Kimkim Trip Reviews for Colombia

Michael offered excellent guidance and communication to us once we were booked for events. Communication prior to that was less reliable and sometimes we didn't seem to understand each other. Travel to San Basilio del Palenque with Lorenzo and our driver Boris was excellent and a very valuable moment in our time in Columbia. Travel to the Carnaval in Barranquilla with Daniella was fun. She provided great guidance and had a lot of information about the parades and the city in itself. We would... read more

Michael offered excellent guidance and communication to us once we were booked for events. Communication prior to that was less reliable and sometimes we didn't seem to understand each other. Travel to San Basilio del Palenque with Lorenzo and our driver Boris was excellent and a very valuable moment in our time in Columbia. Travel to the Carnaval in Barranquilla with Daniella was fun. She provided great guidance and had a lot of information about the parades and the city in itself. We would have liked to stay late for the partying but that wasn't happening.

Travel to Rosario for a day at the beach was much less than we hoped for, ending at a small enclosure with a rocky beach. the food was good but we were on a small island with no access or information about the rest of the islands that make up Rosario. the ride back in a small boat on a choppy sea was painful and frightening and left us shaken and with back pain for the next day. I would not do that trip again.

overall, however, I would use KimKim services again

We arranged our family trip with Kim Kim, Michael was our local specialist. I was really happy throughout the planning process .. he was cooperative and always available. He adjusted the trip details multiple times to accommodate our needs and requests. Also during the trip itself, he was available all the time with prompt responses to our questions.

Our experience during the travel was very smooth, our drivers were always on time and our guides were good. We visited Bogota, Medellin,... read more

We arranged our family trip with Kim Kim, Michael was our local specialist. I was really happy throughout the planning process .. he was cooperative and always available. He adjusted the trip details multiple times to accommodate our needs and requests. Also during the trip itself, he was available all the time with prompt responses to our questions.

Our experience during the travel was very smooth, our drivers were always on time and our guides were good. We visited Bogota, Medellin, and Cartagena and all these cities were an experience with a different vibe. Our guide in Cartagena (Carolina) was great and we enjoyed spending time with her. She was very knowledgeable, fun and recommended nice places for dinner and helped us book them.

Our family trip turned to be a great and enjoyable experience and most important hassle free.

Hotel Review

Arsenal Hotel

We loved this hotel .. location was great and close to the most important attractions in the city. Safe neighborhood. The hotel is very clean and modern. The staff were very friendly and welcoming.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Coconut Workshop

Cartagena

This workshop was a highlight of our trip. Spending time with local women and learning from them was a very nice experience. They were very friendly and we loved the items we made with them. I recommend this workshop for any traveler who wants to spend time with locals and enjoy their company and learn from them.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Overall the trip has left remarkable memories for me . Kim Kim did a good job being a small company . As promised all was taken care . Car, private guides all along Bogotá Medellín and Cartagena. The guides were good with understandable English skills . The best of all was Sandy in Cartagena. . The people were all good and friendly and the coconut workshop with the ladies there to teach us accessory making with coconut were really nice and interactive . The place I enjoyed most was comuna13... read more

Overall the trip has left remarkable memories for me . Kim Kim did a good job being a small company . As promised all was taken care . Car, private guides all along Bogotá Medellín and Cartagena. The guides were good with understandable English skills . The best of all was Sandy in Cartagena. . The people were all good and friendly and the coconut workshop with the ladies there to teach us accessory making with coconut were really nice and interactive . The place I enjoyed most was comuna13 and Penol Guatapé in Medellín.

I can't express our appreciation for all of the hard-work, dedication and effort that Margoth put in to planning our 16 day trip to Colombia. We had finalized our trip pre-COVID and then of course everything changed. Margoth remained in contact with us over the next 2+ years and worked so hard to get our trip rebooked and have our respective credits applied to our new trip. We visited Guatape, Medillin, Bogota and Cartagena and all of our hotels / experiences were handled seamlessly. Any... read more

I can't express our appreciation for all of the hard-work, dedication and effort that Margoth put in to planning our 16 day trip to Colombia. We had finalized our trip pre-COVID and then of course everything changed. Margoth remained in contact with us over the next 2+ years and worked so hard to get our trip rebooked and have our respective credits applied to our new trip. We visited Guatape, Medillin, Bogota and Cartagena and all of our hotels / experiences were handled seamlessly. Any time we needed to make a change (even if last minute) Margoth and her team did their best to accommodate -- going above and beyond. If you are considering visiting this wonderful country, it is a must to connect with Margoth and the KimKim team as you will have an experience that you will remember.

From our initial conversations several months ago to our return to the U.S. from Colombia a few days ago, Felipe and his team "escorted" us through their beautiful country, always in touch with us to make sure our experiences were memorable. We enjoyed all of our knowledgable and engaging guides, especially Tomás Vargas in Bogotá and Juan Carlos Vandergast in Medellin, both with whom we spent considerable time. We also enjoyed Isaac in Cartagena, with his enthusiasm and command of his... read more

From our initial conversations several months ago to our return to the U.S. from Colombia a few days ago, Felipe and his team "escorted" us through their beautiful country, always in touch with us to make sure our experiences were memorable. We enjoyed all of our knowledgable and engaging guides, especially Tomás Vargas in Bogotá and Juan Carlos Vandergast in Medellin, both with whom we spent considerable time. We also enjoyed Isaac in Cartagena, with his enthusiasm and command of his city's history, though we only spent a morning with him, because of some confusion on our end.

What an unfair question when asked about favorite experiences! Through KimKim, Aracanto provided us with a myriad of exciting opportunities. How about Monserrate, Candelaria, Villa de Leyva, Kronosaurus, Raquira, Medellin's Commune 13, Fernando Botero, Guatapé, El Piñol, Rosario Islands, walled old city Cartagena, Gethsemane, the cooking class with Gilles Dupont? They all tumble around inside our heads as memorable events of the trip. And I can't forget the friendliness of the welcoming Colombian people we met everywhere.

Two thumbs up to everyone involved and hands down for an incredible twelve days discovering another favorite country.

Thank you, KimKim.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Quadrifolio

Cartagena de Indias

Stunning architectural beauty, welcoming and helpful staff

Authenticity & Character

Outstanding renovation, seemed true to the original design, elegant, sophisticated

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Patio del Mundo

Medellín

Very nice boutique hotel, jungle-like setting, very helpful staff, challenge to carry heavy luggage up steps.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Coralina Island

Isla del Rosario

Idyllic setting, enjoyed the desert island feel, outdoor dining, private chaises, access to water, good food. very friendly staff.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Casa Terra

Villa de Leyva

Like all Spanish-influenced houses, it's all behind the walls. Lovely grounds, huge room with living room, convenient to the squares and restaurants, delicious breakfast, very attentive staff. Rick was having physical difficulty with his back, and the owner arranged for a massage for him. The experience immediately improved his condition.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Casa Medina Four Seasons

Bogotá, Cundinamarca

Terrific, upscale feel to begin our time in Colombia. Spacious room, delicious breakfasts, very helpful desk staff to guide us to restaurants. Lovely dining room.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Close to restaurants, far from sites.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Dinner Reservation at Harry Sasson

Bogotá

Fabulous first dinner in Colombia. Loved the "room." Sophisticated. Food was tops.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

City Tour of Bogotá with Gold Museum, Local Market and Monserrate Hill

Bogotá

Knowledgable Tomás enriched the day's experiences. The market, riding to the top of Monserrate for the city view, touring Candelaria--great introduction to the trip.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dinner Reservation at Tierra Cocina de Entorno

Bogotá

We waited 90 minutes to get our food. Language barrier and non-attentive wait staff made for a poor evening. However, we loved the vibe of the place.

Quality of Experience

Dinner Reservation at Mercado Municipal

Villa de Leyva

Fun waiter frying to learn English while I practiced Spanish, charming courtyard setting. Tasty barbecue.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Half Day Villa de Leyva Tour

Villa de Leyva

Charming Spanish village. Villa de Leyva itself is the attraction. The long drive to VdL from Bogotá is marked by a beautiful landscape I never tired of watching. What a discovery of the fossil of Kronosaurus at the Fossil Museum! I tried to wrap my head around the fact that this area was under sea water at one time. We really like the stop of Raquira on the return, a colorful arts and crafts town. Too bad they wouldn't ship purchases.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Welcome to Colombia!

Colombia

Dinner Reservation at OCI.Mde

Medellín

Great vibe. Friendly staff. Good food.

Guatape and El Peñol

Colombia

What a day of exciting discovery. Everything was eye-opening. Juan Carlos was absolutely one of the best guides we've experienced. Guatapé's journey to becoming an artistic jewel, the sad story about the flooding of the original town of Piñol to make the lake for producing hydroelectric power, the boat ride and Juan Carlos' clever reveal of Pablo Escobar's dilapidated mansion amidst the stunning hillside houses. No, we didn't climb El Piñol, though I really wanted to. I was sure I could climb to the top, but I was concerned that my left knee would not have allowed me to descend!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dinner Reservation at El Cielo - Please confirm on your side

Colombia

El Cielo couldn't confirm a reservation.

City Tour of Medellín (Comuna 13)

Medellín

Comuna 13 is a living miracle. My body felt jazzed during the entire experience, and with the salsa and other beats filling the air, I could barely stay still. Sunday's crowd was thick, yet again, a friendly vibe. Exciting. Then there is Botero Plaza, with his 24 sculptural voluminous pieces thrilling us.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Arrival to the Islands

Rosario Islands

Long drive from Cartagena airport to Barú to get in the Hotel's boat. We appreciated the special arrangements.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Day at the Islands at Coralina Island

Rosario Islands

Paradise.

Quality of Experience

Departure from the Islands

Rosario Islands

Well, if nothing, it was exciting. Full boat of 40 people with luggage. Not balanced well, so this of us on the starboard side literally got soaked through all our clothing. Kind of funny, and uncomfortable. They rearranged luggage and then it was okay. But the adventure was not over. Apparently high winds made the Caribbean approach to Cartagena too dangerous, so our boat, along with several others, entered a very shallow river delta where our propellers were hitting mud. Other boats sped passed us, causing our boat to rock violently. Finally the boatman and first mate raised the engine (?) and we were on our way. Two your ride. It was an unanticipated adventure.

City Tour of Cartagena (Half Day)

Cartagena

We liked Isaac's introduction to Cartagena. For us, it was an incredibly hot and humid day, and waking up the massive fort near noon was exhausting. So we cut the schedule short and returned to the hotel.

Dinner Reservation at La Mulata

Cartagena

Fun place. Good food. Casual, local feel. Met two couples separately that made it more enjoyable. One man invited us to his cafe the next day for more conversation.

Private Cooking Class and Lunch

Cartagena

An excellent activity that we enjoyed thoroughly. French-born Gilles Duport is a wonderful and charming chef, fluent in French, Spanish, but not English. We had a wonderful time with our little bits of both European languages and his armchair English.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Dinner Reservation at Alma

Cartagena

Despite its beautiful decor and lovely room, the food was not what we expected. The wait staff was inconsistent, and we felt a bit fooled by the wine selection process in an attempt to have us buy a very expensive bottle of wine.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Depart Colombia

Colombia

Airport is convenient to downtown. Isaac was the only guide who did not go into the airport with us to help us get situated. Maybe it was because this was an international flight, whereas Tomás and Juan Carlos were able to help us with domestic flights.

I did book this trip online with KIMKIM for 13 nights starting from Bogata. Bogata (2N), Villa De Levya(1N), Cali(3N), Medellin(2N), Cartagena(3N) and Santa Marta (2N).
Margarita Moreno from "The Colombian Trip " planned the trip for me and she was my contact for any issues during the trip as well. It was an amazing 13 nights in Colombia and the guides were awesome.
Margarita was awesome, very helpful and she always cheked with us to make sure that everything was ok with our trip. We felt... read more

I did book this trip online with KIMKIM for 13 nights starting from Bogata. Bogata (2N), Villa De Levya(1N), Cali(3N), Medellin(2N), Cartagena(3N) and Santa Marta (2N).
Margarita Moreno from "The Colombian Trip " planned the trip for me and she was my contact for any issues during the trip as well. It was an amazing 13 nights in Colombia and the guides were awesome.
Margarita was awesome, very helpful and she always cheked with us to make sure that everything was ok with our trip. We felt that cities in Colombia are much safer than lot of cities around the world. We really impressed with the public bath rooms in majority of the places and Clean restaurants everywhere.
I learned a lot about Colombia from all the guides and also had some very unique experiences with the activities during the trip.
Brujita ride and Tube floating in San Cipriano, El Penon de Guatape climb on a day trip from Medellin, boatride from Cartagena to Isabela in Rosario Islands, Fruit tastings in Bogota and Cali, visiting Salt Cathedral in Bogota, visiting historic Camuna 13 in medellin, hiking in the Tayrona Nationa park are some of the highlights.
Kudos to all the guides (Nataly, Claudia, Sol, Juan, Isaac and David) for their patience and help during the Activities and helping us at the airport during checkins.
I would highly recommend "The Columbian Trip" and Margarita for help with your future Colombian travel plans.

Activity Reviews

Discover La Candelaria & The Monserrate Hill

Colombia

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Nataly was awesome

Transport

Transfer from Bogota to Villa de Leyva -> Stop in Raquirá

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The Salt Cathedral & Zipaquirá

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

San Cipriano: a town with a bit of jungle!

Colombia

Very unique experience and do not miss this activity

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Comuna 13 Colors and local Food

Medellín

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Colorful Colombia: Flowers, Nature & Villages: Silletas, Guatapé & El Peñol

Medellín

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Enjoy the Beaches and Coral Reefs of the Rosario Islands (Shared Boat)

Cartagena

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hiking in the Tayrona National Park

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

As a Colombian adoptee meeting her biological mother for the first time, my trip to Colombia was expected to be memorable and extremely special. When beginning to plan the trip, I knew I needed a team who had great knowledge and big hearts as I needed a tour guide who could help translate during my conversation with my biological mother. I came across Kimkim in a google search and read nothing but great reviews so I decided to take a chance on them and I am so glad I did!
Right away... read more

As a Colombian adoptee meeting her biological mother for the first time, my trip to Colombia was expected to be memorable and extremely special. When beginning to plan the trip, I knew I needed a team who had great knowledge and big hearts as I needed a tour guide who could help translate during my conversation with my biological mother. I came across Kimkim in a google search and read nothing but great reviews so I decided to take a chance on them and I am so glad I did!
Right away Margartia made me feel welcomed to my home country, which meant so much for me. It was very clear that she had passion for what she does and she showed genuine happiness and excitement in my story and purpose of my trip.
The day my husband I were supposed to leave, there was a hiccup at the airport and we ended up having to leave later, which was about to result in the cancelation of our very anticipated tour of the coffee farm and our stay at La Palma y El Tucan. However, our tour guide Filipe was willing to take us to the coffee farm even though we would arrive around 2am! Without his extremely generous accommodation, we would have missed one of my favorite parts of our trip.
Filipe stayed with my husband and I the remainder of our trip in Bogotá and I’m so thankful he did. Filipe was well versed in all things Bogotá and its beautiful culture. From the 2am arrival on the coffee farm to being a part of one of a life altering moment (meeting my biological mother) Filipe was hands down the best tour guide I could’ve hoped for.
From Bogotá we made our way up the coast to the warm and colorful city of Cartagena. Upon our arrival we were accompanied by Lee who taught us the fascinating history of these beautiful streets. Lee was knowledgeable and made my husband and I laugh plenty.
A few days later we fid a street art tour led by Jorge. His knowledge of the culture and art of the city was incredible. Cartagena’s story is strong and I’m grateful to have heard it.

Margartia and her team at Kimkim were simply the best. Our trip was full of fun activities and we created memories that will last us a life time. We will be next in a Colombia again and will absolutely be in touch with Margartia when that time comes!

We had never been to Colombia before and in fact some friends asked us why we were going there. Felipe, our local specialist was very attentive and on each leg of our trip we were met at the airport by a greeter and a driver (very welcome on our arrival at 4:00am). Anytime we had a question through Watsapp, Felipe or a member of his team would reply within minutes even late at night. For each transfer Felipe confirmed the pick up details and gave the name of the people meeting us. We are now... read more

We had never been to Colombia before and in fact some friends asked us why we were going there. Felipe, our local specialist was very attentive and on each leg of our trip we were met at the airport by a greeter and a driver (very welcome on our arrival at 4:00am). Anytime we had a question through Watsapp, Felipe or a member of his team would reply within minutes even late at night. For each transfer Felipe confirmed the pick up details and gave the name of the people meeting us. We are now spoiled by the handholding but it absolutely eliminates the stress of travelling to a new place. A minor issue in the booking was sticking to the budget we had given for the trip.
We had guides in Bogota (Tom), Medellin (Manuella), Cartagena (Oscar) and the 4 hr drive from Taganga to Cartagena (Javier, who gave us an impromptu seminar on Colombian music). The latter was a pleasant no-cost surprise as the drivers rarely spoke English. In every case, the guides gave us a thorough overview of their cities, made restaurant recommendatons and were a very time efficient way to learn about Colombia. All were very enthusiastic and proud to teach us about their country.
The accomodations were all well selected boutique hotels, even the ones owned by Marriott and Hilton in Bogota. The locations allowed us to mostly walk to dinner and we never felt any security concerns. The restaurant bookings were excellent and made for some memorable evenings.

Hotel Reviews

The Artisan D.C. Hotel, Autograph Collection

Bogotá

A nice boutique hotel in a trendy part of Bogota. There was never a security concern and restaurants were all a few minutes walk. The bar and dining room were very nice (although we found that a glass of wine in the bar was a little pricey). The breakfast was excellent and the service was great. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was the noise. At 6:00am someone outside was shouting something that sounded like he was selling and there was ongoing conversation in the room next door that made me wonder if it was being used as an office. We stayed here again on a different floor the night before our trip home and I had to call the front desk about the noise coming from our neighbor at 11:00pm.

Authenticity & Character

Cool design of the room and very nice bar and restaurant

Location

Safe and trendy, near restaurants and bars

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Patio del Mundo

Medellín

This hotel is located in two large houses across the street from one another. Both have beautiful gardens where breakfast is served and nice lounge areas. While they are right in the heart of a restaurant and bar neighborhood, the gardens made it seem like we were in the country. The hosts were very welcoming and attentive. We met another couple at dinner who were scouting wedding venues and enthusiastically recommended Patio del Mundo as a place to book the wedding party during their stay in Medellin.

Authenticity & Character

Every room has a theme, we were in Argentina. There was no TV in the room but we didn't miss it and has a nice time on the patio of our room surrounded by tropical gardens.

Location

we only took an Uber for dinner once and walked to our other dining spots.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Quadrifolio

Cartagena de Indias

We ended up in this hotel because our original choice was booked by the time we pulled the trigger. It turned out to be the No 1 hotel in Cartegena and we were lucky to get it at no extra cost. It is set in a Colonial building that has been completely restored (there is a book in one of the lounges that describes the three year project to bring it back from ruin). The location was in the heart of the old town with bars and restaurants on every corner. We were met on arrival by the manager and checked in while sitting comfortably on a couch with a cold welcome drink. The room was incredible with high ceilings and a period appropriate theme. Breakfast was excellent and served at a community table so that you can meet other guests (however you can also dine privately across the hall). One morning we had an early pick up and the hotel served us a half hour before the usual starting time without a question. There is a hot tub on the roof with a small seating area that made a nice spot to sit outdoors (the hotel also supplied us with plastic wine glasses and a corkscrew so that we coould enjoy some wine we had bought).

Authenticity & Character

Beautifully renovated colonial building with a central courtyard. This was the highlight of the trip.

Location

The heart of the old town a quick walk to dining and bars.

Staff

Friendly and attentive, met ou every request including where to buy wine and water.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel San Pedro de Majagua

Isla Grande

People go to Rosario Islands because the beaches in Cartagena are not very nice. This hotel is served by it's own speedboats from the main port. We were fortunate to have a guide and driver take us to the departure point which was a bit chaotic. Our guide stayed outside the fence until we had checked in and were ready to board. It takes about an hour but on the return seasonal winds caused a detour that resulted in a 2 hour trip. Pro tip: sit on the right side on the way to avoid the sun and also on the way back to avoid the spray, some people were soaked. There are 2 boats carrying 40 people each, most of whom were day trippers. When the boat docks there is an orientation and welcome drink and then a stampede for one of two small beaches (one has music, the other does not and both have bars). There are beach chairs and a few Bally beds with curtains. Activities included scuba diving, cycling and kayaking through the mangrove but we found them quite pricey for what they were and in the case of scuba, about twice the going rate (300,000 COP for a 1 tank dive). It seemed more like a community money-maker than paradise lost. A positive was the great service and warm reception at the main desk and would like to cite Evelyn specifically. The service in the dining area was also excellent and the food and drink were good and reasonably priced for an island. A drawback were the ever present flies in the outdoor dining area, there were a couple of propeller type devices to shoo them which sort of worked but at breakfast we actually changed tables to get away from relentless flies. The rooms were little cottages scattered around the property. They were clean and comfortable, with outdoor seating areas and a hammock. We turned off the mini fridge at night as it was a little noisy and the room had a broken towel hook and toilet paper holder. On the whole, nice but in need of an update.

Authenticity & Character

The rooms need an update, service was excellent

Location

Staff

Evelyn at reception was a standout and spoke excellent English

Cleanliness & Comfort

The rooms were clean but had a few issues

Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton

Cartagena

A good hotel owned by Hilton. Great location, the best feature was the rooftop pool with dining/bar area. The room was modern, spacious and clean with separate toilet and shower area and double sinks. A deep and narrow modern building resulted in long narrow halways that reminded us of a movie set for an institution with blank walls holding multiple small wall planters. Breakfast had many options with a buffet and menu choices. The in-house Peruvian restaurant looked cool but we did not dine there.

Authenticity & Character

Modern and nice but could have been in any city.

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Welcome to Colombia!

Colombia

Arriving at 4:00am we were very happy to have a guide (Tom) and driver to take us to our hotel. When we arrived there was no one at reception and Tom stuck around to make sure we were checked in. Thanks Tom!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Coffee Shops Usaquen recommendations (no transportation and activity not included)

Bogotá

We did not do this activity, we did lunch instead

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lunch Reservation at Abasto (Usaquén area)

Bogotá

Very authentic local restaurant.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

City Tour of Bogotá with Gold Museum, Local Market and Monserrate Hill

Bogotá

Tom gave us a great tour of the city and a trip up to Monserrate. He was particularly helpful and interesting during the gold museum tour which I hadn't really been keen to do. Due to time constraints we did an interesting coffe tasting at the end of the day near our hotel. At the local market we tried a number of fruit that we had never seen before.

Quality of Experience

Tom was very knowledgeable and personable. He gave us a restaurant recommendation that turned out to be a highlight of our trip

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Lunch Reservation at Madre

Bogotá

This was a recommendation from a friend who visited Colombia last year. Very cool vibe and filled with locals. We asked Tom to join us and had a great meal and Cervesa. We were told it was better to do at lunch as the location was a bit sketchy at night..

Quality of Experience

Very cool, set in an area between two buildings with a roof.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dinner Reservation at Tierra Cocina de Entorno

Bogotá

A busy, trendy restaurant we had good food and a fun time. At the end of the evening they provided dry ince and sparklers for eveyone to celebrate the evening.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Dinner Reservation at Alambique

Medellín

This was another highlight of our trip. Very cool ambiance, live music and great food.

Quality of Experience

You would not find this place if your didn't look for it. It is down a long hallway in an old building on a busy street. Very cool,

Guides, Drivers and Staff

we went on our own, the restaurant staff were excellent

Transport

we took and Uber

Dinner Reservation at Andrés Carne de Res

Medellín

This was doubled booked to give us an option. We chose Alambique instead and cancelled the reservation.

City Tour of Medellín (Comuna 13)

Medellín

Manuella was an experienced and enthusiastic giuide who gave us a thorough tour of Medellin. She worked effectively with our driver who made a convenient and fun recommendation for an al fresco lunch in a local spot. We all had a great time.

Quality of Experience

We visited a local marketn took the metro, the goldolas and explored the hilltop communities and graffiti art of Medellin.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The driver was particularly personable and made a great recommendation for lunch. He seemed happy in his work and we requested him for our trip to the airpiort

Dinner Reservation at Rocoto

Medellín

This was an outdoor dinner spot a short walk form our hotel. At first we thought the reception was a bit abrupt but the waiter warmed up during the evening (picture a rough character from a Bond film). In many of the restaurants we went to we found the portions large enough for us to have 2-3 apetizers and wine.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

we walked

Sunset Drinks Suggestion at Café del Mar

Cartagena

We skipped this activity, it sounded touristy and busy/expensive. We have seen many sunsets.

Dinner Reservation at Candé

Cartagena

A very potpular restaurant, it was big, busy, expensive and touristy. We had a nice meal - mostly appetizers and there were dancers around the tables and live music. We prefer smaller and more authentic local spots.

Quality of Experience

The location was convenient and the restaurant was nice.

City Tour of Cartagena (Half Day)

Cartagena

Very interesting given the history of the city. Oscar was a very competent and enthusiastic guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Traditional Coffee Tasting

Cartagena

We had very insightful comments from the coffee person and had samples of coffee prepared in different fashions

Quality of Experience

Depart Colombia

Colombia

We were met on time at our hotel and had an uneventful 35 minute drive to the airport. We delayed our departure time to reduce our wait for our flight.

Arrival to the Islands

Rosario Islands

We and boatload of day trippers arrive to a welcome drink and orientation. Then there is a mad dash for the beach chairs at one of the two small beaches. We can check in at 2:00 pm but get in a bit sooner.

Quality of Experience

A bit crowded and impersonal, a tourist event but for locals

Transport

A 40 person sppedboat, check in and boarding is a bit chaotic and time consuming

Day at the Islands

Rosario Islands

The actrivities are good on paper however in practice underwhelming and a little pricey. The cuba diving was twice the going rate so we dove with a local dive shop nearby. The local guides wanted to sell us on the pricey cycling/kayaking in the mangrove tour saying there were no mosquitos (there were). We passed.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The staff at the hotel were excellent

Transport

The trip home took 2 hrs because of the wind. The left side of the boat was soaked, fortunately we had chosen well.

Departure from the Islands

Rosario Islands

The seasonal wind is very strong so they start the boats home early. The wind comes from the left so we boarded 20 minutes early and were rewarded by not getting soaked like those on the left side. Because of the wind the route back was along an artifical river made 300 years ago that adds an hour to the trip home.

Quality of Experience

Dinner Reservation at Marea

Cartagena

we cancelled this reservation

Bird Sanctuary

Cartagena

Interesting but not the same as seeing birds in the wild

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Oscar was very enthusiastic

Transport

Dinner Reservation at Juan del Mar

Cartagena

We had walked by this restaurant earlier and thought it looked cool. There was live music and again we shared appetizers, a main and dessert. Service was very good as was the music. Lot's of locals dining there. It was a block from our hotel.

Quality of Experience

Dinner Reservation at Mistura

Cartagena

Live music, a place popular with locals. We shared an apetizer, main, dessert and wine.

Quality of Experience

Dinner Reservation at El Chato

Bogotá

Due to confusion at the reception we were led to a table on the second floor which turned out to be exclusively for the 6 course wine-paired tasting menu. We had no interest in that and had some discussion about whether to just leave. Finally, they just accomodated us and we had a very good meal of three appetizers and a main in full view of the kitchen. Very interesting experience. The pastry chef was introduced who recommended a Vegan dessert which was great.

Quality of Experience

Our trip to Cartagena was great. We wanted an exotic getaway (without the kids) and since we did not have a lot of time to research and plan, we decided to use KimKim. Our local specialist, Wendy was very easy to work with. We discussed our plans initially over a call then everything else was handled via messages. Wendy was very responsive to our needs regarding our itinerary and settled on a 5 day trip that was a great mix of down time and exploration/tour time. A day or two before our trip... read more

Our trip to Cartagena was great. We wanted an exotic getaway (without the kids) and since we did not have a lot of time to research and plan, we decided to use KimKim. Our local specialist, Wendy was very easy to work with. We discussed our plans initially over a call then everything else was handled via messages. Wendy was very responsive to our needs regarding our itinerary and settled on a 5 day trip that was a great mix of down time and exploration/tour time. A day or two before our trip we got all the contact details we needed. We were picked up the the airport and later at the hotel for various outings. We never once was left wondering what was happening or felt unsafe.

Our city guide Roberto and snorkelling/nature guide Philipe Louis were awesome - not pushy, providing lots of fun conversation and information. Dean our local coordinator was always reachable whenever we had questions. In our 5 days, we did a city walking tour, a drum safari/workshop, a trip to the market and a full day at the Rosario islands. We felt we were able to get in touch with a more local side of Cartagena. Something most tourist would not experience. All in all, a very memorable trip. Thanks to everyone involved!!

Felipe was excellent from start to finish. My family and I had a wonderful trip to Columbia. Felipe was so helpful in putting together a trip that made all of us with different needs and desires happy. The hotels were steller, the guides lovely and knowledgable. We loved the drumming workshop in Cartegena - a real highlight. We needed to change directions on our trip several times as I had an injured leg. Felipe arranged for me to have an appointment with a physician and had... read more

Felipe was excellent from start to finish. My family and I had a wonderful trip to Columbia. Felipe was so helpful in putting together a trip that made all of us with different needs and desires happy. The hotels were steller, the guides lovely and knowledgable. We loved the drumming workshop in Cartegena - a real highlight. We needed to change directions on our trip several times as I had an injured leg. Felipe arranged for me to have an appointment with a physician and had medication delivered to my hotel. Also, when my daughter got a bad cold, he sent supplies and checked in daily. I always felt there was someone there if I needed anything at all - from something small to larger requests. This was the first time I used an agency to plan a trip. I researched many companies. This one was the only one willing to do as much or as little as I wanted and was not pushy about having us do more touring than we like.

Columbia is a beautiful place to visit. The people were kind and helpful. I learned so much about the history, and culture, and got to spend time in both cities and nature. I would love to go back. A shout-out to Margoth and everyone who helped make our trip easy and fantastic.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Casa San Agustin

Cartagena de Indias

A beautiful hotel with a staff that is kind and attentive. The rooms are lovely, the courtyard magical, and the food delicious. There was nothing the staff would not do to make you feel comfortable. It was a quiet retreat in the middle of a bustling city. Once inside, you were transported to serenity.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Patio del Mundo

Medellín

A lovely, quiet retreat in the middle of the city. Beautiful house with magical outdoor space. Lovely service and care.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Senda Watapuy

Santa Marta

A wonderful magical place in the middle of nature. The rooms were large and private and the property was well taken care of. The pool was lovely. My only wish is that they had more umbrellas or created shady pots around the pool. The sun is quite intense and there needs to be a way to stay outside by the pool without getting burned. Other than that, it was a great place to stay and I would not hesitate to go back.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Drums and Music Workshop

Cartagena

All I can say is go..... Support these amazing musicians, dancers, and artists. I loved the workshop, playing the drum, and dancing with the dancers. They were exceptional, and it is a great way to support their school. A highlight of my trip.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

I gave this Five Stars. It could have been 10 Stars. First, I had a great experience with lining up a trip that suited MY needs. The service was patient with me, always adapting to what I wanted to do and never pushing me.

Second, once I arrived in Colombia, David (tour coordinator) kept in constant contact with me. this was most appreciated.

And finally, I had a real Passport problem that necessitated a major change in my itinerary. this could have been a real issue. But David... read more

I gave this Five Stars. It could have been 10 Stars. First, I had a great experience with lining up a trip that suited MY needs. The service was patient with me, always adapting to what I wanted to do and never pushing me.

Second, once I arrived in Colombia, David (tour coordinator) kept in constant contact with me. this was most appreciated.

And finally, I had a real Passport problem that necessitated a major change in my itinerary. this could have been a real issue. But David got right on it and things were worked out and I went right on with my tour.

I would highly recommend KimKim to anyone. Very professional.

We actually don't know when Michael sleeps, he was super responsive and reassuring at all times - whether we were in the UK or in Colombia. We had an absolutely amazing trip with absolutely no hiccups or stresses, ever! All drivers were on time, the hotels - whilst varying in quality (due mainly to our budget), were all clean and well located and some were amazing and felt luxurious. All of our drivers were friendly, some had limited English but we enjoyed the challenge of trying to... read more

We actually don't know when Michael sleeps, he was super responsive and reassuring at all times - whether we were in the UK or in Colombia. We had an absolutely amazing trip with absolutely no hiccups or stresses, ever! All drivers were on time, the hotels - whilst varying in quality (due mainly to our budget), were all clean and well located and some were amazing and felt luxurious. All of our drivers were friendly, some had limited English but we enjoyed the challenge of trying to communicate in Spanish. We really did have a great trip and would strongly recommend anyone thinking of using Kim Kim to go ahead and do it - it will provide you with a fuss free trip which can be tailored to your tastes.

Hotel Reviews

BH Bicentenario

Bogotá

Great breakfast Good location for exploring La Candelaria and nice view of the mountains from the window Room a little warm (in January), no A/C or fan Quite corporate in feel, but good hotel for first night away. Also appreciated the complimentary fruit for our honeymoon!

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

A little too warm in the room, but comfy big bed

Hotel y Spa Getsemani

Villa de Leyva

Friendly, English-speaking staff Good massages and nice spa Good breakfast (less good coffee) Nice room

Authenticity & Character

Charming, nice little courtyard areas

Location

Very close to main square, but away from the madness. Quiet room.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Boutique y Spa Terra Barichara

Barichara – Santander

Gorgeous hotel, excellent service (coffee on arrival), took bags to rooms. Very helpful staff, particularly one young man who went out of his way to assist us and try speaking in English to us (whose name we have forgotten). He even organised a cake for my husband's birthday. Very relaxing and honeymoony experience. Beautiful, big room, big bed. Lovely bathroom. Very clean. Nice pool area. Good massage. Hotel restaurant on site, food ok (but doesn't quite match the standard of the rest of the hotel) We would give this hotel 5 stars if the food and cocktails were just a little bit better.

Authenticity & Character

Gorgeous

Location

10 mins by tuk tuk to Barichara

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Salento Real Eje Cafetero

Salento

Overall lovely hotel, nice breakfast, friendly staff who even put rose petals on our bed for our honeymoon which was a lovely touch. Room comfortable and clean, although ours had no window (but looked out into the internal courtyard).

Authenticity & Character

Location

Perfect, 5 mins walk from the main square, but on quiet street

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

La Campana Hotel Boutique

Medellín

Hotel room clean, but a bit dated and bathroom definitely needed an upgrade. Staff a bit less friendly here than elsewhere and no early check-in, which was a bit of a shame after a long journey to Medellin. Overall location pretty good, in el Poblado. Nice and quiet, could possibly have been a little bit closer to the action.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Quetzal Dorado Ecolodge

Zaino

We loved this hotel! The room was gorgeous and very serene. The staff/owner was very friendly and the food was very tasty. Overall service was great. No complaints, we loved it. Very convenient for visiting the national park (5 mins drive away, maybe less), nearby beaches also easily accessible by bus,

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Casa Villa Colonial

Cartagena

Good location, on a slightly quieter street but very close to the bars. Friendly staff. Overall comfortable room, a little on the small side. A safe in the room would have been nice. Breakfast a little basic and lacking in choice but tasty enough.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Very near to everything in Getsamani (our favourite bit of Cartagena), but surprisingly quiet hotel.

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Hotel Punta Faro

Isla Mucura

Beautiful and peaceful hotel. Food was good, lots of it and decent variety. Beach amazing and the hotel is in a gorgeous setting. Very serene and luxurious overall experience. Nice selection of activities at the hotel (eg snorkelling, walk of the island, massages). Room was stunning, with lovely complimentary bath products. Service was very good. A little information about the room and hotel upon arrival would have been nice (I don't know whether others usually get information about breakfast, check-out, wifi, activities etc but we didn't). Very quiet on a night after dinner, there isn't really any comfortable seating/ atmosphere around the bar area which we would have enjoyed.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Bogotá Walking Tour

Bogotá

Nicholas was a great tour guide, very knowledgeable, excellent English and very friendly.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit the Salt Cathedral at Zipaquira

Colombia

Interesting and a nice stop on the way to Villa de Leyva. To the point out the obvious, it is a Cathedral, so the sculptures are all religious themed. - lots of crosses, this might not be for everyone. The cave itself is, however, very interesting.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Again, Nicholas was a great guide

Transport

Horseback Riding in Villa de Leyva

Villa de Leyva

Overall we enjoyed the experience, I think there was a small hiccup with the driver who didn't arrive. But, the tour guide did and she quickly arranged for her husband to collect us from the hotel and take us to the horses. We really enjoyed the scenery around Villa de Leyva, which was beautiful. The horse owners/ guides were very friendly.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Very friendly, English a little difficult to understand at times, but enjoyable experience nonetheless.

Transport

Original transport didn't arrive, but guide quickly sorted out alternative.

Hike from Barichara to Guane

Barichara

Pretty hike, guide was local and very friendly and knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Diego picked us up from our hotel and took us straight there. (Diego was great!)

Visit Cocora Valley, Coffee Farm & Salento

Salento

Carlos was AMAZING! He had so much energy and was clearly very passionate about the nature in the area. He had so much knowledge and made the tour a very interesting and enjoyable experience. He was also infectiously entertaining. We would definitely recommend Carlos as a tour guide. Cocora Valley is beautiful and the coffee farm was also a great experience.

Quality of Experience

Food

Carlos took us to a restaurant between Salento and Cocora, this was the best authentic Colombian food we had the entire trip. It was delicious and was a place that Carlos obviously loved. Highly recommend!

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Tour Peñol & Guatapé

Medellín

This was our least favourite tour. In the pictures beforehand, Penol looked stunning so we were very excited about this. In reality, however, the boulder is just a tourist destination. The boulder itself was extremely busy, the queue in the carpark was long as was the queue up the boulder, the experience was all rather rushed and for our tastes, the natural beauty of the area is somewhat ruined by the overly-touristy feel of the boulder. We get the impression that perhaps once this was a great tourist destination but has now been a little "over-toured". The boulder is surrounded by tacky souvenir shops and fairground type attractions. We preferred the more intimate tours with smaller groups - this was a large bus tour which meant quite a lot more waiting around for other members of the group and less ability to interact with the guides and tailor the experience on the day. Guatape was a nice town, also very busy, but this part of the tour was definitely a much more pleasant experience for us. The restaurant food for lunch was of very average quality, however.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Hike Tayrona National Park

Tayrona National Park

Tayrona is a must-do. This was stunning. The wildlife, the park, the beaches, everything is just beautiful and very relaxing. The guide was friendly, he had worked in the park for some time so was very knowledgeable.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Picked up direct from hotel, guide sorted tickets and drove us through to the start of the park. All very stress free.

Rum Tasting

Cartagena

Juan was great. He was super friendly and his English was excellent. The whole experience was really fun, we appreciated the bits of food alongside the rum and the staff member that actually worked at the rum place who led the tour was also very friendly and was a great tour guide.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Day Trip to San Basilio de Palenque

Cartagena

Palenque was like nowhere else we had visited in Colombia. It was a fascinating place to see and learn about the history. We had a driver, two guides who came with us and a further guide in Palenque, which felt a bit excessive. We were not quite sure why three guides were needed, it made the car journey a little cramped and uncomfortable. But the guides were very friendly nonetheless and we had an enjoyable trip. We really enjoyed the experience in the boxing gym and the local Palenque guides in particular were very good.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

We had a wonderful trip. Our guides and drivers were extremely knowledgeable and helpful . The boutique hotels were very pleasant and the staff at each hotel were kind and always ready to help.
Margarita, who planned our trip was always ready to help. We are an older couple with excess questions, but Margarita was always there to help. She even applied for our entry and departure Check MIG forms. We saw others at the airport who were held up departing, but not us!!!
We both fell in love... read more

We had a wonderful trip. Our guides and drivers were extremely knowledgeable and helpful . The boutique hotels were very pleasant and the staff at each hotel were kind and always ready to help.
Margarita, who planned our trip was always ready to help. We are an older couple with excess questions, but Margarita was always there to help. She even applied for our entry and departure Check MIG forms. We saw others at the airport who were held up departing, but not us!!!
We both fell in love with Colombia and hope to return and see more.
Bill Kanz

Hotel Reviews

Hotel Terasu Salento

Salento, Quindío

This is probably this nicest boutique we have stayed in. The setting was wonderful and it was only a short walk from the central plaza in Salento. The staff could not have been more pleasant.

Authenticity & Character

Even feed birds on property

Location

Set in location with nature all around, but close to Salento's nail square

Staff

Very kind and helpful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Absolutely clean.

Bantu Hotel By Faranda Boutique

Cartagena de Indias

In a great location. Staff was great. Created from old mansion with great character.

Authenticity & Character

Beautiful ols mansion tastefully turned into a boutique hotel.

Location

Lots of activities within a short walk.

Staff

So, so kind and helpful.

Cleanliness & Comfort

Oerfect!!

Activity Reviews

Pablo Escobar History

Colombia

Learned much about history.

Quality of Experience

One leads about the complexity of humanity.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Could not be better.

Transport

The best.

Medellin Cultural Experience

Colombia

Never realized how beautiful and interesting this city would be.

Quality of Experience

Comuna 13 wmshould not be missed.

Food

Hotel was short walk to great restaurants

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The bbest!!

Transport

Great driver. Super clean car.

Colorful Colombia: Flowers, Nature & Villages: Silletas, Guatapé & El Peñol

Medellín

I think the most beautiful area we have seen anywhere.

Quality of Experience

Could not have been better.

Food

Again, loved the meals.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The best!

Transport

Clean car and very competent driver.

Salento, Filandia, & the Valley of Wax Palms

Colombia

See movie Wild Colombia and then go this amazing area.

Quality of Experience

Wonderful

Food

Great.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

The best. So knowledgeable.

Transport

Great

Coffee Farm Experience

Colombia

The home and farm were so real. Learned much about life in rural Colombia.

Quality of Experience

Family made us feel very welcome.

Food

Clean and well prepared

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Same great guide.

Transport

Again. Great.

Barú & the Rosario Islands

Colombia

We saw the Grand Isla which was the real thing. Our guide knew so much about area

Quality of Experience

Great.

Food

Well prepared, tasty and inexpensive.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Knew so much and server our every wish.

Transport

Great

Palenque: The first “free town” for Africans in the Americas

Cartagena

No history buff like me should miss visiting this town.

Quality of Experience

Very kind people who live here make for a not-to-be- missed. Tour.

Food

Ate at a local home. Food well prepared.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Knew the local people. This made the visit very real.

Transport

Great guid/driver.

Botanical Garden, Coffee Culture Tour

Colombia

Very pleasant.

Quality of Experience

Local guide was very knowledgeable.

Food

N/A

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Same guide agai knew everything local.

Transport

All OK

Santa Rosa Hot springs

Colombia

Loved watching the Colombians enjoy this beautiful place.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Same great people.

Transport

Same nice and safe driver.

Discover the Magical City of Cartagena & Getsemaní

Cartagena

Learned much about the history. Not to Be missed.

Quality of Experience

Same knowledgeable driver/ guide

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Again, great

Transport

Very competent driver.

Andrea organized my trip. She is the most wonderful and responsive agent I ever dealt with. She is a knowledgeable and personable travel advisor. I have traveled the world and plan so many more trips and will always think of kimkim as priority.
Andrea is very friendly and easy to work with and very professional and always gave me good advice and recommendation.
This trip was incredible, from day one my tour guides were amazing .. caring and very knowledgeable.. the actual trip was... read more

Andrea organized my trip. She is the most wonderful and responsive agent I ever dealt with. She is a knowledgeable and personable travel advisor. I have traveled the world and plan so many more trips and will always think of kimkim as priority.
Andrea is very friendly and easy to work with and very professional and always gave me good advice and recommendation.
This trip was incredible, from day one my tour guides were amazing .. caring and very knowledgeable.. the actual trip was also incredible.. thanks everyone who made possible this unforgettable experience!
I am a solo traveler and the attention and support I had was impeccable. I thank Andrea for making this happen. Thank you Very much dear Andrea.

Hotel Reviews

Hotel El Tambo

Just spent one night, quite comfortable and central

Authenticity & Character

Location

In the center of town

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Maloka Napü

Puerto Narino

A hostel for the Amazons quite comfortable and very centrally located

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Wonderful staff, owner, wife and cook

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

The Salt Cathedral & Zipaquirá

Colombia

Nataly was my guide, I enjoyed the visit tremendously. Christian, the driver, was also wonderful

Quality of Experience

Food

Good food which I enjoyed a lot

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Special thanks to my guide Nata and Christian, the driver

Transport

Excellent driver and transport facilities. Personsl

Transfer from The Salt Cathedral to Villa de Leyva -> Stop in Raquirá

Colombia

Comfortable ride, unfortunately it was raining heavily in Raquira so we toured it in the car

Quality of Experience

Beautiful and colorful town regret could not walk in it because of the heavy rain

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Outstanding Nata (guide) and Christian (driver)

Transport

Very comfortable

Hike from Barichara to Guane

Colombia

Lovely visit, we did not walk but went by car, I was happy it was by car because I was tired and jet lagged, so the car was better. Beautiful village

Quality of Experience

Lovely

Food

Good food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Wonderful Lilly, my guide and owner of the local tour agency. The most likeable, funny and smart guide.

Transport

I had Lilly as my personal driver and guide, most wonderful

Salento, Filandia, & the Valley of Wax Palms

Colombia

A most enjoyable tour, every location had its charm and beauty., really memorable. Juan a es an amazing guide and I learned a lot from him about the region.

Quality of Experience

Veryvenjoyable

Food

I enjoyed the fish tremendously

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Outstanding guide Juanca and very professional driver

Transport

Very comfortable

Coffee Farm Experience

Colombia

Very interesting experience, I learned a lot about coffee production. The owners of the plantation gave us a presentation and I had a handsome experience.

Quality of Experience

Food

Home cooking at the plantation was delicious

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Outstanding

Transport

Very good driver and comfy car

Street Food Tour

Cartagena

Wonderful foodie tour, I tried delicious street food

Quality of Experience

Variety of foid

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Javier was wonderful helpful and very knowledgeable

Transport

Discover the Magical City of Cartagena & Getsemaní

Cartagena

I loved Cartagena and Gestemani, both have wonderful vibes, artsy, musical and lively and enjoyed the food there as well

Quality of Experience

Colorful and lively

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Palenque: The first “free town” for Africans in the Americas

Cartagena

I was not familiar with Palenque before, I learned a lot from the local guide from the barrio

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Taironaka & River Tubing at Don Diego River

Colombia

Wonderful experience with Yubelis, my guide. We also had another local guide who explained to us about the Tairons tribes. We visited an indigenous tribe and learned a lot about them. I did not do the tubing part because I had a backache, instead we did the boat ride which was quite enjoyable

Quality of Experience

Food

Had a picnic on the beach which was quite nice

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Yubelis my guide was great, as well as the local guide in the visit to the Tayrona tribes

Transport

Minca: Explore a paradise in the mountains

Colombia

We went on an enjoyable hike to the waterfalls and the cocoa experience was informative

Quality of Experience

Food

We ate in a restaurant in Minca and enjoyed the food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Yubelis the guide was wonderful, helpful and knowledeable

Transport

Rough ride but very good driver

Discover and learn about Leticia

Leticia

Nice town, the gateway to the amazons, fascinating that you are at a spot where you can be in Brazil, Colombia and Peru.

Quality of Experience

Food

Food was ok

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Jimmy my guide a very sweet man, extremely helpful and attentive

Transport

Used taxis in Leticia and public boat transfers, quite organized

Leticia - Puerto Nariño - Fundación Natutama

Colombia

Puerto Nariño is a very beautiful town I was very impressed by its cleanliness. No cars nor motorbikes circulate, all on foot. It is colorful green and beautiful and residents are very friendly

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Michael put together a wonderful adventure for us along the Colombian coast. We started in Cartagena and had the most magical 2 days exploring the city. Our tour guide Jhoker was incredibly knowledgable, kind and trustworthy. Unfortunately we received tragic news from home and could not complete the rest of our trip. Michael made himself completely available to us in our emergency and Jhoker, God bless his soul, came to pick us up at 2am to take us to the airport for an urgent flight... read more

Michael put together a wonderful adventure for us along the Colombian coast. We started in Cartagena and had the most magical 2 days exploring the city. Our tour guide Jhoker was incredibly knowledgable, kind and trustworthy. Unfortunately we received tragic news from home and could not complete the rest of our trip. Michael made himself completely available to us in our emergency and Jhoker, God bless his soul, came to pick us up at 2am to take us to the airport for an urgent flight home. Michael worked tirelessly then to help us get refunded for whatever we could. He was a gem to have throughout the whole ordeal. I will absolutely plan another trip through Michael.

Activity Reviews

Cartagena City Tour

Cartagena

Jhoker was a wonderful guide

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

San Alberto Coffee Tasting

Cartagena

This was a fun experience; however I didn't think the coffee was anything spectacular

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Thanks to Michael and the Kim Kim team for the amazing support during our trip to Columbia. Despite lot of travel / logistical issues - Michael was able to help us re-plan and re-adjust our trip to make the most of it. The support team in Columbia - that provided all our transportation were very courteous and helpful. Special mention to Christian - our driver who took us from Cartagena to Minca - he was amazing.
We had to make lot of changes on the fly and Michael was very helpful and... read more

Thanks to Michael and the Kim Kim team for the amazing support during our trip to Columbia. Despite lot of travel / logistical issues - Michael was able to help us re-plan and re-adjust our trip to make the most of it. The support team in Columbia - that provided all our transportation were very courteous and helpful. Special mention to Christian - our driver who took us from Cartagena to Minca - he was amazing.
We had to make lot of changes on the fly and Michael was very helpful and patient in helping plan out our trip.

Thank you Kim Kim team
Best
Amit

Hotel Review

Hotel Bosques del Saman Alcala

Alcala - Filandia

We could not make it to the hotel as we missed our connecting flight

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Private Island Hopping

Cartagena

This was the highlight of our trip - beautiful islands along the way

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Rosario Islands Day Trip

Cartagena

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

My daughter and I had a great time in Colombia, visiting the small colonial towns around the beautiful mountains of Antioquia. The whole trip went very smoothly, thanks in part to the phenomenal job of Michael Gold, who answered ALL our questions always in a timely manner and paid attention to every detail.
WELL DONE MICHAEL!!!!
read more

My daughter and I had a great time in Colombia, visiting the small colonial towns around the beautiful mountains of Antioquia. The whole trip went very smoothly, thanks in part to the phenomenal job of Michael Gold, who answered ALL our questions always in a timely manner and paid attention to every detail.
WELL DONE MICHAEL!!!!

Great trip to Columbia. I would recommend working with KimKim!
There were a few minor issues that could be ironed out, but now that I know what to expect & the right questions to ask, I would definitely use this service again ;)

Our family trip to Colombia was amazing thanks to Margoth, Felipe and all team of Aracanto. Our guides - Nicole, Omar, Alba and Aura were great - knowledgeable and supportive all the time. All places that we visited - Bogota, Pereira, Salento, Cocora valley, Medellin and Cartagena were each very interesting and unforgettable. If someone is planning a trip to Colombia I can assure you that Aracanto will make your journey safe, promising and amazing ! read more

Our family trip to Colombia was amazing thanks to Margoth, Felipe and all team of Aracanto. Our guides - Nicole, Omar, Alba and Aura were great - knowledgeable and supportive all the time. All places that we visited - Bogota, Pereira, Salento, Cocora valley, Medellin and Cartagena were each very interesting and unforgettable. If someone is planning a trip to Colombia I can assure you that Aracanto will make your journey safe, promising and amazing !

Hotel Reviews

Nacar Hotel Cartagena, Curio Collection by Hilton

Cartagena

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Residence Inn Bogota

Bogota

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Sites

Medellin

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Movich Hotel de Pereira

Pereira

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

City Tour of Bogotá with Gold Museum, Local Market and Monserrate Hill

Bogotá

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Cocora Valley,  Salento, & Coffee Farm Visit

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

New Year's Eve at The Movich Hotel

Pereira

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

City Tour of Medellin and Pablo Escobar

Medellín

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Alba was amazing

Transport

Guatape and El Peñol Tour & Airport Transfer: {{start_location}} to {{end_location}}

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

City Tour of Cartagena (Half Day)

Cartagena

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Drums and Music Workshop

Cartagena

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

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Chocolate Tasting and Colombian Cacao

Cartagena

Depart Colombia

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

It was amazing, thanks for the all team who worked with me

We had such an amazing trip to Colombia. Everything was planned down to the minute, we had reliable transportation and guides and drivers the entire time. Everyone was on time for every single activity, and we had SO many things planned and the guides were so gracious about showing us around even during the holidays. Everything went so smoothly. We LOVED our guide Peter. He became a friend and made our time in Colombia completely unforgettable. 5 Stars for Kimkim and Chaska tours, thank you... read more

We had such an amazing trip to Colombia. Everything was planned down to the minute, we had reliable transportation and guides and drivers the entire time. Everyone was on time for every single activity, and we had SO many things planned and the guides were so gracious about showing us around even during the holidays. Everything went so smoothly. We LOVED our guide Peter. He became a friend and made our time in Colombia completely unforgettable. 5 Stars for Kimkim and Chaska tours, thank you both for the memories of a lifetime.

Hotel Review

Finca El Maco

San Agustin

Such an adorable, quaint place with such sweet and helpful staff. I would give it a 10/10, but the nightclub on the property was loud enough to keep me up at night, unfortunately. Otherwise the place would be perfect.

Authenticity & Character

Adorable eco lodge, beautiful grounds.

Location

Staff

Super sweet, helpful staff. Helped us out so much even though we don't speak Spanish.

Cleanliness & Comfort

The club across the way was extremely loud, and not great for someone who is a light sleeper.

Activity Reviews

Jeep Tour in San Agustín

San Agustín

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Monserrate Hill Tour

Bogotá

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Fruits of Colombia Food Tour

Bogotá

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Biking in Bogotá

Bogotá

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Tejo Game in Bogotá

Bogotá

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Day Hike in Chingaza National Park

Bogotá

Oscar was so sweet and gracious- I had to turn around early because I was pretty sure I was going to die and he so sweetly came up with so many ideas for fun other activities that were a little lower impact. He made sure we had sunscreen and snacks and were comfortable all day. What a sweet guy and he totally saved the day when I felt awful from altitude sickness.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit Tatacoa Desert's Astronomical Observatory

Villavieja

We left early for this activity, it was absolutely packed. We had to wait in line about 45 minutes to look into 1 of 5 telescopes. It's nothing about the guide or anything like that, we just didn't feel like waiting in line so much after a long travel day.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Day Trip to the Tatacoa Desert

Villavieja

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Coffee Tour on a Local Farm

San Agustín

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Visit the San Agustín Archaeological Park

San Agustín

Seriously one of the most interesting days of my life! I cannot recommend this activity enough. We learned so much and had such a beautiful nature walk.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Horseback Archaeology Tour in San Agustín

San Agustín

This was our favorite activity of our 11 day trip. Our guide was just the sweetest, the weather was beautiful, the horses were well trained and well taken care of, and the scenery was just breathtaking. And we had stops on the way and met some absolutely lovely people and got to see some history. I can't recommend this activity enough!

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Campesino experience in San Agustín

San Agustín

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Rafting in San Agustín

San Agustín

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Actually, Colombia was not my main destination, it was more of an add-on for my trip to Brazil. However, once I stepped into this fantastic realm, I am blown away and even extended my holiday. I love everything about Colombia, the food, the view, and the people, and I am already planning to come back. Wendy, my local specialist, is extremely helpful and quick to respond to my messages. The itinerary she arranged for me is amazing, and I had great fun every day. The local guides are also the... read more

Actually, Colombia was not my main destination, it was more of an add-on for my trip to Brazil. However, once I stepped into this fantastic realm, I am blown away and even extended my holiday. I love everything about Colombia, the food, the view, and the people, and I am already planning to come back. Wendy, my local specialist, is extremely helpful and quick to respond to my messages. The itinerary she arranged for me is amazing, and I had great fun every day. The local guides are also the highlights, they are all really passionate and informative. I have to say my favorite place in Colombia has to be Cartagena, the colorful buildings and Caribbean coasts are breathtaking and memorable. To be honest, every place I went to is incredible, and each has its unique views and cultures. I can't believe that my main impression of Colombia is mainly Encanto and El Dorado before, but I know I have a whole new understanding of Colombia, thanks to Wendy and all the local guides.

Activity Reviews

Walking Tour

Cartagena

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Tour with a Professional Photographer

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discover the iconic Comuna 13 & Medellín

Medellín

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Colorful Colombia: Guatapé Rock, Guatapé & Peñol-Guatape Reservoir

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Colombian Chocolates and Basketry Workshop

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Cócora Valley & Salento

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Discover La Candelaria & The Monserrate Hill

Colombia

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

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Welcome Dinner

Cartagena

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

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We had an incredible family vacation in Columbia with our guides Alba (Medellin) and Santiago (Bogota). Felipe was incredibly helpful in arranging an itinerary and trip plan based on our specific needs. Memorable experiences in Medellin were a coffee farm tour, and visiting Guatape and climbing El Penol. In Bogota we loved the Salt Cathdral at Zipaquira and the Guatavita Lake tour, Gold Museum, Monserrate, and chocolate experience. The transporation and dining arrangements were seamless. I... read more

We had an incredible family vacation in Columbia with our guides Alba (Medellin) and Santiago (Bogota). Felipe was incredibly helpful in arranging an itinerary and trip plan based on our specific needs. Memorable experiences in Medellin were a coffee farm tour, and visiting Guatape and climbing El Penol. In Bogota we loved the Salt Cathdral at Zipaquira and the Guatavita Lake tour, Gold Museum, Monserrate, and chocolate experience. The transporation and dining arrangements were seamless. I highly recommend using this service if you don't have extensive knowledge about your destination -- it is money well spent.

Hotel Reviews

Medellin Marriott Hotel

Medellín

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

NH Collection Bogotá Teleport Royal

Bogotá DC

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Review

Zipaquirá Salt Cathedral and Guatavita Lake Tour

Bogotá

Incredible experience. We learned a lot about the history and people of Colombia.

Quality of Experience

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

The trip plan David developed for us involved travelling through three diferent parts of the country, Tayrona National Park, the Guajira and the Orinoco, and gave us an idea of Colombia's amazing cultural diversity and natural beauty, just as we had hoped. We have both fallen in love with the country and are very much wanting to go back. It's difficult to say what were the highlights of the trip, as the thing we appreciated most was the possibility to travel, stay and eat with local people,... read more

The trip plan David developed for us involved travelling through three diferent parts of the country, Tayrona National Park, the Guajira and the Orinoco, and gave us an idea of Colombia's amazing cultural diversity and natural beauty, just as we had hoped. We have both fallen in love with the country and are very much wanting to go back. It's difficult to say what were the highlights of the trip, as the thing we appreciated most was the possibility to travel, stay and eat with local people, and getting an insight, even if only for a few days, into their way of life. Tayrona was the most familiar in feel as we have travelled in rainforests and stayed in eco-lodges before so it was a good place to begin. You feel as if you are in the clouds slightly above the treeline, and we counted a dozen different bird species just from our bedroom window. We could have gone into the nature reserve nearby but instead walked by ourselves along the road to the coast to orient ouselves. The reward was a blissful view of the Caribbean at Los Cocos in unspoiled natural glory - the forst reaching into the sand, a couple of local families playing football, a dog running freely in the sunset. At Los Naranjos nearby there is a botanical garden with the most beautiful trees.

The food and cocktails at Tayrona kept up the holiday feel but nothing could have prepared us for what happened next, which was when the real adventure began. We were driven to Riohacha which has an amazing frontier city feel - which is indeed the case, as after this comes the desert. Before dawn the next day we were picked up from the hotel by Paola, the leader of the local company who took care of us for the next few days, by Leiner, our guide, and by Oder, the driver, who himself is Wayuu. We could not have felt more welcome and also in safer hands. This is important as it has to be stressed that this is not country in which you can casually venture on your own. It is a place where it is necessary to respect the local people who live here. It is also difficult country, beautiful but inhospitable, and it needs intimate knowledge to get around. Oder the driver was also vital as it is very rough territory for even a 4-wheel drive. He was brilliant, keeping us steady whatever the ground, and taking time so we never felt remotely in danger. Leiner was a terrific guide: knowlegeable, friendly, fluent in English and possessing fantastic people skills. We enjoyed stunning views of windswept landscapes with sparse vegetation but amazing birdlife including Red Cardinals, eagles, vultures and hawks. The sea is everywhere. Attending a local sea turtle conservation project and learning about the way solar technology is used to produce drinking water in this parched land was an inspiring example of grassroot -level community renewal: small scale, local and democratic.
After a quick stopover in Bogota we prepared for a flight to Puerto Carreno, and transferred to 4x4 to reach the Orinoco river. The first sight of the river (the second biggest in the world) was truly unforgettable. Under the guidance of Rosevelt our extremely practical and competent guide, and two lovely travel companions, we spend the next few days travelling down the Orinoco by boat, staying at Tuparro biosphere reserve, Sarrapia, and El Remanso in the Mavecure. There is something unusually lovely about the Orinoco river: the abundance of flora and fauna, the geology with its striking rock formations, and the rapids described by Alexander von Humboldt as the eighth wonder of the world. But the most important thing for us was understanding the river as the lifeblood of so many different communities; connecting different places, providing water and food, as well as identity and belonging. While we felt our lack of Spanish imposed limitations on the way we interacted with people we nevertheless learned so much about the ways in which indigenous communities in the region are connecting traditional ecological knowledge to solutions to the contemporary environmental crisis while protecting their cultural heritage. And, as we discovered while watching the World Cup finals in El Remanso, the language of football really is universal. While tourism can be a highly ambiguous phenomenon (something of which people locally are very much aware), you feel that communities here are managing to get the balance right, and have created infrastructure that allows people to see the astonishing natural abundance of the region, and learn about its cultural diversity, without doing damages or changing its character. Let's hope it stays this way.

Hotel Review

Quetzal Dorado Ecolodge

Zaino

What a lovely spot! The view from the central terrace opens out over the valley, the river and the mountains in the distance and is almost impossibly beautiful. We particularly appreciated the emphasis on sustainability. The staff is friendly and helpful, and the atmosphere relaxed. Special compliments to the kitchen staff for the very tasty food.

Authenticity & Character

Location

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

Streams and mountains in Tuparro National Park

Puerto Carreño

In terms of sheer natural beauty, this is one of the most astonishing places we have ever visited, with every changing vistas and a final view of the Orinoco rapids. Edgar, the guide who took us op the mountain was incredibly friendly and extremely knowledgeable about the area and its flora and fauna.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Transport

Trip to Cabo de La Vela & Punta Gallinas 3 days - 2 nights

Colombia

This was an astonishing and beautiful experience, made possible by Leiner our amazing guide and Oder who drove us so safely. At the heart of it is an encounter with the Waiyuu people. The natural landscapes are incredible, topped only by seeing the turtle project explained at the Punta Gallinas community centre. We watched pelicans at sunset but we most enjoyed learning from our guides.

Quality of Experience

Food

Guides, Drivers and Staff

I would put ten stars here if possible.

Transport

Hiking to Cerros de Mavecure

Inírida

The Mavecure may be the most beautiful place we have ever seen. The hike is incredible we are told but forgive us as we chose instead to watch the world cup final with the local community. This was unforgettable.

Quality of Experience

Food

River fish.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Rosevelt is just so capable. He looks after you without saying a thing.

Transport

The boats. Never travel by car ever again.

Kim Kim, Aracanto, and Margoth planned a great trip for our family to Colombia. We enjoyed Cartagena, Tayrona, coffee country, and Bogota. We had excellent guides in each region, and enjoyed staying in some very unique hotels. The trip was a nice mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Highlights - old city of Cartagena, monkeys in Tayrona, wax palms in Cocora Valley, and the funicular in Bogota. Thank you for a great trip! read more

Kim Kim, Aracanto, and Margoth planned a great trip for our family to Colombia. We enjoyed Cartagena, Tayrona, coffee country, and Bogota. We had excellent guides in each region, and enjoyed staying in some very unique hotels. The trip was a nice mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Highlights - old city of Cartagena, monkeys in Tayrona, wax palms in Cocora Valley, and the funicular in Bogota. Thank you for a great trip!

Hotel Review

Hotel Boutique Sazagua

Pereira

A beautiful boutique property with a stunning garden. Impeccable service.

Authenticity & Character

Staff

Cleanliness & Comfort

Activity Reviews

City Tour of Cartagena (Half Day)

Cartagena

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Jaime was great

Tayrona National Park Tour and Hike

Colombia

Christian was a great guide - it was a serious hike but we enjoyed that.

Minca Tour and Local Cacao Farm

Colombia

Waterfall was cool - Cacao farm was interesting but the guide for that tour (whom I don’t think is the normal guide) was a bit weird. Christian, our full day guide, was great.

Cocora Valley,  Salento, & Coffee Farm Visit

Colombia

Cocora Valley is breathtaking, Salento is beautiful, and the coffee farm was education - this was a great day.

Guides, Drivers and Staff

Claudia was OK - but not as strong as our other guides on this trip.

Sanctuary of Flora and Fauna Otun Quimbaya

Colombia

The rainforest was beautiful but it was a lot of driving time for the experience.

Half-Day City Tour of Bogotá with Local Fruit Market and Monserrate Hill

Bogotá

What a great day - the fruit market was amazing, Monserrat Hill was beautiful, the Museo de Oreo was interesting, and the old city was enlightening. Nancy was a terrific guide.