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Kimkim Trip Reviews for Galapagos Islands

4.8
Based on 180 ratings
Read 180 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip to Galapagos Islands on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

Beyond expectations
Galapagos Islands | May 26 - Jun 4, 2023

M
mindy n.
Somerset, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 05, 2023
Beyond expectations. Kim kim continues to impress with services, professionalism, and utilizing great tour partners. Whether car sevice, private city tours or week adventures. Bonita yatcht in galapogos was amazing, led by guide David Read more

Beyond expectations. Kim kim continues to impress with services, professionalism, and utilizing great tour partners. Whether car sevice, private city tours or week adventures. Bonita yatcht in galapogos was amazing, led by guide David

Activity Reviews
Exploring the Enchanting "Calle de las 7 Cruces" on a Morning City Tour
Exploring the Enchanting "Calle de las 7 Cruces" on a Morning City Tour
Quito

Guide daniel was very knowledgeable and friendly

Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Visit to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)
Afternoon Visit to Mitad del Mundo (Middle of the World)
Quito

So interesting, worth the stop

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arrival Baltra Airport - Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) (M/C Millennium)
Arrival Baltra Airport - Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) (M/C Millennium)
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Transport
Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas (Santiago Island)
Espumilla Beach, Buccaneer Cove - Puerto Egas (Santiago Island)
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island) - Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island)
Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island) - Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island)
Galapagos Islands
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon Adventure to Teleferico Cablecar
Afternoon Adventure to Teleferico Cablecar
Quito
Urbina Bay - Tagus Cove (Isabela Island)
Urbina Bay - Tagus Cove (Isabela Island)
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Always eye on safety
Transport
Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay - Moreno Point
Isabela Island: Elizabeth Bay - Moreno Point
Cruise Ship
Charles Darwin Station - Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)
Charles Darwin Station - Highlands (Santa Cruz Island)
Cruise Ship
Twin Craters (Santa Cruz Island) - Transfer Out to Baltra Airport
Twin Craters (Santa Cruz Island) - Transfer Out to Baltra Airport
Cruise Ship
Local specialist: Lucia Cazar
Lucia
Lucia Cazar
Local specialist in Ecuador | Replied on Jun 05, 2023

Hello Mindy,
I hope you are doing great!
Thank you so much for trusting us, we are always happy to receive this kind of review, also we try to improve our services day by day, to make our passengers happy.

Best regards,
Lucía

Read all Galapagos Islands reviews

Trip to Equador and Galapagos May-June 2023
Galapagos Islands | May 23 - Jun 2, 2023

S
Samyadev D.
Dumont, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 05, 2023
My wife Mala and I had a great trip to Equador and Galapagos. Many thanks to Mathias and his entire team.
Mathias made all the arrangements and even though we had to make multiple changes, it was never a problem.
We had to change dates of travel, no problems
We had to change our cruise ship, no problems
We wanted to do full day birding, no problems
He suggested that we stay at Tombopaxi, in Cotopaxi National park. No problems
Danny Arias was our guide for most of the days. He was very... Read more

My wife Mala and I had a great trip to Equador and Galapagos. Many thanks to Mathias and his entire team.
Mathias made all the arrangements and even though we had to make multiple changes, it was never a problem.
We had to change dates of travel, no problems
We had to change our cruise ship, no problems
We wanted to do full day birding, no problems
He suggested that we stay at Tombopaxi, in Cotopaxi National park. No problems
Danny Arias was our guide for most of the days. He was very patient and knowledgeable
Neiser Arias was bird watchinf guide. He was very patient, knowledgeable and knew his birds really well. If we do a dedicated bird watchng tour, we will surely use him again
I wish we had a few more days to enjoy more of Equador
Highly recommend Mathias and his entire team for all matters Equador

Hotel Reviews
M/C Treasure
San José de Conocoto Quito

We spend 5 days and 4 nights on board. Thanks to the crew we had a most wonderful time. We had great weather and so that added to the enjoyment. The crew was fantastic. Naturalist and guide Victor Hugo was very knowledgeble and patient. During the snorkleing, he was so vigilant to ensure that every one was safe. During our hikes, he was able to answer all the questions and expose us to so much. He was never rushed, but was always on time Karen, the cruise director, ran the ship with military prcesion, but she and her crew worked very hard to make it easy for the passengers. She tried very hard to accomadate the various dietary needs. Also the entire crew were always will to help with a smile. Highy recommended. Keep up the good job

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cruising in Galapagos
Staff
Smiling, cheerful, helpful, clockwork precision
Cleanliness & Comfort
They cleaned the bathroom, made the beds everyday. The ship was always spotless and they made sure that our beach shoes were always washed before we came on board
Tambopaxi Cotopaxi Lodge
Parque Nacional Cotopaxi

Wonderful location of a hotel. Very rustic. I wish we could spend more time there. I need to learn more Spanish. the generator goes of about 11pm. I suggest that maybe along the paths, they can have a few solar lamps.

Authenticity & Character
Very rustic and quaint rooms.
Location
Right at the base of Cotopaxi. Cannot be better
Staff
Nice and friendly. I speak very little spanish and so became a little difficult
Cleanliness & Comfort
Great place.
Casa Divina Eco Lodge
Mindo

We spend 3 days and 2 nights here. It is totally in the cloud forests. Wonderful location. Camile checked us in and was very helpful. The staff were all all very helpful. Great place to start bird watching and you will see a few birds and the property/

Authenticity & Character
the whole place is a log cabin with modern amenities.The dining room tables are solid wood and weigh a ton.
Location
What a great place to have an ecolodge
Staff
Every on was extremly helpful. After the first day, we did indicate that we eat very little, so they gave us smaller portions and then did not need to waste food.Simple and tasty meals
Cleanliness & Comfort
Keeping dirty shoes out of the resturant and rooms makes keeping the place clean so musch easier
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Jun 05, 2023

Samyadev,

Thank you so much for your evaluation of your trip and your kind words. It was a pleasure planning this trip with you, and I was happy to see that we made the right decisions and made your trip the best possible within the little time you had available!
Of course, our team and I would be glad to welcome you and Mala again on your next trip to Ecuador, to see more of the country's beauty, including its incredible avifauna!

All the best,
Mathias

Most Amazing Travel Consultant Ever
Galapagos Islands | May 4 - May 21, 2023

Patte
Patte B.
Lansdale, PA | Reviewed on May 24, 2023
Tamer is the most amazing travel consultant I have ever worked with for a trip - I've been to over 60 countries and I have to say, hands down, Tamer ensured ever aspect of the trip was covered. He asked questions before we had an opportunity to think about the topic. Thank you so much for making our retirement trip a dream come true! Read more

Tamer is the most amazing travel consultant I have ever worked with for a trip - I've been to over 60 countries and I have to say, hands down, Tamer ensured ever aspect of the trip was covered. He asked questions before we had an opportunity to think about the topic. Thank you so much for making our retirement trip a dream come true!

Hotel Reviews
JW Marriott Hotel Quito
Quito

The staff at the JW made our experience even more memorable - thanks to Giss and everyone!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa
San Miguel de los Bancos

thank you to both Jose's and the staff for making our stay a memorable experience!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Wish there were larger beds, the double for a large man doesn't work especially when the reservation states Queen!
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

Great location, great food, great buffet and great spirits= thank you!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on May 24, 2023

My dear Patte :)
I can't be thankful enough! Your kind words and testimony mean the world to us here in Kimkim and to me personally. I can't wait to be part of your future trip. Having the honor of meeting you, John, and the group, in person was the highlight for me. So happy you enjoyed your special retirement trip :)
Yours,
Tamer

Tamer did an excellent job planning and arran...
Galapagos Islands | May 4 - May 21, 2023

Laura
Laura T.
Redmond, OR | Reviewed on May 22, 2023
Tamer did an excellent job planning and arranging our trip. Our guide, Pablo was knowledgeable and personable. The crew onboard our boat were hardworking and attentive. We enjoyed all of the activities provided and we were amazed at all the wildlife we got to see.
However. If you have a chance to read our comment card that we left on our boat, you will see that we were very dissatisfied and disappointed with our boat because of all the roaches and the sewer smell in our cabin. Read more

Tamer did an excellent job planning and arranging our trip. Our guide, Pablo was knowledgeable and personable. The crew onboard our boat were hardworking and attentive. We enjoyed all of the activities provided and we were amazed at all the wildlife we got to see.
However. If you have a chance to read our comment card that we left on our boat, you will see that we were very dissatisfied and disappointed with our boat because of all the roaches and the sewer smell in our cabin.

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
M/Y Monserrat
Quito

Roach infested and smells of sewage

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Roaches and sewer smell.
JW Marriott Hotel Quito
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa
San Miguel de los Bancos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Arrival to Baltra Airport - Transfer to Cruise Ship & Santa Cruz Highlands (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Arrival to Baltra Airport - Transfer to Cruise Ship & Santa Cruz Highlands (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Galapagos Islands
Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) - Chinese Hat (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Dragon Hill (Santa Cruz Island) - Chinese Hat (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
El Barranco - Darwin Bay ( Genovesa Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
El Barranco - Darwin Bay ( Genovesa Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
Black Turtle Cove - Flamingos and Relax in Bachas Beach (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Black Turtle Cove - Flamingos and Relax in Bachas Beach (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
Tagus Cove - Urbina Bay (Isabela Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Tagus Cove - Urbina Bay (Isabela Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island) - Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Espinoza Point (Fernandina Island) - Vicente Roca Point (Isabela Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Galapagos Islands
Puerto Egas - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove (Santiago Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Puerto Egas - Espumilla Beach - Buccaneer Cove (Santiago Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
North Seymour Island - Highlands (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
North Seymour Island - Highlands (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
Rabida Island - Bartolomé Island (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Rabida Island - Bartolomé Island (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
South Plazas Island - Santa Fe Island (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
South Plazas Island - Santa Fe Island (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
Punta Pitt - Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Punta Pitt - Cerro Brujo (San Cristobal Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Galapagos Islands
Lobos Island - Tijeretas Hill & Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Lobos Island - Tijeretas Hill & Interpretation Center (San Cristobal Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Galapagos Islands
Gardner Bay - Suarez Point (Española Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D )
Gardner Bay - Suarez Point (Española Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D )
Cruise Ship
Cormorant Point - Post Office Bay (Floreana Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cormorant Point - Post Office Bay (Floreana Island) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Galapagos Islands
Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Charles Darwin Research Station (Santa Cruz) (M/Y Monserrat 15D)
Cruise Ship
Explore Mindo Cloud Forest at Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa
Explore Mindo Cloud Forest at Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa
Galapagos Islands
Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa Experience
Kapari Natural Lodge & Spa Experience
Mindo
Another day at Kapari Lodge & Return to Quito
Another day at Kapari Lodge & Return to Quito
Mindo
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on May 22, 2023
Laura & Rob,
Thank you so much for your valuable feedback! I am so glad to know you have enjoyed the magical nature of the Galapagos Islands and that you appreciate the guide and the staff onboard the yacht. I am also happy to know you enjoyed the Cloud Forest charm and Kapari Lodge :) On the other hand, and as I clarified during our last meeting in JW Marriott, we are working with this yacht operator on them taking all the corrective measures to prevent the mentioned unpleasant experiences... Read more

Laura & Rob,
Thank you so much for your valuable feedback! I am so glad to know you have enjoyed the magical nature of the Galapagos Islands and that you appreciate the guide and the staff onboard the yacht. I am also happy to know you enjoyed the Cloud Forest charm and Kapari Lodge :) On the other hand, and as I clarified during our last meeting in JW Marriott, we are working with this yacht operator on them taking all the corrective measures to prevent the mentioned unpleasant experiences from occurring again; the humidity of the ocean and the tropical environment can be overcome when applying the right procedures and I promise you we will make sure that happens :)
Thank you again,
Tamer

We had an absolutely amazing time in Quito, M...
Galapagos Islands | Apr 12 - Apr 21, 2023

Will
Will P.
Hickory, NC | Reviewed on Apr 26, 2023
We had an absolutely amazing time in Quito, Mindo, and the Galapagos! I was trying to create the best 30th birthday trip to my adventurous, nature-loving fiance and this trip truly delivered. I only wish we both had more time off from work to explore more of the Galapagos Islands. Our local specialist, Linda, was amazing to work with and very responsive to our questions. She even added the nice personal touch of meeting us in Quito. We got to meet so many interesting people on our trip as... Read more

We had an absolutely amazing time in Quito, Mindo, and the Galapagos!

I was trying to create the best 30th birthday trip to my adventurous, nature-loving fiance and this trip truly delivered. I only wish we both had more time off from work to explore more of the Galapagos Islands. Our local specialist, Linda, was amazing to work with and very responsive to our questions. She even added the nice personal touch of meeting us in Quito. We got to meet so many interesting people on our trip as well, including backpackers/travelers and locals. Our state appointed tour guides in the Galapagos (including Astrid and Nathalie) were all very knowledgeable: you could literally ask them anything!

Highlights of our trip include:
1. Walking tour around Quito
2. The cloud forest in Mindo which included Zipling, hummingbird preserve (so, so many beautiful species), a chocolate making tour, and early morning bird watching (we got to see 4/5 types of toucans and feed hummingbirds from our hands!)
3. Standing along the ECUATOR!!!
4. Swimming/snorkeling with 20+ hammer head sharks and green sea turtles at kicker rock (near San Cristobal)
5. Exploring the giant tortoise reserve on Santa Cruz. (Did you know that because of the introduction of guava to the islands these gentle giants are developing diabetes? It seems these beautiful creatures have a real sweet tooth and that we sadly have caused!)
6. Spying on nesting Blue-Footed Boopies and frigate birds, looking for marine and land iguanas, and watching sea lions surf on north Seymore island.
7. Swimming with fur seals, sea lions, and other marine animals and fish off north Seymore island
8. Exploring a coffee and chocolate farm on Santa Cruz, as well as learning how they produce a local favor adult beverage.
9. Watching penguins swim and albatross sore, as well as learning about the volcanic creation of the islands at San Bartolome island.

As a former backpacker our accommodations were absolutely fantastic and luxurious. The food was also wonder and a key part of the experiences as well.

Verdict: We will definitely be using Kim Kim again and we will be back to the Galapagos!

Hotel Reviews
La Casona de La Ronda
Quito

Beautiful, centrally located hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Terrabambú Lodge
Mindo

We absolutely loved this treehouse type of hotel with an amazing view. The only thing we had a problem with a large spider (it is the rainforest). The outdoor jacuzzi was a nice touch!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Galapagos Sunset
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

We loved this centrally located, luxurious hotel where we could hear the sealions. Breakfast on the roof with an amazing view was delightful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

We had a blast at this luxurious hotel, which had amazing breakfast and restaurant for dinner.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Excursion to an uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

We loved seeing all the wildlife at North Seymor. So many amazing species to see. Our guide, Nathalie, was amazing.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Quito City Tour
Quito City Tour
Ecuador

Danny was an amazing tour guide who showed us so much of his city. We highly recommend him

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Highlands of Santa Cruz Island
Galapagos Islands

Astrid was an amazing tour guide! She was so knowledgeable. We really enjoyed the highlands, tortoise reserve, adn laval tunnels despite the extensive downpours

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Snorkel at Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)
Snorkel at Kicker Rock (Leon Dormido)
Galapagos Islands

This was an amazing experience to snorkel with hammerhead sharks and sea turtles. This is also a great place to scuba if you are certified.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Visit to another uninhabited island
Visit to another uninhabited island
Galapagos Islands

This was an amazing excursion where we learned a lot about the topography and origin of the islands. The sea-life was also amazing.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The crew of the Nautilus were fantastic
Transport
Transfer to Mindo & Activities in the cloud forest
Transfer to Mindo & Activities in the cloud forest
Ecuador

We enjoyed Zipling, birdwatching and feeding hummingbirds, and enjoying the chocolate making tour

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mindo & Return to Quito
Mindo & Return to Quito
Ecuador

We really enjoyed the Equator excursion!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Linda Schulz
Linda
Linda Schulz
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Apr 27, 2023

Will, it was such a pleasure to help you plan this birthday trip for your fiance! I am very happy for you that you were able to see that much amazing wildlife, especially so many toucans and hammerhead sharks, and that you've enjoyed every single hotel throughout your trip.
Even if you didn't have more days off work this time, I really hope that you can return one day to explore other parts of Ecuador such as the rainforest or the Andes - I am sure that both of you would enjoy it!
I hope to see you again one day, and in the meantime: safe travels!
Linda

Stressful and disappointing - stranded without guides
Galapagos Islands | Apr 16 - Apr 20, 2023

Lindsey
Lindsey E.
Boydton, VA | Reviewed on Apr 24, 2023
I had a really great experience planning and booking this trip for my family. Alvaro was great - very patient, accommodating, and willing to revise the trip a number of times based on our requirements. However, our experience on the trip was not great. According to our trip plan, a guide was supposed to meet us at the Baltra airport in the Galapagos and help us navigate from the airport, onto a bus, onto a ferry to Santa Cruz island, take us to our hotel and help us get to our afternoon... Read more

I had a really great experience planning and booking this trip for my family. Alvaro was great - very patient, accommodating, and willing to revise the trip a number of times based on our requirements. However, our experience on the trip was not great. According to our trip plan, a guide was supposed to meet us at the Baltra airport in the Galapagos and help us navigate from the airport, onto a bus, onto a ferry to Santa Cruz island, take us to our hotel and help us get to our afternoon activity. The guide did not meet us. Cell coverage in the Galapagos is very poor, so we were basically stranded trying to figure this all out on our own. When we finally connected with Alvaro, he told me that he did not know why the guide didn't meet us and that "this never happens." Not particularly helpful. The woman who finally met us at our hotel in Santa Cruz provided no explanation about what had happened and where our guide was. Also, she did not speak any English. That was fine because we speak Spanish, but it would have been a problem if we did not. On the last day of our trip, we were returning to Santa Cruz from Isabela Island and, again, a guide was supposed to meet us on Santa Cruz (which I confirmed several times in advance) and no one met us. Ultimately, the Galapagos-based tour operator refunded us $110 for the missing guides. I do not think that was enough of a refund for the inflated cost of the trip or for our stress and inconvenience. I would not recommend booking with KimKim. There seems to be a major disconnect between KimKim and the Galapagos-based tour operators. We spent a lot of time on our trip dealing with coordination and logistics and stressing out about the next steps in our itinerary. It was disappointing.

Hotel Reviews
Posada del Mar
Santa Cruz

We had a lot of trouble with our tour operator and the hotel owner went above and beyond to try to help us and make our experience better.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Fiesta
Puerto Ayora

This was a great hotel! Good location, awesome pool, very comfortable and nice rooms!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Loja Galapagos
Puerto Villamil

The owners/operators of this hotel were really helpful and kind.

Authenticity & Character
Staff
Activity Reviews
Hola Galapagos! Arrival to Santa Cruz Island
Hola Galapagos! Arrival to Santa Cruz Island
Puerto Ayora

The guide never met us and we were stranded at Baltra airport trying to navigate the bus to the ferry to the hotel all on our own. There is very limited cell reception in the Galapagos and we weren't able to connect with anyone from KimKim to help us out.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
No one met us
Transport
Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island
Afternoon Bay Tour of Santa Cruz Island
Puerto Ayora

The guides were great! We enjoyed this activity.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Experience the Pristine Beauty of Galápagos Islands: Discovering an Uninhabited Island
Puerto Ayora

The guide, captain, boat staff were all excellent! The food was fantastic!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano (AM) & Speedboat to Santa Cruz Island (PM)
Hiking the Sierra Negra Volcano (AM) & Speedboat to Santa Cruz Island (PM)
Galapagos Islands

Rain was in the forecast, but the guide did not offer us the chance to turn around or change our plans. We were absolutely soaked and the clouds obscured any view we would have had. The park rangers were unhelpful and refused to help us call a taxi to come "rescue" us from the volcano.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
The guide was not looking out for our safety or comfort.
Transfer to Airport on Baltra Island - Flight back to Mainland
Transfer to Airport on Baltra Island - Flight back to Mainland
Galapagos Islands

Dario was a great guide. He was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the entire experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity
Discover the Wonders of Tintoreras Islet: A Journey into Breathtaking Biodiversity
Puerto Villamil

Sebastian was a great guide! Very friendly and knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on May 02, 2023
Hello Lindsey!
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback regarding your recent trip to the Galapagos. We are grateful for your commitment to sharing your experience, both positive and negative, and appreciate your time in doing so.
We are pleased to hear that overall you had a fantastic time and received good service during the planning and booking process for your family's trip. However, I am sorry to learn that your experience during the trip did not meet your expectations. We... Read more

Hello Lindsey!
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback regarding your recent trip to the Galapagos. We are grateful for your commitment to sharing your experience, both positive and negative, and appreciate your time in doing so.
We are pleased to hear that overall you had a fantastic time and received good service during the planning and booking process for your family's trip. However, I am sorry to learn that your experience during the trip did not meet your expectations. We understand the importance of clear communication and logistics, especially in a foreign country, and apologize for any frustration this may have caused, especially as we usually do better as you can see in the reviews. That’s why we kindly provided several compensations, from refunds and additional services through our Galapagos-based office, and put our best effort into making sure you still could enjoy a great experience.
I hope that you will consider traveling with us again in the future and give us the opportunity to provide you with an even better, more enjoyable, and hassle-free experience.
Best regards,
Alvaro

Galapagos - Enchanted Islands Done Right!!
Galapagos Islands | Feb 26 - Mar 10, 2023

John
John S.
Morristown, NJ | Reviewed on Apr 22, 2023
We are so happy we used Kim Kim in partnership with Responsible Travel to plan our school’s excursion to Ecuador. It was a pleasure working with Tammer, who oversaw our entire trip and whose attention to detail goes unmatched by any other travel company. He made sure we always had exceptional lodging, punctual private transportation, delicious meals, and the friendliest tour guides to work with our students. By the end of the trip, it was like Tammer was a true part of our Forman... Read more

We are so happy we used Kim Kim in partnership with Responsible Travel to plan our school’s excursion to Ecuador. It was a pleasure working with Tammer, who oversaw our entire trip and whose attention to detail goes unmatched by any other travel company. He made sure we always had exceptional lodging, punctual private transportation, delicious meals, and the friendliest tour guides to work with our students. By the end of the trip, it was like Tammer was a true part of our Forman family!

Our tour guide for the Galapagos Islands, Legendary Wilson, was fantastic and always went above and beyond to ensure we had the best experience while there. He taught us so much about the history of the islands and Charles Darwin, as he led us on snorkeling, hiking, and sightseeing adventures. We saw every form of wildlife we were promised!

Our tour guide in Quito, Sebastian, made Ecuadorian history and culture come alive for us as we explored the city on a walking tour, participated in an authentic cooking class, and visited el Mitad del Mundo. It is sometimes hard to keep high school students engaged, but Sebastian made it look easy with his easy nature and funny stories.

We HIGHLY recommend using Kim Kim & Responsible Travel for your next travel expedition. You will not be disappointed!

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Apr 23, 2023
Thank you so much, John! Your review is priceless and I cannot be grateful enough for the opportunity of working with you and Brooke, and making sure this trip was perfect and left everlasting memories for each one in the group! Such a privilege! Sebastian and Wilson will be extremely happy when I convey to them your valuable feedback, they did a great job indeed. As for me, the honor of having my name printed on the back of the trip T-shirts saying 'It's Tamer Time' meant the world to me... Read more

Thank you so much, John! Your review is priceless and I cannot be grateful enough for the opportunity of working with you and Brooke, and making sure this trip was perfect and left everlasting memories for each one in the group! Such a privilege! Sebastian and Wilson will be extremely happy when I convey to them your valuable feedback, they did a great job indeed. As for me, the honor of having my name printed on the back of the trip T-shirts saying 'It's Tamer Time' meant the world to me :)
It doesn't stop here, I feel as if I'm part of the Forman family, and thus next year's trip will be spectacular in its own characteristics! And I'll see you again :)
Yours,
Tamer

Fantastic Peru
Galapagos Islands | Apr 4 - Apr 16, 2023

A
Abby S.
New Orleans, LA | Reviewed on Apr 20, 2023
Out trip to Peru was fantastic. Mathias was extremely helpful with all aspects of planning. When we were in country we got a respiratory virus and Mathias went out of his way to help us and get us home safely. We did get to enjoy a week of travel in Peru. The country is amazing. Our guide, Aldo Sanchez was marvelous. He was extremely knowledgable about the Incas and all aspects of life in Peru. He took excellent care of us and also was a tremendous support when we became ill. I would %100... Read more

Out trip to Peru was fantastic. Mathias was extremely helpful with all aspects of planning. When we were in country we got a respiratory virus and Mathias went out of his way to help us and get us home safely. We did get to enjoy a week of travel in Peru. The country is amazing. Our guide, Aldo Sanchez was marvelous. He was extremely knowledgable about the Incas and all aspects of life in Peru. He took excellent care of us and also was a tremendous support when we became ill. I would %100 recommend KimKim and Aldo for any adventure in Peru.

Hotel Reviews
Casa República
Barranco, Lima

Excellent service and a wonderful breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Lovely inner courtyard
Location
Beautiful sunset views at the end of the street.
Staff
Wait staff at the restaurant were very accomodating
Cleanliness & Comfort
Andean Wings
Cusco

Lovely old hotel with beautiful courtyard and great bar.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Very close to the historic center of Cusco
Staff
We became ill and they went out of their way to help us.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Nice and clean
Hotel Florencio Casa Hacienda
Pisac

Lovely room. The owner made us a fire in our room in the evening and walked us to dinner. No breakfast in the morning though, since it was a holiday.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful courtyard and authentic furniture
Location
Just off the square
Staff
Very accommodating. We used google translate to communicate.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Las Qolqas EcoResort Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo

Very lovely peaceful setting. The food was great. We had a wonderful welcome drink!!

Authenticity & Character
Eco lodge with luxury
Location
Just outside of town on a river. The sounds soothed us to sleep.
Staff
We met the part owner. He was very interesting and passionate about the hotel.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Taypikala Boutique Machupicchu
Machu Picchu

It was fine for the night before we went to Machu Picchu. Great location, beautiful view.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
El Albergue Ollantaytambo Boutique Hotel
Cusco

Amazing hotel right at the train station. Large bathtub! Good food. Beautiful gardens.

Authenticity & Character
Lots of little special things like fresh flowers in the room
Location
Right at the train station
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
City Tour Lima
City Tour Lima
Lima

Arthuro was excellent. We ate our way through a local market. We learned so much!!!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
City Tour Cusco
City Tour Cusco
Cusco

Aldo was very knowledgable and friendly. We saw so many cool things.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Exploring Pisac
Exploring Pisac
Pisac

Aldo was amazing. He is very knowledgeable, funny and kind. He totally made our trip!!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guinea Pig!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hot springs and biking
Hot springs and biking
Peru

Hot springs were very authentic. Only saw one other group of tourists while we were there. Bring a towel though! The biking was super fun. Downhill almost the whole way. The road was next to a beautiful river with waterfalls. Really got to see the countryside.

Quality of Experience
Food
Great boxed lunch. Something for everyone.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pietra was a fantastic guide.
Transport
Coffee and chocolate in Chichubamba - Train ride to Aguas Calientes
Coffee and chocolate in Chichubamba - Train ride to Aguas Calientes
Peru

We learned all about the process of making chocolate and coffee. It was not at a farm though.

Machu Picchu Excursion: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Excursion: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu
Peru

Aldo was fantastic. Best guide ever. Machu Picchu was out of this world.

Quality of Experience
An amazing place with an amazing guide!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Aldo took us to the museum which most people do not see. It was so interesting!
Transport
Ruins, Weavers & Inca Salt Factory
Ruins, Weavers & Inca Salt Factory
Ollantaytambo

Not to be missed. Who knew that is how salt was made?

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Aldo was wonderful!
Transport
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit

Mathias for Ecuador and Peru was the best!
Galapagos Islands | Apr 4 - Apr 16, 2023

S
Steve S.
Pikesville, MD | Reviewed on Apr 17, 2023
Mathias was a joy to work with. Was flexible and helpful when we needed to make trip adjustments and was always there for us. Tour guides were great along the way. Always on time and knowledge. Made every minute of the trip memorable. Aldo Sanchez was an amazing guide from Cusco, Peru. Stayed with us for four days through the entire Sacred Valley leg of our trip. He made sure we had plenty of activities planned and had clean, safe water and food. Our Mtn Bike tour guide was also great.... Read more

Mathias was a joy to work with. Was flexible and helpful when we needed to make trip adjustments and was always there for us. Tour guides were great along the way. Always on time and knowledge. Made every minute of the trip memorable. Aldo Sanchez was an amazing guide from Cusco, Peru. Stayed with us for four days through the entire Sacred Valley leg of our trip. He made sure we had plenty of activities planned and had clean, safe water and food. Our Mtn Bike tour guide was also great. Knowledgeable and kept us from flying off the Andes on our endless descent down from 14k feet. All in all, they put together an amazing team to make sure every need was met without complaint.

Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit

Amazing family vacation to the Galápagos Islands
Galapagos Islands | Apr 2 - Apr 7, 2023

Leah
Leah T.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Apr 13, 2023
Amazing family vacation to the Galapagos islands. From the moment I contacted KimKim and began conversing with Tammer I felt confident in my decision not to do my own bookings. During our adventure I felt we had a safety net and we’re in good hands. Tammer constantly provided us with accurate and timely details what to expect and when. The itineraries he created for us, was absolutely perfect in every way.
Without hesitation I would use this service again, and know that others would be... Read more

Amazing family vacation to the Galapagos islands. From the moment I contacted KimKim and began conversing with Tammer I felt confident in my decision not to do my own bookings. During our adventure I felt we had a safety net and we’re in good hands. Tammer constantly provided us with accurate and timely details what to expect and when. The itineraries he created for us, was absolutely perfect in every way.
Without hesitation I would use this service again, and know that others would be equally impressed with the excellent service, quality of accommodations, itinerary planning expertise and attention to every detail. Tammer nailed it for me and my family! Bravo and thank you for the wonderful memories which include our interaction along the way with Tammer!

Hotel Reviews
Wyndham Quito Airport
Quito

Perfect stop over, so close to the airport. Beautiful accommodations and food!

Authenticity & Character
Everything in one place
Location
Perfect stay at the airport
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Solymar
Galápagos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
SeaSide Hotel
Galapagos
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Photo taken by Leah T
Photo taken by Leah T
Photo taken by Leah T
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Apr 18, 2023
Hi Leah,
I can't tell enough how happy we are here in KimKim to know you and the family have enjoyed your trip and that everything was to your liking. I knew that this was a special reunion trip for you, and I feel honored to have been part of its planning. It is our main goal, if not the only one, to offer our travelers unique experiences and help create everlasting memories. I thank you for your kind words and testimony, it honestly means a lot to me personally.
I hope to welcome you again... Read more

Hi Leah,
I can't tell enough how happy we are here in KimKim to know you and the family have enjoyed your trip and that everything was to your liking. I knew that this was a special reunion trip for you, and I feel honored to have been part of its planning. It is our main goal, if not the only one, to offer our travelers unique experiences and help create everlasting memories. I thank you for your kind words and testimony, it honestly means a lot to me personally.
I hope to welcome you again here in Ecuador on another occasion when you can explore other charming places this gorgeous country has to offer.
Best,
Tamer

Perfect trip to Galápagos Islands
Galapagos Islands | Apr 2 - Apr 7, 2023

Michael
Michael O.
Lansdale, PA | Reviewed on Apr 09, 2023

Our planner, Tamer, was incredible. He made sure we had everything we needed every single day of our trip. He assembled an amazing itinerary for us in The Galápagos Islands and it was exactly the right length and level for us. When unexpected things came up, Tamer was on top of it right away and helped us get from A to B with no trouble at all. I highly recommend this travel agency, ask for Tamer by name if you're going to Ecuador.

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Apr 10, 2023
Hi Michael! Thanks so much for your review and your kind words :) It fills our hearts here at KimKim with absolute joy to know that you, Leah, and Lina have had a wonderful experience in the enchanted Galapagos islands! Although short, I am so happy we made the most of it and provided you with some charming spots and activities in Santa Cruz and San Cristobal! Even when we had the inconvenience of the speedboat, this was turned into a new 'small jet' experience for Lina hahaha Ecuador has so... Read more

Hi Michael! Thanks so much for your review and your kind words :) It fills our hearts here at KimKim with absolute joy to know that you, Leah, and Lina have had a wonderful experience in the enchanted Galapagos islands! Although short, I am so happy we made the most of it and provided you with some charming spots and activities in Santa Cruz and San Cristobal! Even when we had the inconvenience of the speedboat, this was turned into a new 'small jet' experience for Lina hahaha Ecuador has so much more to offer, and I hope we can welcome you here again in this gorgeous country.
Many thanks again, Michael :)
Yours,
Tamer

Amazing trip without having to think about a thing!
Galapagos Islands | Mar 17 - Mar 27, 2023

Lourdes
Lourdes P.
Flagami, FL | Reviewed on Apr 02, 2023
Now I understand why they say Galapagos is the trip of a lifetime. It would be hard to go there under any circumstances and NOT have an amazing time, but arranging it through KimKim and specifically with our local expert Tamer made it a breeze. Tamer is a great listener and incredibly responsive and caring. He worked with me to ensure this trip for myself, my teenage daughter, and my elderly aunt with some health issues would be incredible for each of us, all the way down to the itinerary... Read more

Now I understand why they say Galapagos is the trip of a lifetime. It would be hard to go there under any circumstances and NOT have an amazing time, but arranging it through KimKim and specifically with our local expert Tamer made it a breeze. Tamer is a great listener and incredibly responsive and caring. He worked with me to ensure this trip for myself, my teenage daughter, and my elderly aunt with some health issues would be incredible for each of us, all the way down to the itinerary that would include seeing specific animals, making sure the ship's crew was aware of my aunt's food allergy, and having wetsuits reserved in case the water temp for snorkeling wasn't comfortable. Here's why I'll happily book through KimKim again in the future: 1. They arrange exactly the trip I want without my having to spend any time researching, 2. I don't have to think about a thing from start to finish, because transfers, accomodations, and tours are all arranged, 3. As a woman traveling with her daughter, I feel safe knowing drivers, guides, etc. are vetted, and 4. I get all that for a few hundred dollars more than if I planned the trip myself. What's not to love?

Hotel Reviews
Patio Andaluz
Quito

Loved staying here. Very charming hotel conveniently located in the colonial heart of the city, and the staff couldn't have been more pleasant and helpful.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable, but there's no elevator, the hotel has multiple floors, and our room had two levels. Not an issue for us, but something to note for anyone with accessibility issues or for whom altitude sickness (Quito is way up there!) could be a problem.
Hotel Solymar
Galápagos

Wonderful view, great location, clean room, friendly staff, very good buffet breakfast.

Authenticity & Character
Simple, authentic, and right next to the water, which was nice, but also in need of updating
Location
Walking distance to Darwin Center, dock, plenty of places to eat, etc.
Staff
Super friendly and helpful but could have been more informed on specifics tourists would need (Darwin center hours, boat schedules, etc.)
Cleanliness & Comfort
Cleanliness was fine. Mattresses are HARD. I like them that way and am not picky, so the fact that I noticed is telling. There was also an issue with the water boiler, and we didn't have hot water for two days. There was no attempt to so much as communicate about the problem (I got the details when I asked the front desk about it), much less compensate us for it, or at the very least apologize.
M/C Millennium
Ecuadors, Galágados, Peru

This was the perfect size boat from which to explore the Galapagos, and the staff was fantastic. Food left a lot to be desired. "Premium" classification I guess is because there is hot water, private bathrooms... ? Not a lot felt premium about it, but that didn't detract from the experience, which the staff made incredible.

Authenticity & Character
The staff provided this
Location
Access to numerous islands, and our entire group was able to disembark from just two dingys
Staff
Helpful, friendly, genuine, entertaining
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Apr 02, 2023
Hi Lourdes,
We can't be grateful enough for your review and kind words, it really helps our future travelers know more about the level of services we offer here at KimKim, and for that, I am very thankful.
It was a great honor being able to meet you and Gaby in person and share a cup of coffee with you- Sebastian says hi by the way :) I am extremely happy that you've enjoyed your trip with us, especially the Galapagos cruise portion which was the highlight of this tour :) I'm sorry though for... Read more

Hi Lourdes,
We can't be grateful enough for your review and kind words, it really helps our future travelers know more about the level of services we offer here at KimKim, and for that, I am very thankful.
It was a great honor being able to meet you and Gaby in person and share a cup of coffee with you- Sebastian says hi by the way :) I am extremely happy that you've enjoyed your trip with us, especially the Galapagos cruise portion which was the highlight of this tour :) I'm sorry though for the inconvenience that occurred at Sol Y Mar regarding the hot water, as I explained, it was a huge and unexpected plumbing problem that they faced during your stay! As for the Millennium, I'm getting to the bottom of what happened with their chef!! I'll make sure to convey your feedback to all hotels and providers, the good ones and the not-so-good ones :)
I honestly hope to see you again here in Ecuador, it still has a lot to offer!
Yours, Tamer

Read all Galapagos Islands reviews

My dream trip to the Galapagos Islands!
Galapagos Islands | Mar 17 - Mar 27, 2023

L
Lili R.
Clovis, CA | Reviewed on Mar 31, 2023
This was my dream trip and it waited too long in my bucket list. I enjoyed Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. The hotel Sol y Mar was lovely; enjoyed visiting Darwin Station and Chato Ranch. The Millenium catamaran was a nice boat to see the islands and the cabin was very comfortable and clean. The crew was friendly and our guide Javier Picaza G. was very knowledgeable. The food was not so good; everything served except the shrimps, was overcooked.Loved the scenery and landscape of all the islands we... Read more

This was my dream trip and it waited too long in my bucket list. I enjoyed Puerto Ayora, Santa Cruz. The hotel Sol y Mar was lovely; enjoyed visiting Darwin Station and Chato Ranch. The Millenium catamaran was a nice boat to see the islands and the cabin was very comfortable and clean. The crew was friendly and our guide Javier Picaza G. was very knowledgeable. The food was not so good; everything served except the shrimps, was overcooked.Loved the scenery and landscape of all the islands we visited:Santa Cruz, Isabela(the biggest), Fernandina and Santiago.My favorite was Punta Espinoza in Fernandina.It was heaven on earth. Truly magnificent.We did wet and dry landings and saw those blue footed boobies, iguanas, turtles, sealions,whales,sharks, pelicans, cormorants, penguins, finches, flamingoes, and amazing volcanoes. If at day time we saw all these plus beautiful sunrises and sunsets, at night time we were able to see the whole Milky Way plus other galaxies;literally you could see stars all the way to the horizon where the sky touches the water.Indeed it was epic and loved the fact that there was no phone connection as it made it a true vacation!

Hotel Reviews
Hotel Solymar
Galápagos

Loved this hotel, the food, the rooms, the location.And the gardens plus amazing views from my balcony.

Authenticity & Character
Location
It was near everything!
Staff
Very friendly
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfy.
M/C Millennium
Ecuadors, Galágados, Peru

The catamaran was very nice and clean; the cabins were comfortable and had a balcony where you could enjoy the sunrises. Wonderful terrace in the top deck and another terrace in middle deck. The crew was friendly and helpful, unfortunately the chef was not the best. The food was overcooked (chicken, beef , pork and fish) making it impossible to enjoy. The shrimp (one time only) was fine though.Had they had a better chef, I would have given this catamaran 5 stars. But food is an important part of any vacation and when in five nights only one meal was good and the rest mediocre, it takes away a lot. Specially because this was a pricey vacation for any pocket.

Authenticity & Character
It was a nice looking catamaran.
Location
I had cabin # 1 with a nice balcony; very comfortable and plenty of room.
Staff
They were friendly and helpful in every way.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Patio Andaluz
Quito

My flight was super delayed so in essence couldn't enjoy as much, but this hotel was lovely and the food was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
It was very colonial looking.
Location
Nice neighborhood.
Staff
Very friendly.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lovely rooms and comfy beds.
Activity Reviews
M/C Millennium (6D): Punta Espinoza (Fernandina) - Tagus Cove (Isabela)
M/C Millennium (6D): Punta Espinoza (Fernandina) - Tagus Cove (Isabela)
Cruise Ship

This was my favorite! Truly loved Punta Espinoza! Divine!

Quality of Experience
Food
Get another chef at the Millenium.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Arrival to Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Station
Arrival to Santa Cruz Island - Charles Darwin Station
Puerto Ayora

It was interesting visiting the Darwin station and strolling along in beautiful Puerto Ayora.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boarding M/C Millennium (6D) - Highlands of Santa Cruz
Boarding M/C Millennium (6D) - Highlands of Santa Cruz
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Need to change chef in the Millenium.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Puerto Villamil : Tintoreras / Wetlands / Breeding Center / Wall of Tears or Sierra Negra
Puerto Villamil : Tintoreras / Wetlands / Breeding Center / Wall of Tears or Sierra Negra
Cruise Ship

This was a long hike, but worth every effort. the views were fabulous and though it was pretty warm, the rain afterwards made things cooler.

Quality of Experience
Food
Sandwich was awful, but we had time to eat in Puerto Villamil and I had an exquisite lobster served with asparagus soup, rice and lentils, patacones , mixed veggies and salad plus a glass of mora juice. All that for $12.00! Amazing!
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
M/C Millennium (6D): Punta Moreno (Isabela) - Punta Mangle (Fernandina)
M/C Millennium (6D): Punta Moreno (Isabela) - Punta Mangle (Fernandina)
Cruise Ship

The bluefooted boobies were everywhere! It was divine!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
M/C Millennium (6D): Puerto Egas (Santiago) - Chinese Hat
M/C Millennium (6D): Puerto Egas (Santiago) - Chinese Hat
Cruise Ship

Incredible landscape. The views were wonderful!

Quality of Experience
Food
Change the chef.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
M/C Millennium (6D): Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) - Baltra Airport
M/C Millennium (6D): Black Turtle Cove (Santa Cruz) - Baltra Airport
Cruise Ship
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Apr 01, 2023
Dear Lili,
Thank you so much for your valuable review, it serves as an excellent insight for our future travelers and we can't be grateful enough.
I am happy to know you enjoyed the majority of your trip/cruise; the wildlife encounter, the catamaran itself, its staff and your cabin, the hotels in Quito and Puerto Ayora before your cruise and your rooms there, and the related services were up to our expectations.
Nevertheless, it is a personal disappointment to me to learn that an important... Read more

Dear Lili,
Thank you so much for your valuable review, it serves as an excellent insight for our future travelers and we can't be grateful enough.
I am happy to know you enjoyed the majority of your trip/cruise; the wildlife encounter, the catamaran itself, its staff and your cabin, the hotels in Quito and Puerto Ayora before your cruise and your rooms there, and the related services were up to our expectations.
Nevertheless, it is a personal disappointment to me to learn that an important part of your 6-Day cruise, which is food on board, wasn't at all to your liking! Especially after all the efforts I made to help you make it on time to the Galapagos after the one-day delay in the AA flight to Quito! I wanted everything to be perfect! I will make sure to convey your feedback literally to the M/C Millennium management, and I will follow up on this personally and let you know of their response.
Again, I am happy you enjoyed your days in the charming Galapagos islands, its fantastic nature always exceeds our wildest imagination :)
Best,
Tamer

THANK YOU!
Galapagos Islands | Feb 26 - Mar 10, 2023

B
Brooke C.
Morristown, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 16, 2023
We cannot thank you enough for the time and effort that you put into making this trip so successful and wonderful! All of our experiences, hotels, excursions and guides were truly exceptional. I loved that we were able to be in communication with one another the entire trip and knowing that we could reach out to you at any time was comforting and so important to us. Tamer's personal connection and attention to detail went beyond our expectations. Our 14 day trip was seamless from the... Read more

We cannot thank you enough for the time and effort that you put into making this trip so successful and wonderful! All of our experiences, hotels, excursions and guides were truly exceptional. I loved that we were able to be in communication with one another the entire trip and knowing that we could reach out to you at any time was comforting and so important to us.

Tamer's personal connection and attention to detail went beyond our expectations. Our 14 day trip was seamless from the beginning of the planning to arriving home. Thank you for everything! We are looking forward to planning another extraordinary experiential trip soon!

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 17, 2023
Dear Brooke :) Since our first interaction and phone call, I felt how privileged I am to be paired with you and John, and to be part of the planning of this special experience for you and the beautiful students of Forman School, our Lions, and Lionesses :) I can't be grateful enough for this great opportunity of meeting you, John, and the kids in person, and for the beautiful gifts that I hold dear :) and for how wonderful you are and were throughout your trip, It fills my heart and those of... Read more

Dear Brooke :)

Since our first interaction and phone call, I felt how privileged I am to be paired with you and John, and to be part of the planning of this special experience for you and the beautiful students of Forman School, our Lions, and Lionesses :) I can't be grateful enough for this great opportunity of meeting you, John, and the kids in person, and for the beautiful gifts that I hold dear :) and for how wonderful you are and were throughout your trip, It fills my heart and those of my colleagues here in KimKim with extreme joy knowing how much you enjoyed your time here in Ecuador and the Galapagos islands, and I, on behalf of our KimKim team, promise you nothing less than perfection for your next year's trip that we already started working on.

Every guide, driver, and those who've been in contact with you here during your trip send you big hugs from Ecuador, and I'll make sure to convey your beautiful feedback to them :)

Until we meet soon :)
Yours,
Tamer

An experience we’ll never forget to the Galapagos!
Galapagos Islands | Feb 9 - Feb 20, 2023

B
Brian G.
Stoneham, MA | Reviewed on Feb 27, 2023

We were completely satisfied with our experience! Alvaro made everything perfect, was always accessible, helped with last minute questions and changes and even set up our last day with a very unique Ecuadorian agave tasting! As the cherry on top, Alvaro wrote us a hand written note, drew us an amazing picture of Galapagos blue footed boobies and gave us a champagne and chocolate strawberry send off completed with rose petals and towel swans on the bed. We couldn’t have asked for more from our birthday and engagement celebration. Thank you kimkim and especially to Alvaro!!

Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Feb 27, 2023

I´m so happy that the experience was great!
Warm hugs from your local friend

Read all Galapagos Islands reviews

Family Trip to the Amazon Basin and Galapagos Islands
Galapagos Islands | Feb 5 - Feb 19, 2023

Keith
Keith F.
West Friendship, MD | Reviewed on Feb 25, 2023
Our family of four went to Ecuador and visited the Amazon basin and the Galapagos Islands from Feb 5-20, 2023. Our local trip specialist was Tamer Obeid. Tamer was there for us the whole time. He was a text away and always responsive if we had a problem or a question. Special thanks to Tamer for providing us with dinner and a cake on my son’s 26th birthday. Tamer is an asset to KimKim, and we greatly appreciate his help and support. In the Amazon basin, we visited the Napo Wildlife Center.... Read more

Our family of four went to Ecuador and visited the Amazon basin and the Galapagos Islands from Feb 5-20, 2023. Our local trip specialist was Tamer Obeid. Tamer was there for us the whole time. He was a text away and always responsive if we had a problem or a question. Special thanks to Tamer for providing us with dinner and a cake on my son’s 26th birthday. Tamer is an asset to KimKim, and we greatly appreciate his help and support.

In the Amazon basin, we visited the Napo Wildlife Center. Our guide was Remy, and he was incredible. He grew up in the local community and was aware of all the animals and made many of their sounds. Perhaps the highlight of our visit was seeing the Giant River Otters up close and spending time with the Kichwa Añangu Community. We also climbed to the treetop canopy, visited the parrot clay licks, hiked trails, and did lots of wildlife watching from the canoe.

In the Galapagos Islands, we stayed on Santa Cruz, Isabela, and San Cristobal and had different guides each day for our excursions. Perhaps our favorites were Joel and Lambo. They went out of their way to help us get good photographs and provided their GoPro photographs from our excursion.

Joel pulled two non-swimmers wearing life preservers while he was leading our group. He would occasionally dive down to take photographs of sharks and rays at Pinzon, our best snorkeling trip. Lambo would also dive deep and show us where an object was, like a seahorse, to photograph. He led us around the Tunnels to see enormous sea turtles.
The best place we stayed in the Galapagos was at the Iguana Crossing Hotel on Isabela. The view from the hotel was gorgeous and the service was excellent.

Note that everything on our trip did not run smoothly. We had some transportation problems, and three of us had stomach issues during our travels that lasted many days. Having said that, it was still the trip of a lifetime and one that we would gladly do again.

Local specialist: Tamer Obeid
Tamer
Tamer Obeid
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Feb 26, 2023
Dear Keith,
There aren't enough words to thank you for your detailed review and your testimony; your feedback about my personal performance, and this of kimkim in general, means the world to us. Our invaluable reward is no doubt knowing that you and the family have enjoyed the overall experience with us.
I apologize again for the transportation problems that we had; I talked and continue to talk with the relevant hotel to guarantee the improvement of their shuttle service. It was also a pity... Read more

Dear Keith,
There aren't enough words to thank you for your detailed review and your testimony; your feedback about my personal performance, and this of kimkim in general, means the world to us. Our invaluable reward is no doubt knowing that you and the family have enjoyed the overall experience with us.
I apologize again for the transportation problems that we had; I talked and continue to talk with the relevant hotel to guarantee the improvement of their shuttle service. It was also a pity that you had those stomach issues, it had cost us skipping the Española's trip in the Galapagos that I really wanted you to enjoy. Nevertheless, Keith, reading your words and knowing how you, Annette, Zach, and Sierra have enjoyed the majority of your trip makes me so happy. I will make sure to convey your positive feedback to the corresponding guides :)
I hope to welcome you again in Ecuador and to continue to be in touch with you and the family.
Best wishes,
Tamer

Read all Galapagos Islands reviews

Great trip: your reps in Guayaquil & San Cris...
Galapagos Islands | Feb 3 - Feb 17, 2023

P
Pat M.
Saratoga, CA | Reviewed on Feb 23, 2023
Great trip: your reps in Guayaquil & San Cristobal were on-time, knowledgeable & flexible, which turned out to be a big plus when our return flights on Cabo Air became a major snafu. Of course the boat was top-notch, and we'd recommend others take the 8-day cruise but not necessarily the 4-day one (100 points vs 75, let's say). All guides were knowledgeable about the history, the science & other facts like populations of both humans & other animal species. Their daily plans worked. One... Read more

Great trip: your reps in Guayaquil & San Cristobal were on-time, knowledgeable & flexible, which turned out to be a big plus when our return flights on Cabo Air became a major snafu. Of course the boat was top-notch, and we'd recommend others take the 8-day cruise but not necessarily the 4-day one (100 points vs 75, let's say). All guides were knowledgeable about the history, the science & other facts like populations of both humans & other animal species. Their daily plans worked.

One suggestion: when booking clients on any boat do warn them to prepare ahead of time for being seasick unless they KNOW FOR SURE they will not suffer from that. On both of our trips we had fellow "sailors" unable to eat, or participate in the things they came to do: out of only 14-16 pax there was always someone out of commission! They had not been warned by anyone it seemed!

The day trip around San Cristobal was excellent to include. The harbor-front hotel there was perfect, although for most 80-yr-olds its not having an elevator would have been a bad surprise; we are, thankfully, not most 80-yr-olds. The Guayaquil hotel was adequate & for $100/night incl breakfast & some drinks a "good buy". We even had dinner there every evening. Overall, in spite of knowing a lot about what makes those islands so special before we arrived, we came home knowing so, so much more

Hotel Reviews
SeaSide Hotel
Galapagos
Grand Hotel Guayaquil, Ascend Hotel Collection
Guayaquil

The Guayaquil hotel was adequate & for $100/night incl breakfast & some drinks a "good buy". We even had dinner there every evening

M/Y Grand Majestic
Galapagos
Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Feb 23, 2023

Hello Pat!

I am so happy to read your review, arranging a one of a kind journey through the Enchanted Galapagos Islands.

Rest assured that your feedback will be conyed to future travelers as well!

All the best!
Alvaro

9 glorious days in the Galapagos
Galapagos Islands | Feb 9 - Feb 20, 2023

Taryn
Taryn C.
Stoneham, MA | Reviewed on Feb 22, 2023
We had such a fantastic trip in the Galapagos (and a few days in Quito too!) planned by Alvaro. Seeing the islands was a life dream for both of us, and we really feel like we got a fully immersed experience. We let Alvaro know a few different things that we knew we wanted to do, and solicited his help and feedback to fill in around those. We went back and forth many times on the itinerary until it felt perfect, and then we were off! There are lots of transfers and moving parts when visiting... Read more

We had such a fantastic trip in the Galapagos (and a few days in Quito too!) planned by Alvaro. Seeing the islands was a life dream for both of us, and we really feel like we got a fully immersed experience. We let Alvaro know a few different things that we knew we wanted to do, and solicited his help and feedback to fill in around those. We went back and forth many times on the itinerary until it felt perfect, and then we were off! There are lots of transfers and moving parts when visiting the islands, and everything was handled seamlessly. Our local guides were fantastic, and the experiences were unparalleled. We saw so much wildlife, got to experience the islands from land and sea, and feel like we left having gotten the absolute most out of our trip. We also really enjoyed the accommodations Alvaro helped us pick.

10/10 we would recommend Alvaro and kimkim when planning a trip to the Galapagos, and we really look forward to working with kimkim again for our next vacation!

Local specialist: Alvaro Pereira
Alvaro
Alvaro Pereira
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Feb 22, 2023

Hello Taryn!
Thank you for such a kind review.

I'm so happy to read that every detail of your trip was great and that you enjoyed Galapagos so much!

Warm hugs from your local friend
Alvaro

Astrid was a terrific local guide and so know...
Galapagos Islands | Jan 24 - Feb 2, 2023

S
Stuart K.
Apopka, FL | Reviewed on Feb 03, 2023
Astrid was a terrific local guide and so knowledgeable.
The various islands were great choices. Read more

Astrid was a terrific local guide and so knowledgeable.
The various islands were great choices.

Hotel Reviews
La Casona de La Ronda
Quito
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Golden Bay Galapagos – Specialty Boutique Hotel
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Holiday Inn Quito Airport, an IHG Hotel
Tababela
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Receptionist was a bit abrupt. Also, we got bumped from the snack room because they had a large party.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 25, 2023

Mary and Stuart,

It was a pleasure planning and organizing your vacation to the Galapagos Islands, so thank you very much for your feedback! I'm glad to hear that you liked the excursions and accommodations we picked together, and of course we'll take your suggestions into account to make future trips even more enjoyable!

I wish you the best and a lot more amazing journeys in the future!

Best wishes
Mathias and the employees of Authentic Ecuador

Fabulous trip and experience in the Galapagos...
Galapagos Islands | Jan 24 - Feb 2, 2023

Mary
Mary K.
Philadelphia, PA | Reviewed on Feb 02, 2023
Fabulous trip and experience in the Galapagos.
mathias planned a great trip and we loved every excursion. Our hotels were really nice, guides knowledgeable, and boats to islands were terrific. Truly a beautiful experience! Read more

Fabulous trip and experience in the Galapagos.
mathias planned a great trip and we loved every excursion. Our hotels were really nice, guides knowledgeable, and boats to islands were terrific. Truly a beautiful experience!

Hotel Reviews
La Casona de La Ronda
Quito

Boutique and great location!

Authenticity & Character
Ccharmibg boutiwue hotel.
Location
Perfect location!
Staff
Warm and welcoming!!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lovely and comfortable!
Golden Bay Galapagos – Specialty Boutique Hotel
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno, San Cristóbal

Amazing and beautiful. Accommodations were terrific. Views were beyond beautiful with seals and sunsets!

Ikala Galapagos Hotel
Puerto Ayora

Nice hotel with large rooms. pool is really pretty and dining room on top level was beautiful!!

Location
view from dinjj in g room.
Cleanliness & Comfort
lsrefr rooms and really comfortable, but no views.
Holiday Inn Quito Airport, an IHG Hotel
Tababela

better than expected! but concierge floor had a dinner for a group, do we did not get to enjoy the concierge space,

Local specialist: Mathias Onisseit
Mathias
Mathias Onisseit
Local specialist in Quito, Ecuador | Replied on Mar 25, 2023

Mary and Stuart,

It was a pleasure planning and organizing your vacation to the Galapagos Islands, so thank you very much for your feedback! I'm glad to hear that you liked the excursions and accommodations we picked together, and of course we'll take your suggestions into account to make future trips even more enjoyable!

I wish you the best and a lot more amazing journeys in the future!

Best wishes
Mathias and the employees of Authentic Ecuador

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