have a drink and gaze at the Bergen harbor and the mountain. Get one of the adirondack chairs and enjoy the view.

Quality of Experience

My recent trip to Victoria Falls and the Western Cape was a great success, and one of my best vacations. This was mainly due to the excellent itinerary and arrangements suggested and finalized by the folks at Kimkim. They also selected all the lodgings, which were unique, perfect locations, and fun.

Starting in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe I toured the incredible Falls. I visited a local Matabele village, Mpisi, where I leaned how people live and work. They were so friendly and inviting, it deepened my knowledge of the place and was one of the highlights of my visit to Vic Falls. I also went on a sunset cruise of the Zambezi River. Outstandingly beautiful, and the boat, the Zambezi Vista, was superbly outfitted and the crew informative and fun.

In Cape Town I enjoyed a private tour with guide Zaki Harris of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Having grown up there, his insights and knowledge enriched my time there. Of course I visited Table Mountain, with its beautiful views.

Another highlight for me was my private tour of the Cape Peninsula. Rochelle, my guide and driver, was first-rate and made the whole experience rewarding. Her enthusiasm, knowledge and joy of showing me South Africia’s Western Cape was infectious, and the best part of my entire trip. The scenery was stunning, and one of the most beautiful places I’ve seen.

We ventured to wine country, where Rochelle took me to a winey outside of Stellenbosch, where I sampled superb wines. With each wine, the staff provided with informative explanations of the grapes used and wine making process.

Another stop was Babylonstoren Farm. I toured the large establishment where various food and other products are produced. It was fun to wonder over the grounds and buildings, and taste the local specialities.

The day ended at Franschhoek, where I stayed in another marvelous property. Utilizing the easy to use Wine Tram I visited two stellar wineries and enjoyed some lovely wines and learned why South Africa produces exceptional wines.

My next and final stop was Hermanus on the coast, where I boarded a boat in the hope of seeing whales. To my delight we saw many in the Bay. It was very exciting to have the whales break the surface right by the boat.

Staying near Hermanus at a fantastic place overlooking the Klein River Lagoon. A local guide, Vitalis, took me on a nature walk and a water bird sightseeing trip by boat. Both informative and entertaining.

All the transfers went smoothly, with amicable and professional. The lodgings were excellent, as were the meals. Thanks to the great endeavors of Anna-marie and Deb and all their team members this first class trip was memorable.

Please, please take this as constructive criticize, as we had a great time. The two issues we had were communication and flight timing. Whats Apps is a great tool and you are dealing with remote locations. Best you make sure traveler have international plans on their phones. Doing this with WiFi only will catch up at some point. The flight timing in any airport is a challenge I would suggest no flights later that 2 pm in the future.

Activity Reviews

Self guided tour to Machu Picchu: Circuit 1 (High season)

Peru

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Machu Picchu Tour (Private Guided Tour) PM/M

Aguas Calientes/ Machu Picchu

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Explore Ollantaytambo & Shared Pachamanca Lunch Farm Tour

Sacred Valley

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Shared tour to Pisac & Ollantaytambo tour

Peru

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Shared Cooking Classes Ivanna Lescano (18:00 - 19:30)

Cusco

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lenka was an amazing tour guide and resource; do enjoyed her guidance during our stay!

In an era of self booking trips,if you have the time and bandwidth to research where to go, travel agencies are not extinct and provide a custom experience to those who seek it. My family and I absolutely loved our trip and accomodations. We love to road trip and chose to drive to various places. Our booked tours were exactly what we wanted and still had ample time to explore on our own. Highly recommend booking through kimkim, my agent was attentive and available to answer questions or concerns. Will look into more vacation options with this company.

Hotel Reviews

Martinhal Lisbon Oriente

Lisbon

Wonderful hotel and chain. Highly recommend if you have a family.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Vila Galé Lagos

Lagos

Great hotel for families with a few exceptions. This is catered to a more resort feel, with that in mind, hotels need to deter guests from staking claim to lounge chairs by the pool all day. The fact is people just leave there towels and disappear for hours or most of the day but block others from using them. Huge turn off if you want to actually use a chair for an hour or two.

Authenticity & Character

Not my kind of style as it feels commercial and lacks some charm.

Location

Away from the touristy side of town

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Vila Gale Evora

Evora

The hotel is nice and near old town. The two comments: We had 2 kids ( one considered an adult) on a pull out couch that was very hard and uncomfortable to sleep. The other was the air conditioner that smelled horrible when turned on.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Air conditioner smelled when turned on and the pull out couch was uncomfortable to sleep on

Martinhal Lisbon Chiado

Lisbon

Wonderful hotel for families to stay in the old part of Lisbon. Everything is within walking distance if you like to walk.

Authenticity & Character

Comfortable and stylish

Location

Location was great to see the old town

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Cave Boat Tour

Portugal

Was a bit hesitant to do this because of preventing experiences. This was a small group and our guides where personable and with great sense of humor. Well worth seeing the coast feom this vantage point.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Winery Visit with Wine Tasting

Portugal

Tour guide was knowledgeable and personable.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Street Art Tour in Lisbon

Lisbon

Had the most wonderful tour guide ans experience. Great way to learn about the city.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Jook was so helpful all along the way. Everyone was! I would not do a trip any other way moving forward. I was reminded of my pickup times and activities and someone was available for me 24/7. I would recommend kimkim to everyone!

The team at KimKim and Serendipity Adventures were so helpful from start to finish. Holden provided an itinerary that suited our needs perfectly; a mixture of adventure and relaxation. I was traveling with a friend. Getting our rental car was such an easy process. He booked the Heliconias Nature Inn near La Fortuna and Bosque Del Mar Hotel in Playa Hermosa and we couldn't be more happy with these choices. He also booked two tours during our 5-day stay, Canyoning and Sailing/snorkeling. Although both were fantastic, the Canyoning was my favourite!

Wilman maintained contact with us through WhatsApp before, during and after our trip which was extremely helpful. He responded very quickly to all of our inquiries and even helped reserve a last minute tour and provided several recommendations for dining.

Holden, Wilman, and the team at KimKim and Serendipity Adventures helped make our trip run smoothly and we are so grateful for their guidance and support!

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Bosque del Mar

Playa Hermosa

What a beautiful hotel! It was beachfront but also surrounded by forest with lots of native trees and plants. We saw howler monkeys on two occasions. We stayed in room 201 and we couldn't be happier with it. There were two queen beds with a separate living area that looked out to the forest with floor to ceiling windows. We also booked a sailing/snorkeling tour that picked us up from the beach which was very convenient.

Authenticity & Character

It was just beautiful and clean.

Location

Close to souvenir shops and a mini market. It was also a 10 minutes drive to the town of Coco which has lots of places to shop and places to eat.

Staff

Everyone was friendly and approachable.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Beds were super comfortable and the room was immaculate.

Heliconias Nature Inn

Peñas Blancas

Such a beautiful resort-like setting. We stayed at the Tucan Suite which was nestled in the forest. Alejandro and the staff were so friendly and made sure our stay was memorable. Although we didn't have time to do the night tour on the site, it seemed like it would've been a great experience.

Authenticity & Character

The rooms and grounds were just beautiful.

Location

We loved the location since it was nestled in the forest. However, we didn't mind driving. If you're not driving, it's about 27 minutes from La Fortuna.

Staff

We interacted mostly with Alejandro, Diego, and Carlos but everyone was friendly.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The beds were very comfortable and the room was clean. We would recommend better lighting and more towel hooks. There were only two. We would also recommend providing an umbrella for the guests, especially during the rainy season.

Activity Reviews

Morning Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure

Costa Rica

It was a beautiful sail to our snorkel site. We even saw sea turtles on the way! We had so much snorkel time and saw some beautiful fish. It was amazing! Loved the atmosphere of the boat, familiar tunes but with a spanish flair, the bottomless drinks, and finger food snacks were perfect.

Quality of Experience

The sailing part of the tour was incredibly comfortable and beautiful. The care we were given on board, and the marine life seen were amazing.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All staff were amazing!

Transport

We were picked up at the beach of our hotel which was a bonus!

Canyoning in Arenal

Arenal/La Fortuna

Everything about this tour was amazing. If you like adventure but still a beginner like me, this would be a great tour. Also, the lunch at the end was delicious and much needed. We all got a bit hungry after the tour lol

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All the staff were amazing!!!

Transport

We had a wonderful trip and Vicky (your local specialist)in Noosa, planned it all to perfection. She was beyond helpful and we were more than delighted with all of her help before and during our trip. Our transport was all really good our accommodation excellent and the planned trips we took in each place we stayed were brilliant and this trip will live long in our memories. It exceeded all of our expectations.

Hotel Reviews

Quest Melbourne Airport

Melbourne Airport

Has all you need during the week but not if you don't have a car when staying weekends. This hotel is located out of the immediate airport area on an industrial site. There are no shops or venues to eat anywhere nearby and their shuttle bus is almost unavailable on a weekend. They do offer ready meals and vending machines but this could be improved by a more accessible shuttle service at weekends.

Authenticity & Character

Clean and comfortable

Location

Increased availability of a shuttle bus to amenities on a weekend.

Staff

The desk staff were very helpful but were restricted by the lack of close amenities or ability to offer transport.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Washing machine and dryer availability. However a little tired but clean and comfy bed.

The Sebel Quay West Suites

The Rocks

Wonderful apartment with all facilities in the heart of the rocks area of Sydney. Had all kitchen facilities and a washing machine and dryer which was brilliant. Daily light service which was great.

Authenticity & Character

Modern and sleek. Fantastic views

Location

In the heart of the old town area with many facilities a few steps away.

Staff

Helpful front desk and great cleaning team

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very comfortable stay here. Bed and furniture very comfortable.

Metro Advance Apartments & Hotel, Darwin

Darwin

Had good facilities and was very central. Perhaps a little tired but all clean and functional. Had a washing machine and dryer and all you needed in the galley kitchen.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Very central and close to shops.

Staff

Helpful desk staff and very helpful cleaning staff.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Very clean and comfortable.pethaps furniture in lounge would benefit from an upgrade but functional.

Mantra Esplanade

Cairns

In a wonderful location with all the amenities close by. Excellent facilities in the apartment. Very comfortable stay here. Staff were very helpful. Chose not to have daily service as this was an extra cost and we don't mind making the bed. We got replenished tea etc and clean towels via reception staff. Again had a washing machine and dryer which was brilliant.

Authenticity & Character

Modern clean lines.

Location

Very close to everything.

Staff

They could not have done more for us. We only had to ask

Cleanliness & Comfort

If you want serviced rooms this is an extra daily cost but allows you to choose. Might not suit everyone

Desert Gardens Hotel

Yulara

A very large room with all tea and coffee making facilities and all the basics. It was a no frills approach but was clean and functional. Very expensive for what it was and the restaurant and local eateries were also overpriced.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Proximity to Uluru great but few amenities.

Staff

Very helpful

Cleanliness & Comfort

Needs a little refresh especially for the price.

Quest St Kilda Road

Melbourne

This was ideal for us as it had all the facilities we needed for weeks stay and was very comfortable. The bed was very comfortable and it was brilliant to have a washing machine and dryer. They supplied everything like washing up liquid and laundry liquid. The living room couch was a little tired but overall the flat was great.

Authenticity & Character

All of the facilities and the staff at the front desk were very helpful.

Location

This is in a fantastic location with trams to take you into the CBD or to the local area.

Staff

Couldn't do enough to make your stay the best

Cleanliness & Comfort

Bed was very comfortable and bedlinen lovely and soft. Daily cleaning and replenishing of amenities was great.

Activity Reviews

Blue Mountains All-Inclusive Small Group Day Tour

Sydney

The best trip of all! Anderson's run this amazing tour and pack lots into the day. It was wonderful? Jay our driver tour guide was excellent and knowledgeable. The scenery was stunning. The rides exciting and featherdale wildlife park stupendous.

Quality of Experience

All just brilliant. Loved it.

Food

Excellent lunch in a local pub.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Jay was our driver guide and was very knowledgeable re all aspects of the tour.

Transport

Small mini bus. Good for numbers but a little cramped for legroom etc

Sydney Opera House Tour

Sydney

Wonderful trip. Although we had walked around the outside many times it was fantastic to see the interior and hear the history of the architecture and what happens in the building.

Quality of Experience

Brilliant guide. Well executed

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The Rocks Signature Walking Tour

Sydney

Although we have been to this area before it was great to hear the stories of the history and how it came to be what it is today.

Quality of Experience

Great guide who was steeped in the history and full of stories of the past too very entertaining

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Excellent.

Litchfield National Park

Darwin

Wonderful trip in beautiful scenery. Libby our driver and guide from AAT Kings was awesome. She made the day very memorable to say nothing of the stunning scenery. The waterfalls and pools were stunning and brilliant for a dip.

Quality of Experience

The whole day was wonderful. Loved it.

Food

Excellent lunch out on the sticks but just great. Food was good and the venue was quirky

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Libby deserves a special mention she was excellent and knowledgeable as well as very funny and entertaining

Transport

Again Libby was our driver. Awesome 👍

Charles Darwin Cruise

Darwin

Great sunset seen on this cruise. Overall pleasant experience but food felt rushed and a bit like a buffet at a scout camp!

Quality of Experience

The sunset and the views

Food

More time for self service buffet and more time to eat it. Too many people so it was rushed

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All very good

Transport

Excellent craft

Premium Daintree & Cape Tribulation Day Tour

Australia

A wonderful day exploring the natural wonders of the area. The driver was our guide and she was excellent and knowledgeable about all aspects of what we saw. It was an emotional experience.

Quality of Experience

It was all just brilliant even if it was a long day.

Food

Interesting lunch in the rainforest. Very rustic but unique.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Moore Reef and Fitzroy Island Full Day Tour

Cairns

Great trip although be prepared for sea swell and some bumpy ride out to the reef. Staff were great and very helpful. There were options to see the reef without swimming or snorkeling. Unfortunately the submersible want working so this option not available. Loved Fitzroy island too.

Quality of Experience

Great staff and just brilliant to see a small bit of the barriers rerr

Food

All of it.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All were helpful and took care of safety.

Transport

Afternoon & Evening Tour of Paronella Park (departing Cairns)

Australia

This was a wonderful trip and our guide Terry (tropic tours) was passionate about the people and places we visited. It was a beautiful day if you enjoy nature and history.

Quality of Experience

We saw a Cassowary in the wild which was outstanding. We loved paronella park itself and the history and restoration story too.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The guide was our driver and he was brilliant. Very knowledgeable and accommodating

Transport

It was a small minus which meant small numbers. Made it a better experience

Cairns Lagoon

Cairns

Beautiful area and so Accessible to everyone.

Quality of Experience

This area is kept beautifully by local teams which adds to the experience of Cairns

Uluru Sunrise (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta Half Day Trip

Uluru

Loved this. Our guide was brilliant and knowledgeable. It was an emotional experience.

Quality of Experience

It was well planned and expertly executed by ATT Kings.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

All we're amazing and deserved praise for great service

Transport

Seamless and a great experience

Uluru Sacred Sites, Sunset, BBQ and Star Talk

Uluru

I would highly recommend this trip. It was awesome and the best BBQ I've ever tasted too. The A TT Kings team were wonderful and it all went like clockwork. It was an amazing experience.

Quality of Experience

Just brilliant. The whole team were fantastic

Food

Best BBQ ever in my life.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Congratulations to all on a fantastic experience

Transport

The driver was a character and very funny.

An amazing 10 day road trip up the stunning Norwegian scenic coastal route - Trondheim to Bodo. Tom chose some fabulous, out-of-the-way places for us to go which were would never have found on our own! Each stop was different and unique in its own way. Vega was a real highlight - both the natural beauty, the activities to do and the amazing accomodation (and fabulous dinner suggested by Tom!) The whole process of planning and booking the trip was super easy, and our guide, Tom, continued to check in with us along the route, making the whole experience feel personal and well-curated. Thankyou so much Tom and the Kim Kim team for a fabulous adventure. :)

Hotel Review

Vega Havhotell

Vega

Gorgeous hotel! Very peaceful and private, in a good location, with good facilities like kayaks etc. The 5 course dinner was a spectacular bonus which we didnt expect in such a remote beautiful place. Would highly recommend.

Authenticity & Character

Loved the grass on the roof.

Location

Quiet and peaceful

Staff

Very helpful

Cleanliness & Comfort

Spacious room overlooking the pond with our own deck chairs.

Activity Review

Træna Sauna

Træna

Great to be able to have an authentic sauna in this gorgeous location. Helps having a great pub right next door too! 😁

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Communication with Kristy was terrible overall at ~2 months leading up to the trip. More, the activities as he booked for us were fine but no different than I would have found on my own.

Activity Reviews

Arrival in Rio de Janeiro

Rio de Janeiro

We were delayed 12 hours but they tracked and accommodated us.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Buenos Aires Walking City Tour

Buenos Aires

This was NOT a walking tour. It was fine, but basically a small group big bus drive by tour of the city. So much more to see!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Departure Day: Farewell to Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires

Skipped due do lack of communication with Kristy.

A Taste of Mendoza

Mendoza

Experience was fair. Guide walked us around town for a little bit then took us to a food hall. A bit basic, though a good introduction to Argentinian food.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Personalized Private Tour of Rio

Rio de Janeiro

Great tour and guide. Despite miscommunication with our planner Kristy, Duncan was able to make a last minute pivot and accommodate what we wanted to see.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Gummi was exceptional to work with! This was the first time we planned a trip like this and Gummi really hit everything we wanted to do and his detailed itineraries and instructions were amazing. He was incredibly responsive when questions or concerns came up and made the entire experience fun! Would 100% recommend him to plan your trip to Iceland for you. We had the trip of a lifetime and hope to go back in the future.

Hotel Reviews

Alva / 22 Hill Hotel

Reykjavík

Room was comfortable and clean. This was the only place we stayed that didn’t have reserved parking for guests, so we were a bit nervous about the public street parking overnight especially because this location is downtown, but we didn’t have any issues and it was fine.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Didn’t interact with staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Fosshótel Vatnajökull

Höfn

Really nice room, we wish we could have stayed here longer! Our dinner in the restaurant was exceptional as well, staff extremely accommodating.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hótel Kría

Vík

Great location, right near everything and super modern and clean.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Skálatjörn

Selfoss

Cute and comfy. We ended up arriving quite late in the evening and the host was still available to greet us and give us our key to check in which was great.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Fosshotel Stykkishólmur

Stykkishólmur

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Reykjavik Natura - Berjaya Hotel

Reykjavík

This hotel was very comfortable and located a bit outside of downtown which actually was perfect.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Inside the Volcano (Meet On Location)

Iceland

This experience was incredible, a once in a lifetime excursion. You have a 2 mile hike there and back over lava fields and it’s like you’re on another planet. The guides were knowledgeable and you got ample time inside the volcano to explore. Would 1000% recommend.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Grima and Katherine were great!

Transport

Icelandic Food Walk

Reykjavík

We really liked this experience because we got to try the traditional Icelandic foods without having to get them as your entree for dinner if you’re not that adventurous. Our guide Agla was really knowledgeable and pointed out historical buildings and facts along the way.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Glacier Ice Cave Experience

Iceland

This was incredible!!! The entire thing from the drive to the glacier, the hike up the glacier and exploring the ice cave was an experience. We loved this excursion so much.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Mark was fantastic! He was funny, knowledgeable and made this experience awesome.

Transport

Whale Watching Ólafsvík

Snæfellsnes Peninsula

We loved this experience! We got to see puffins, whales and dolphins. It was so peaceful and the crew was great.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Our family had a great time on our vacation in Greece. Having the trip arranged by Kim Kim, with all transfers, accommodations and key contact information included in the final trip summary, relieved a lot of the stress of traveling internationally. We would highly recommend.

Activity Reviews

South Coast E-Bike Adventure

Santorini

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

E-Bike Experience with Olive Mill & Farm Visit with Lunch

Naxos

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Private Culture Walk with Food Tastings & Tavern Meal

Naxos

The guy was friendly and knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience

Food

The farm to table food in Nexus was delicious

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Norway and Sweden are both fabulous travel destinations and the trip we planned with Julia's assistance was absolutely wonderful! Despite having a great time in both countries, I regret that, aside from Julia, who was a delight to work with, our experience with Kimkim was less than positive. At times it was extremely frustrating, not to mention that the service you provide is quite expensive and more time-consuming than if we had booked the entire vacation on our own.

First and foremost, I disagree with your business philosophy. Julia was wonderful. I gave her clear cut direction regarding the vacation experience I wanted, and she provided me with guidance and advice as to how my expectations could easily be achieved. Based on how well we worked together, I asked her to give me a quote, which she did. The price was high, much higher than I expected. I then took the time to price the trip myself, and discovered that Kimkim's mark-up was approximately 20-25% higher than if I booked everything on my own. Yet, I wanted to work with Julia. I felt she put time and effort into planning our vacation. I wanted her to get some remuneration, so I asked her to provide a quote, just for the transfers and tours, to which she agreed.

Even though it was still high, I accepted the revised quote because I wanted Julia to get credit for the booking. Then after paying a non-refundable deposit, Julia told me that she only worked as a travel planner. Since the planning process was now complete, one of her colleagues , a woman named Fenne, was now in charge of booking our trip. After a brief introduction, I never heard from Fenne again.

Five months later a new person, Jacob, pops up in the chat. He told me he was taking over for Fenne. Frankly, at this time I was somewhat worried that over five months had elapsed since my last conversation with Julia, and I had yet to hear from anyone at Kimkim confirming that our tours and transfers had been booked. I was concerned that we wouldn’t be able to obtain the tour guides we previously had requested from Julia, despite having paid a deposit months earlier. Unfortunately, this delay created some problems. In both Oslo and Stockholm, the most knowledgeable and professional tour guides had already been booked.

In Oslo, Jacob booked a private guide for us. Her name was Ana Maria. Abby and I have visited more than 60 countries in the world. Never have we ever experienced a guide who was so incompetent. First of all, we never asked for a private guide. A group tour would have been fine. Secondly, Ana Maria was not Norwegian. She was an unemployed free-lance publisher from Columbia, South America who had lived in Norway for less than two years; only because her husband got a job in Oslo.

Our tour documents said we should meet Ana Maria at Jembanetorget, but we couldn’t find her phone number on the voucher. Jembanetorget is a main square in Oslo with lots of people milling around. Another tour guide was standing at the tiger statue holding a sign up for a walking tour, but our name wasn’t on his list. He phoned Oslo Walking tours on our behalf and was told that the meeting place was Oslo’s National Theater. Since we didn’t have time to walk there, he was kind of enough to ask us to join his tour, which we did. Ten minutes into the tour, my phone rang. It was Ana Maria calling to find out where we were. As things turned out, she had been at Jembanetorget all along, but she didn’t carry a sign with our name on it, so we could find her. BIG MISTAKE! We finally connected at the Oslo Opera House.

While Ana Maria is a lovely lady, she was the worst tour guide I ever had. She had no plan regarding what we should see, nor did she have any experience other than referring to a guidebook and then reciting what she had read, back to us. Fortunately, we were able to see the Opera House as well as Oslo’s new library right next door, but nothing else. As our travel agent, Kimkim made absolutely no effort to use tour guides with five-star reviews from other travelers. They simply subcontracted all of our tours to Nord DMC or to some other some other Destination Management company.

We also never requested a private tour guide in Oslo, especially a guide as inexperienced as Ana Maria. In our case, a group tour would have been far preferable. I blame this solely on Kimkim, as we were traveling during the peak season, and Kimkim waited five months before starting the booking process. Our tour guide in Stockholm, who also was booked through Nord DMC, was equally incompetent. I believe his name was Daniel, but I’m not sure.

There were two reasons for my dissatisfaction with the Stockholm guide. First and foremost, he was not as prepared nor was he as thorough as other tour guides who we observed walking a group of tourists through the Old City to the same sites. Other guides spent 2-3 times longer at each site than our guide and the information he dispensed was superficial at best. The other guides also provided their visitors with an audio headset to block out street noise so visitors, who were not standing right next to them, could hear every word they had to say. Our guide also seemed to be more interested in talking about us, who we were and where we came from, as opposed to engaging in an in-depth conversation regarding the history of Sweden and Stockholm in particular.

Unlike Visby and Bergen where we did have excellent guides, our guides in both Oslo and Stockholm were a total disappointment. Visby, on the other hand, was fantastic! But, I think this may have been a stroke of luck! Our guide’s name was Ronny Larsson, a retired Swedish Army Colonel, who commanded the last regiment on Gotland Island, before it was disbanded in 2005. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide. Not only was Ronny "au currant" on foreign affairs and Sweden’s current role in NATO, he also was a fountain of information about the historic role of the Hanseatic League during the medieval period, when Gotland’s many churches were being constructed. We had a great time with Ronny during the two days we spent together touring Visby as well as the surrounding north island vicinity.

However, the reason I say Ronny was a “stroke of luck” is I don’t think Kimkim had anything to do with assigning him to us. The reason I say this is according to Kimkim’s trip plan and tour documentation, Gunilla Laustrøm was assigned as our guide for both tours. Ronny Larsson was a last-minute substitution. We just lucked out!

While overall, we had a wonderful experience touring Scandinavia, I can’t really say that our experience with Kimkim measured up. At the beginning of my review, I said that I disagreed with your business philosophy, namely, having a person other than the trip planner with whom you were used to working, book our tours. The booking person, in our case Jacob, had no idea as to our likes, dislikes and travel interests. He simply dumped our tour requests over to a Destination Management Company, Nord DMC, and let a third party do the heavy lifting. Then Nord DMC selected various tour operators located in each city visited to assign our guides. (i.e. Oslo - Fjord Tours, Oslo Walking tours; Balestrand – Glacier Tours; Bergen – I Love Bergen Walking Tours; Visby – Gotland Guide Service; Stockholm – Tours of Stockholm)

I was under the impression that Kimkim would book our guides directly, based on the information I previously had given to Julia. Obviously, this was not the case. For this reason, I cannot give Kimkim a five-star review. Aside from the information Julia provided while we were planning our trip, I don’t see any added benefit to using Kimkim as a travel agent. I also suspect that Julia Mattos is actually an employee of Nord DMC, and not Kimkim. Julia lives in Kristiansand, a city in southern Norway where Nord DMC has their home office. However, this could just be a coincidence.

Kimkim is also not the first time Abby, and I have used an online travel agent. Last year we booked a 4-week safari vacation, visiting three countries in Africa: Zambia, Zimbabwe and Botswana. The agency we used was “go2africa”, one of Africa’s leading safari destination companies. Our travel arrangements were extremely complex, involving multiple countries, hotels, plus internal flights between six different safari camps using scheduled plus non-scheduled private airlines where we were the only passengers. Our entire vacation was booked electronically, and all services were personally handled by “go2africa” employees. Nothing was subcontracted as is the case with Kimkim. Similar to our Scandinavian trip, this also was an unescorted private tour. I think Kimkim could learn a lot from them.

Sincerely,

Jim Brown and Abby Everson

Activity Reviews

Stockholm Archipelago Tour with Guide

Stockholm

The scenery was gorgeous. I was under the impression that lunch was included when we booked this tour. Other passengers had lunch. We didn't. Big disappointment! I thought we paid for lunch.

Quality of Experience

Transport

We booked this because it was a luncheon cruise. Somehow Kimkim dropped the ball regarding this. That's a problem when you have someone other than a travel planner book your itinerary.

Walking Tour Stockholm

Stockholm

Our tour guide was not very knowledgeable regarding the sites we visited.

Quality of Experience

Provide headsets to all participants

Welcome to Visby

Visby

Excellent transfer. Our driver was a retired Olympic athlete.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Day Tour of Gotland

Visby

Ronny Larsson was our guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Walking Tour of Visby

Visby

Ronny Larsson was one of the best guides we have ever had.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Past & Present City Walk

Bergen

Excellent tour guide but too many people were booked on the tour. Future tours should be limited to 15 passengers, maximum. As a tour guide we had in Amsterdam once said, "any tour over 15 people is not a tour; it's a parade. Headsets should also be provided, so you can enjoy the experience without being immediately next to the guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The tour guides knowledge, what I could hear of it.

Fjærlandsfjord Cruise & Bøyabreen Glacier Visit

Balestrand

This was an excellent tour but should be expanded to a full-day program. We didn't have enough time to thoroughly explore the Glacier Museum and also see the film.

Quality of Experience

You don't get to see a glacier in most parts of the world. However, you need a full day to really make this tour worthwhile.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Our guide was more of an escort than a knowledgeable guide.

Transport

The boat to the glacier could have more amenities.

Grand Tour and Fjord Cruise

Oslo

Our tour guide was excellent. We especially enjoyed our stops at both the Fram museum as well as the Norsk Folk Museum. However, the downside was traveling on a bus with a large group of cruise passengers having so many people on the bus, not only slowed things down, it made it impossible to hear the tour guide where we did stop unless we stood right next to her which was not always possible. Vigeland Park is a perfect example. Our guide had lots of interesting information to convey, but because of the size of the group, most of the time we couldn't hear her. Knowing our interests, Kimkim should have recommended we take a private tour instead of booking us on a bus tour where the majority of passengers were part of a cruise shore excursion. We also lost half an hour picking up passengers at the port of Oslo. The fjord cruise portion of the tour was a complete waste of time. A recorded explanation of all the sites we passed was not what we expected. This was a big disappointment compared to the Archipelago Cruise we took in Stockholm.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Knowledgeable and interesting guide. With a group this large, headsets should have been provided.

Transport

Get rid of the cruise passengers. Charge more and use a small van. Delete the fjord cruise and spend more time at the Folk Museum as well as the Fram museum.

Essential Oslo Walking Tour

Oslo

Ana Maria, our so-called private tour guide which we never requested was the most unknowledgeable guide I have ever experienced. (see my general write up for more detailed information.

Quality of Experience

Our Walking Tour Guide was a complete waste of time.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Ana Maria, our guide, added absolutely nothing to our experience in Oslo.

Our initial KimKim contact, Kadri, was extremely knowledgeable and amazingly responsive to our general Scandinavia trip interests. With just a bit of feedback, Kadri quickly proposed our ideal trip at a fair price.

Our KimKim itinerary, easily accessible online, was comprehensive - photos, descriptions, pre-booked tickets and reference numbers. A true one-stop shop. We were extremely pleased to encounter no disconnects as we dealt with multiple trains, ferries, and hotels while on our trip.

KimKim offers ongoing support during trips. We encountered one unexpected issue (a potential industrial action in Finland disrupting air travel) that appeared to require us force us to change our itinerary. Our only small complaint with KimKim is that they were not particularly was proactive by text or WhatsApp in sharing details on how they were handling this issue over the course of a few days. However, they were extremely responsive and courteous when contacted by phone - they knew instantly who we were and why we were calling.

Hopefully KimKim can improve in this one area of written in-trip communications. Otherwise, they are a dream to work with. We definitely plan to use KimKim on our next trip.

Hotel Review

Kviknes Hotel

Balestrand

Gorgeous hotel with breathtaking views. Fully lives up to its reputation.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Visit Löyly Sauna

Helsinki

Authentic sauna experience. Highly recommended.

Great planning and preparation by Shona. We did hit a snag, but kimkim jumped on it and resolved. I highly recommend using them over others. The trip cost was a fraction of what others charge after getting proposals from several others for same activities.

Hotel Reviews

Candeo Hotels Osaka Shinsaibashi

Osaka

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

The breakfast offered was awful compared to other hotels on our trip

Hotel Vischio Kyoto by GRANVIA

Kyoto

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Mitsui Garden Hotel Ginza gochome

Tokyo

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Kyoto Historical Highlights Bike Tour with UNESCO Zen Temples

Kyoto

Great Guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Learn the Secrets Behind Sushi in a Cooking Class

Osaka

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Ramen Cooking Class Experience

Kyoto

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Tokyo: Sumo Show Experience with Chicken Hot Pot and a Photo

Tokyo

Quality of Experience

Ho Pot was not good.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Kyoto Night Foodie Tour

Kyoto

Food was awful! I cant believe I paid for a tour that involved food and it was awful in Japan. Only place we ate that was bad during 11 days.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had an amazing afdventure in the beautiful country of Morocco! Our personal car guide was so kind and made us feel so very welcome! Tarik was always looking out for our best interest! We visted many amzing places, but the family enjoyed the Sahara Desert part of the trip the most. Riding the camels and taking in the beautiful views across the sand dunes will always be a memory we hold dear. The trip was a great adventure and Tarik helped to make sure all went well!

Hotel Reviews

Barceló Casablanca

Casablanca

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Le Medina Essaouira Thalassa Sea & Spa MGallery

Essaouira

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Riad Ksar Ighnda

Ait Benhaddou

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sahara Sky Luxury Camp

Merzouga

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Dar Rihana Dades

Douar Aït Ouffi

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Palais Sebban

Marrakech

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Quick Tour of Casablanca with your Driver-Guide: The Economic Heart of Morocco

Morocco

Essaouira to Casablanca via Eljadida & Safi Coastal Route

Morocco

Guided Tour of Essaouira

Essaouira

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transfer from Merzouga to Aït Benhaddou via Draa Valley

Morocco

Sand-Boarding in Erg Chebbi

Merzouga

Morocco Last Nomads Experience: Tea, Tales & Desert Adventures

Merzouga

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Transfer from Dades to Merzouga via Todra Gorges & Erfoud

Morocco

Transfer from Marrakech to Boumalne Dades: Through Atlas Mountains, Aït Benhaddou & Rose Valley

Morocco

Half-Day Guided Tour of Marrakech

Marrakesh

Sunrise hot air balloon ride in Marrakech

Marrakesh

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Marrakech Evening Food Tour: A Feast for All the Senses

Marrakesh

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Every part of the trip was great. All the tour guides were wonderful. No stress on finding driver , l love the trip

I booked the trip to the Antigua region at sort of the last minute, but once again Kimkim and Alex at Oldtown Outfitters came through brilliantly. Alex arranged an amazing short trip that packed in an astonishing variety of wonderful experiences in a short period of time, including a visit to Lake Atitlan, the Mayan ruins at Iximche, a cooking class, a visit to a coffee coop, and a walking tour of Antigua. Throughout the planning process, he was really responsive to my questions, and flexible in arranging the trip. The airport transfers were seamless, and the hotels were excellent. Nery, my guide, was so knowledgeable, professional and nice, and overall, I just strongly recommend both visiting Antigua and working with Alex!

Our trip was generally flawless, and full of fun surprises and adventures. We particularly loved the accommodations (w/fantastic views and close or accessible to hiking trails). The boutique hotels all had fantastic locations, either in historic centers which made it easy to access cultural/historic sites & great restaurants, and/or with phenomenal views of our surroundings (particulary in Pyha, Levi and Kispiljarvi). Our connections vis a vis the drivers were always on time (or early!), and very friendly/warm and willing to share tips, experiences and recommendations for what to do, where to go/what to see and where to eat. We loved the kayaking and mountain biking! Our "private" guide hikes were terrific, as the guides adjusted to our quick pace, and were both fun and information..loved the forest picnics w/the guides, as well as foraging for wild berries and mushrooms.

Hotel Reviews

Home Hotel Jugend

Helsinki

Home Hotel Jugend in Helsinki was our least favorite accommodation, mainly due to the small room size. However, we were pleasantly surprised by the complimentary dinner and the gym facility. The staff was lovely, which made the stay enjoyable despite the room size.

Cahkal Hotel

Kilpisjärvi

The newly opened resort in Kilpisjärvi was amazing. The place was spectacular, and we enjoyed our stay very much.

Kurula's Resort

Pyhätunturi

This hotel was possibly our biggest surprise, as we had an entire "condiminimum" size room (and the entire resort) to ourselves. The room overlooked the beautiful lake and was equipped with a full kitchen, living area and sauna. The staff were amazing (even though we were the only ones there) and could not do enough for us! The views from our bedroom/unit were spectacular, and the resort was an easy walk to some gorgeous hiking.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

we were the only ones at the hotel, yet they could not do enough for us, as if we were queens and kings! Their attention to detail was flawless.

Cleanliness & Comfort

THis is more of a winter resort, so it's very quiet in the summer, but super clean and comfortable..everything you need to prepare meals in your unit, and very new!

Activity Reviews

Wilderness Day

Helsinki

Best part of this hike was the berry picking and the picnic at the lake. The pace (given group dynamics) was slower and shorter than we would have preferred given the distance we traveled from Helsinki to the hike location. The guide however was FANTASTIC and did a great job despite the slowness of some of the hikers....we enjoyed her immensely, and the company of the other hikers. Just a little too short and slow for our liking.

Quality of Experience

Food

Loved our guides recipe for salmon soup that we enjoyed during our lake picnic.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Fantastic guide!!! (she was also our driver).

Transport

Private Day Trip to Lahemaa National Park

Lithuania

Loved the bog walk and the trip to the fishing village, but likely would have passed on some of the other stops (e.g. botanical gardens).

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Gauja National Park's Hike

Cēsis

we had a fantastic guide who kept us on our toes with a wonderfully fast paced hike. We enjoyed a picnic aside the river, and then hiked a route on our own back to meet her at the car (alongside the river). Enjoyed seeing caves and a few small waterfalls, and despite a little light rain in the beginning of the day, the sun came out and the hikes were stunningly beautiful.

Old Võromaa Smoke Sauna Ritual

Lithuania

Very interesting...a once in a lifetime experience, and WONDERFUL on the skin. Etta was informative and gentle with our inexperience in Sauna's. We had a lovely time.