KMS Travel Opens up About the Power of Friendship and Meaningful Experiences

In a world filled with dreams and aspirations, the story of KMS Travel stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, friendship, and the pursuit of meaningful experiences. It began in 2017 when a business administrator with a passion for travel, Pablo Banfi, embarked on a journey that would forever change his life and the lives of those around him.

Banfi’s desire to create a travel company that went beyond mere itineraries and sightseeing led him to hire tour guide Sergio Piñeiro. Piñeiro holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in history, has an insatiable curiosity for diverse cultures, and is known for a deep love for adventure. Little did they know that this serendipitous meeting would mark the beginning of a remarkable partnership and a shared vision that would shape KMS Travel.

Piñeiro’s vast knowledge of history and his genuine enthusiasm for cultural aspects breathed life into the itineraries crafted by Banfi. As a guide, Piñeiro worked to showcase the country’s pre-Hispanic legacy and unique attributes – he wanted people to always bear in their memories that they were in Chile. Together, Piñeiro and Banfi meticulously designed tours that went beyond the surface, delving into the stories, traditions, and hidden gems of each destination. Their synergy was apparent and the partnership thrived.

However, life had unexpected plans for Piñeiro: soon after, he was diagnosed with an aggressive form of skin cancer. It was a challenging time for him, filled with uncertainty and fear. As he underwent surgeries and battled his way towards recovery, his unwavering spirit shone through. His approach to life changed too – while he grew tougher on the outside and capable of enduring more, he also grew bolder and more confident in taking risks. His priorities shifted too, as he learned to focus on what is essential, not waste time, put effort and attention into what matters most to him, and become more aware of all he has to be grateful for. Throughout this difficult period, Banfi stood by his side as a friend, providing support and encouragement to lift Piñeiro’s spirits.

As Piñeiro regained his strength, that spirit of tenacity and fearlessness would serve him well as an unprecedented crisis – the global pandemic – hit the world. The travel industry, along with countless others, faced a profound collapse. Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, Banfi and Piñeiro remained resolute in their belief that KMS Travel could weather the storm.

With financial discipline and sheer determination, KMS Travel managed to stay afloat during the darkest days of the pandemic. Their commitment to their vision, coupled with a deep understanding of their client’s desires for authentic experiences, laid the foundation for their eventual triumph.

In 2020, seizing the opportunity that adversity often presents, Banfi invited Piñeiro to become his partner in KMS Travel. It was a natural progression, as their shared experiences had forged a bond that extended beyond business. 

The merging of Banfi’s economic acumen and Piñeiro’s humanistic perspective gave rise to KMS Travel’s unique approach to travel. Itineraries became vehicles for personal growth and cultural appreciation. Every detail was meticulously curated to offer travelers a transformative experience, connecting them to the essence of the destinations they visited.

Now, a couple of years after their partnership began, KMS Travel is much stronger and more members have joined the team. The newest members –  Carolina Pastene and Evelyn Peña–  have become key figures in the organization, bringing fresh air, adaptability, and professional expertise. Each program they create reflects the harmonious blend of economic viability, cultural richness, and different perspectives. Adding new members to the team continues to remind us that even in the face of adversity, dreams can be realized and meaning can be found.

Travelers who embark on a journey with KMS Travel are asked to participate in a transformative adventure. From our personal experience, we hope to help others open their hearts and minds, embrace the unknown, and be present in the moment – as travelers, that means full immersion in the stories and traditions of the destination. May we all strive for a deeper connection with the world and each other, and a greater understanding of ourselves.

About KMS Travel

KMS Travel is an authorized company registered with the National Tourism Service of Chile and the Federation of Tourism Companies of Chile. We are also members of international associations (ATTA, LATA, others) which guarantee good practices for the sustainable development of tourism.

Our Mission: “Create meaningful experiences for our clients in contact with nature and local culture, while providing them with knowledge, openness, tolerance and integrity. In short, help them become better people”.