Travel Insights

Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts

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You'll have plenty of chances to spot lions in Palmwag and Etosha

Namibia Safari Road Trip - 12 Days

Namibia is a model for conservation, with more than 42% of the country's surface area under some form of protection. Experience this natural wonderland over 12 days of safaris and other excursions, starting with a road trip adventure to the famous red sand dunes of Sossusvlei. Continue north for game drives in Etosha (one of the largest national parks in Africa) as well as some memorable experiences with local Indigenous tribes and visits to awe-inspiring waterfalls.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 13 Days

Namibia has the world’s largest populations of cheetah and of black rhinos living outside of protected areas, and if you're lucky you may be able to spot some of them on this 13-day trip. Drive yourself across the country's extensive parks, through neighboring Botswana, in search of wildlife both secretive and easily spotted.

Your southern Africa explorations start amid the Sossusvlei dunes in Namibia

Namibia & Botswana Safari Adventures - 14 Days

Spend two weeks spotting wildlife amid the deserts and savannas of Namibia and Botswana. Cruise around the high red dunes of the Sossusvlei salt pan, search out lions and leopards in famous national parks like Chobe and Etosha, and cruise through the Okavango Delta wetlands to see hippos, buffalo, crocodiles, and more. Hop over the border to Zimbabwe in between to witness the power of Victoria Falls and observe elephants on the banks of the Zambezi.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 15 Days

Botswana is home to the world's largest concentration of African elephants, so you should be able to see plenty of them and their friends on this 15-day tour. You travel through both Botswana and neighboring Namibia on a landscape-laden road trip across ecosystems, keeping an eye for the elephants and other wildlife along the way.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 16 Days

Tourists have been undertaking the classic safari journey for more than 100 years, and you can join their ranks in a more modern, ethical fashion on this 16-day expedition. Drive yourself through the many natural attractions of Namibia and Botswana, watching for wildlife in multiple national parks and conservation areas along the way.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 17 Days

See all the ways natural forces have shaped the African landscape over the centuries on this 17-day trip. You'll drive through the sweeping sand dunes of Sossusvlei and the Namib desert, rock formations in Damaraland, savannah salt pans at Makgadikgadi Pans, and more, keeping an eye out for both the perfect vantage point and plenty of wildlife along the way.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 18 Days

Take in the diversity of life in southern Africa on this 18-day journey. Traverse the terrain of Namibia and Botswana, surrounded by a variety of landscapes and animal life, on a self-drive itinerary. There are more than 500 recorded species of birds in the Okavango Delta alone, so don't forget to look up.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 19 Days

The Namib desert is more than 55 million years old, so give yourself plenty of time to contemplate the vastness of existence from atop its sand dunes on this 19-day itinerary. The desert is just one of the many dramatic landscapes you'll encounter as you seek out the wildlife of southern Africa, from ancient caves to lagoons and river deltas.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 20 Days

Travel through 20 days of animal-spotting on this safari trip. You'll make your own way through the widely varying landscapes of Namibia and Botswana in search of their wildlife residents, ranging in size from the African elephant down to the elephant shrew, with three separate national parks and even more game reserves and conservation areas on the itinerary.

Namibia & Botswana Safari Road Trip - 21 Days

Whether you're hoping to spot some hippos in the Okavango Delta, scope out seals at Cape Cross, or eye the elephants in Etosha National Park, you're sure to get in some quality animal viewing on this three-week trip. The self-drive safari route takes you across the wide range of terrain in Namibia and Botswana to visit multiple protected areas and introduce you to just some of the many flora and fauna that southern Africa has to offer.

Ljubljana to Zagreb: Lake Bled, Opatija & Plitvice - 5 Days

This five-day route will take you north through Slovenia and Croatia and give you the chance to see many of each country's most iconic sights. Begin in Ljubljana, the Slovenian capital, before working your way down toward the Croatian coast and Kvarner Bay. Then make your way to Zagreb through the Plitvice Lakes National Park. You'll drive through beautiful Slovenian landscapes to reach the crystal blue waters of the Adriatic Sea.

Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine - 11 Days

In just 11 days you can experience the most famous highlights of Patagonia. Beginning in Argentina, you'll fly to the region around Los Glaciers National Park and visit legendary landmarks like Perito Moreno Glacier and Mt. Fitz Roy. Then you'll hope the border into Chile where you'll hit the hiking trails and conquer one of the most beautiful national parks in the world, Torres del Paine.

Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine - 12 Days

In the southern cone of South America lies Patagonia, an unspoiled region home to some of the best hiking and most beautiful national parks in the world. On this 12-day adventure, you'll see these highlights, starting with Los Glaciers National Park and Mt. Fitz Roy, in Argentina. Then you'll cross into Chile for tours of its premier Patagonian national park, Torres del Paine.

Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Slovenian Alps- 5 Days

This self-guided five-day tour through the Slovenian Alps is perfect for independent adventure-seekers who want to spend their vacation hiking and trekking through gorgeous mountain scenery. The itinerary starts in the lively capital of Ljubljana before taking you into the Alps to meet shepherds and cheesemakers—and of course, taste fresh dairy products while you're at it. Your trek will take you up the lonely summits and grassy slopes of the Slovenian Alps, and you'll spend each night at a small mountain cabin. Finish your trip on the lovely shores of Lake Bled, and don't forget to ring the wishing bell!

Slovenia's Great Outdoors: Ljubljana, Lake Bled & Bovec - 5 Days

This brief but intense itinerary takes you through some of Slovenia's most postcard-worthy scenery. Start off in the capital before going lakeside at Bled, then spend a day hiking in Bohinj before heading up to through the mountains of the Julian Alps to visit Vršič Pass, Soča Valley, and Bovec.

Bariloche & El Calafate Classic Tour - 8 Days

You can pack a wealth of incredible Patagonian experiences into a mere eight days. After flying from Buenos Aires to El Calafate, you'll embark on a boat trip across a lake to visit the region's most famous glacier, Perito Moreno. Then you'll trek in one of the most beautiful national parks in the world—Chile's Torres del Paine—before finishing the trip on Lago Nahuel Huapi and the resort town of Bariloche.

Bariloche's Isla Victoria and Arrayanes forest

Bariloche & El Calafate Classic Tour - 10 Days

If you want to experience incredible nature excursions in both Chilean and Argentine Patagonia, then this itinerary is for you. It begins in Buenos Aires, from which you'll fly to El Calafate and Los Glaciers National Park to visit the awe-inspiring Perito Moreno Glacier. You'll then cross into Chile and trek in Torres del Paine, one of the most famous hiking destinations in the world, before finishing the adventure back in Argentina and the lakeside city of Bariloche.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, & Bariloche - 12 Days

Over 12 days you'll embark on excursions in two equally beautiful regions of Patagonia: Los Glaciares National Park and the Lake District. After living it up in Buenos Aires, you'll fly to El Calafate and cruise the waters of Lake Argentino, visiting massive glaciers. Then you'll fly to Bariloche, in the Lake District, where you'll enjoy more lake activities plus go hiking in Nahuel Huapi National Park.

Argentina for Adventurers: Tierra del Fuego, Beagle Channel & Iguazú Falls - 12 Days

Perfect for adventurers hoping to explore Patagonia, one of the last unspoiled regions of the world. You'll discover its splendor over 12 days, beginning in El Calafate with tours of the El Perito Glacier and hikes around the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. You'll travel farther south and visit penguin colonies in Tierra del Fuego and cruise the famous Beagle Channel before heading north to see an altogether different—yet no less impressive—natural wonder: Iguazú Falls.

The historic Palais des Papes (Pope's Palace) in Avignon

Best Time of Year to Visit Provence

The shoulder season months of May and September are the best times to visit Provence if you like warm weather, clear skies, and beaches without the throngs of tourists. But for travelers who can handle the crowds and surging prices, the summer (June to August) is a close second, as the lavender fields are in full bloom, and the French Riviera is open for business. If you're here in winter (December to February), enjoy a ski holiday in the Southern Alps or stick to the coast for wild carnival celebrations.

How Many Days to Spend in Barcelona

Barcelona is a city where you can get happily lost—in its energy, culture, and cuisine. With as little as 24 hours in Catalonia's capital, you can see the highlights, but with multiple days you'll discover even more of its treasures. Continue reading for the best options for activities in Barcelona, whether you're there for one day or five.

How Many Days to Spend in Madrid

If you're planning a vacation in Spain, most likely you'll arrive in the capital of Madrid. Not only is this the seat of Spain's government, but you couldn't imagine a more fun city—practically every block is home to world-class dining and drinking options. Even with just a day or two, you can have a great holiday in Madrid, but with four or five you'll be able to explore beyond the city limits.

Colombia Highlights: Bogotá, Coffee Region, Medellín & Cartagena - 14 Days

This journey begins in Bogotá, a melting pot of people from around the country. You'll then head to a nearby small town to witness a spectacular salt cathedral, one of Colombia's most visited attractions. Afterward, head east to the Coffee Region where you'll tour small towns, visit a coffee farm, and see the tallest wax palm trees in the world. The adventure continues in Medellín, Tayrona National Park, and Cartagena.

Hout Bay Beach and Cape of Good Hope, Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town Active Adventure - 15 Days

This 15-day tour focuses on exploring exciting Cape Town by pushing the boundaries of your body and mind. Enjoy fitness classes, surf lessons, and cross-fit challenges as you make your way through South Africa's most popular destination. You'll also get your adrenaline rush through adventure experiences like abseiling, canoeing, obstacle courses, and seal snorkeling. Finally, cycle through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes that surround Cape Town, including the Cape of Good Hope and the Cape Winelands.

Ecuador Wildlife & Culture: Quito, Mindo, Yasuni National Park - 10 Days

On this 10-day journey through Ecuador, you will experience culture and extraordinary wildlife. It is the perfect trip for the curious traveler who wants to see the magic of the Amazonian jungle, learn about indigenous communities, and experience history in the UNESCO-listed city of Quito. Zipline between trees through the rainforest, drink Wayusa with the Kichwa locals and shop for local crafts at the Otavalo Market.

Enjoy vistas of glaciers in Argentine Patagonia

Discover Argentine Patagonia: Buenos Aires, El Calafate, El Chaltén, Bariloche - 16 Days

Designed for outdoor enthusiasts, this active itinerary will take you to the highlights of Argentine Patagonia. After a walking tour and a tango show in Buenos Aires, you'll head to El Calafate where you'll traverse the towering Perito Moreno glacier with a guide. Next, you'll travel further south in Patagonia to El Chaltén for long hikes near the iconic Mount Fitz Roy. Then, you'll visit the charming city of Bariloche for a kayak tour on Lake Macardi.

Summit Mt. Meru in the early hours of the morning to see an African sunrise

Climb Tanzania's Mount Meru – 5 Days

Adventurous travelers who love the idea of climbing an African mountain but who don't want an extremely challenging experience will enjoy this four-day climb of Mt. Meru. Most days will include a few hours of hiking, while on the long summit day, you'll start in the middle of the night and be rewarded by sweeping views over the plains toward Mt. Kilimanjaro. Spot wildlife, trek through different vegetation zones, and afterward, relax at the beautiful and historic Rivertrees Country Inn.

Natural Wonders of Japan - 10 Days

Just as fascinating as Japan's ultra-modern urban culture is its spectacular natural scenery. On this 10-day adventure, you'll venture beyond the glittering cities to explore Japan's stunning natural wonders and learn about the country's ancient cultural traditions. Visit ancient shrines, climb mountain peaks, wander through lush bamboo forests, learn about geisha culture and fine arts customs, and marvel at the country's most prized landscape garden. You'll end the journey in quiet Kyoto, enjoying a boat cruise on the Hozugawa River past vibrant cherry blossoms.

Southern Patagonia - 16 Days

Explore some of the most beautiful locales in Patagonia on this 16-day adventure. First, there's Los Glaciares National Park, in Argentina, where you'll take a boat trip on Lake Argentino to Perito Moreno Glacier. Next, you'll enjoy guided hikes in Chile's Torres del Paine National Park before heading to Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world, to do some trekking and penguin-spotting.

Russia's Rural Golden Ring - 7 Days

Explore the old Russia of onion-domed churches rising behind medieval walls, traditional wooden peasant cottages, and legendary, expansive countryside. You'll experience the highlights of rural and provincial Russia in a short time on this seven-day tour, traveling beyond Moscow and St. Petersburg and getting the chance to visit lesser-known places including Vladimir, Yaroslavl, and Suzdal.

Soviet reenactors in St. Petersburg bring the days of the Second World War back to life

World War II History Tour of Russia: Moscow, Volgograd, St. Petersburg, & More - 10 Days

This tour takes you back to World War II, or what Russians call the Great Patriotic War of 1941 -1945. You will visit the battlefields of Borodino, which saw action in 1812 and 1941; Stalingrad, the high-water mark of Hitler's invasion and the site of his first major defeat in early 1943; and Leningrad, present-day St. Petersburg, which experienced one of history's worst sieges. History enthusiasts will love seeing where the action happened.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, & Bariloche - 13 Days

Visit the world's oldest glaciers on a 13-day Patagonian adventure that includes the alpine town of Bariloche plus Los Glaciers National Park. In the latter, you'll enjoy boat tours from the town of El Calafate to the most incredible glacier in the region, Perito Moreno. Then, in Argentina's beautiful Lake District, you'll experience the charms of Bariloche while embarking on nature hikes and boat trips around Lake Nahuel Huapi.

Buenos Aires, El Calafate, & Bariloche - 14 Days

This amazing two-week trip combines some of the most spectacular scenery that Argentine Patagonia has to offer. After enjoying a city tour and riverboat cruise in Buenos Aires, you'll head to El Calafate, the jumping-off point for Los Glaciares National Park, where you'll get up close to several glaciers. Finish the adventure in Bariloche where you can explore the region's lakes, forests, and mountains.

Highlights of Australia & New Zealand: Auckland, Rotorua, Queenstown, Sydney, Melbourne & Cairns - 14 Days

This two-week crossover trip takes you from New Zealand to Australia with plenty of adventure laced throughout. From Auckland, visit the Waitomo Glowworm Caves and the movie set of Hobbiton. Next, explore the volcanic landscape of Rotorua, followed by an entertaining dinner with the Maori. Go jet boating and wine tasting in Queenstown and tour the stunning Milford Sound. Then, fly to Sydney to go sightseeing and cruising around Sydney Harbour and embark on a day trip to the stunning Blue Mountains. In Melbourne, bookmark the hip neighborhoods and cafés and visit kangaroos and koalas in the wild. The tour concludes in Cairns with free time and an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef.

Cultural Immersion in Moscow - 8 Days

Spend a fabulous week deep-diving into Russian culture. Experience a Russian bathhouse and learn to cook some classic Russian dishes. Learn some of the language so you can communicate with the locals. Learn about Russian religion through its magnificent religious architecture, meet a local family for a traditional glass of tea, and enjoy other authentic experiences that will take you beyond the typical tourist trail.

Discover Norway by Train and Boat: Oslo, Bergen, Aurland, and Trondheim - 12 Days

Check off Norway's three biggest cities while traveling by train, ferry, and fjordcruise on this 12-day adventure. Start off in the country's buzzing capital followed by several days in Bergen on the west coast, surrounded by seven mountains. From here, board the Hurtigruten—a mighty coastal steamer—stopping in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund before sailing to Trondheim by way of the Geirangerfjord. Circle back to Oslo by train for one more night on the town.

A skyline view of the city of Medellín, Colombia's capital

Discover Medellín & Cartagena - 9 Days

Discover the hidden wonders of Colombia on this excursion through two of its historic cities. Travel to Medellín, capital of the Antioquia province, and see with your own eyes how the once-controversial city has transformed through its rich Paisa culture. You'll then explore Cartagena—the jewel of the Caribbean ocean—for the second half of the trip and experience the nearby beaches and islands first-hand.

Trans-Siberian Rail Tour: Moscow to Beijing - 16 Days

Three great nations—Russia, Mongolia, and China—all in one trip, on this Trans-Siberian rail tour. Begin in golden-domed Moscow, visiting the highlights of the Red Square, the Kremlin, and Novodeivchiy Convent. After, stop at the major Russian city of Yekaterinburg and Lake Baikal, the world’s largest lake. Mongolia will greet you with its endless steppes and the Gobi Desert, finally ending in China with the legendary Great Wall, the Forbidden City, and the Ming tombs.

Russia of the Romanov Dynasty: Moscow & St. Petersburg - 10 Days

History enthusiasts will love the chance to experience Russia's two greatest cities through places associated with the ill-fated Romanov dynasty. Beginning with Peter the Great's eponymous city, you'll uncover more than two centuries of history while getting to know the modern side of this classical city. Continue to Moscow, where you'll visit the big-ticket attractions as well as lesser-known spots around the Kitai Gorod neighborhood.

Botswana Safari: Chobe & Okavango Delta - 5 Days

Check out two of Botswana's top destinations on this five-day trip. You'll start with Chobe National Park, best known for its large herds of animals, particularly elephants, which you'll follow on safari walks and game drives. Keep going to the famous Okavango Delta, a floodplain full of wildlife most frequently viewed by boat or canoe safari amid the many channels.

Zadar's archipelago, not far from the coast of Croatia

Best of Croatia: Dubrovnik to Zagreb - 11 Days

Explore the best of Croatia, from the "Pearl of the Adriatic," Dubrovnik, to the country's capital, Zagreb. During this 11-day itinerary, you'll see and experience the incredible seafood and wine, drink in breathtaking views over some of the most popular islands, and experience Croatian culture. Slow down a bit and enjoy the history-rich country while keeping active with a few opportunities to cycle, paddleboard, and sea kayak.

Explore the Magic of Slovenia: Ljubljana and Lake Bled - 5 Days

Get a taste of Slovenia with this five-day itinerary that takes you through the streets of Ljubljana—where you'll learn how to make potica and visit Ljubljana Castle—and then to Lake Bled, where you'll get to watch the sunrise from above with a hot air balloon ride. On the way, you'll get to explore the underground landscapes of Postojna Cave and visit Predjama Castle, which was built right into a cliff. This short, action-packed itinerary really allows you to make the most of your five days in Slovenia.

Botswana Family Safari: Chobe & Okavango Delta - 10 Days

Safari through three separate zones of Botswana on this family-friendly route. You'll start off amidst the herds in Chobe National Park, known for its elephant population, then fly down to the Moremi Game Reserve in the Okavango Delta. This lush ecosystem is bustling with flora and fauna, and you'll take them in from both western Moremi and your final stop on the Pom Pom Lagoon on the delta's eastern side.

Agricultural terraces surrounding the ruins

Best Time to Visit Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu and its surrounds offer a variety of seasonal outdoor activities and phenomenal festivals throughout the year. For ideal weather (bright, dry and cool), you'll want to join the many travelers that flock to the area from June to August, but almost-as-great conditions can still be had in September and October, with considerably fewer crowds. Learn more about Machu Picchu's weather, crowds, and annual events below.

A road along Hawea Lake in New Zealand's South Island

Ultimate New Zealand Road Trip: Auckland, Rotorua, Wellington, Queenstown, Christchurch & More - 14 Days

Spend two weeks in New Zealand on this eventful road trip. From Auckland, drive through the Coromandel Peninsula to Whitianga. Then, stop in Tauranga before hitting geothermal Rotorua, followed by Art Deco-inspired Napier. Drive through gorges and vineyards toward Wellington, and ferry to Picton prior to arriving in Nelson. Cruise through beautiful Te Anau before closing out the journey in Christchurch.

Adventures in Argentina: Puerto Madryn & Tierra del Fuego - 11 Days

This adventurous 11-day tour combines the highlights of Patagonia with breathtaking wildlife-spotting excursions. You'll see exotic marine mammals at Puerto Madryn, including right whales and sea lions. In Tierra del Fuego, you'll travel up the Beagle Channel to a working ranch before finishing the trip in El Calafate where you'll take a boat tour to Perito Moreno, the most famous glacier in the region.region.

10 Days in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days, you can easily hop between three of Greece's distinct islands—Tinos, Naxos, and Ios in the Cyclades, for example—if you're looking for a variety of experiences. Or, immerse yourself fully in the culture and archaeological sites of one or two larger isles, such as Rhodes and Crete. Let these five itineraries inspire you.

2 Weeks in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In two weeks, you can experience the highlights of several Greek islands for a variety of relaxing, educational, and exciting experiences. Consider pairing Rhodes with Crete and Corfu, or touring a few lesser-known Cycladic isles like Tinos, Ios, and Syros. You can also choose a more immersive experience by sticking to only two islands—Naxos and Santorini, for example, offer more than enough active adventures and cultural experiences to fill 14 extraordinary days.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 5 Days

If your goal is to ski the best destinations in the world, you can't miss Argentina. On this epic winter holiday, you'll arrive in Buenos Aires and learn about the city's culture and history on a walking tour. Next, you'll travel to the southern lakeside retreat of Bariloche where you'll hit the slopes and enjoy the best ski conditions in the nation.

Argentina Ski Adventure - 6 Days

Any list of the world's best ski locales must include Argentina's southern Lake District. This is the gateway to Patagonia, and on an unforgettable six-day vacation, you'll ski the mountains around the beautiful alpine resort town of Bariloche. As an added bonus, you'll kick off the journey with city tours of Buenos Aires.

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