Kimkim Trip Reviews for Ecuador

4.9
Based on 263 ratings
Read 263 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip to Ecuador on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

The Galapagos Island Vacation
Ecuador | Dec 24 - Dec 29, 2022

Vidya
Vidya M.
Maplewood, NJ | Reviewed on Jan 10, 2023
The booking experience was very seamless and all details has been thought about and planned. Lucia was very responsive and quickly answered our questions. On San Cristobal island our guide was knowledgeable but lacked some patience and often did not respond to our request positively. The hotel Pimampiro was a wonderful place and the hosts very extremely helpful and cordial. They were very accommodative and helped us with small requests and pointed us to information when we needed it .... Read more

The booking experience was very seamless and all details has been thought about and planned. Lucia was very responsive and quickly answered our questions.

On San Cristobal island our guide was knowledgeable but lacked some patience and often did not respond to our request positively. The hotel Pimampiro was a wonderful place and the hosts very extremely helpful and cordial. They were very accommodative and helped us with small requests and pointed us to information when we needed it . Snorkeling experience at Kicker rock was good and boat and the crew were knowledgeable and helpful

The public ferry we took from San Cristobal to Santa Cruz was not the best experience as the boat broke down a few times and it was crowded

Taxi services we used and the restaurants and stores were very good and people were friend and helpful in San Cristobal

The hotel Villa Laguna was good only thing to note is there were no elevators and our room was on the first floor which was ok with us . Hotel was clean and helpful staff. Breakfast was good

Our trip coordinator was good and helpful. The guide and the boat crew who accomplished on our snorkeling to Pinzon island and La Fe were very friendly, knowledgeable , attentive and accommodative . The food was prepared on board and excellent

Our guide and driver to the highlands and beaches were very good

Our only suggestion would be to ensure that The Darwin Research Center is included as part of the itinerary. At least for the 1.5 hours guided tour at the center is worth the visit

Our driver Abdur at Guayaquil airport picked us up and dropped us off at the hotel on the day of arrival and took us back to the airport next day for our flight to the Galapagos. He is very i helpful to navigate the complicated check in process for our flight to the Galapagos.

We definitely recommend using Lucia to book your Galapagos vacation

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Guayaquil, Puerto Santa Ana
Guayaquil
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Pimampiro
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Villa Laguna
Puerto Ayora

No Elevators and we were ok but May be an issue with senior Patrons

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
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
Ecuador

The views were fantastic

Quality of Experience
Food
Food at Rositas was good
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide was knowledgeable but we felt he could have been nor accommodating and interactive . He was as knowledgeable
Transport
We took local taxis everywhere. The guide came with us
Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure
Kicker Rock: A Snorkeling Adventure
Isla San Cristóbal
Quality of Experience
Food
Food on the boat was ok. I had asked for vegetarian food but there was not much option
Guides, Drivers and Staff
L
Cerro Mesa Reserve - Garrapatero Beach
Cerro Mesa Reserve - Garrapatero Beach
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver didn’t know much about the place or didn’t know English
Transport
Discover Pinzon Island & La Fé
Discover Pinzon Island & La Fé
Puerto Ayora

We had a very nice snorkeling experience . Clear water and lot of marine life

Quality of Experience
Food
Amazing food. Cooked on board and very fresh
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Guide and boat staff were fantastic . They gave us a very nice snorkeling experience
Transport
Exploring The Charles Darwin Research Station (Self Guided)
Exploring The Charles Darwin Research Station (Self Guided)
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Journey to the Santa Cruz Highlands: Witnessing Giant Tortoises in Their Natural Habitat
Journey to the Santa Cruz Highlands: Witnessing Giant Tortoises in Their Natural Habitat
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Lucia Cazar
Lucia
Lucia Cazar
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Jan 19, 2023

Hola Vidya,
It was my pleasure to help you with this amazing trip!
I am really happy everything went as planned :)
Thank you very much for all the details you are giving us this is very helpful so we can keep improving our service!
I will be looking forward to help you plan any other trip you might want to South America!!

Best Regards from the Middle of the World,
Lucia.

Great times in Ecuador!
Ecuador | Dec 31 - Jan 8, 2023

Jessica
Jessica G.
South Salt Lake, UT | Reviewed on Jan 09, 2023
We had a wonderful experience in Ecuador with Kimkim. Our guide Sebastian was simply wonderful: warm, helpful, and knowledgable. Our driver, Guillermo was excellent and very sweet. Lucia helped us plan a wonderful a trip. We will definitely use them again! Read more

We had a wonderful experience in Ecuador with Kimkim. Our guide Sebastian was simply wonderful: warm, helpful, and knowledgable. Our driver, Guillermo was excellent and very sweet. Lucia helped us plan a wonderful a trip. We will definitely use them again!

Hotel Review
Termas de Papallacta
Papallacta

This hotel was like an oasis. It felt like a special escape in the tops of the mountains!

Authenticity & Character
Charming casitas with fireplaces surrounding hot springs
Location
It's at 11,000 feet in the Andes!
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Lucia Cazar
Lucia
Lucia Cazar
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Jan 16, 2023

Hola Jessica!
It was amazing to have you and your family with us in Ecuador!
Sebastian told me he had so much fun with you guys, thank you for that!
I am really happy everything went as expected and of course, we will be happy to have you with us again! South America is huge I hope you can visit Peru, Chile, and Argentina which are the countries we can help you with!
Warm Regards to all the Guynn Family!!
See you soon,
Lucia.

This company is the real deal. I was skeptic...
Ecuador | Dec 16 - Dec 30, 2022

Lisa
Lisa T.
Burleson, TX | Reviewed on Jan 04, 2023
This company is the real deal. I was skeptical to use a travel agent to book a trip but I am so glad I did. I found Kim Kim on a Facebook page and decided to give them a try. Matthias communicated with me in a timely fashion and listened to what I wanted and made it happen. We were greeted as we walked out of the airport and from there everything was very close to perfect. We had great hotels; great excursions; great tour guides and food. We felt safe every where we went and could not... Read more

This company is the real deal. I was skeptical to use a travel agent to book a trip but I am so glad I did. I found Kim Kim on a Facebook page and decided to give them a try. Matthias communicated with me in a timely fashion and listened to what I wanted and made it happen. We were greeted as we walked out of the airport and from there everything was very close to perfect. We had great hotels; great excursions; great tour guides and food. We felt safe every where we went and could not have asked for a better service.
From Quito to Galapagos to Banos and finally Archidona, it was a Fantastic Vacation! Thank you so much.

10 out of 10, would highly recommend

Hotel Reviews
Kuyana Amazon Lodge
Archidona

The most beautiful hotel I have ever stayed! Amazing It’s kinda scary to get to but so worth the drive.

Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The food and staff were amazing. Gorgeous place
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Great location, friendly staff and clean rooms

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Casa Alquimia
Quito

Very quaint Was not expecting it to be warm but we got a fan and that was cured.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Holiday Inn Quito Airport, an IHG Hotel
Tababela

Nice Hotel Close to the airport Provides a shuttle

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Cooking Class
Cooking Class
Quito

My son and I did this and loved it. I came home and tried to recreate the potato soup. It turned out famously.

Quality of Experience
Learning new fruits and recipes
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Josue and Alex
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Transfer to Quito Airport, Arrival to Galapagos & Highlands of Santa Cruz
Ecuador

I love turtles and tortoise so this was a real treat.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Middle of the World
Middle of the World
Ecuador

I really enjoyed this visit to both equator destinations.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Ecuador

Great snorkeling on Bartolome! Penguins, sea lions, shark, octopus, sting Ray. The boat was great, the staff was amazing, Highly recommend!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Scuba Diving - Day Trip from Santa Cruz
Scuba Diving - Day Trip from Santa Cruz
Ecuador

The dive company is fantastic. I felt safe and would absolutely recommend them and dice with them again. The only reason it was rated as a 4 is because the water was super cold and visibility was not great. My son really enjoyed the dive on the second day. Schools of sharks and rays.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Canyoning in Baños
Canyoning in Baños
Baños

Fun excursion. You do have to hike out but it’s moderate. Great time

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Explore the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, Transfer to Archidona
Explore the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, Transfer to Archidona
Ecuador

This waterfall is beautiful! Danny was our guide in Banos and he was fantastic. He took such great care of us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rafting Río Jatunyacu
Rafting Río Jatunyacu
Ecuador

Super fun excursion!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Exploring El Gran Cañon & natural caves
Exploring El Gran Cañon & natural caves
Ecuador

I am out of shape but I still really enjoyed this hike and the waterfall. We did get tired and skipped the cave portion so I can’t comment on them. I would recommend this canyon hike and swim in the pool under the waterfall. Shawn was out guide at the hotel and on this excursion. He was awesome

Quality of Experience
You need to be somewhat in shape to hike this
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jan 15, 2023

Lisa,

thank you for this wonderful review, I'm very happy to hear that you and Tyler had an unforgettable trip to Ecuador & Galapagos and that your decision to use a travel agent was the right one.

It's also nice to hear that your stay in the rainforest area was an outstanding experience for you; the lodge has sent me some photos of your time there which I would like to share with you through the chat!

Always safe travels,
Mathias

From Guayaquil to Galapagos - History and Wonder at every site
Ecuador | Dec 25 - Dec 31, 2022

Michelle
Michelle L.
Houston, TX | Reviewed on Jan 01, 2023
Our Guayaquil guide, Corina and our driver, were amazing in their historical knowledge of the city and country, flexibility in the moment based on our interests, and steadfast in ensuring our safety. We had an amazing time looking at all of the effigies across the city in preparation for Ano Viejo. Our walk up the 444 steps to Diego Noboa y Arteta was finished w a lovely and delicious lunch. The rest of the week in the Galapagos was equally fun and interesting. Viviana, our guide, met us in... Read more

Our Guayaquil guide, Corina and our driver, were amazing in their historical knowledge of the city and country, flexibility in the moment based on our interests, and steadfast in ensuring our safety. We had an amazing time looking at all of the effigies across the city in preparation for Ano Viejo. Our walk up the 444 steps to Diego Noboa y Arteta was finished w a lovely and delicious lunch. The rest of the week in the Galapagos was equally fun and interesting. Viviana, our guide, met us in Balstra and escorted us to Santa Cruze, all the while explaining the history of the islands, the economy, the differences between the mainland and islands, and of course introduced us to many amazing animals and sites from land iguanas to gigantic tortoises in their natural habitat. Seeing the evolution of various tortoises who come from other islands where they have different vegetation was spectacular. Thank you to the whole team for a truly eye-opening trip!!!!

Hotel Reviews
Oro Verde Guayaquil
Guayaquil

This is a lovely, modern, clean hotel with all of the amenities, including almond milk for those dairy-free concerned. There are different restaurants and a cafe to choose from. We actually switched hotels to stay here because it was so nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
In the heart of Guayaquil
Staff
All went above and beyond to welcome us
Cleanliness & Comfort
Exe Galería Man-Ging
Guayaquil

Very basic, but clean if you need somewhere to stay and you arrive late at night and don’t want to pay for amenities that you won’t use. The artwork in the halls is a bit overwhelming though and it’s a bit dark.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sir Francis Drake
Puerto Ayora

This was an unfortunate experience. The hotel appeared dirty and not well maintained so as soon as we checked in, we asked our guides to transfer us somewhere else.

Cleanliness & Comfort
Gran Hostal Tintorera
Puerto Villamil

This was a clean and family friendly hotel, but very basic. Appears to cater to the Ecuadorian mainland guests because nobody spoke English. But it was absolutely clean! And they were friendly so if you are ok w bare bones, it is just fine and very authentic.

Authenticity & Character
Breakfast was cooked and served right in front of you on the outdoor stove.
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Guayaquil City Tour - Free afternoon
Guayaquil City Tour - Free afternoon
Guayaquil

The tour of the effigies was amazing. Corina’s knowledge about the history of the city and country and the economics of both, was really helpful. We loved the whole tour!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island:  Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Welcome to Santa Cruz Island: Highlands & Charles Darwin Research Station
Puerto Ayora

Viviana was amazing! The tortoises, the Charles Darwin center, it all was terrific.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wildlife Tour on Isabela Island
Wildlife Tour on Isabela Island
Ecuador

The speedboat was fine though it would have been a little nicer on a larger boat where we could have walked around or had lunch. The guide and tour of Las Tintoreras was fine though I think it would have been better as a private tour instead of a large group. Also, the guide was very nice but didn’t appear to understand English very well as she couldn’t answer questions as much as tell us information.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Excursion to Los Túneles
Excursion to Los Túneles
Ecuador

This might have been better if we had not been snorkeling the day before and it wasn’t the 7th boat ride we had taken.

Quality of Experience
Food
They made me a GF lunch which was amazing!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Puerto Ayora Departure Transfer: Farewell to the Galapagos
Puerto Ayora Departure Transfer: Farewell to the Galapagos
Puerto Ayora

Our guide Julio was terrific!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jan 07, 2023

Hello Michelle!

Thank you so much for your kind review, I am so happy that you loved the Galapagos Islands. and I truly appreciate the feedback, since it is the perfect chance to tweak and better the services that local providers offer for all of our travelers!

I wish you all the best!
Warm hugs from your local friend,
Alvaro

Ecuador 😊
Ecuador | Dec 19 - Dec 28, 2022

J
Jamie M.
Winter Park, FL | Reviewed on Dec 29, 2022
Where to start and what to say is not easy because words can’t necessarily do justice to how amazing of a trip was planned for us and the excellent treatment we received from both our trip planner Linda and our stellar tour guide Milton!
From the very start what made KimKim standout was how effective and efficient Linda was in communicating back and forth to understand what Stephanie and I were looking for in an experience. Linda surpassed all our expectations with the itinerary and the...
Read more

Where to start and what to say is not easy because words can’t necessarily do justice to how amazing of a trip was planned for us and the excellent treatment we received from both our trip planner Linda and our stellar tour guide Milton!
From the very start what made KimKim standout was how effective and efficient Linda was in communicating back and forth to understand what Stephanie and I were looking for in an experience. Linda surpassed all our expectations with the itinerary and the details that went into each day to make sure we got to enjoy a range of activities. Linda constantly checked on with us during the trip too in order to make sure everything was beyond satisfactory showing an awareness to go above and beyond…even with a surprise visit in person to give it the personal touch!!
For anyone that gets lucky enough to book a trip through Linda you will feel privileged!!
Milton as a tour guide only elevated our trip from there and his personality, photography skills, knowledge of the respective areas we visited, enthusiasm and ability to understand speaking English made it a SUPERB holiday!!! There’s sincerely not enough positive we can share about Milton in a review!!!
Two things comes to mind for anyone taking time to read this…one is Ecuador is incredible and is the most diverse and characteristic country this well travelled couple has been to and secondly you WILL want to ONLY book through Linda with KimKim. No matter if the investment is higher than other operators…the decision will be the best decision you could make for yourself!!!!

Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Dec 29, 2022

Jamie, thank you so much for your fabulous review! It was a pleasure to help you build your itinerary that led you through the Andes and the Amazon foothills. I am happy to hear that you've enjoyed the diversity and beauty of Ecuador, and that you were happy with Milton as your guide! I will forward your kind words and excellent review to him :)
Hopefully you can come back to Ecuador one day - maybe to visit the Galapagos Islands?
We will welcome you here with open arms!
All the best for you and Stephanie,
Linda

We had such a great experience with KimKim!
Ecuador | Jun 17 - Jun 30, 2022

Kelly
Kelly B.
San Diego, CA | Reviewed on Dec 20, 2022

We had such a great experience with KimKim! The local guide and driver they connected us with were amazing. We felt like family at the end of the trip! In the time leading up to the trip, I worked closely with Tatiana to get our itInerary perfect and she was very receptive to listening to what we wanted to do and making all of the changes. We had to leave Ecuador unexpectedly due to political unrest and our amazing guide and driver got us out safely and we were so grateful to have them!

Local specialist: Tatiana Mejia

Ecuador is an incredible country and I feel s...
Ecuador | Nov 30 - Dec 6, 2022

Maria
Maria Y.
East Tremont, NY | Reviewed on Dec 17, 2022
Ecuador is an incredible country and I feel so lucky to have visited !! Everything was so wonderfully organized and Alvaro’s dedicated planning made the trip so enjoyable. Each morning we were picked up and shown another incredible part of the country. Highly recommend working with them. Ecuador is such a richly diverse country I would recommend being clear what kind of activities you enjoy (hiking vs relaxation vs cultural activities) etc so the guides may specifically tailor your experience... Read more

Ecuador is an incredible country and I feel so lucky to have visited !! Everything was so wonderfully organized and Alvaro’s dedicated planning made the trip so enjoyable. Each morning we were picked up and shown another incredible part of the country. Highly recommend working with them. Ecuador is such a richly diverse country I would recommend being clear what kind of activities you enjoy (hiking vs relaxation vs cultural activities) etc so the guides may specifically tailor your experience to your interests.

Hotel Reviews
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito
Sisakuna Lodge
Mindo
Location
Cuello de Luna Mountain Lodge
El Chasqui - Pastocalle

Charming, clean, and cozy place to stay !! Highly recommend !!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Termas de Papallacta
Papallacta
Activity Reviews
Hotsprings in Termas de Papallacta
Hotsprings in Termas de Papallacta
Ecuador
Colonial Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) Monument
Colonial Quito City Tour & Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World) Monument
Quito
Cloudforest of Mindo & Return to Quito
Cloudforest of Mindo & Return to Quito
Mindo
Otavalo Market - Cooking Class - Quito
Otavalo Market - Cooking Class - Quito
Ecuador
Horseback Riding in Cotopaxi National Park
Horseback Riding in Cotopaxi National Park
Cotopaxi
Quilotoa Lagoon - Papallacta
Quilotoa Lagoon - Papallacta
Ecuador
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 19, 2022

Hello Maria!

Thank you so much for such a beautiful review. You were able to enjoy so many places in the Ecuadorian Andes.

I will be looking forward to having you again in heart of the world: Ecuador

Warm hugs,
Alvaro

Our trip to Ecuador for our honey moon was in...
Ecuador | Nov 25 - Dec 8, 2022

K
Kayla H.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2022
Our trip to Ecuador for our honey moon was incredible. We were incredibly impressed with every detail from the transport, the food, the scenery and our guides. The overall experience was just one we will never forget. Upon landing in Quito we were greeted by our amazing tour guide Pablo who spent the next 6 days giving us basically our own private tour across the mainland of Ecuador and the amazing Amazon rainforest. He was so knowledgeable and accommodating and we learned so much!! We... Read more

Our trip to Ecuador for our honey moon was incredible. We were incredibly impressed with every detail from the transport, the food, the scenery and our guides. The overall experience was just one we will never forget. Upon landing in Quito we were greeted by our amazing tour guide Pablo who spent the next 6 days giving us basically our own private tour across the mainland of Ecuador and the amazing Amazon rainforest. He was so knowledgeable and accommodating and we learned so much!!

We went to Galápagos Islands for the end of our trip and again we were taken back by our experience. We absolutely loved our time here. Our lovely tour guide Ricardo greeted us in the Baltra airport and guided us to the beautiful island of Santa Cruz and from there we spent a couple days touring that island and then taking a boat to islabella island for a few days.

Our experience in Ecuador will be a trip that will be hard to top, and we truly think it should be on top of everyone’s bucket list!!!

We can’t thank Kim Kim travel enough for everything and being so accommodating (i failed to previously mention that our flight got cancelled and we almost missed a full day but Juan reorganized everything and we were able to still hit every activity on our itinerary).

Hotel Reviews
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Sangay
Baños de Agua Santa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to downtown and close walking distance, right across from a waterfall and hot springs
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Juan Orozco
Juan
Juan Orozco
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Dec 16, 2022

Dear Kayla,

Thank you very much for taking the time to share such an incredible comment with us, we are really glad that you and Stephen enjoyed your trip to the fullest. We wait for you in a next opportunity here in Ecuador. A big hug from sunny Quito.

Juan :)

Well-planned trip with knowledgeable and fun guide
Ecuador | May 10 - May 23, 2022

R
Rebecca K.
Philadelphia, PA | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2022
Everything about this trip was wonderful! Mathias helped us plan the agenda to suit our needs and was very responsive to all of our questions. Sebastian was a knowledgeable and fun guide who introduced us to his country. Every day was full of fun and interesting activities catered to us. They even helped us plan two different tracks of activities in a day - some for those of us who preferred a more active day and others for those of us who didn't. Highly recommend! Read more

Everything about this trip was wonderful! Mathias helped us plan the agenda to suit our needs and was very responsive to all of our questions. Sebastian was a knowledgeable and fun guide who introduced us to his country. Every day was full of fun and interesting activities catered to us. They even helped us plan two different tracks of activities in a day - some for those of us who preferred a more active day and others for those of us who didn't. Highly recommend!

Activity Review
Cooking Class
Cooking Class
Quito

A fun cooking class that met our dietary needs and gave us some fun ideas for things to cook at home!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jan 06, 2023

Hi Rebecca,

thanks for your nice feedback on your tour across Ecuador with us! I'm glad that you and your fiancee were able to join your parents on this trip, and that we could make this a memorable trip for all of you, with activities adapted to everyone's taste.

See you soon in Ecuador for exploring the many other unique places this country has in store!

All the best,
Mathias & the Authentic Ecuador team

Amazing Cuyabeno experience!
Ecuador | Nov 28 - Dec 1, 2022

Joey
Joey D.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Dec 13, 2022
What a team!
I first had multiple conversations with Daniel, and then Alvaro and Daniela came on board to help me!
I made their life pretty hard with my many changes of plans, but they kept their professionalism with me and continued helping me till the last minute.
Everything was super nicely organized, they chose the best lodge for me in Cuyabeno and had it all planned out from start to finish!
I would recommend Kimkim to everyone who comes to Ecuador and will definitely talk about my...
Read more

What a team!
I first had multiple conversations with Daniel, and then Alvaro and Daniela came on board to help me!
I made their life pretty hard with my many changes of plans, but they kept their professionalism with me and continued helping me till the last minute.
Everything was super nicely organized, they chose the best lodge for me in Cuyabeno and had it all planned out from start to finish!
I would recommend Kimkim to everyone who comes to Ecuador and will definitely talk about my experience for many years to come, hoping to renew the experience soon!!
Warm warm thank you for Daniela who has done amazing job with me. Up to coming on Sunday to the office to take care of my luggage ❤️❤️❤️

Hotel Review
Nicky Amazon Lodge
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve

Best guides. Best food I’ve had in all Ecuador! I even asked the Chef Fredi to make a book! I’d buy it in a heartbeat! Best shower I’ve had comparing to other hostels in Quito! You’d think hot water or water pressure would be an issue, oh no! It was perfect!! Activities are amazing, vibe is awesome, people are friends for life now! I can’t believe this place exist!

Authenticity & Character
The non modern word touch, you feel the experience
Location
Everything!!!!
Staff
Carlos, Fredi, Rom and Evi!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
It’s clean! Thanks to Carlos!
Activity Reviews
Welcome to the Jungle! Entering Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Welcome to the Jungle! Entering Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Indigenous Community, Laguna Grande, & Igapó
Indigenous Community, Laguna Grande, & Igapó
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Adventure in the Amazon
Adventure in the Amazon
Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 13, 2022

Hola Joey!

It was so much fun to work together on creating the perfect journey to Cuyabeno Wildlife Reserve. Everyone on my team is so happy that you enjoyed your time and left Ecuador with everlasting memories.

Warm hugs!
Alvaro

Ecuador and the galapagos islands
Ecuador | Nov 25 - Dec 8, 2022

S
Stephen W.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 12, 2022
Our trip to ecuador and the galapagos islands was incredible. Our planner Juan allowed customization of the trip to be easy and well communicate. Our flight to ecuador got canceled and rescheduled for the next day, after contacting Juan about this he ensured me that the driver will be there at the new time and our first day activities would be rescheduled throughout or 14 day trip so we wouldn't miss anything 👌 Highly recommend kimkim, was our first time and we will be using them again... Read more

Our trip to ecuador and the galapagos islands was incredible. Our planner Juan allowed customization of the trip to be easy and well communicate.

Our flight to ecuador got canceled and rescheduled for the next day, after contacting Juan about this he ensured me that the driver will be there at the new time and our first day activities would be rescheduled throughout or 14 day trip so we wouldn't miss anything 👌

Highly recommend kimkim, was our first time and we will be using them again in the new year ! All activities and meals were excellent. Our tour guide Pablo in ecuador and Ricardo in galapagos were amazing and very knowledgeable. Five stars !

Ecuador and galapagos as a trip was truly unbelieve such a diverse vacation, seen and experienced alot !
Thanks again kimkim

Hotel Reviews
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Sangay
Baños de Agua Santa
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Galapagos
Puerto Ayora
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Yacuma First Day
Yacuma First Day
Tena
Quality of Experience
R
Food
Learned and seen so much, enjoyed it all People here are amazing and provide everything you would hope for in the Amazon
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Juan Orozco
Juan
Juan Orozco
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Dec 13, 2022

Dear Stephen,

Thank you very much for your great comment, it was really a pleasure to help you, and I am very happy that you enjoyed our beautiful country. We are waiting for you in a next opportunity, enjoy your day very much.

A big hug from UIO!!

Linda is the best!!
Ecuador | Nov 25 - Dec 9, 2022

D
Debby D.
Canada | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2022
Linda did an amazing job of planning our trip to Ecuador and the Galapagus Islands.
We had 10 days in Ecuador and everything was perfectly coordinated. Pickup, drop offs, detail of the tours and admissions were all taken care of and detailed out in our itinerary. We had Christian as a guide and Guillermo as a driver and they were exceptional. Christian was extremely knowledgeable of all aspect of Ecuador and was great at giving us details of how long a drive we would have, where to buy...
Read more

Linda did an amazing job of planning our trip to Ecuador and the Galapagus Islands.
We had 10 days in Ecuador and everything was perfectly coordinated. Pickup, drop offs, detail of the tours and admissions were all taken care of and detailed out in our itinerary. We had Christian as a guide and Guillermo as a driver and they were exceptional. Christian was extremely knowledgeable of all aspect of Ecuador and was great at giving us details of how long a drive we would have, where to buy snacks and punctual for all pickups and drop offs.
When we went to the Galapagos for our last 4 days we did not get the same level of detail that we had come to expect after being with Christian. The Galapagos part was still good but we did have to ask for information and weren't always given enough details. ex. Halfway through a 5 km hike we were told there were no bathroom and the length of the hike. We would still highly recommend Linda and Kim KIm for travel to Ecuador. Linda went above and beyond to adjust our itinerary before we left to be exactly what we wanted. She is exceptionally good at her job! If Linda is available to plan your trip she will do an excellent job for your Ecuador travel.

Hotel Reviews
Posada del Mar
Santa Cruz

Carlos will go out of his way to make sure your stay is perfect. Great little hotel close to everything.

Authenticity & Character
Nice balcony with a sea view
Location
Close to restaurants
Staff
Carlos is exceptional
Cleanliness & Comfort
Luxva Hotel Boutique
Guayaquil

Very secure location in a beautiful ex residential building

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
San Jose de Puembo Quito Airport, an Ascend Hotel Collection
Puembo, Quito

Great location, close to airport for early morning flights!

Authenticity & Character
Location
close to airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Floresta
Baños

Beautiful hotel in the centre of Banos. Close to lots of restaurants with a nice restuarant.

Authenticity & Character
Location
close to lots of restaurants
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cuello de Luna Mountain Lodge
El Chasqui - Pastocalle

Nice enough grounds but the hotel could use a little updating. It seems to be run by the owner and his son. Food was pretty good but with a limited menu.

Authenticity & Character
interesting grounds with lots of animals
Location
far from anything else
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
it seems to be in need of some updating and care
Casa Joaquín
Quito

Excellent hotel with great staff. Fransisco was very helpful and friendly.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Franscisco was exceptional
Cleanliness & Comfort
Indio Inn
Otavalo

Nice enough hotel right on the main street. Rooms were very small with no outside window and faced the centre of the hotel. Food was only available for breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hosteria La Andaluza
Riobamba

Beautiful historical hosteria

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Termas de Papallacta
Papallacta

Amazing hotel with hot springs right on your doorstep.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Visit to another uninhabited island
Visit to another uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

Didn't see anything really different and not a great snorkelling experience. Just snorkelled on the beach and didn't see much.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Guided Hike to Tortuga Bay & Free Afternoon
Guided Hike to Tortuga Bay & Free Afternoon
Galapagos Islands

The actual beach was beautiful but the details of the hike were not provided. We were told halfway through the 5km walk to the beach that there are no bathroom facilities or restaurants or places to stop along the way. It would have been nice to be made aware of this to ensure that we brought sufficient water and snacks for the 4 hour hike. We ended up taking a boat back for additional costs as some of our group could not make the hike back in the heat without food or water.

Quality of Experience
Provide information before the start
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

Great snorkelling. Saw lots of sealife and great guide while snorkelling. Alejandro swam with us and pointed out a lot of fish and other sealife that we may have missed. Food was good and the boat was comfortable.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Chimborazo Volcano & Transfer to Papallacta
Chimborazo Volcano & Transfer to Papallacta
Ecuador

Definitely not for the faint of heart. So glad we actually made it to the second refuge stop. 5000 + meters above sea level with snow on the ground.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, Explore Baños
Visit the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, Explore Baños
Baños

One of the must see sights of Ecuador. Great little hike and amazing views!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Activities in Baños & Transfer to Riobamba
Activities in Baños & Transfer to Riobamba
Ecuador

Interesting drive and the swing was incredible!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito Cooking Class
Quito Cooking Class
Ecuador

Awesome cooking class. Great food and it was a fun thing to do on our first day in Ecuador!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hot Springs of Papallacta
Hot Springs of Papallacta
Ecuador

Perfect end to our day! Great hotel with hotsprings right outside your bedroom door.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Dec 16, 2022
Hi Debby,
thank you so much for your kind and detailed review! I am happy to hear that you have enjoyed your time here in Ecuador - especially on mainland Ecuador with Cristian and Guillermo. I will forward your amazing feedback and your kind words to them!
Thanks as well for sharing more information about the parts of your tour that didn't work out perfectly - this helps us to improve our service even more and to take care of these aspects for future tours and travelers. We will make sure...
Read more

Hi Debby,
thank you so much for your kind and detailed review! I am happy to hear that you have enjoyed your time here in Ecuador - especially on mainland Ecuador with Cristian and Guillermo. I will forward your amazing feedback and your kind words to them!
Thanks as well for sharing more information about the parts of your tour that didn't work out perfectly - this helps us to improve our service even more and to take care of these aspects for future tours and travelers. We will make sure to brief all the guides and to share more detailed information about every part of the activity so that all of our guests are well prepared.
Thanks again for visiting Ecuador and for traveling with us, and I wish you and Lisa safe travels to Argentina (if you go)!
Big hugs for you and the rest of the group,
Linda

My friend and I had the best time in Ecuador ...
Ecuador | Nov 30 - Dec 6, 2022

Shelby
Shelby E.
Denver, CO | Reviewed on Dec 11, 2022
My friend and I had the best time in Ecuador thanks to kimkim! When my friend had to delay her arrival by a day last minute, Alvaro and Daniela helped us change our itinerary the day before we were scheduled to arrive in country after presenting multiple options for us to chose from. Daniela went above and beyond by spending the day with me before my friend arrived late by taking me to Teleferico and a market. Our guide Danny was great and enjoyable to spend the week with. Our favorite parts... Read more

My friend and I had the best time in Ecuador thanks to kimkim! When my friend had to delay her arrival by a day last minute, Alvaro and Daniela helped us change our itinerary the day before we were scheduled to arrive in country after presenting multiple options for us to chose from. Daniela went above and beyond by spending the day with me before my friend arrived late by taking me to Teleferico and a market. Our guide Danny was great and enjoyable to spend the week with. Our favorite parts of the trip were hiking Quilotoa, a cooking class in Otavalo, and the Papallacta hot springs. The trip was seamless and very convenient for us as we both had limited time to spend planning a trip. Kimkim handled everything! Would definitely recommend to friends and family. Can’t wait to book our next adventure with kimkim!

Hotel Reviews
Ikala Quito Hotel
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cuello de Luna Mountain Lodge
El Chasqui - Pastocalle
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Termas de Papallacta
Papallacta
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Dec 11, 2022

Hello Shelby!

So happy to read such a wonderful review and that you were able to explore Ecuador! I will make sure to convey your beautiful words to everyone involved in your journey.

Looking forward to having you back for yet another great adventure in the middle of the world!

Warm hugs,
Alvaro

12 days in Ecuador
Ecuador | Nov 7 - Nov 18, 2022

Vivian
Vivian Z.
Fresh Meadows, NY | Reviewed on Nov 29, 2022
We had an amazing 12 days tour in Ecuador. the beautiful landscapes around the highlands of the Andes, the adventure in Amazon rainforest basin and also the wonderful close look at diverse societies. we stayed 4 days 3 nights in La Selva Lodge, it is a nice place , suitable for most of travelers who are interested in adventure in Yasuni national park. From Quito to Cuenca, we visited some famous Catholic churches and most of the great places like Cotopaxi national park, Quilotoa Lake, the... Read more

We had an amazing 12 days tour in Ecuador. the beautiful landscapes around the highlands of the Andes, the adventure in Amazon rainforest basin and also the wonderful close look at diverse societies. we stayed 4 days 3 nights in La Selva Lodge, it is a nice place , suitable for most of travelers who are interested in adventure in Yasuni national park. From Quito to Cuenca, we visited some famous Catholic churches and most of the great places like Cotopaxi national park, Quilotoa Lake, the ruins of Ingapirca and Cacha, a small town in Chimborazo province. Our guide Danny is very knowledgeable, he introduced everything in detail and explained clearly, it left a strong impression us on us about the lives of the indigenous people. all accommodation we stayed were so fantastic with delicious meals, tasty beverage and nice views. we'd like to say thank you to Mathias, he's so helpful, and help us made this trip unforgettable. we will appreciate KIMKIM to connect travel specialist, local tour guides and independent travelers together, and make travelling around world so easy.

Hotel Reviews
La Casona de La Ronda
Quito

the room is clean, the staff is very friendly, the breakfast and dinner is so delicious.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Selva Eco-Lodge & Retreat
Yasuní National Park
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda La Cienega
Cotopaxi
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
historic hacienda, worth to stay and take around and enjoy the great views
Hacienda Abraspungo
Guano
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
the room is super clean, the staff is very friendly and the meal is delicious.
Hotel Boutique Santa Lucía
Cuenca
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa de las Peñas Siglo XXI
Guayaquil
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Quito City Tour
Quito City Tour
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cooking Class
Cooking Class
Quito
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arrival to Coca, transfer to rainforest lodge, rainforest hike
Arrival to Coca, transfer to rainforest lodge, rainforest hike
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Observation Tower, Garza Cocha Lake & Night Walk
Observation Tower, Garza Cocha Lake & Night Walk
Yasuni National Park
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Parrot Clay Lick, Indigenous Community & Jungle Hike
Parrot Clay Lick, Indigenous Community & Jungle Hike
Yasuni National Park
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Last rainforest activities, Transfer to Coca & Arrival to Quito
Last rainforest activities, Transfer to Coca & Arrival to Quito
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Cotopaxi National Park
Explore Cotopaxi National Park
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visiting Quilotoa Lagoon & Transfer to Riobamba
Visiting Quilotoa Lagoon & Transfer to Riobamba
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Community of Cacha
Community of Cacha
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cacha - Ingapirca - Cuenca
Cacha - Ingapirca - Cuenca
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Cajas National Park, Transfer to Guayaquil
Explore Cajas National Park, Transfer to Guayaquil
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Nov 29, 2022

Dear Vivian,

thanks a lot for your comments, the entire team is happy to hear that you enjoyed this tour across Ecuador that we put together last minute!
And even though you have gotten a good insight into quite a few regions of the country already (Andes, rainforest, coastal lowlands), there is still much left to discover for you on a second trip to Ecuador - first and foremost the Galapagos Islands!

So see you soon in Ecuador,

All the best,
Mathias

15 days exploring Ecuador
Ecuador | Nov 4 - Nov 20, 2022

Autumn
Autumn J.
Grant, MI | Reviewed on Nov 26, 2022
I can’t tell you how perfectly our custom-made Ecuador itinerary turned out! Linda, our travel specialist, was incredible. She not only helped us to plan an itinerary that suited our family perfectly, but she also provided exceptional support while we were on our journey. Our luggage took 8 days to arrive in Quito after we did, and Linda went above and beyond our expectations, communicating with the airport, and ultimately personally shipping our bags from Quito to meet us in Cuenca!... Read more

I can’t tell you how perfectly our custom-made Ecuador itinerary turned out! Linda, our travel specialist, was incredible. She not only helped us to plan an itinerary that suited our family perfectly, but she also provided exceptional support while we were on our journey. Our luggage took 8 days to arrive in Quito after we did, and Linda went above and beyond our expectations, communicating with the airport, and ultimately personally shipping our bags from Quito to meet us in Cuenca! Alejandro, our driver, was also an integral part of the perfection of our vacation. We spent hours and hours in the car with him, but this became one of our favorite parts of the journey as Alejandro spent the time teaching us. During our travel time we learned about Ecuador’s history, culture, diversity of microclimates, and more!

All of the locations we chose to spend a few days at were amazing, but I think we all agree that Mindo was our favorite. In Mindo we were able to both explore a small Ecuadorian town and a myriad of cloud forest experiences.

Thank you Linda and Alejandro! I won’t hesitate to recommend your services ❤️

Hotel Review
Sisakuna Lodge
Mindo

Sisakuna Lodge is beautiful! The grounds are gorgeous and the staff took exceptional care of us. I wouldn’t change a thing.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful gardens, local birds and butterflies abound, staff seemed to really enjoy each other and were super friendly with us as well.
Location
Just on the edge of town. Perfect for exploring the town, but also quite tranquil.
Staff
Friendly, smiling, helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
Super clean and had everything we needed
Activity Reviews
Photo Stop at Cajas National Park
Photo Stop at Cajas National Park
Ecuador

Beautiful!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Exploring El Gran Cañon,  natural caves & chocolate making
Exploring El Gran Cañon, natural caves & chocolate making
Archidona

El Gran Cañón hike was wonderful! It was quite challenging due to the mud and steepness if the environment, but so worth it! The chocolate making was really fun and delicious!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Nov 26, 2022

Hi Autumn,
thank you so much for your kind words and your excellent review! I was really sorry about the hassle with your luggage (and I was more than happy to assist as best as I could during that time), but I can see that nevertheless you were able to enjoy your time here in Ecuador :)
Please send your Dad and brother my best wishes!
Big hugs for the three of you,
Linda

10 days in Mainland Ecuador
Ecuador | Nov 11 - Nov 20, 2022

Minda
Minda H.
Maple Grove, MN | Reviewed on Nov 23, 2022

Lucia put together a trip that hit all the things we wanted to experience. Our guide and driver, Sebastian was terrific. He was a cautious driver and an entertaining, knowledgeable guide. We enjoyed things that weren't on the itinerary, like dropping into his grandfather's bakery for a taste treat. We also enjoyed the interaction with some indigenous communities and checking out local cuisine. Besides being a beautiful country, the people of Ecuador are warm and welcoming.

Local specialist: Lucia Cazar
Lucia
Lucia Cazar
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Nov 23, 2022

Hola Minda, Gary and Nathan!
It is great to read all this :)
I am so glad you had a great time here in Ecuador!
I will share this with Sebastian, I know he will be so happy with this. Thank you so much for trusting us to organize this great adventure. We will be waiting for you to come back, I am sending you a big hug all the way to the US.

Best Regards From the Middle of the World,
Lucia.

Milton was our guide and he was always attent...
Ecuador | Nov 12 - Nov 19, 2022

Andrea
Andrea R.
Baltimore, MD | Reviewed on Nov 20, 2022
Milton was our guide and he was always attentive, informative , and patient. Was an absolute pleasure to be around and always made us feel comfortable i cannot praise this guide enough he really is an amazing human being who is passionate about his work and gives beyond what is expected. We visited quito, quotopaxi and banos. We were a group of three with different tastes but we absolutely loved every place and every single activity. My personal favorite (if i had to choose) was the middle of... Read more

Milton was our guide and he was always attentive, informative , and patient. Was an absolute pleasure to be around and always made us feel comfortable i cannot praise this guide enough he really is an amazing human being who is passionate about his work and gives beyond what is expected. We visited quito, quotopaxi and banos. We were a group of three with different tastes but we absolutely loved every place and every single activity. My personal favorite (if i had to choose) was the middle of the earth( the real one) and the huge swing in banos and the hot springs and pavilion del diablo and the canyoning.

Hotel Reviews
Isla de Baños
Baños
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Breakfast
Vieja Cuba
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Breakfast
Activity Reviews
Quito City Tour
Quito City Tour
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the "Middle of the World"
Visit the "Middle of the World"
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Salsa de aji was the best here
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Canyoning in Baños
Canyoning in Baños
Baños
Quality of Experience
As
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Ride the Cable Car to Pichincha Volcano
Ride the Cable Car to Pichincha Volcano
Quito
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, Explore Baños
Visit the Pailón del Diablo Waterfall, Explore Baños
Baños
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit Quilotoa Crater Lake, Transfer to Baños
Visit Quilotoa Crater Lake, Transfer to Baños
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Explore Cotopaxi National Park
Explore Cotopaxi National Park
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
No
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito Cooking Class
Quito Cooking Class
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Nov 21, 2022

Hi Andrea,

I am very happy to hear that the three of you have enjoyed your time here in Ecuador! I will forward your excellent review to Milton, he will also be very happy to hear that you liked the places you visited and the activities you participated in.
I hope that one day you can come back and discover more regions of Ecuador!

All the best for you, Rozzey, and Katherine,
Linda

This trip was an absolute blast and made so e...
Ecuador | Mar 25 - Apr 1, 2022

Kathleen
Kathleen W.
Smyrna, GA | Reviewed on Nov 19, 2022
This trip was an absolute blast and made so easy to plan with Daniel's help! It was really neat that we got to meet him upon arrival too :). Everything was exactly as advertised and having our own guide/transportation the whole time was a HUGE plus. Our guides were very knowledgeable and awesome as being flexible if we wanted to try something else. We got to do so many awesome things and it was all fairly affordable - great quality all around. We especially liked our hotel in Quito that... Read more

This trip was an absolute blast and made so easy to plan with Daniel's help! It was really neat that we got to meet him upon arrival too :).

Everything was exactly as advertised and having our own guide/transportation the whole time was a HUGE plus. Our guides were very knowledgeable and awesome as being flexible if we wanted to try something else. We got to do so many awesome things and it was all fairly affordable - great quality all around. We especially liked our hotel in Quito that was really like a cute B&B. The breakfast was delicious and the staff was awesome with recommendations.

I would 100% recommend KimKim for travel trips and I'm currently working on planning my next trip with them!

Hotel Reviews
Kitu Hotel
Quito

This was such a neat experience! They had yummy breakfast and it was nice to know that it would all be ready for you. The staff was also incredibly helpful with any questions we had and they provided amazing recommendations.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Isla de Baños
Baños
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cuello de Luna Mountain Lodge
El Chasqui - Pastocalle

This hotel is definitely tucked away - which is normally great and relaxing. We were the only ones staying at the hotel so we had the chance to scare ourselves and each other a little bit :P. The rooms were nice and having the heated blankets was a big plus too! I liked the common area with the sunken in bench seating area. We had a very nice relaxing evening hanging by the fire and just visiting with each other.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Visit Baños & Pailón del Diablo Waterfall
Visit Baños & Pailón del Diablo Waterfall
Baños

I really liked Banos a lot! We got to explore the city one night and had a good time dancing and went to the best hole in the wall restaurant. The waterfall was also VERY impressive

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Expedition to Mindo Cloud Forest
Expedition to Mindo Cloud Forest
Quito

This was so neat with the trolleys going across the rainforrest! it was beautiful and really cool to see the waterfalls and mountains.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cotopaxi National Park - Quilotoa Lagoon - Baños
Cotopaxi National Park - Quilotoa Lagoon - Baños
Ecuador

This spot was an incredible sight! It was definitely a HIKE. Originally we were going to take the burros back up the mountain after hiking down.....mine freaked out and I was thrown off. It didn't seem like the guides had the best handle on the animals. So I ended up hiking back up the mountain...it is STEEP! It's not undoable but it was definitely a trek and you'll need at least 1.5 hrs (and we were really trying to move fast up the hill to meet our friends who's burros didn't freak out). Besides all that drama the Lagoon is extraordinary and the pictures don't do it justice. 1000% recommend seeing it.

Quality of Experience
Food
We didn't really eat food at this location
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Daniel Larrea

Jacky: professional, enthusiastic, engaged, knowledgeable!
Ecuador | Oct 13 - Oct 19, 2022

Renee
Renee E.
Canada | Reviewed on Nov 03, 2022
Jackie was a complete delight to work with. She was knowledgeable, professional, enthusiastic, and totally engaged with us as clients. We had booked a Galapagos cruise directly with a cruise tour operator, pre-Covid, and then worked with Jackie to set up a land portion for us at various haciendas in the highlands. We ran into numerous cancellations with the cruise, including one that happened *while we were in transit* to Ecuador. Although it was not her problem to solve, Jackie took the time... Read more

Jackie was a complete delight to work with. She was knowledgeable, professional, enthusiastic, and totally engaged with us as clients. We had booked a Galapagos cruise directly with a cruise tour operator, pre-Covid, and then worked with Jackie to set up a land portion for us at various haciendas in the highlands. We ran into numerous cancellations with the cruise, including one that happened *while we were in transit* to Ecuador. Although it was not her problem to solve, Jackie took the time to talk with the less-experienced agency now in charge of that, and it was *only* through her intervention and advice that we had a Galápagos experience on par with the one we had originally booked with a now-defunct company. Her initiative to help us with the very stressful cruise situation showed a level of professionalism and client engagement that was truly above and beyond the call of duty. Our driver and guide for the land portion, Dario, was exceptional — his knowledge was simply remarkable. We particularly liked the Hacienda Cienega (truly superb) and Hacienda Pinsaqui. Jackie arranged for a several surprises that were memorable for different reasons, including a visit to an indigenous community and an opportunity for horseback riding at another hacienda. In closing, we came to feel a great sense of trust in Jackie as someone who had both the experience and empathy to make our Ecuador experience quite remarkable. And when arranging things from far away, trust in the person you are working with locally is paramount.

Hotel Reviews
Hacienda La Cienega
Cotopaxi

Hacienda La Cienega is simply a stunning place. Steeped in history. Amazing staff and food. I would recommend staying more than a single night (we didn’t wish to leave!) and using it as a base to explore the area.

Authenticity & Character
Words cannot describe how utterly stunning it is.
Location
Convenient for day trips out, with a driver.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
San Jose de Puembo Quito Airport, an Ascend Hotel Collection
Puembo, Quito

We stayed here for two nights to recover from a vert long trip down, and because we we’re starting a tour of the highlands (so it didn’t make sense to stay in Quito at that time). Recommended by Jackie, our Kimkim agent. We felt delighted in the Ecuadorian feel of the common areas, rooms, and grounds. Its atmosphere belies the notion that it is an “airport hotel” — it was originally something else and its property includes adjacent farms land., which guests can walk through. The immediate property had stunning gardens, complete with a few wandering llamas on the grounds. I it was a magical place to experience upon arriving. If your immediate plans are to explore regions outside of Quito, we *highly* recommend staying here.

Authenticity & Character
The Ecuadorian feel of the common areas and rooms, gardens and the paths for guest through the adjacent farm and pasture lands. A fantastic place to land upon arrival in Ecuador.
Location
Outside of the city and therefore convenient for immediate arrival in Ecuador, especially if arriving late and/or taking off for explorations outside of Quito.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda Pinsaqui
Otavalo

This is a lovely hacienda with exceptionally lovely gardens, and a walking path through them and property at large. The common areas were especially nice. Although we were there just as a couple, we were invited to attend welcoming receptions for larger groups (10 or so) that were also staying there. The reception included music from a local Ecuadorian group, Ecuadorian drinks and snacks, and a bit of history about the place. Recommend getting the largest rooms or suites available.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Useful for excursions planned by our kimkim agent.
Staff
Management was very engaged and approachable.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hacienda El Porvenir
Machachi

My husband liked it well enough, but I didn’t. The road to get there is horrible and long—-the end result was simply not worth it. The food was not that good and yet more expensive than more upscale haciendas. ; extra charge for eggs with breakfast. I unwisely ordered a salad — forgetting that any greens wouldn’t necessarily be washed with purified water and I guess they weren’t. I got quite ill for days afterwards. The rooms are rustic at best. Granted, it’s a farm kind of hacienda. But it’s a very arduous and uncomfortable drive for a not very remarkable experience. I saw some nose-to-tail horse riding in the cold mist going on. It was clouded in, so any advertised amazing views of Cotapaxi weren’t going to happen. Cotapaxi views are more easily had anywhere else. So even without the getting-sick experience, I just would not recommend this place.

Authenticity & Character
It’s character is what it is — a very remote farm.
Location
Such a long and uncomfortable drive to get to. Nothing to be changed about that.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nothing can be changed I think, given the structures they are working with.
Activity Reviews
Limpiopungo & Roses farm
Limpiopungo & Roses farm
Ecuador

The roses farm was jaw dropping. I didn’t expect it to be. I didn’t even have a concept of a ‘rose farm’. This was a real highlight of our entire 2 week stay in Ecuador. The Laguna de limiopunga was also lovely. Allocate enough time there if your schedule (and weather) allows to do more walking around.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide, Dario, seemed to know so much about everything fro. Geology to history to medicinal plants.
Transport
Panoramic visit to Quilotoa Lagoon
Panoramic visit to Quilotoa Lagoon
Ecuador

This is a spectacular crater lagoon and another example of Ecuador’s natural beauty. But as important, the area is home to indigenous people who have adapted to and taken responsibility for this locale. The ability to see Quilotoa Lagoon as an example of this, and the chance to visit an indigenous family in a remote area were both profound and thought provoking experiences.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist:
Jackeline
Jackeline V.
Ecuador | Replied on Nov 05, 2022

Hello, Renee.
Thank you so much for your kind words; they mean a lot to me, and I really appreciate your detailed feedback on your trip to Ecuador.
It was a pleasure to assist you and Francis with everything; you deserve it! I am happy to be a part of your wonderful memories in Ecuador.
Warmest hugs from the middle of the world, hope to see you again!
Jacky!

Thank you Erika Bormeo for setting up our tri...
Ecuador | Oct 9 - Oct 13, 2022

M
Matt S.
Canada | Reviewed on Oct 23, 2022
Thank you Erika Bormeo for setting up our trip through the Andes mountains of Ecuador. What an amazing and special place to have had the privilege to experience! We visited Cuenca, Saraguro, Loja, and Vilcabamba. Each place had its own unique vibe Big cities to small towns. The Ecuadorian Andes were amazing. The boutique hotels in Cuenca and Loja were very nice. Vilcabamba was more our pace. Small, friendly, and just a beautiful town. Erika was always available for questions leading up to... Read more

Thank you Erika Bormeo for setting up our trip through the Andes mountains of Ecuador. What an amazing and special place to have had the privilege to experience! We visited Cuenca, Saraguro, Loja, and Vilcabamba. Each place had its own unique vibe Big cities to small towns. The Ecuadorian Andes were amazing. The boutique hotels in Cuenca and Loja were very nice. Vilcabamba was more our pace. Small, friendly, and just a beautiful town. Erika was always available for questions leading up to and while we were in Ecuador to make sure everything was what we wanted. The tours were great and informative and fun. Very professional! One of the best parts of our entire trip was our guide for 6 days - Genaro Palacios-! He was absolutely phenomenal!! His stories and historical/nature knowledge were exactly what we were looking for. He was our translator too as our Spanish is definitely not where it needed to be. He is very friendly and filled us full of information the entire trip ( exactly what we needed and wanted). He is also a very good driver, which you want driving through the Andes. We can’t say enough great things of our new friend!! So extremely blessed to have been paired up with Genaro as our guide! We came with some challenges as my wife is celiac. And knowing what she could and couldn’t eat in a foreign country and not that versed in the language was a necessity for us. We stayed on our own for a week after a week with Genaro. He made sure before he left us. that we were comfortable at the markets and grocery stores! Our trip was perfect! Absolutely perfect!!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Boutique Carvallo
Cuenca
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Sonesta Hotel Loja
Loja
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Arrival to Cuenca - City Tour
Arrival to Cuenca - City Tour
Cuenca
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cajas National Park
Cajas National Park
Cuenca
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Cuenca - Loja - City Tour
Cuenca - Loja - City Tour
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Podocarpus National Park - Vilcabamba
Podocarpus National Park - Vilcabamba
Ecuador
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Erika Bermeo
Erika
Erika Bermeo
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Oct 27, 2022

Hi Matt!
Thank you so much for your remarks! I am really, really happy that everything was incredible for you and Rebecca. Also, I am really glad about all the mentions of Ecuador. I appreciate all of your lovely comments. I hope you can come back to Ecuador and visit the north and the Amazon region of the country, and obviously the Enchanted Galapagos Islands. Do not hesitate to contact me by Kimkim. I would be happy to help you again.
I hope to hear from you soon!
Best Regards from the Middle of the World
Erika