29 Jul 2025
Yamil (owner of Viasam) ensured this was a fantastic experience from start (private pick up from hotel) to finish (a delicious vegetarian meal with he and his wife in their own home ). The only other times I've had such a personalized approach to my wants and needs has been when visiting family and friends.
The tour of the mangroves, the close encounter with dolphins, and the numerous bird sightings (roseate spoonbills being my favourites of the latter) were all excellent. More than even this, though, Yamil shared extensive holistic knowledge about Guayaquil in particular and Ecuador more broadly: both challenges and progress, especially in relation to balancing development and conservation. It's also clear he and his company have created meaningful ties with the local community, ensuring everyone benefits from the tour you take.
Yamil made no promises he didn't more than keep, and was both flexible and agile in response to my preferences and plans. He contacted me early and maintained communication throughout. I recommend Viasam most highly, and had I known about their lovely home hostel (villa97) I would have stayed there instead of at a hotel.