Company Logo for MATER Sustainable Travel
Specialists
Reviews for MATER Sustainable Travel
Traveler Photos

MATER Sustainable Travel

We are a dynamic team of experienced tourism professionals, with local knowledge and a strong focus on sustainability. We integrate, in a harmonious and balanced way, the cultural heritage, the economy and the Argentine and Latin American nature.

In 2013, we created Mater Sustentable, a wholesale travel company, out of a multidisciplinary group of experts’ passion to achieve sustainable tourism visibility, offer genuine travel experiences, support local communities, promote cultural exchange and protect the environment.

MATER Sustainable Travel is part of the following groups: Argentina Travel Agents, Brazil Travel Agents, Chile Travel Agents

Featured trips & expertise

Top itineraries and travel advice

Recent Trip Reviews for MATER Sustainable Travel

Argentina is a great place to visit. Under M...
Argentina | Dec 25 - Jan 8, 2025

D
David H.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Jan 14, 2025

Argentina is a great place to visit. Under Milei, it is on its way to again being rich and a world leader. Buenos Aires has a really cool combination of post-socialist grunge (graffiti, old buildings) and brand new cafes and restaurants. In general, all of our connections were on-time. We generally avoided large buses and groups, which we preferred for our family group of four. Each of our destinations (El Calafate, Bariloche, Iguazu, BA) were world class. We were happy with the Boutique hotels chosen in terms of location and facilities and breakfast.

Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Jan 17, 2025

Hi David!
Como estás?
Thank you so much for taking the time to write your review!
I'm extremely happy you enjoyed Argentina, and all the destinations and experiences!
Thank you again for your trust in Kim Kim and our local agency! It was a true pleasure for me to organize this trip for your family with you!
I wish the best and until next time :)

Wonderful experience in lovely Argentina!
Argentina | Dec 28 - Jan 6, 2025

Christine
Christine J.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 07, 2025
We had an amazing time in Argentina with the itinerary Juan and the team at KimKim planned! This was our first visit to Argentina so it was great to have a local customize our trip. We started in Buenos Aires and was welcomed by our wonderful driver Alberto. Alberto ended up doing all of our airport pick up and drop offs from Buenos Aires which was awesome because he’s great and it was good to have a familiar face with us each time. He also gave us some suggestions on neighborhoods and sights... Read more

We had an amazing time in Argentina with the itinerary Juan and the team at KimKim planned! This was our first visit to Argentina so it was great to have a local customize our trip. We started in Buenos Aires and was welcomed by our wonderful driver Alberto. Alberto ended up doing all of our airport pick up and drop offs from Buenos Aires which was awesome because he’s great and it was good to have a familiar face with us each time. He also gave us some suggestions on neighborhoods and sights to visit during our drive.

Jessica was our first BA local guide and she was wonderful! We went around to different parts of the city and learned a lot about the culture, history and city life in BA. San Telmo was one of our favorite neighborhoods with the food and craft markets. We also saw a Tango show at El Querandi which was intriguing and educational.

Our next stop was Puerto Iguazu where we went to Iguazu Falls on both the Brazil and Argentina side. Both are amazing in different ways and a must see! Our guide on the Brazil was Manuel and our guide on the Argentina side was Ramon. Both were awesome in making sure we navigated the parks and customs flawlessly. Highly suggest the Gran Aventura boat ride on the Argentina side if you don’t have any health restrictions - we’re very glad we decided to add this excursion. The town of Puerto Iguazu was also very cool to experience. On one hand, there’s a touristy downtown with great bars and restaurants (recommend the Argentine Experience food and wine tasting) and on the other, you have Guarani villages that you can visit (highly recommend horseback riding with Beto and Alberto at Cabalgata ecológica del indio solitario).

We also visited Salta and Purmamarca. Salta was a bigger city with bars, restaurants and shops. One day here was enough to walk around, go on the cable car to Cerro de San Bernardo and see the sites. The next day, we were picked up by our guide Federico who was super fun and knowledgeable. He took us to San Antonio de Los Cobres (small mining town) and Salinas Grandes (salt flats). We drove along the scenic route 40 and saw a lot of locals from the mountains and farms. We saw all the Llamas, Vicuñas and Donkeys :)

To our pleasant surprise, Federico was back the next day as our guide! We saw the 7 color mountains and 14 color mountains. Federico shared a lot about the people and culture from the area and it was such a great experience to learn from him.

Our last day back at Buenos Aires was perhaps one of the best. We visited the Boedo neighborhood with Graciela and Pierre, our local guide/dinner host. It was so rewarding to meet them, their sons and their pets! They showed us how to make empanadas and we had a wonderful home cooked meal with them.

As for hotels, most were good. Our favorite hotel was Mine Boutique Hotel in Buenos Aires. This was closest to what we would expect of a 4 star boutique hotel. Awwa in BA was spacious but didn’t have much ambiance. La Reserva in Puerto Iguazu was a nice resort with a nice room and was literally in the jungle. My only reservation here is that the bathroom was not too new - it didn’t match the rest of the resort. Villa Vicuña in Salta had a very nice bathroom with an older colonial boutique room. Purmamarca had amazing views from the hotel room and a wonderful balcony. The bathroom again was not as good and there was no A/C if that’s a concern. Overall, we selected boutique hotels as our lodging option and believe that that’s what was arranged for us.

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to get to know locals and see the culture from as much of a non tourist perspective as possible. KimKim did a wonderful job with this - especially with the Graciela and Pierre.

I would definitely recommend KimKim if it is your first time to a city or country. They gave great suggestions and the logistics were seamless. Drivers were always on time, excursions were confirmed and local flights were at times that helped maximize our day. Thank you Juan and Joaquin!

Hotel Reviews
La Reserva Virgin Lodge de Selva by DON
Puerto Iguazú

Awesome resort for the price. Breakfast was great. Loved that this was in the jungle!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Bathrooms would use some upgrades
Villa Vicuña Hotel Boutique
Salta

Very charming boutique hotel!

Authenticity & Character
Very charming colonial style boutique hotel
Location
Super close walk to the town center
Staff
Super nice staff!
Cleanliness & Comfort
Comfortable room and bathroom. The decor was a bit old which had some smells and yellowing.
Awwa Suites & Spa
Buenos Aires

Comfortable rooms with lots of space. Lacked ambiance which out be easily spruced up with some artwork and color in the rooms.

Authenticity & Character
Not much character to the hotel which could easily be improved.
Location
Easy walk to 9 de Julio, rose garden and ecoparuqe
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Del Amauta Hosteria
Purmamarca

Super amazing views of the mountain from the room! Good sized room. Bathroom could use some upgrades. There’s no A/C and the bathroom fan was broken.

Authenticity & Character
Amazing charm and local character
Location
Super close to town center
Staff
Very few staff but ok because it’s a small hotel
Cleanliness & Comfort
The bathroom was very minimal in amenities. Only shampoo and conditioner. No hair dryer
Mine Hotel Boutique
Buenos Aires

Amazing location, super comfortable and clean!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to bars, restaurants and shopping
Staff
Very nice and helpful staff - most professional
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable room and bathroom. Rooms are a bit smaller than our other hotels but definitely the cleanest and most homey/comfortable
Local specialist: Juan Ignacio Pissareff
Juan Ignacio
Juan Ignacio Pissareff
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Jan 07, 2025

Hola Christine & Raymond,
Thank you so much for taking this time and this lovely review. I can talk for all here at Mater that we really enjoy preparing your trip for you and selecting all the services and accommodations. Also, we enjoy reading that you make great connections with locals specially with Graciela & Pierre in their home.
We look forward to welcoming you back for more unforgettable experiences in the future!

KimKim Argentina
Argentina | Nov 5 - Nov 14, 2024

neil
neil p.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Nov 18, 2024
Agustina and Joaquin kept me up to date daily with pick up times for our various trips and organised our boarding passes for internal flights to Mendoza from BA and return. Very organised and super helpful. Definitely recommend KimKim and the Argentina team. Read more

Agustina and Joaquin kept me up to date daily with pick up times for our various trips and organised our boarding passes for internal flights to Mendoza from BA and return. Very organised and super helpful. Definitely recommend KimKim and the Argentina team.

Activity Reviews
Day Trip to the Pampas & Estancia Lunch
Day Trip to the Pampas & Estancia Lunch
Buenos Aires

Not too far from the city and beautiful ranch with amazing food and friendly tour guide.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Aconcagua Experience
Aconcagua Experience
Mendoza

Great day out in the Andes. Great photo opportunities, amazing views.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Nov 18, 2024
Dear Neil Thank you so much for your kind words and detailed feedback about your trip to Argentina! We’re thrilled to hear that your experience was smooth and enjoyable, and that our team could make your journey stress-free by keeping you informed and handling your travel details. Your recognition means a lot to us! It’s fantastic to hear that you enjoyed the Day Trip to the Pampas in San Antonio de Areco! Similarly, we’re glad your Aconcagua Experience provided you with stunning views... Read more

Dear Neil

Thank you so much for your kind words and detailed feedback about your trip to Argentina! We’re thrilled to hear that your experience was smooth and enjoyable, and that our team could make your journey stress-free by keeping you informed and handling your travel details. Your recognition means a lot to us!

It’s fantastic to hear that you enjoyed the Day Trip to the Pampas in San Antonio de Areco! Similarly, we’re glad your Aconcagua Experience provided you with stunning views and memorable photo opportunities in the Andes.

Thank you for recommending KimKim and our team—it’s the highest compliment we could receive!

Saludos!

Agustina

Fabulous trip!
Argentina | May 28 - Jun 4, 2024

Sandra
Sandra T.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Jun 05, 2024
We had a wonderful experience with our tour and Emilia was wonderful helping and suggesting ideas on the way. Argentina is a beautiful country, lots to see and experience.
Emilia made arrangements to meet us, which was very kind.
Read more

We had a wonderful experience with our tour and Emilia was wonderful helping and suggesting ideas on the way. Argentina is a beautiful country, lots to see and experience.
Emilia made arrangements to meet us, which was very kind.

Hotel Reviews
Mine Hotel Boutique
Buenos Aires

Our hotel was the Ben’s hotel not Mine Hotel Boutique and we loved it. Such a European flare. Location was perfect. All staff were friendly and helpful.

Authenticity & Character
European flare
Location
With walking distance to shopping and wonderful restaurants
Staff
So friendly and helpful with information, organizing taxis, suggestions for restaurants.
Cleanliness & Comfort
It was clean and comfortable
Casa Lila Bed & Breakfast
Mendoza

Another lovely place to stay. Very comfortable and unique, European flare. Loved all the special decorating touches. Close to shopping and lovely restaurants. Staff and owner very friendly, and the dog Violet, very helpful with suggestions, making tea, and having conversations.

Authenticity & Character
So comfortable and relaxing
Location
Near stores and redtaurants
Staff
Lovely friendly staff. Made delicious breakfasts and helped find specific places
Cleanliness & Comfort
Very clean and comfortable
Local specialist: Emilia Do Campo
Emilia
Emilia Do Campo
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Jun 11, 2024

Hi Sandra and John!
Thank you very much for this beautiful message 🧡
It is a pleasure for me to receive passengers like you, so predisposed, grateful and with so much joy and desire to enjoy.

As I told you personally, I always wait for you to discover another region of our beautiful country!

Mixed bag: highly rec Mine Hotel in BA, excursions in El Calafate
Argentina | Mar 19 - Mar 27, 2024

David
David D.
Minnetonka, MN | Reviewed on Apr 03, 2024
We loved our trip to Buenos Aires and Patagonia, specifically El Calafate. We highly recommend both. That said, the actual execution was a mix of good and not. We were pleased with the overall planning process and the overall itinerary suggestions by Agustina and her responsiveness to questions about the trip.. However, the actual execution fell short in a few ways: Our transfer to the local airport to fly to El Calafate was a no-show, and we didn’t get immediate response from our original... Read more

We loved our trip to Buenos Aires and Patagonia, specifically El Calafate. We highly recommend both. That said, the actual execution was a mix of good and not. We were pleased with the overall planning process and the overall itinerary suggestions by Agustina and her responsiveness to questions about the trip.. However, the actual execution fell short in a few ways:

Our transfer to the local airport to fly to El Calafate was a no-show, and we didn’t get immediate response from our original local contact, who turned out to be on holiday a lot of the time we were in BA. It was very stressful, and we never got an apology or really any sympathy, just a quick refund of the cost we paid to get a taxi ourselves at 4:30 a.m. with the help of the hotel.

Speaking of the hotel, we loved the Mine Boutique Hotel in BA and would highly recommend it, but only ended up there after we asked for multiple more options from those originally suggested.

(Also the country guide materials shared with us stressed the strictness of luggage weight limits, and so we took the time to repack for El Calafate. However from what we could see, there was no apparent attention paid to many of our fellow passengers very large suitcases.)

We also requested additional options for hotels in El Calafate from the one originally suggested, and eventually without notification, when we went to review the final itinerary, the hotel to which we had agreed was not the one listed in the itinerary. Only after asking did we get a reply that the original one was no longer available, and so Agustina had booked an alternative. That one didn’t appeal to us, and set off another round of hurriedly reviewing options. We ended up at Terrazas del Calafate, which was tolerable but not great.

We had two walking tours in BA. While we were happy with them and the plan, the first one was rained out and rescheduled for the last day of our trip. That guide, Sandra, did a great job but we were surprised that she showed up without any apparent knowledge of the places that we were expecting to see that day. We then lost some time dealing with public buses over to La Boca that could have been easily saved with a taxi. No blame for Sandra, I don’t think, but someone didn’t get the message about the tour plan for the day.

On the positive side, the excursions in El Calafate were amazing: boat to Estancia Cristina, Perito Moreno glacier via both walking platforms and boat, and a day at Nibebo Aike sheep ranch including 3 hours on horseback. A note about Nibepo Aike—it is a long, bumpy ride to get there. However for us it was definitely worth it, but I wasn’t mentally expecting the gravel road trek.

As mentioned before, we highly recommend the Mine Hotel, but also generally that part of the Palermo neighborhood is a great great place to be, particularly for restaurants and shopping, as well as a base to go to other parts of the city and proximity to the National airport too.

Hotel Reviews
Mine Hotel Boutique
Buenos Aires
Authenticity & Character
Location
So close to many restaurants and shopping in the neighborhood, plus close to the National airport and decently located to get to the other major neighborhoods and sites
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Terrazas del Calafate
El Calafate

Somewhat dated. Walkable but a long way to main drag, though taxis are easy. Nice view of lake but not really to the mountains. Mix of great and surly staff. Pretty much lives up to its website—calibrate your expectations. I wouldn’t recommend seeking it out, but if you’re short other options, it serves its purpose.

Activity Reviews
Trekking at Estancia Cristina
Trekking at Estancia Cristina
El Calafate
Perito Moreno Glacier & Safari Azul
Perito Moreno Glacier & Safari Azul
Argentina
Quality of Experience
Estancia Nibepo Aike
Estancia Nibepo Aike
El Calafate
Quality of Experience
Food
Lives up to expectations for the roast lamb experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Apr 10, 2024
Hello Dayhoff family, how are you? Thank you for taking the time to leave your testimony, it is of enormous value to us. I am sorry you did not fully enjoy your trip, knowing that all the services were provided as planned, except for the transfer you mentioned as I told you at the time, the local operator had a problem and the driver could not arrive on time. Nicolas had his days off, and his automatic message with Emilia's number, who covered those days. She was on call at the time.
We...
Read more

Hello Dayhoff family, how are you?

Thank you for taking the time to leave your testimony, it is of enormous value to us.

I am sorry you did not fully enjoy your trip, knowing that all the services were provided as planned, except for the transfer you mentioned as I told you at the time, the local operator had a problem and the driver could not arrive on time. Nicolas had his days off, and his automatic message with Emilia's number, who covered those days. She was on call at the time.
We sincerely apologize for the stress caused.

Aerolineas Argentinas has strict weight conditions for your luggage. As you can see on their website, the weight allowance for bags on domestic flights is shared in the important information.

Thank you for the comment about the hotel in Buenos Aires and El Calafate. Due to availability issues, sometimes we have to change. And since you did not want the proposed hotel, we proceeded to change quickly for another option. We are always open to change in these cases and we do our best to book in the hotels we have planned, but there may be no availability. We are sorry If we were not clear about this at the moment.

Thank you for taking the time to leave this comment. It helps us to improve our services and we are glad to know that you enjoyed your activities here as well.

We wish you the best and amazing trips ahead :)

Agustina

Once in a lifetime trip
Argentina | Mar 17 - Mar 25, 2023

Kimberly
Kimberly K.
Mableton, GA | Reviewed on Mar 05, 2024
This was an incredible trip! The KimKim team helped us organize a logistically complicated trip and it went flawlessly. The local cooking class in Buenos Aires was excellent and the time in each city was perfect for what we wanted to see. Read more

This was an incredible trip!

The KimKim team helped us organize a logistically complicated trip and it went flawlessly. The local cooking class in Buenos Aires was excellent and the time in each city was perfect for what we wanted to see.

Hotel Review
Rochester Calafate
El Calafate

I loved this hotel. The location was close to the main town (walking distance or accessible by shuttle). I loved watching the birds in the lawn in the morning and looking out my window at the beautiful view.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Experiencia Boedo, an evening with a porteñian family
Experiencia Boedo, an evening with a porteñian family
Buenos Aires

this was one of our favorite parts of the trip. We learned so much and were really able to appreciate the culture of Buenos Aires

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Tango & cena show at El Viejo Almacen
Tango & cena show at El Viejo Almacen
Buenos Aires

This show is very long and ends late at night (there is then a bus ride back to the hotel that takes a while). You do learn a lot about the development of the tango

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Trekking on Perito Moreno glacier
Trekking on Perito Moreno glacier
El Calafate

One of the highlights of the trip. The guides were amazing

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Bike tour: Palermo & Recoleta
Bike tour: Palermo & Recoleta
Buenos Aires

it normally would have scared me to bike in a big city, but Buenos Aires has good bike lanes and the guide is good. This is a rigorous day we biked just under 12 miles and were out for about 4 hours.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gran Aventura Navigation tour
Gran Aventura Navigation tour
Puerto Iguazú

this trip helped you really understand the power of the waterfalls and see them from a different perspective. I also really liked the trip in the 4-wheeler type vehicle through the jungle to get to the boat.

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

A memorable trip to Argentina and Chile
Argentina | Jan 7 - Jan 26, 2024

B
Barb N.
Canada | Reviewed on Jan 27, 2024
A memorable trip to Argentina and Chile Many memorable experiences including Iguazu Falls, a dinner experience in Buenos Aires at a Gabriela and Pierre's home, Recoleta cemetery and Grand Splendid book store in Buenos Aires, and Gabriel’s dinner experience (Rancho Aparte) and Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate. Excellent excursions in San Pedro de Atacama. Enjoyed walking the artistic streets of Valparaiso. Read more

A memorable trip to Argentina and Chile

Many memorable experiences including Iguazu Falls, a dinner experience in Buenos Aires at a Gabriela and Pierre's home, Recoleta cemetery and Grand Splendid book store in Buenos Aires, and Gabriel’s dinner experience (Rancho Aparte) and Perito Moreno Glacier in El Calafate. Excellent excursions in San Pedro de Atacama. Enjoyed walking the artistic streets of Valparaiso.

Hotel Reviews
Palo Santo Hotel
Buenos Aires

Great location. Excellent staff at reception, especially Jose and Adrian. Breakfast staff were wonderful. Dinner in the restaurant was excellent. Comfortable room.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Easy walking distance to many sites
Staff
All staff were personable and helpful
Cleanliness & Comfort
La Reserva Virgin Lodge de Selva by DON
Puerto Iguazú

Unique location and ambience. With it being a ways from the town, there was no opportunity to exchange money or eat elsewhere unless you hired a taxi, Wish the breakfasts were available a half hour earlier as pickups for excursions made it very rushed.

Authenticity & Character
Rustic rooms with outdoorsy feel.
Location
Access to town. Perhaps a shuttle bus a couple of times a day.
Staff
Reception guy when we arrived was personable.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Sheuen Patagonia
Puerto Natales

Good location and friendly reception and breakfast staff, Wish they had a safe in the room. Also they don’t make up rooms until after the third night. They charge to change towels. Before that.

Authenticity & Character
Location
I
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Luciano K Hotel
Barrio Lastarria, Santiago

Good location. Helpful reception staff. Allowed early partial breakfast or boxed breakfast if leaving early. Floors of the room were dirty. Both times we were there, slippers and dressing gowns were provided. Toilet paper was not filled after the first night both times we were there. You have to put the sign out to make up room or your room won’t be attended to. Can only use YouTube to get old English news.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa Solcor
San Pedro de Atacama

Great ambience and staff. Wilson was fabulous. All staff were friendly. “This is your home” mantra allows you to have wine and beer and yogurt , juice, fruit and filtered water all day long.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Cleanliness & Comfort
Blanca Patagonia Boutique Inn and Cabins
El Calafate, Santa Cruz

Location was a ways out of the town core. Very windy so not easy to walk into town. Rooms not in the main building were good for people able to bring in good to cook but a bit dated. Bed was in the loft upstairs. TV did not work. Breakfast staff was friendly. Food basic. For dinner, space is limited. Nice view from the deck. Most places provide box breakfasts for free if you leave before breakfast but this place charges. They also charge for box lunches which is fine but the price seems high though I don’t know what is provided.

Authenticity & Character
Location
A shuttle to the town centre and back.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Experiencia Boedo, an evening with a porteñian family
Experiencia Boedo, an evening with a porteñian family
Buenos Aires

This was one of the highlights of our trip. Graciela and Pierre gave us an interesting tour of Boeda with a stop for drinks at a characteristic bar. Then hosted us at their home and showed us how to make empanadas and we had a fabulous dinner and great conversation. Plus they gave us gifts to take home.

Quality of Experience
Food
Everything was fabulous
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full day to the Argentinian side of the falls
Full day to the Argentinian side of the falls
Argentina

The Falls were excellent to see and walk the walkways. Highly recommend the tour. The guide not great. Wish more information was provided and there was a lot of wasted time that could have been utilized elsewhere. Perhaps some of this time was due to Devils Throat not being accessible. Plus juggling the group when some did the boat ride and others didn't - rather than wasting time eating and waiting around, we could have just gone back to the hotel.

Quality of Experience
Organization of the tour
Guides, Drivers and Staff
See comments above
Transport
Half day tour to the Iguazú Falls (Brazilian side)
Half day tour to the Iguazú Falls (Brazilian side)
Argentina

The Brazil side was far more spectacular than the Argentina side of the falls. Excellent guide and experience. The trip was well organized and accommodated people doing the helicopter ride. We were going to the airport after the tour so the tour company juggled all the various itineraries of the travellers and managed the border crossings well too.

Quality of Experience
The views on the Brazil side were amazing. More memorable than the Argentina side.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Excellent driver to the airport!!!!
Transport
Walking tour: Palermo & Recoleta
Walking tour: Palermo & Recoleta
Buenos Aires

Recoleta is a must see. Enjoyed walking the streets getting to Recoleta. Plus had some bonus visit to a museum that the guide was surprised that we lucked out when we were there and initiated conversation with the curator who opened it up for us. We walked the area back to the hotel so went through the rose gardens and parks on our own which was interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Buenos Aires Walking tour
Buenos Aires Walking tour
Buenos Aires

Excellent guide who provided good info and history of the area. Loved seeing the Grand Splendid Bookstore. We walked back to the hotel after being dropped off there.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Estancia Visit & Perito Moreno Glacier
Estancia Visit & Perito Moreno Glacier
El Calafate

Did not find the Estancia visit worthwhile but the visit to the Perito Moreno Glacier was good. The small boat ride out to the glacier seemed like a time filler by going a long about way plus it was not great as the water was very rough. The description we had did not advise we would be in a very small boat that bounced along the waves and had water flowing in. Luckily there was four us plus our guide and the two people handling the boat. It could have handled two more people but that would not have been great. Once we got to the glacier it was okay. Good to take photos from the small boat there. I would have found it more enjoyable just driving to the glacier with a stop where we saw other boats going to the glacier and going to the glacier by boat there (we just landed there). It would have been smoother and shorter so not wasting time. The actual visit to the Perito Mereno Glacier walkways was excellent.

Quality of Experience
See comments above
Food
The food was excellent at the Estancia but as mentioned would have preferred avoiding the Estancia visit.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Full day Torres del Paine
Full day Torres del Paine
Argentina

Unfortunately the weather was raining for the whole day but we could see how spectacular it would be to see it on a better day. Luckly, I was able to get pictures from someone I met when we did the Grey's Glacier day as she was doing this tour the day after that. But highly recommend this tour. Guide and driver were good. The driver was an amazing photographer so great to see his pictures of the area.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Driver was excellent. Appreciate seeing his photos as mentioned above.
Transport
Tour to Valparaiso
Tour to Valparaiso
Santiago

Great city snd enjoyed the colourful streets. But not impressed with the guide. Tour started at 9:39 and ended at 3:45 with about an hour and a half lunch spot. Tour guide , Filipe, had his lunch and a couple of glasses of wine on us. Not impressed that he didn’t offer to pay for his own. We gave a smaller tip to him but still felt we needed to give hime something. Not a lot more of added info compared to most tours. We could have walked around exploring on our own. The driver both ways was outstanding. He was the best driver of the whole trip. He made an effort to give us info often using the translation app. And he gave us little Chilean flags as a memento of our trip to Chile.

Quality of Experience
The guide
Transport
Driver was excellent. Guide was not good.
Geysers del Tatio
Geysers del Tatio
San Pedro de Atacama

Enjoyed the tour. Interesting to see the geysers. Guide was good. Food was good.

Family dinner in Calafate
Family dinner in Calafate
El Calafate

Gabriel’s dinner was a highlight of our trip. Unique experience. Fabulous food and drink. The soup and lamb dishes were so tasty. Great conversation with the others there.

Quality of Experience
Food
Everything was outstanding.
Free evening in the city
Free evening in the city
Buenos Aires

We just wondered around the hotel area as we had no plans after arriving later in the afternoon. Didn't feel comfortable with walking at night too much as didn't have a feel for the area. Driver from the airport got lost so took extra time to get to the hotel.

Grey Glacier Full Day Tour
Grey Glacier Full Day Tour
Argentina

Instructions were not clear to others on timing and how to get to the boat as the driver did not speak English. Luckily, we knew where to go as we had been down to the beach on the previous day tour. Plus I had read it was a 40 minute walk. Unfortunately two of the people on the bus were slow and the boat was held up 15 minutes until they got to the boat. Glad the boat waited for them but they should have been advised of the time frame to get to the boat and proper instructions. Good experience to see the glacier. Not a wow but okay trip. Walking back we offered to help the slow people. It was very windy and difficult to walk back from the boat along the beach even if in good shape. Too bad the boat didn't have options to get people to and from the boat if they needed assistance or perhaps it was the fault of the instructions in not explaining the physical condition people needed to be in though I expect these two people figured they didn't need it. He was always late getting on the bus and not respectful of others time in a number of circumstances of the day.

Free day in Santiago
Free day in Santiago
Santiago

We enjoyed walking around and going up San Cristobal Hill both via funicular and sky ride (teleferico). Tried to walk down but couldn't find the path despite locals trying to help. Unfortunately security staff could not help and had blocked off a pathway.

Santiago Walking Tour
Santiago Walking Tour
Santiago

Guide was okay (he had a cold so was sniffing and runny nose most of the time so we were trying not to catch it from him). Santiago was not our favourite city but we saw the major things.

Lagunas Cejar, Tebenquinche and Ojos del Salar
Lagunas Cejar, Tebenquinche and Ojos del Salar
San Pedro de Atacama

Outstanding guide. Interesting tour. Good to swim in the lagoon. Nice cocktails and appetizers at the end. Glad this tour was our first one in the area. Nice set up for the rest of our time in the area.

Lagunas altiplánicas and Socaire village
Lagunas altiplánicas and Socaire village
San Pedro de Atacama

Good guide. Lagunas were beautiful. If you were short on time in San Pedro de Atacama, this would be the tour to skip.

Moon Valley and visit to a local community
Moon Valley and visit to a local community
San Pedro de Atacama

I would have preferred to have breakfast at the hotel and start the tour later (others felt the same way). Because all the tours started so early, we missed having breakfast at the hotel though it was included. Felt the breakfast on the tour was a time filler and a lot of time standing around while the breakfast was being set up. Enjoyed the things we saw on this tour. Guide was good.

Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Apr 20, 2024
Dear Barb We want to express our heartfelt thanks for taking the time to share your testimonial about your recent trip to Argentina and Chile. It brings us great joy to know that you enjoyed all the destinations and various experiences that you encountered. We greatly appreciate your detailed feedback on the hotels. Learning that you noted aspects such as service and attention to detail, including breakfasts, is crucial for us. We strive to provide exceptional travel experiences, and your... Read more

Dear Barb

We want to express our heartfelt thanks for taking the time to share your testimonial about your recent trip to Argentina and Chile. It brings us great joy to know that you enjoyed all the destinations and various experiences that you encountered.

We greatly appreciate your detailed feedback on the hotels. Learning that you noted aspects such as service and attention to detail, including breakfasts, is crucial for us. We strive to provide exceptional travel experiences, and your feedback helps us improve and ensure excellence in our services.

Your participation is not only valuable to us but can also guide future travelers in choosing their destinations and accommodations. We sincerely appreciate your contribution.

We hope you continue to enjoy your future travels and have many more adventures to discover.

Thank you again for trusting us, and may your travels continue to bring you joy!

Best regards,
Agustina

Our arrival and tour on day 1 (Marcela our gu...
Argentina | Jan 12 - Jan 20, 2024

D
Dennis M.
Atlantic Beach, FL | Reviewed on Jan 25, 2024
Our arrival and tour on day 1 (Marcela our guide was excellent) in Buenos Aires went fine. Day 2 started out well. Our excellent guide, Gabriel, met us at the ferry terminal in Colonia. He had a driver with a van. We were able to keep our luggage in the van. We would have liked to have known about the ability to keep our luggage in the van ahead of time. That would’ve changed how we packed for our two nights in Montevideo. On arriving in the Montevideo bus terminal, we could not find our... Read more

Our arrival and tour on day 1 (Marcela our guide was excellent) in Buenos Aires went fine. Day 2 started out well. Our excellent guide, Gabriel, met us at the ferry terminal in Colonia. He had a driver with a van. We were able to keep our luggage in the van. We would have liked to have known about the ability to keep our luggage in the van ahead of time. That would’ve changed how we packed for our two nights in Montevideo.

On arriving in the Montevideo bus terminal, we could not find our driver. We walked to the different areas in the bus terminal and could not find the driver in any of the areas. If there is more than one area to meet the driver, the exact location to meet should have been prearranged.

On day 3 of our tour we were originally scheduled to meet our guide at 9 AM. This had been changed to 10 AM and we did not notice that change. It would have been very helpful if that change had been highlighted to us to make sure that we were aware of the change. Then the guide did not show up until about 10:20 AM.

Day 4 we were picked up at 8:30 AM to go to the ferry terminal. It did not take long to get our tickets and through immigration and security. We had to wait over an hour and a half before the ferry departed. Even if we left the hotel at 9 AM, that would’ve given us plenty of time to make the ferry.

It also would have been a better trip with a different itinerary. We should have gone from Montevideo to Iguazu Falls. Then we would’ve returned from Iguazu Falls and stayed in Buenos Aires for our two additional nights. This would have eliminated our three hour ferry ride from Montevideo back to Buenos Aires. In addition, it would have eliminated our 10 hour layover in the Buenos Aires airport when we flew there from Iguazu Falls and have to wait for our international flight. Our international flights would not have changed. It would’ve changed the order in which went to Iguazu Falls and back to Buenos Aires. We think this itinerary should have been suggested by the travel agent.

Overall we enjoyed the trip. Iguazu Falls and our stay at the Gran Melia hotel were the high points.

Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Feb 01, 2024
Dear Dennis I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for taking the time to share your thoughts on your recent trip. It brings me great joy to learn that you enjoyed your journey! I'd like to mention the absence of direct flights from Montevideo to Puerto Iguazu. Currently, there are no direct flights, and the route through Buenos Aires is the most practical option. We carefully considered the ferry when planning the itinerary to avoid the inconvenience... Read more

Dear Dennis

I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to express my sincere gratitude for taking the time to share your thoughts on your recent trip. It brings me great joy to learn that you enjoyed your journey!

I'd like to mention the absence of direct flights from Montevideo to Puerto Iguazu. Currently, there are no direct flights, and the route through Buenos Aires is the most practical option. We carefully considered the ferry when planning the itinerary to avoid the inconvenience of losing an entire day in transit. Opting for the ferry was a deliberate decision to streamline the travel process and enhance your overall experience.

Your valuable feedback is highly appreciated, and we will use it to continually improve our services. If there's anything else you'd like to share or suggest, please feel free to reach out.

Wishing you all the best, and I hope you have a fantastic day!

Warm regards,

Agustina

A trip to remember!
Argentina | Jan 7 - Jan 15, 2024

Geralyn
Geralyn L.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 20, 2024
This was a well organized trip. We worked with Augustina, local representatives, and she put together an excellent itinerary given our short trip and places we wanted to visit. We had issues with our flights out of the US being cancelled and our trip was delayed. Augustina went into action rescheduling our flight and other activities, so we didn’t miss anything despite our delay in arriving in Buenos Aires. The itinerary was laid out well well and the information provided to us answered... Read more

This was a well organized trip. We worked with Augustina, local representatives, and she put together an excellent itinerary given our short trip and places we wanted to visit. We had issues with our flights out of the US being cancelled and our trip was delayed. Augustina went into action rescheduling our flight and other activities, so we didn’t miss anything despite our delay in arriving in Buenos Aires.

The itinerary was laid out well well and the information provided to us answered all our questions. The local tour guides were excellent (Mariana, Dario, and Sofia). They were friendly, informative and spoke good English. During our trip we visited the glaciers and farm in El Calafate that we amazing. After that we travelled to Iguazu to see the waterfalls from the Argentina and then next day from the Brazil side. Both were amazing and a must. We returned to Buenos Aires to conclude our trip with a special delicious dinner and excellent tango and the next day we did a city walking tour that was perfect before being dropped off to the airport.

Besides Augustina, Nico and Irene were both super responsive via WhatsApp. We had the team organize our drop offs/pickups, accommodations, and local flights.

Great job Augustina/Kim Kim! Thank you!

Activity Reviews
Tango & cena show at El Viejo Almacen
Tango & cena show at El Viejo Almacen
Buenos Aires
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Estancia Visit & Perito Moreno Glacier
Estancia Visit & Perito Moreno Glacier
El Calafate
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full day to the Argentinian side of the falls
Full day to the Argentinian side of the falls
Argentina
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half day tour to the Iguazú Falls (Brazilian side)
Half day tour to the Iguazú Falls (Brazilian side)
Argentina
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Navigation to the glaciers
Navigation to the glaciers
El Calafate
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Gran Aventura Navigation tour
Gran Aventura Navigation tour
Puerto Iguazú
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Buenos Aires Walking tour
Buenos Aires Walking tour
Buenos Aires
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Jan 22, 2024
Geralyn, wow! Muchas muchas gracias for the wonderful and comprehensive comment you took the time to leave. It has been an immense pleasure for me to organize this trip with you from day one, and I am genuinely thrilled to hear that you enjoyed every moment of it! Your appreciation means the world to me, and I want to ensure that my gratitude is evident. It was a joy working with you, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to making your trip memorable. Thank you once again... Read more

Geralyn, wow!

Muchas muchas gracias for the wonderful and comprehensive comment you took the time to leave. It has been an immense pleasure for me to organize this trip with you from day one, and I am genuinely thrilled to hear that you enjoyed every moment of it!

Your appreciation means the world to me, and I want to ensure that my gratitude is evident. It was a joy working with you, and I am grateful for the opportunity to contribute to making your trip memorable.

Thank you once again for your kindness, trust, por todo :)
I look forward to the possibility of assisting you with future adventures!

Warm regards,
Agus

Amazing trip
Argentina | Jan 7 - Jan 15, 2024

Roy
Roy C.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Jan 20, 2024
Two families were traveling separately to Argentina to start a joint trip. One arrived on time, but the other almost canceled due to last minute airline issues. Our hats go off to Agustina Gross who persevered to keep our tour and hotel arrangements intact. It was a weekend and she was staying in Uruguay. She oversaw all obstacles including airport pickups and hotel arrangements such that we were able to reunite.
Food: Delicious lunch at the estancia and hotel breakfasts were...
Read more

Two families were traveling separately to Argentina to start a joint trip. One arrived on time, but the other almost canceled due to last minute airline issues. Our hats go off to Agustina Gross who persevered to keep our tour and hotel arrangements intact. It was a weekend and she was staying in Uruguay. She oversaw all obstacles including airport pickups and hotel arrangements such that we were able to reunite.
Food: Delicious lunch at the estancia and hotel breakfasts were good
Airport/Hotel transfers: Flawless, and in all cases arrived early
Tour guides. All spoke flawless English and were very knowledgeable historically and culturally. Hats off to Mariana who covered the road trip to the glaciers. Dario (Indiana Jones) who covered Iguazu Falls and ensured our safe passage to the Brazilian side. Sophie who covered our walking tour in Buenos Aires at a manageable pace and assisted us in finding a safe currency exchange outlet . Taking Uber with her sped up the sightseeing. We will return again to Argentina!

Activity Reviews
Tango & cena show at El Viejo Almacen
Tango & cena show at El Viejo Almacen
Buenos Aires

The tango was enchanting. Dinner before was delicious

Quality of Experience
seeing the show and discovering tango
Food
beef, what else?
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Promptness in pickup and dropoff
Transport
felt safe at night
Navigation to the glaciers
Navigation to the glaciers
El Calafate

Just stunning. No explanations needed

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Estancia Visit & Perito Moreno Glacier
Estancia Visit & Perito Moreno Glacier
El Calafate

Tour guide, Mariana, provided extensive and interesting discourse on Argentinian history

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full day to the Argentinian side of the falls
Full day to the Argentinian side of the falls
Argentina
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Dario was awesome. He wore his Indiana Jones outfit and the women were smitten with him
Transport
Gran Aventura Navigation tour
Gran Aventura Navigation tour
Puerto Iguazú

boat ride under the falls was thrilling

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Half day tour to the Iguazú Falls (Brazilian side)
Half day tour to the Iguazú Falls (Brazilian side)
Argentina

Glad that Dario escorted us through Brazilian border control

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Buenos Aires Walking tour
Buenos Aires Walking tour
Buenos Aires

Walked from Palermo to La Baca with tour guide Sophia. Outstanding information about history and architecture

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Sophia was very patient and knowledgeable
Transport
we chose to pay for Uber and saw more in a shorter time
Local specialist: Agustina Gross
Agustina
Agustina Gross
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Jan 20, 2024
Dear Roy, We cannot express how grateful we are for the incredible comment you left. Your detailed feedback fills us with joy and gratitude. Knowing that our efforts made your trip a wonderful experience is simply amazing. And that you had Indiana Jones as a guide, that's something unique ;) The trust you placed in us, your kindness, and the entire process of organizing the trip were a genuine pleasure. Working with you was such a delightful experience. We are thrilled to have contributed... Read more

Dear Roy,

We cannot express how grateful we are for the incredible comment you left. Your detailed feedback fills us with joy and gratitude. Knowing that our efforts made your trip a wonderful experience is simply amazing. And that you had Indiana Jones as a guide, that's something unique ;)

The trust you placed in us, your kindness, and the entire process of organizing the trip were a genuine pleasure. Working with you was such a delightful experience. We are thrilled to have contributed to making your journey enjoyable.

Traveling with family and friends is one of life's greatest joys, and we are excited to know that we could be a part of those special moments for you. We hope these memories will last a lifetime, and that this trip was just the beginning of many more adventures together.

Once again, thank you for trusting us. Your satisfaction is our greatest reward. If you ever decide to embark on another journey, we would be delighted to assist you again.

With gratitude and appreciation,
Agus