Kimkim Trip Reviews

4.8
Based on 15,713 ratings
Read 15,713 verified reviews by travelers who booked their trip on kimkim. You can also read reviews about kimkim on 3rd party sites including Google, TrustPilot and Yelp.

Our trip was a very memorable experience from...
Nepal | Feb 16 - Feb 24, 2025

A
Anne M.
Peachtree City, GA | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
Our trip was a very memorable experience from start to finish! Our guide Pratikshya wanted to know our interests and concerns every step of the way. The accommodations at each of our stops could not have been better. The employees at each of our hotels were welcoming and helpful. The trip was full of surprises from the many temples to the trip to the Annapurna base camp. One of my favorite experiences was the MoMo cooking class with some helpful local women. The lake area was a relaxing... Read more

Our trip was a very memorable experience from start to finish! Our guide Pratikshya wanted to know our interests and concerns every step of the way. The accommodations at each of our stops could not have been better. The employees at each of our hotels were welcoming and helpful. The trip was full of surprises from the many temples to the trip to the Annapurna base camp. One of my favorite experiences was the MoMo cooking class with some helpful local women. The lake area was a relaxing change from Kathmandu and the views on the day hike were spactacular. Our stay at the chiwan National Park exceeded expectations. Our guide during our stay went our of his way to see that we experinced all the best at the Park.

Hotel Review
Temple Tree Resort & Spa
Pokhara

Accomodations were wonderful and we took full advantage of the Spa. The food at the restaurant was excellent.

Authenticity & Character
Beautiful setting
Location
Easy walk to the lake.
Staff
Answered all questions with a smile
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Amanda Delecca

We cannot say enough about this amazing trip....
Morocco | Mar 4 - Mar 9, 2025

J
Jan F.
Bend, OR | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
We cannot say enough about this amazing trip. Every place we stayed, every guide assured that we had the very best experience. And…Ismael, our driver, was incredible. He was a tour guide and a driver wrapped up in one amazing, personable, knowledgeable person. In many ways a driver can make or break the trip. We were so fortunate to have an exceptional one.
We have used KimKim several times and they have NEVER disappointed.
Read more

We cannot say enough about this amazing trip. Every place we stayed, every guide assured that we had the very best experience. And…Ismael, our driver, was incredible. He was a tour guide and a driver wrapped up in one amazing, personable, knowledgeable person. In many ways a driver can make or break the trip. We were so fortunate to have an exceptional one.
We have used KimKim several times and they have NEVER disappointed.

Hotel Reviews
Euphoriad
Rabat
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lina Ryad & Spa
Chefchaouen
Authenticity & Character
Great
Location
Staff
Everyone so friendly. Including the breakfast staff.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Riad Laaroussa
Fez medina

Beautiful riad located in the Medina in a great location. Food amazing.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Half-Day Private Sightseeing Tour in Rabat
Rabat

Despite do rain we loved our tour and our time in Rabat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Our driver, Ismael, was the best. We drove a lot and he was tour guide and driver. Excellent.
Local specialist: Hassan El Amrani
Hassan
Hassan El Amrani
Local specialist in Morocco & USA | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Hello Jan,

Thank you for sharing your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled that your trip exceeded expectations, and grateful for your kind words about Ismael, our exceptional driver / guide :-).
We appreciate your loyalty to KimKim and look forward to helping you plan your next adventure!

Best regards,
Hassan

Great trip to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam
Thailand | Feb 17 - Mar 1, 2025

A
Anne C.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
Our trip was fantastic. Hoa and Ashley (Phuong) from KimKim provided amazing service and support with planning the trip and making adjustments as needed. They were professional, helpful, friendly, and endlessly patient. We were very happy with everyone who helped us at each of our destinations, particularly our guide Sun Bunthoeum in Siem Reap, Cambodia; our guide Bach in Hanoi; and Diep, our driver in Hanoi. Bach and Diep make a great team and filled our time in Vietnam with laughter. Read more

Our trip was fantastic. Hoa and Ashley (Phuong) from KimKim provided amazing service and support with planning the trip and making adjustments as needed. They were professional, helpful, friendly, and endlessly patient. We were very happy with everyone who helped us at each of our destinations, particularly our guide Sun Bunthoeum in Siem Reap, Cambodia; our guide Bach in Hanoi; and Diep, our driver in Hanoi. Bach and Diep make a great team and filled our time in Vietnam with laughter.

Hotel Reviews
Solitaire Bangkok Sukhumvit 11
Bangkok

The hotel was clean and comfortable in a great location. The gym and pool were quite nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Anjali by Syphon

Very nice hotel with lush gardens that create an oasis in the middle of Siem Reap.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Tirant Hotel
Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Fantastic location in the Old Quarter and within easy walking distance of the water puppet theatre and Hoan Kiem Lake. Rooms were clean but rather plain and ordinary.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The hotel was very clean, but the rooms were too plain and basic.
Mon Cheri Cruises

The ship was pleasant with clean, comfortable rooms. The cruise itself was disappointing. We would have liked to spend much more time underway to see the stunning scenery go by. Instead we spent too much time at anchor, for kayaking and a land excursion to a cave. Those two stops were interesting but not worth the time that could have otherwise been spent underway. Most of the sailing time happened during the night, when it was too dark to see the scenery. The staff was great, especially Ducky, our waiter, and Jasmine, the cruise director.

Authenticity & Character
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Emeralda Tam Coc Resort

Fantastic location right on the river and within easy walking distance of town, vendors, street food, etc. We upgraded to premium deluxe rooms, which were great.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Bangkok Symbolic Temples
Bangkok Symbolic Temples
Bangkok

Amazing places: very interesting and well worth doing.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide was friendly, enthusiastic, and knowledgeable. However, his English was not the best, and he was often difficult to understand.
Transport
Hang Mua Viewpoint - Visit Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda
Hang Mua Viewpoint - Visit Tam Coc & Bich Dong Pagoda
Ninh Binh

Bich Dong Pagoda, which is built into the mountainside was well worth the hike up to see it. The Hang Mua Viewpoint has good views but was too crowded with tourists. The boat ride along the river was incredible, with rice fields on either side and mountains rising straight up out of the fields. That experience was definitely one of the best parts of our trip and featured some of the most unique and beautiful scenery we've ever seen.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Night Street Food Tour After Dark by Tuk Tuk
Night Street Food Tour After Dark by Tuk Tuk
Bangkok

Super fun with lots of great food.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Back to The Glorious Days of Ayutthaya Kingdom
Back to The Glorious Days of Ayutthaya Kingdom
Bangkok
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide's less-than-great English was a limiting factor.
Transport
Nature Walk in Cuc Phuong National Park
Nature Walk in Cuc Phuong National Park
Ninh Binh

We enjoyed our visit to the primate rescue center, and it was great to see the important work being done there. The turtle rescue center was less interesting. The hike through the jungle was a good way to get an up-close experience of the jungle but otherwise was unexceptional. This was a good outing, but I wouldn't do it again and don't necessarily recommend it.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Apsara Dinner Show
Apsara Dinner Show
Siem Reap

Good cultural experience, but some dances were more interesting than others. It would have been helpful to have a detailed program to explain the origin and meaning of the various dances. The food was unexceptional.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Boarding Cruise - Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Tra Bau (Mon Chéri Cruises)
Boarding Cruise - Halong Bay - Lan Ha Bay - Tra Bau (Mon Chéri Cruises)
Ha Long Bay

The ship was clean and comfortable, and the staff was great. The best part of the cruise was when we were underway, so we could see the beautiful scenery going by. Unfortunately, we did not spend that much time underway, which was disappointing. Much of the daytime was spent at anchor, for kayaking or a land excursion to visit a cave. Sailing seemed to mostly happen overnight, when people were sleeping and it was too dark to see the scenery anyway. I would definitely recommend a different cruise that skips land excursions, spends more time underway, and takes in more of the amazing scenery of Ha Long Bay.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Angkor Complex Discovery
Angkor Complex Discovery
Siem Reap

Absolutely worth seeing. Despite knowing that we were visiting ruins of great temples, it was still a bit shocking and disappointing to see the state of disrepair that the ruins have fallen into. We hope that over time Cambodia will be able to invest more into preservation and restoration. Ta Prohm, with trees growing directly out of the ruins, was amazing.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island - Tuan Chau - Disembarking Cruise (Mon Chéri Cruises)
Lan Ha Bay - Cat Ba Island - Tuan Chau - Disembarking Cruise (Mon Chéri Cruises)
Ha Long Bay

The cave was interesting but not particularly special. We would have preferred to skip the excursion altogether and spend more time underway to see the beautiful scenery and natural rock formations of Ha Long Bay.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kulen Mountain Adventure by Jeep
Kulen Mountain Adventure by Jeep
Siem Reap

Somewhat interesting and fun to go by Jeep, but probably not worth an extra day in Siem Reap.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide and drivers (August, Sovann, and another driver whose name I don't know) were friendly and knowledgeable and spoke great English.
Transport
The Jeeps were fun, but be prepared to be very dirty after a long drive on dirt roads.
Half-day Morning Duong Cooking Class (Joining Activity)
Half-day Morning Duong Cooking Class (Joining Activity)
Hanoi

A great experience. The chef who conducted our class was very personable; he made the class fun and interesting. It was more of a cooking demonstration than an actual class, but he did give us some tasks to do. The tour of the local market to buy produce and other supplies was great. The meal we (mostly the chef) prepared ended up being one of the most delicious meals of our trip. Highly recommended.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Siem Reap - Visit the floating villages of Tonlé Sap - Kompong Phluk
Siem Reap - Visit the floating villages of Tonlé Sap - Kompong Phluk
Siem Reap

Interesting experience. We were amazed by the vastness of Tonle Sap. This excursion has limited impact in the dry season, which is when we visited, but may be better in the rainy season. The houses do not actually float; they are built on stilts. In the dry season, you see the stilts rise dozens of feet above the water, because the lake level is so low. In the rainy season, the houses probably appear to float.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hanoi Half Day Exploration
Hanoi Half Day Exploration
Hanoi

Great visit to the Temple of Literature and the Ho Chi Minh complex: well worth doing. It was great to see these two sites, but I wish we had seen more of Hanoi. A full-day tour probably would have been better for us.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Our guide Bach and our driver Diep were terrific. They are a great team and made every outing lots of fun.
Transport
Water puppet show
Water puppet show
Hanoi

Amazing show. We were a bit skeptical about it ahead of time but were so glad we did it. Don't miss this fantastic show!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Unfold The Secret of Hanoi Street Food
Unfold The Secret of Hanoi Street Food
Hanoi

One of the highlights of the trip. Our guide Bach took us to some amazing spots and vendors and was willing to keep going for as long as we were able to keep eating!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Hoa Tran
Hoa
Hoa Tran
Local specialist in Hanoi Vietnam | Replied on Mar 12, 2025

Hi Anne,
Thank you so much for your kind words! I’m thrilled you had a fantastic trip and enjoyed working with us. Sun, Bach, and Diep are amazing, and I’m so glad they made your journey special with laughter and great memories.
We’d love to welcome your family back anytime!
From Hanoi with love😘🥰,
Hoa, Phuong & Exotic Voyages Team

Wonderful experience for nine old friends discovering the beauty of Argentina.
Argentina | Mar 1 - Mar 8, 2025

John
John A.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
Our trip was a bit complicated due to having 9 men traveling together. KimKim was a tremendous help selecting housing, arranging transportation and selecting the appropriate activities. Everything was comfortable and reliable. Our adventures were memorable, challenging and educational lead by likable guides. We had a fun day at the ranch and glacier with Pablo. He is a professional guide in every way. Our kayaking leaders stressed safety, educated us on geology and provided an overall fun day... Read more

Our trip was a bit complicated due to having 9 men traveling together. KimKim was a tremendous help selecting housing, arranging transportation and selecting the appropriate activities. Everything was comfortable and reliable. Our adventures were memorable, challenging and educational lead by likable guides. We had a fun day at the ranch and glacier with Pablo. He is a professional guide in every way. Our kayaking leaders stressed safety, educated us on geology and provided an overall fun day on the river. We loved Nacho who picked us up, taught us about the natives of the area and fed us in the cave.
In El Chalten we enjoyed our breathtaking hikes and the charming town. We must mention Lucia and Martina at our hotel who went above and beyond making our experience ideal. They helped us translating, choosing restaurants, planning hikes and addressed any and every needs we requested. And they did it all with big smiles and charming personalities. They were perfect hostesses.
This group of old friends now have wonderful new memories of Argentina. Perfect trip

Activity Reviews
Nativo Experience: 4x4 tour to the footsteps of indigenous people
Nativo Experience: 4x4 tour to the footsteps of indigenous people
El Calafate

Consider yourself lucky if you have Nacho as your guide for this activity. His enthusiasm is contagious and his knowledge educational. It’s a lovely evening on the lake.

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

Our group loved experiencing the Patagonia ranch and lunch was a unique opportunity. The boat ride to the edge of the glacier was absolutely breathtaking. Pablo is one of the best guides I’ve ever experienced. He is patient, wise, knowledgeable and witty.

Quality of Experience
Kit
Quality of Experience
Food
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hi
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Hi
Transport
Transport
Local specialist: Juan Ignacio Pissareff
Juan Ignacio
Juan Ignacio Pissareff
Local specialist in Buenos Aires | Replied on Mar 20, 2025

Hola John & friends,

Thank you so much for sharing your experience. We’re thrilled to hear that your group had such a memorable adventure in Argentina! It’s great to know that everything was comfortable, reliable, and enriching.

Travelling with a group of friends is always an adventure in itself, and we’re so happy we could help make it a smooth and unforgettable journey for you all. We hope to welcome you back to Argentina someday for even more incredible experiences!

All the best :)

Our trip to Rome was perfect. I worked with R...
Italy | Mar 2 - Mar 6, 2025

Z
Zachery C.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
Our trip to Rome was perfect. I worked with Rita on the itinerary and would work with Rita again. The accommodations and tours were fantastic. Read more

Our trip to Rome was perfect. I worked with Rita on the itinerary and would work with Rita again. The accommodations and tours were fantastic.

Hotel Review
Glance in Rome
Rome

Wonderful accommodation, staff & location.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Rita Pagano
Rita
Rita Pagano
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on Mar 11, 2025

Hi Zach, thank you so much for your kind words! I'm glad to hear that your trip to Rome was perfect and that you enjoyed the accommodations and activities. I'd love to help you plan another unforgettable trip in the future! All the best, Rita🥰

Great way to see Chile!
Chile | Feb 27 - Mar 5, 2025

Brent
Brent G.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
I had never used Kimkim before this, and I'm pleased to say that the whole experience with them from trip planning almost a year in advance to day to day experiences in Chile was outstanding. My trip planner Jesse offered ideas and alternatives, and once I had decided where I wanted to go and what I wanted to see she provided me with a detailed day by day itinerary. Outstanding service and great communication throughout.
Arriving late in the day and tired at an airport, one always wonders,...
Read more

I had never used Kimkim before this, and I'm pleased to say that the whole experience with them from trip planning almost a year in advance to day to day experiences in Chile was outstanding. My trip planner Jesse offered ideas and alternatives, and once I had decided where I wanted to go and what I wanted to see she provided me with a detailed day by day itinerary. Outstanding service and great communication throughout.
Arriving late in the day and tired at an airport, one always wonders, will someone be meeting me as promised. There was never a cause for concern with Kimkim, all of the logistical arrangements were on time and perfectly organized.
I must also mention that my guide for a day tour in Santiago, Hernan Rivas Diaz, was among the best that I have ever had the pleasure of spending time with.
Based on my experience in Chile, I will happily book future travel with Kimkim.

Hotel Review
Lodge Terrantai
San Pedro de Atacama

The Lodge Terrantai was like a small oasis in bustling San Pedro de Atacama - very comfortable rooms and nice public spaces, good breakfasts plus lunchtime snacks, afternoon snacks and evening wine tastings, which might better be described as wine drinking over the course of 2 hours. From the moment I walked through the front door until when I left three days later, the friendly staff made me feel at home.

Authenticity & Character
Location
1 block away from the main street in San Pedro, could not have been better located.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Santiago City Tour - Private
Santiago City Tour - Private
Santiago

I had a particular interest in Chilean history leading up to and following the military coup in 1973, and my guide Hernan Rivas Diaz was aware of this beforehand. The day spent with him was like walking through the pages of a history book, not just about the 1970's but ranging back as far as the Pleistocene and through to today. He also found me a good place to exchange money and we enjoyed a pleasant lunch of empanadas at an outdoor restaurant. He is one of the finest guides that I have ever encountered in all of my travels.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Roomy and very comfortable vehicle.
Stargazing Experience
Stargazing Experience
San Pedro de Atacama
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Jesse Barrera
Jesse
Jesse Barrera
Local specialist in Santiago | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Hi Brent,

I am thrilled to hear that you really enjoyed your 7-day trip in Chile! I knew our guide Hernan was the perfect fit for you and am glad that he was able to provide such an awesome experience 😊

I hope to see you again in Chile! Maybe a visit to the Patagonia or Easter Island? 🗿

All the best,
Jesse

We had an amazing family trip to Egypt, Cairo...
Egypt | Mar 3 - Mar 9, 2025

Sylva
Sylva L.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025

We had an amazing family trip to Egypt, Cairo. The Kim Kim team in Cairo was friendly, courteous, and supportive. It great service and very well organized. Our guide Mustafa was very knowledgeable and went above and beyond to make us feel at home on our trip!!

Local specialist: Mohamed Nabil
Mohamed
Mohamed Nabil
Local specialist in Egypt | Replied on Mar 26, 2025

Thank you so much, Nouval, I am delighted that you enjoyed your trip with us, and we will wait for your next trip to make it unique for your beautiful family
Best Regards,

Vietnam Trip
Vietnam | Feb 22 - Mar 7, 2025

P
Paul W.
United Kingdom | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
All travel guides were great especially Mimi in Hoi An and John in Saigon. Itinerary was very varied with lots of activities from cooking, cycling, boat trips mixed with history and culture. Great trip. Read more

All travel guides were great especially Mimi in Hoi An and John in Saigon. Itinerary was very varied with lots of activities from cooking, cycling, boat trips mixed with history and culture. Great trip.

Hotel Review
Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness

Great relaxing break within a busy holiday. Location right on the beach, facilities excellent and food and service 5*

Authenticity & Character
Modern
Location
Near beach, only 25 minutes from Hoi An
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Camellia Nguyen
Camellia
Camellia Nguyen
Local specialist in Hanoi | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Hi Mr. Paul,

Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that you had a great trip and enjoyed the variety of activities. It's fantastic that Mimi in Hoi An and John in Saigon made such a positive impression. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to them!

We truly appreciate you traveling with us and hope to welcome you on another adventure in the future.

Best regards,
Camellia

Amazing trip!
New Zealand | Feb 18 - Mar 2, 2025

C
Carla A.
| Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025
Fabulous 2 week trip to New Zealand! Monika was so easy to work with as we planned the perfect vacation! Read more

Fabulous 2 week trip to New Zealand! Monika was so easy to work with as we planned the perfect vacation!

Hotel Reviews
Ramada Suites Queenstown
Queenstown
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Art Deco Masonic Hotel
Napier
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Olivers Lodge
Clyde
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Godley Hotel
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The Grange Boutique B & B and Motel
Christchurch
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Anchorage Resort
Taupo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Castaway Resort Karioitahi Beach Auckland
Waiuku
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
 Bike the wineries
Bike the wineries
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Monika Vinsova
Monika
Monika Vinsova
Local specialist in Queenstown, New Zealand | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Thank you so much for your kind words! I'm thrilled to hear you had a fabulous time in New Zealand. It was a pleasure working with you to create the perfect vacation. I hope the memories from your trip last a lifetime!

Warm regards, Monika

Another visit to Colombia ...
Colombia | Feb 28 - Mar 9, 2025

J
Jennifer L.
Canada | Reviewed on Mar 10, 2025

Drivers were very good; I was happy to have Martin drive us again from Medellin to Jardin.
Carlos was excellent too, he drove us from Jardin to Salamina and then from Salamina to Armenia.
The hotels were great except for Hotel Sites in Medellin. There was no hot water in the sinks.

Local specialist: Michael Gold
Michael
Michael Gold
Local specialist in San Agustín, Huila, Colombia | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Dear Jennifer,
Thank you so much for traveling with us again and for sharing your feedback! We’re thrilled to hear you enjoyed your rides and most hotels. We apologize for the inconvenience with the hot water at Hotel Sites in Medellin and will address this with the hotel to ensure improvements.
We truly appreciate your trust in us and hope to welcome you back on another journey soon!
Best regards,
Michael & The Chaska Tours Team

A Trip We’ll Never Forget
Brazil | Feb 27 - Mar 5, 2025

Lisa
Lisa G.
Bethesda, MD | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2025
We had an absolutely seamless and unforgettable experience using kimkim to plan and facilitate our group trip to Brazil for Carnival. From start to finish, everything was handled with such expertise that all we had to do was show up and enjoy the journey. Chadya – Our Incredible Trip Planner
From the moment we started working with Chadya through kimkim, it was clear we were in excellent hands. She took the time to understand the unique needs of our travel group—queer women of color...
Read more

We had an absolutely seamless and unforgettable experience using kimkim to plan and facilitate our group trip to Brazil for Carnival. From start to finish, everything was handled with such expertise that all we had to do was show up and enjoy the journey.

Chadya – Our Incredible Trip Planner
From the moment we started working with Chadya through kimkim, it was clear we were in excellent hands. She took the time to understand the unique needs of our travel group—queer women of color looking for a mix of cultural immersion, celebration, and adventure. Chadya crafted a perfectly balanced itinerary, ensuring we had a smooth, stress-free experience while making the most of our time in Rio. She coordinated our accommodations, airport transfers, private guides, and even secured exclusive experiences that made our trip feel truly special.

One of the biggest highlights was how effortless everything felt. There was no scrambling for logistics, no worrying about last-minute changes—just a well-orchestrated trip that flowed perfectly. From our luxurious hotel in Copacabana with stunning ocean views to the Samba school rehearsal, Chadya’s attention to detail ensured that every moment was magical.

Rio Queer & Damiana – The Best Local Guide
One of the standout elements of this trip was our incredible guide, Damiana, from Rio Queer. She was not just a guide—she was a storyteller, historian, and local expert who brought the city to life for us in a way we could have never experienced on our own.

Damiana led us through the vibrant streets of Rio with ease, giving us an in-depth look at Afro-Brazilian culture, LGBTQ+ history, and the deep roots of Carnival. She took us through Little Africa, where we learned about the legacy of Black resistance in Brazil, and we even got to witness live samba performances in a space rich with history.

She made sure we felt safe, welcomed, and completely immersed in the local culture. Whether it was navigating the chaotic but thrilling energy of Carnival, taking us to hidden-gem restaurants for the best feijoada, or guiding us through breathtaking viewpoints like Sugarloaf Mountain, Damiana made every experience feel personal and engaging.

A Trip We’ll Never Forget
This trip was everything we hoped for and more. My group of 10 loved every single moment—from dancing in the streets during Carnival to sipping caipirinhas on the beach, every experience was curated to perfection. The ease of travel, the rich cultural immersion, and the sheer fun we had made this one of the best trips Lesbifriends Travel has ever hosted.

Thanks to Chadya and the team at kimkim, we never had to stress about logistics, and we could simply focus on enjoying Brazil. We highly recommend kimkim to any group or individual looking for a meticulously planned, well-executed trip with top-tier local guides and support. We’ll definitely be using them again for future adventures!

Hotel Review
Arena Copacabana Hotel
Rio de Janeiro

The Arena Copacabana Hotel had its pros and cons, making it an overall "just okay" stay for our group. The biggest selling point was definitely the location—right in the heart of the action and directly across from the beach, making it super convenient for exploring and soaking in Rio's vibrant atmosphere. Pros: ✅ Prime Location – Perfect for those who want to be in the center of it all, with the beach just steps away. ✅ Great Breakfast – A solid variety of food, fresh fruit, and Brazilian staples, which was a nice way to start the day. ✅ Good Drinks & Nice Views – The bar served well-made cocktails, and the rooftop and beach-facing areas had stunning views, adding to the experience. Cons: ❌ Safety Concern – Unfortunately, two of our travelers had their wallets stolen from their room while housekeeping was cleaning, which was a major disappointment and something that shouldn't happen in a hotel of this level. ❌ Not the Best Value – While the location is excellent, the hotel itself didn’t feel like the best bang for the buck. The rooms and service didn’t quite match the price point. ❌ Mediocre Roof Bar Service – While the views were great, the service at the rooftop bar was slow and inconsistent, making it less enjoyable than expected. Final Verdict: While the Copacabana Hotel worked well for its location and convenience, the safety issue, service inconsistencies, and overall value left something to be desired. If you’re looking for easy beach access and a lively setting, it’s a solid option—but travelers should be extra mindful of their belongings. Would we stay here again? Maybe, but we’d explore other options first.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Welcome Dinner in Rio de Janeiro
Welcome Dinner in Rio de Janeiro
Rio de Janeiro

Our Welcome Dinner in Rio de Janeiro was the perfect way to kick off our trip! From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with warm hospitality, stunning views, and an atmosphere that set the tone for an incredible week ahead. The Setting & Ambiance The restaurant was a beautiful blend of elegance and vibrancy, capturing the spirit of Rio. Whether it was the open-air seating with a view of the city or the lively energy of the space, it immediately made us feel immersed in Brazilian culture. The ambiance struck the perfect balance—upscale yet comfortable, lively but not overwhelming. The Food & Drinks The menu was a fantastic introduction to Brazilian cuisine. We started with delicious pão de queijo (cheese bread) and pastéis (crispy pastries filled with cheese and meat), which were absolutely mouthwatering. The main courses showcased the richness of local flavors—whether it was the perfectly grilled picanha steak, fresh seafood, or the classic moqueca (Brazilian fish stew), every dish was flavorful and well-prepared. Of course, no welcome dinner would be complete without caipirinhas, and they did not disappoint! Fresh, strong, and perfectly balanced, they quickly became a group favorite. The Experience One of the highlights of the evening was the attentive and knowledgeable staff. They were friendly, accommodating, and took the time to explain the dishes, making it an educational and enjoyable culinary experience. The pacing of the meal was just right—giving us time to savor each course while catching up with each other and soaking in the excitement of being in Rio. Final Thoughts This Welcome Dinner exceeded our expectations and was the perfect way to bring our group together. The combination of authentic Brazilian flavors, great service, and a vibrant setting made it a memorable and enjoyable start to our adventure. Would we recommend this experience to others? Absolutely! A must-do for anyone visiting Rio.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Christ the Redeemer & Sugar Loaf Mountain
Christ the Redeemer & Sugar Loaf Mountain
Rio de Janeiro

Our Christ the Redeemer & Sugarloaf Mountain Tour was an incredible experience, offering some of the most breathtaking views in Rio de Janeiro. The itinerary was well-paced, allowing us to fully appreciate these iconic landmarks without feeling rushed. Christ the Redeemer Visiting one of the New Seven Wonders of the World was nothing short of spectacular. The journey up Corcovado Mountain was smooth, and once we reached the top, we were rewarded with stunning panoramic views of Rio. The statue itself was even more awe-inspiring in person, and we had ample time to take photos and soak in the experience. Sugarloaf Mountain The cable car ride up to Sugarloaf was an adventure in itself, offering unforgettable aerial views of the coastline and city skyline. Once at the top, we had a moment to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy a refreshing drink. The visibility was excellent, making for some of the best photo opportunities of the trip. Our Guide, Luis Luis was extremely knowledgeable and professional, providing a wealth of historical and cultural insights throughout the tour. However, he had a tendency to be a bit too chatty and directed most of his commentary toward the trip leader rather than engaging the entire group. While his passion for Rio was clear, his English was sometimes difficult to understand, which made it challenging for some group members to follow along. Final Verdict This tour is a must-do in Rio and delivered on its promise of unforgettable views and rich cultural context. Despite some communication challenges with our guide, the overall experience was well-organized, enjoyable, and absolutely worth it. Would we recommend it? Yes! Just be prepared for a lot of talking and some moments where the guide’s English may be a bit tough to follow.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Rio de Janeiro Carnival
Rio de Janeiro Carnival
Rio de Janeiro

Our Rio de Janeiro Carnival experience was nothing short of spectacular! This was the highlight of our trip—full of energy, music, dazzling costumes, and an electric atmosphere that truly brought the city to life. The Experience From the moment we arrived at the Sambadrome, we were immersed in the heart of Brazilian culture. The energy was infectious—the samba dancers, extravagant floats, and pulsating rhythms made it impossible not to get swept up in the excitement. Watching the samba schools perform up close was mesmerizing, and you could feel the passion and dedication behind every performance. A Few Challenges While the experience itself was phenomenal, having a guide or clearer instructions would have been helpful. Navigating the event, understanding the schedule, and knowing the best way to experience Carnival as first-time visitors required some guesswork on our part. A bit more direction beforehand would have made the logistics smoother. Our Driver, Maximo We absolutely loved our driver, Maximo—he was punctual, kind, and got us where we needed to be safely. However, the language barrier made communication a bit tricky, which added a little challenge to coordinating our pickup and drop-off plans. That said, he had a great spirit, and we appreciated his hospitality. Final Verdict Despite the minor logistical hurdles, Carnival in Rio was an absolutely magical experience that exceeded all expectations. The energy, music, and sheer spectacle made it one of the most memorable moments of our trip. Would we do it again? In a heartbeat! Next time, we’d just bring a guide or ensure we had clearer instructions ahead of time.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day - Rio Queer
Full Day - Rio Queer
Rio de Janeiro

Our Full-Day Rio Queer Tour with Damiana and Rio Queer was an absolute highlight of our trip! This experience gave us a deep dive into Afro-Brazilian and LGBTQ+ history, blending cultural education with fun, great food, and a welcoming atmosphere. Damiana – An Outstanding Guide Damiana was knowledgeable, engaging, and truly passionate about sharing Rio’s queer and Afro-Brazilian history. She took us through important landmarks, sharing stories that are often left out of mainstream narratives. Her ability to connect past and present made the experience meaningful and thought-provoking. The Lesbian-Operated Restaurant One of the standout moments was our visit to a lesbian-owned restaurant, where we enjoyed an amazing meal in a space that felt warm, inclusive, and community-driven. The food was delicious, and the fact that it was run by members of the LGBTQ+ community made it all the more special. A Minor Challenge – The Traffic The only downside (which was out of anyone’s control) was the heavy traffic, which limited how much we could see in one day. While we still got to experience a lot, we would have loved more time to explore additional sites. Final Verdict This tour is a must for LGBTQ+ travelers who want to experience Rio through a queer and historical lens. Despite the traffic, the experience was incredibly enriching, and we left with a deeper appreciation for the city’s culture and activism. Would we recommend it? Absolutely! And next time, we’d carve out even more time to explore.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Farewell Dinner & Game night
Farewell Dinner & Game night
Rio de Janeiro

Our Farewell Dinner & Game Night was the perfect way to wrap up an unforgettable trip to Rio! It was a night filled with great food, laughter, and meaningful moments, making it a truly special send-off. The Picture Signing Activity – A Thoughtful Touch One of the most memorable parts of the evening was the picture signing activity. It was such a creative and heartfelt way to reflect on our journey together. Everyone had the chance to share personal notes, inside jokes, and words of appreciation, creating a keepsake that we’ll all treasure. The Food – A Delicious Farewell Feast The dinner itself was fantastic! We enjoyed a delicious meal with flavorful Brazilian dishes that left everyone satisfied. The relaxed atmosphere made it the perfect setting to share stories, relive highlights from the trip, and simply enjoy each other’s company one last time before heading home. Damiana – The Guide Who Felt Like Family Once again, Damiana from Rio Queer was an amazing presence. She wasn’t just a guide—by the end of the trip, she felt like family. She kept the energy light and fun while making sure everything flowed smoothly. Final Verdict This Farewell Dinner & Game Night was the perfect combination of sentimental, fun, and delicious. It gave us a chance to celebrate the friendships formed, the memories made, and the incredible experiences we shared in Brazil. Would we do it again? Without a doubt! A must-do for ending any group trip on a high note.

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

Had a marvellous time in Greece.
Greece | Oct 26 - Nov 2, 2024

C
Christoph B.
Poland | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2025

Had a marvellous time in Greece. Siena was an amazing guide, and especially strong when we went along with her recommendations. My kids still remember Kalamata, the trips and the great local guides to this day. Accommodation in Kalamata was spot on, and the trips exactly right. Athens itself was good, but not at the same level, the hotel was, given the price, not the best value, and while the trips were good they were also a bit overrun.

Overall: a great experience

Local specialist: Siena Mueller
Siena
Siena Mueller
Local specialist in Kimkim HQ | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Hi Christoph,

Thank you for your kind words! I’m so happy to hear your kids loved Kalamata as much as I do! It’s such a special place, and I’m thrilled the accommodations and experiences there were a great fit for your family. I also appreciate your feedback on the Athens hotel and guided activities—it helps us continually vet our partners to ensure they meet our standards.

Wishing you and your family many more amazing adventures ahead! 😊🇬🇷

Our trip to Thailand exceeded expectation
Thailand | Feb 21 - Mar 1, 2025

E
Edward C.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2025
This was our first time using kimkim to plan travel, and the entire process, from defining the details of our trip to Thailand, to the actual visit, exceeded expectations. The intake process that kimkim uses was fun, aimed at quickly deciphering what a traveler is looking for. Better yet, it immediately connected us to a local travel planner, in this case a terrific woman in Vietnam named Hoa Tran, who really knew what the heck we wanted. Hoa easily offered up countless options for our... Read more

This was our first time using kimkim to plan travel, and the entire process, from defining the details of our trip to Thailand, to the actual visit, exceeded expectations. The intake process that kimkim uses was fun, aimed at quickly deciphering what a traveler is looking for. Better yet, it immediately connected us to a local travel planner, in this case a terrific woman in Vietnam named Hoa Tran, who really knew what the heck we wanted. Hoa easily offered up countless options for our consideration and quickly iterated until we landed on the kind of trip we aspired to take. Each iteration was clear and thorough and included lots of details and pricing as well...made it easy to get to an itinerary we liked.

Thailand was amazing! And we literally felt cared for by somebody that kimkim arranged to greet, tour and escort us around the country every step of the way (we are good independent travelers so don't need hand holding but kimkim got the balance right). Hoa picked amazing hotels in the three cities we visited (Bangkok, Chiang Mai and Phuket); they were over the top lovely and not the usual picks a web search might spit out. And while hotel restaurants can be a risk, the food in all three of these hotels was excellent and the service was extraordinary (BTW, Thai people in general are the most caring and gracious we have ever met...we learned a thing or two about being more gentle human beings from them). Our hotel in Phuket, the Amanpuri, was over the top; it was one of the nicest places we have ever visited. Despite the care of our local guides, Hoa checked in with us at every stop of the journey...a nice and thoughtful touch.

Our days were full (maybe too much so, but that was our fault for insisting that we do something exciting every day). Our guide in Bangkok (Kirana) was the best...and so knowledgeable and funny. The elephant sanctuary visit and jungle hike in Chaing Mai were also great, but our four days in Phuket just relaxing in a stunning setting next to the Andaman Sea was the absolute highlight. Finally, our all-in package that included hotel, tours / guides and domestic air travel felt like a good value. We paid a pretty penny for the visit, but for an experience that was easy, seamless and fun, we felt we got more than our money's worth.

We will definitely uses kimkim again; we think their secret sauce might be connecting a traveler to a local planner who really knows the place you plan to visit. From the outset, we were dealing with a local (Hoa Tran), who knows Southeast Asia like the back of her hand, not some random clerk in a Chicago HQ. Based on our experience, our friends are using kimkim to plan a trip to Iceland. And if we head back to Thailand or Southeast Asia (we are definitely going back to the Amanpuri in Phuket), Hoa will again be our requested planner...she was just great.

Hotel Reviews
137 Pillars House Chiang Mai
Chiang Mai
Authenticity & Character
Stunning setting, beautiful rooms! The historic building where restaurants an d key amenities are located is amazing
Location
Chiang Mai is a bit rough a round the edges, but 137 Pillars is a peaceful and welcome sanctuary
Staff
Everybody, from the General Manager Ann, who graciously greeted and engaged with every guest, was outstanding and focused on making the visit special
Cleanliness & Comfort
Amanpuri Phuket

We have stayed at many lovely resorts but this one is in a class by itself. The Amanpuri effortlessly and graciously exudes elegance. We were picked up at the Phuket airport and dropped off at the hotel's open-air lobby; the setting is breathtaking and set the promising vibe for our entire stay. The staff were so attentive and polite, seemingly with only one objective in mind...ensuring that our visit was amazing. And thanks to them it was. The physical setting is out of a storybook...stunning buildings, spectacular amenities (especially the restaurants...the food is so darned good), incredible rooms and beachfront location that can't be beat. For all of the resort's physical attributes, they pale in comparison to the men and women who made the place tick, from the General Manager (who personally greeted us when we arrived) to the restaurant wait staff to the team on the beach attendants who adjusted our towels and umbrellas and made sure that all of our needs were taken care of. And best of all, this service was discreet, seamless and elegant. We will definitely be back...even though our flight to Phuket took 25 hours in each direction!!!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Hoa Tran
Hoa
Hoa Tran
Local specialist in Hanoi Vietnam | Replied on Mar 10, 2025
Dear Edward & Sally,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed and heartfelt review of your trip to Thailand! I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that your experience exceeded expectations and that you enjoyed every aspect of your journey—from the planning process to the actual trip<3.
Reading about your adventures in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket brought a big smile to my face—especially your time at the Amanpuri (it’s truly a magical place, isn’t it?). I’m also delighted...
Read more

Dear Edward & Sally,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a detailed and heartfelt review of your trip to Thailand! I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that your experience exceeded expectations and that you enjoyed every aspect of your journey—from the planning process to the actual trip<3.
Reading about your adventures in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Phuket brought a big smile to my face—especially your time at the Amanpuri (it’s truly a magical place, isn’t it?). I’m also delighted that you enjoyed the hotels, guides, and the overall balance of independence and support throughout your trip.
Your kind words about my role in planning your trip mean so much to me. It’s always my goal to ensure that every traveler feels cared for and excited about their journey, and I’m so happy I could contribute to making your Thailand anniversary trip unforgettable.
I’m also thrilled to hear that your friends are now planning a trip to Iceland with kimkim—I hope they have an equally amazing experience! And of course, if you ever decide to return to Thailand or explore more of Southeast Asia, it would be my absolute pleasure to assist you again. The Amanpuri will be waiting for you!
Thank you once again for your trust and for sharing your wonderful feedback. Wishing you & Sally many more incredible travels ahead!
Warmest,
Hoa

This was our first time using Vicky from KimK...
Australia | Feb 28 - Mar 8, 2025

Anthony
Anthony D.
Brookhaven, GA | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2025
This was our first time using Vicky from KimKim Travel, and we were pleased at her attention t detail, follow up and availability by text and phone on our trip to Tasmania , Carins and Sidney Australia. Travel arrangements for air ,ground and all excursions went smoothly and without a hitch. Vickey made it an uncomplicated pleasant experience, for a packed full day by day travel vacation. The interactive chat KimKim site is excellent for communications ,and last minute changes
As so often...
Read more

This was our first time using Vicky from KimKim Travel, and we were pleased at her attention t detail, follow up and availability by text and phone on our trip to Tasmania , Carins and Sidney Australia. Travel arrangements for air ,ground and all excursions went smoothly and without a hitch. Vickey made it an uncomplicated pleasant experience, for a packed full day by day travel vacation. The interactive chat KimKim site is excellent for communications ,and last minute changes
As so often happen on vacations. We will definitely use the Agency and Vicky. For Referal and advise on our next adventure.
Anthony and Denise DeCarolis

Hotel Reviews
Mövenpick Hobart
Hobart

Good hotel mice location

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Harbour Rocks Hotel
The Rocks, Sydney NSW

Great location,for Rocks tours and site seeing, historic site quaint hotel

Authenticity & Character
Location and Morning breakfast were special
Location
Great location for walking and getting around Rocks area
Staff
Responsive to all needs ,
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel is a renovation of old hospital and warehouse , Rooms are small and not a lot of space for luggage for two travelers on a longer trip. Bathrooms are adequate but cramped, older fixtures,and appointments.
Crystalbrook Flynn
Cairns

Great hotel great location near the Esplanade,good rooms great service

Authenticity & Character
Location
Location
Pools are great Esplanade right outside you hotel
Staff
Staff was efficient in meeting all requests
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Cairns Lagoon
Cairns Lagoon
Cairns

This was a a surprise only 3/4 years old a real special place clean inviting pool to spend a long day of sun and relaxation.

Quality of Experience
Size
Guides, Drivers and Staff
All driver were prompt vehicles were high end and comfortable
Transport
On time and exact good communication prior to pick up as where and when
Ocean Freedom - Cruise to Outer Edge of Upolu Reef and Upolu Cay Reef (Departs from Cairns)
Ocean Freedom - Cruise to Outer Edge of Upolu Reef and Upolu Cay Reef (Departs from Cairns)
Australia

Definitely bong miss this one a family owned Great Barrier Reef excursion done right. Great Staff Well trained and safe guides Great Lunch After dive snacks And cake and fruit all day Great long snorkel and Dive time on the reef

Quality of Experience
Small group untrusted experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Young energies staff of family owned business , experienced and safety aware
Transport
Quick and easy
Local specialist: Vicky Steinhardt
Vicky
Vicky Steinhardt
Local specialist in Noosa, Australia | Replied on Mar 09, 2025

Thank you for your kind feedback Anthony. I am so glad you and Denise had a good trip and that it was all you hoped it would be.
Wishing you many more travel adventures ahead. Take care and All the Best
Vicky

Holden and Serendipity were great!
Costa Rica | Feb 25 - Mar 5, 2025

J
Julie K.
San Jose, CA | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2025
Holden, from Serendipity, was extremely helpful in planning our trip to Costa Rica. He had many good suggestions where to go and arranging guides to take us on amazing hikes. Holden was very good about answering all our questions very promptly. His attention to detail was outstanding. Wilman, our local contact for Serendipity, was amazing. We contacted him several times during our trip, and he was very responsive, usually within minutes! We were impressed with his service. Read more

Holden, from Serendipity, was extremely helpful in planning our trip to Costa Rica. He had many good suggestions where to go and arranging guides to take us on amazing hikes. Holden was very good about answering all our questions very promptly. His attention to detail was outstanding.

Wilman, our local contact for Serendipity, was amazing. We contacted him several times during our trip, and he was very responsive, usually within minutes! We were impressed with his service.

Hotel Reviews
Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge

The Casa Corcovado Jungle Lodge was outstanding. The location was perfect, right in the middle of nature, making the experience truly unforgettable. The staff were wonderful and immediately made us feel welcome. The accommodations were just as we hoped they would be: clean, comfortable, and beautifully integrated with the surroundings. I have absolutely no complaints.

Cloud Forest Lodge
Monteverde

Our stay at the Cloud Forest Lodge in Monteverde was amazing. The highlight was the restaurant - every single meal from appetizers to dessert was incredible. The food was fresh, light, beautifully presented, and absolutely delicious. Even though we typically eat light while traveling, we couldn't resist indulging here. The quality of the meals would make me want to return to Monteverde just for the food. The hotel itself was also fantastic, truly a great experience.

Rio Celeste Hideaway Resort
Bijagua

Staying at the Rio Celeste Hideaway Resort was a fabulous experience. Everything about this place was great - from the accommodations to the staff, I felt well taken care of. It was a wonderful end to our trip, and I would highly recommend anyone visiting Bijagua/Rio Celeste to stay here.

Hotel Presidente
San José

Hotel Presidente in San José was a nice stay overall. The staff were great, and the hotel was clean and well-situated. However, we experienced significant noise from the water pipes in our guest room throughout the night, which disrupted our sleep. It's an older hotel, so I understand these things can happen, but it affected our comfort during the stay. Had it not been for the noise, it would have been a perfect stay.

Activity Reviews
Sirena Park Station Private Tour
Sirena Park Station Private Tour
Drake Bay

We had a great hike around the Sirena Park Station. Our guide, Maria, was outstanding. If she wasn't with us, we would not have seen any wildlife. It was amazing how she could spot all the animals high in the trees! Using her monocular allowed us to see the animals in detail. We saw a tapir, anteater, sloth, squirrel monkeys, and many birds.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Corcovado National Park Hike from San Pedrillo Ranger Station
Corcovado National Park Hike from San Pedrillo Ranger Station
Drake Bay

Our guide, Maria, was amazing. She made this a great hike. She is very knowledgeable. She could find animals high in the trees that we never would have seen on our own. We saw spider monkeys, a lot of colorful Macaws. a lot of other birds, and on our way back to our lodge, she found a puma!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Rio Celeste & Tenorio Volcano Private Hike
Rio Celeste & Tenorio Volcano Private Hike
Bijagua / Rio Celeste

The Rio Celeste river, Blue Lagoon and Waterfall were gorgeous. The blue color of the water was amazing, unlike anything else we have ever seen. Our guide, Mariano, was great! He was very knowledgeable and made this a very enjoyable hike.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Mariano was an outstanding guide.
Transport
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve Night Walk
Tapir Valley Nature Reserve Night Walk
Bijagua / Rio Celeste

This night tour was a great way to see tapirs. It also allowed us to see other animals that we hadn't seen elsewhere on our trip to Costa Rica, such as the red-eyed green tree frog, and a night owl. It was nice to see the wildlife up close. This was a unique experience.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Jess was a great guide.
Transport
Alex is the best driver!
Local specialist: Holden Ketchum
Holden
Holden Ketchum
Local specialist in Cartago, Costa Rica | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Hello Julie,
Thank you for taking the time to write a thorough review. Thank you for mentioning your guides by name, I will be sure to pass on the information. They love to hear that they have done a good job!

How absolutely amazing that you got to see a puma in Corcovado, that is a rare occurrence.

I'm glad to hear that you had an amazing experience here in Costa Rica, all of our planning paid off!

Thank you
Holden Ketchum
Serendipity Adventures

Great service
Thailand | Feb 14 - Mar 2, 2025

Pam
Pam B.
Portland, OR | Reviewed on Mar 09, 2025
Lacey was incredibly patient working with us to craft the trip of our dreams at the price we wanted to pay. When our flight to Siem Reap was changed, she arranged to get us from Halong Bay to the airport in Hanoi. That was the only blip in the schedule, and it was seamlessly handled without us having to do anything. Overall, our guides and drivers were wonderful. A special call out of Ae, our guide in Bangkok, who we wanted to take with us. She made us fall in love not only with Bangkok,... Read more

Lacey was incredibly patient working with us to craft the trip of our dreams at the price we wanted to pay. When our flight to Siem Reap was changed, she arranged to get us from Halong Bay to the airport in Hanoi. That was the only blip in the schedule, and it was seamlessly handled without us having to do anything.

Overall, our guides and drivers were wonderful. A special call out of Ae, our guide in Bangkok, who we wanted to take with us. She made us fall in love not only with Bangkok, but her. She attended to our every need, and then some. She treated us to the foods of Thailand, and always was smiling. We also enjoyed Set and Buhaun in Cambodia. Set treated us as queens, and we loved the cool towels and water Buhaun had ready for us. We only spent half a day with Pookie in Chiang Mai, but we enjoyed the time with her. We were less impressed with Thom in Hanoi--he clearly was not feeling well--and Mr. Chaun in Chiang Rai was more of an escort than a guide. Instead of walking through our stops and sharing the history, he pointed us in the right direction and later met us to leave. He seemed impatient and eager to finish the job. We didn't get that sense from anyone else. They all were eager to share their knowledge with us. Because of his attitude, we wish we would have spent only one day (or none) with him. Other than that, we had a tremendous experience.

Highlights were dinners with families in Vietnam, Cambodia and Chiang Mai; Angkor Wat; Tonle Sap; everything with Ae (tuk tuk food tour, flower market, Grand Palace at night, railroad and floating markets, Ayutthaya), the White Temple, the elephant sanctuary and our two excursions in Phuket (Phi Phi Island sunrise speedboat tour and John Gray Sea Canoe trip).

The trip not only met, but exceeded, our expectations.

Hotel Reviews
Sena Cruise
Ha Long

Sena Cruise was an incredible experience. The cruise director did a great job, and they efficiently arranged for our early departure to catch a changed flight. The entire process was handled smoothly, and the staff ensured we were well taken care of, even putting us on a speedboat when needed. The level of organization and care they showed made the cruise a highlight of our trip.

La Niche d'Angkor Boutique
Siem Reap

La Niche d'Angkor Boutique was a fantastic hotel with wonderful staff who looked after all our needs. The facilities were great, and the entire stay was enjoyable. However, the beds were very hard, which made the first two nights uncomfortable as we struggled to sleep. By the third night, we were either too exhausted or had adjusted to it.

Local specialist: Lacey Ngo
Lacey
Lacey Ngo
Local specialist in Hanoi | Replied on Mar 10, 2025

Dear Pam,
Thank you so much for your detailed review, which helps us a lot to improve our service in the future. It's our great pleasure to welcome you to in Asia this time, and I hope to see you again in your next trip.
All my best,
Lacey and Exotic Voyages team

This is our second time using KimKim to plan ...
Ecuador | Mar 3 - Mar 6, 2025

Dana
Dana C.
Singapore | Reviewed on Mar 08, 2025
This is our second time using KimKim to plan a big international trip for a couple or small group. We appreciate the individualized care and service given right from the start by agents online. It is easy to customize your itinerary based on budget, activities, and timing. During the course of this trip, we encountered a third party guide who did not meet our expectations in the service or interactions provided. When we provided feedback about this experience, our KimKim agent was quick to... Read more

This is our second time using KimKim to plan a big international trip for a couple or small group. We appreciate the individualized care and service given right from the start by agents online. It is easy to customize your itinerary based on budget, activities, and timing. During the course of this trip, we encountered a third party guide who did not meet our expectations in the service or interactions provided. When we provided feedback about this experience, our KimKim agent was quick to respond and help to make changes so that the remainder of our trip was not negatively impacted. We appreciated the time and effort this took. The rest of our trip, activities, and guides were superb, allowing us to enjoy the wonder and beauty of the Galapagos while feeling truly listened to and taken care of. We continue to hold KimKim in high regard and would use their services again in the future to help in planning a memorable trip.

Hotel Review
Hotel Villa Laguna
Puerto Ayora

This was a mid-range hotel. Upon arrival, we were told that the owners were away, so certain options, like a boxed breakfast were not available, until they returned. This was also apparent in the quality of the served breakfast on the first morning. Some other small details made the hotel seem unprepared for guests. For example, they had only one small slip of paper with the wifi information on it, which could not be taken to your room, as their was only one copy and this information was not printed anywhere else. Additionally, we had 2 matrimonial rooms, however, one of the rooms was clearly larger and with a bigger bed than the other one. We were told the rooms were the exact same when asked to move the smaller room to a bigger one. Breakfast on Day 2 and 3 were much better (maybe the owners were back?). There were a lot of beatles on the floors of the rooms and all over the hotel. The rooms were fine, air conditioning worked well and cleaning services arrived and tidied rooms daily. Location was off the beaten path, so was quiet, if that's what you like. It was also across the street from 2 very nice cocktail bars and a 10 ten minute walk to town.

Authenticity & Character
Location
If there were bikes to rent, it would make it quicker to get into town to explore restaurants and shops.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Pilar Albuja

Santiago/Atacama/Uyuni
Chile | Dec 15 - Dec 21, 2024

D
Douglas A.
Atlanta, GA | Reviewed on Mar 08, 2025
Overall, this was a unique and interesting trip. Starting with a food tour in Santiago which ended with a picnic overlooking the city. Wine tasting in Maipo Valley was nice. Pickups and transfers went smoothly except for one mistake with the wine tasting time. On to Atacama with a nice tour. Hit or miss on the star gazing however the cancellation worked in our favor since none of the tour organizers considered getting the Bolivian visa in advance. It was stressful when they attempted to reach... Read more

Overall, this was a unique and interesting trip. Starting with a food tour in Santiago which ended with a picnic overlooking the city. Wine tasting in Maipo Valley was nice. Pickups and transfers went smoothly except for one mistake with the wine tasting time. On to Atacama with a nice tour. Hit or miss on the star gazing however the cancellation worked in our favor since none of the tour organizers considered getting the Bolivian visa in advance. It was stressful when they attempted to reach us at 10pm the night before we were supposed to depart for Bolivia and Uyuni. Well past midnight we were collecting documents, taking pictures, and filling out forms. Ultimately, it all worked out at the border however the stress was not necessary and could have been avoided with some attention to details. Trip to Bolivia and the salt flats we great with a great guide and beautiful scenery. For someone looking to make it to the driest desert and see the unique salt flats we would recommend the trip. Kim Kim just needs to iron out details ahead of time and work on communication with the several layers of travel agencies involved in multiple countries and cities.

Local specialist: Francisco Torres
Francisco
Francisco Torres
Local specialist in Santiago & Quito | Replied on Mar 10, 2025
Hi Douglas, Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! I’m really happy to hear that you had a unique and interesting trip, and that you enjoyed the food tour, wine tasting, and the incredible landscapes of Atacama and the Uyuni Salt Flats. I truly appreciate your feedback regarding the logistics and communication. While I strive every day to ensure a 5-star experience for all my travelers, I understand how the last-minute visa situation could have been stressful.... Read more

Hi Douglas,

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience! I’m really happy to hear that you had a unique and interesting trip, and that you enjoyed the food tour, wine tasting, and the incredible landscapes of Atacama and the Uyuni Salt Flats.

I truly appreciate your feedback regarding the logistics and communication. While I strive every day to ensure a 5-star experience for all my travelers, I understand how the last-minute visa situation could have been stressful. Your comments help us improve, and I’ll make sure to pass them along so we can refine our processes and provide smoother experiences in the future.

It’s wonderful to know that, despite the challenges, you had a great trip and would recommend it to others. Chile and Bolivia are truly special places, and I hope you left with amazing memories!

Thank you again for choosing KimKim, and I’d love to help you with another adventure in the future!

Best regards,
Francisco

Outstanding Travel Planning by Yuliana – A Perfect Costa Rica Getaway!
Costa Rica | Feb 22 - Mar 1, 2025

Cristina
Cristina C.
Newark, NJ | Reviewed on Mar 08, 2025
I cannot recommend Yuliana enough! From the very first email exchange to the final details of our trip, she was an absolute pleasure to work with. She took the time to understand exactly what my partner and I were looking for—a perfect balance of adventure, cultural exploration, and a relaxing beach day—and she delivered beyond our expectations. Yuliana was incredibly responsive, always quick to answer our questions and provide thoughtful suggestions. She crafted an itinerary that suited... Read more

I cannot recommend Yuliana enough! From the very first email exchange to the final details of our trip, she was an absolute pleasure to work with. She took the time to understand exactly what my partner and I were looking for—a perfect balance of adventure, cultural exploration, and a relaxing beach day—and she delivered beyond our expectations.

Yuliana was incredibly responsive, always quick to answer our questions and provide thoughtful suggestions. She crafted an itinerary that suited our budget without sacrificing quality, and every hotel she recommended was fantastic. Thanks to her expertise, our trip to Costa Rica was seamless, stress-free, and absolutely unforgettable.

Every moment felt perfectly curated, from thrilling activities to immersive cultural experiences, and just the right amount of downtime. I truly loved every minute of it! If you're looking for a travel agent who listens, personalizes, and ensures an amazing experience, Yuliana is the one. I will absolutely be reaching out to her for future trips! 🌟🌎✈️

Activity Reviews
Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar Cane Farm Tour
Coffee, Chocolate and Sugar Cane Farm Tour
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Zip Lining & Visit to La Fortuna Waterfall
Zip Lining & Visit to La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal/La Fortuna
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Catamaran Adventure with Snorkeling
Catamaran Adventure with Snorkeling
Manuel Antonio
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Yuliana Valverde
Yuliana
Yuliana Valverde
Local specialist in San José, Costa Rica | Replied on Mar 10, 2025
Hello Cristina,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure helping you and your partner plan your Costa Rica adventure. It is great to hear that the itinerary matched your vision and that you had such a memorable experience.
Creating a seamless and personalized trip is always our goal, and I am so happy to know that you enjoyed the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Your enthusiasm and appreciation mean the world to me! I would love to assist you again... Read more

Hello Cristina,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was truly a pleasure helping you and your partner plan your Costa Rica adventure. It is great to hear that the itinerary matched your vision and that you had such a memorable experience.

Creating a seamless and personalized trip is always our goal, and I am so happy to know that you enjoyed the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Your enthusiasm and appreciation mean the world to me!

I would love to assist you again whenever you are ready for your next journey. Until then, may your travels continue to be filled with incredible moments!

Best wishes,
Yuliana

great trip
Galapagos Islands | Feb 5 - Feb 15, 2025

Thomas
Thomas L.
Palm Coast, FL | Reviewed on Mar 08, 2025
would do again, Paola was very informative and made the trip easy Read more

would do again, Paola was very informative and made the trip easy

Hotel Reviews
Ibis Styles El Malecón
Guayaquil

excellent service and room perfect great restaurants near by and boardwalk

Authenticity & Character
Location
location was perfect
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Casa de Nelly
Puerto Baquerizo Moreno

not the best

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Cally Galapagos
Puerto Villamil
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Lava House Galapagos
Puerto Ayora

this was a beautiful place clean great breakfast and staff were amazing

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Review
Galapaguera Tortoise Reserve
Galapaguera Tortoise Reserve
Galapagos Islands
Local specialist: Paola Vera Feijoo
Paola
Paola Vera Feijoo
Local specialist in Quito | Replied on Mar 27, 2025

Thank you, Tom! I’m so glad to hear that I could help make your trip easy. It was a pleasure assisting you! Wishing you and Jill many more amazing adventures ahead :)

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan
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