Travel Insights

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

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South Africa and Zimbabwe Safari: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, & More - 11 Days

Crocodiles have been on earth for roughly 200 million years. See if you can find one and ask it some historical questions on this 11-day trip. You'll start out gazing out at Cape Town from atop Table Mountain and sipping the famous vintages of the Winelands, then head out on safari through Sabi Sands reserve and the Hwange and Mana Pools national parks to see what you can learn.

South Africa and Zimbabwe Safari: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, & More - 12 Days

Painted dogs may look pettable, but they're actually one of the most efficient hunters of any large predator. You'll visit a painted dog conservation center along with two national parks and a game reserve on this 12-day trip, with some Cape Town city time in the mix, to see how many potential four-legged fuzzballs southern Africa has to offer. Just keep your hands to yourself.

South Africa and Zimbabwe Safari: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, & More - 13 Days

Rumor has it the "big 5"—elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo, and rhino—gained their name by being the hardest animals to hunt on foot. Luckily, you won't be walking through this 13-day itinerary and will only be hunting with your eyes. After strolling through the city streets of Cape Town, you'll set out on safari at three separate destinations to test out your animal-spotting skills.

South Africa and Zimbabwe Safari: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, & More - 14 Days

The African continent has more than 3,000 protected areas of land, and while you won't be able to cover all of them on this trip, you can get a good look. From the treetops of the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens in Cape Town and vineyards of the Winelands, you'll continue to the Sabi Sands game reserve and two different national parks in Zimbabwe to take in all the scenery and safari time the southern region of the continent has to offer.

South Africa & Zimbabwe Safari: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Hwange & Mana Pools National Parks & More - 15 Days

More than a billion gallons (5 million cubic meters) of water pour over Victoria Falls per minute. Watch it all rush by on this 15-day itinerary that takes you from the city comforts of Cape Town and culinary highlights of the Winelands out into three separate parks to spot as much wildlife as your binoculars can manage.

South Africa and Zimbabwe Safari: Cape Town, Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Mana Pools, & More - 16 Days

See just how many of southern Africa's animals you can spot over the course of 16 days. After four nights in Cape Town, which include encounters with penguins and whales, you'll set off on safari through three different national parks, with a stop at Victoria Falls on the way.

Highlights of Chiapas and Quintana Roo - 14 Days

Take in the views from atop ancient Mayan pyramids and underneath waterfalls with this two-week trip through some of the region's top spots. You'll wander through complex Mayan ruins, along turquoise shores, and into jungles as you learn about Mexican history and ecosystems.

Best of Northern Iceland: Arctic Coast & Lake Mývatn - 6 Days

New visitors and returning travelers who’ve experienced the Golden Circle and South Coast can enjoy the best of Northern Iceland—without the crowds. First, explore Glymur Falls in West Iceland, followed by visits to turf houses, the Hvitserkur rock formation, and geothermal pools along the Arctic Coast. Next, tour Akureyri, the stunning Goðafoss Waterfall, and Lake Mývatn at length. Then, go whale watching in Husavik, before heading back west to discover the highlights of Reykjavík and the Reykjanes Peninsula, with a relaxing grand finale at the Blue Lagoon.

Best of Croatia & Slovenia: Zagreb, Ljubljana, Istria, & Dalmatia - 16 Days

A great route to discover Slovenia and Croatia over 16 unforgettable days. Starting in Croatia's dynamic capital, you'll first head into Slovenia to discover charming Ljubljana, the popular Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj, as well as the captivating Soča Valley and Kobarid. Then, continue into the romantic Istrian peninsula discovering the walled hilltop towns and thickly wooded landscape before working your way to stunning Plitvice Lakes and then on to the Dalmatian coast ending your stay in medieval Dubrovnik.

The medieval hilltop town of Motovun lights up at night

Istria to Dubrovnik: Land & Sea - 11 Days

Enjoy this 11-day itinerary from Rovinj to explore the romantic countryside of the Istrian peninsula before continuing down the Dalmatian coast to end in Dubrovnik, the "Pearl of the Adriatic." You'll also spend five relaxing days aboard your personal sailboat for total island immersion from the larger, more populated islands of Hvar and Korčula, to the nature-focused Mljet. Drink Istrian wine and eat truffle-infused dishes in Motovun, marvel at Split's stone sphinx brought back from Egypt 3,500 years ago, and discover the 16th-century stone walls of Dubrovnik's Lovrijenac and Revelin fortresses.

The Old Town of Sibenik along the Adriatic Coast

Croatia Family Vacation: Zagreb, Rovinj, Šibenik, & Dubrovnik - 15 Days

This 15-day family-friendly vacation focuses on a few great locations and kid-friendly hotels to keep everyone entertained from Zagreb to Dubrovnik. Enjoy a day at the beach on Cape Kamenjak, kayak from Šibenik to explore the island fort of St. Nicholas, wander the ancient Diocletian's Palace in historic Split, and take a speedboat to discover the villages, hidden caves, and cliffs of the Elafiti islands.

Hike to Trolltunga while staying in Odda

Hiking in Southern Norway - 16 Days

This epic journey loops around a key section of Norway hitting up some of the best hikes in the country. Equipped with a sturdy rental car, make your way to several peaks, fjords, waterfalls, and national parks, with stops in scenic villages, farms, and UNESCO-listed monuments. Start and end the trip in seaside Bergen with time to enjoy the city's vibrant culture—and, of course, hiking trails in the surrounding hills.

Chitwan National Park is 932 square km of mostly jungle

Best of Chitwan National Park - 7 Days

Although Nepal is perhaps better known for its extremely high mountains, it is actually a very geographically and topographically diverse country. The plains bordering India, the Terai, are home to thick jungles and extensive wildlife, which are a surprise and highlight for many travelers. Visitors to the Terai shouldn't miss the Chitwan National Park, which has run a very successful one-horned rhinoceros breeding program. You're all but guaranteed to spot one of these incredible animals, as well as other wildlife and birds, in Chitwan. On this tour you'll have time to explore the highlights of Chitwan while staying in some luxurious and unique accommodation.

Explore the Golden Triangle: Kathmandu, Pokhara, & Chitwan - 7 Days

Experience the diversity of Nepal with this golden triangle of Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Chitwan National Park. Begin with sightseeing in Kathmandu, followed by a visit to Pokhara and villages in the stunning Annapurna region. From there, head to your riverside jungle resort in Chitwan. Spending some time on safari, you'll have a great chance of seeing rhino, various types of monkeys and deer—and perhaps even an elusive tiger.

Rhino spotting while walking the elephants

Best of Chitwan National Park - 5 Days

See another side of Nepal with this five-day itinerary that focuses on the grasslands and jungle of Chitwan National Park. Start with sightseeing in Kathmandu before two days of safari—you'll have the chance to see rhino, various types of monkeys, and perhaps even the elusive Royal Bengal tiger. During your stay in the park, you'll spend your evenings in a riverside, air-conditioned bungalow in the jungle.

Discover the Valley of the Moon on a tour that focuses on Santiago and the Atacama Desert

9 Days in Chile - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Nine days in Chile is enough time to pair a few days in the Santiago area (including day trips) with one or two more regions. Consider splitting your time between the capital city and the Atacama Desert, or head south from Santiago to the glaciers and wildlife of Chilean Patagonia. Active travelers can hike and bike their way through the national parks of Pucón, and those seeking adventure can hop a flight to Easter Island. Learn more in the itineraries below.

Iceland Highlights: Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Golden Circle, & the South Coast - 6 Days

This five-day, self-drive trip is a great way to experience the best of Iceland without driving too far from Reykjavík. Begin in Snæfellsnes Peninsula to tour the Djúpalónssandur black-sand beach, Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, and more. Then, visit the Golden Circle's Hraunfossar and Barnafoss waterfalls, along with Þingvellir National Park. Next, stop at the South Shore's Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls and Reynisfjara Beach, before reaching Vik. The trip concludes with sightseeing in Reykjavík and a taste of the dining and nightlife scenes.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 7 Days

In a mere week, you can craft an unforgettable Italian holiday that includes two historic regions. The first is Rome, with its ancient Colosseum, Vatican, and the myriad other sights you'll discover on a city tour. Then you're off to Sicily for a bit of culture and island fun in the form of street-food tours and a day trip to Cefalú, one of the most beautiful coastal cities in the world.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 8 Days

Get ready for a brisk tour of some of the most famous, beautiful, and ancient sites in Italy. This eight-day getaway begins with your arrival in Rome and guided tours of Roman landmarks like the Colosseum and globally renowned art museums like the Borghese Gallery. In Sicily, you'll make the capital of Palermo your base of operations as you go on street food tours and day trips to gorgeous coastal cities like Cefalú.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 9 Days

Nine days is enough time to both discover Rome and set off on an exciting road trip around the island of Sicily. In Rome, you'll tour the unmissable city sights like the Vatican, Colosseum, and the Borghese Gallery. Upon arrival, in Sicily, you'll pick up a rental car and set off from the streets of Palermo along the gorgeous coast to Mt. Etna before finishing the trip in the Baroque city of Catania.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 10 Days

Embark on the trip of a lifetime with a visit to not one but two of Italy's most historic locales. On this 10-day jaunt you'll enjoy city tours of Rome plus a cooking class where you'll learn to prepare traditional Italian dishes. Then you'll fly to the island of Sicily, where on a road trip you'll travel to coastal cities like Palermo and Cefalú, visit ancient Greek ruins at Syracuse, and even ascend Mt. Etna.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 11 Days

No Italian holiday is complete without visiting Rome, and no trip to Sicily is complete without driving around that historic island. On this 11-day itinerary you'll do both, starting with tours of Rome's most ancient and beautiful sights. In Sicily, you'll hop in a rental car and travel from its capital of Palermo along the stunning north coast to the east side, stopping at other historic cities like Syracuse and Catania.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 12 Days

12 days is not only enough time to enjoy an unforgettable Roman holiday, but you can add a road-trip adventure through Sicily to the itinerary. In Rome, you'll tour famous sights like the Vatican and Borghese Gallery plus learn the secrets to Italian cuisine in a cooking class. Then, after jetting to Sicily, you'll hop in a rental car and drive from one beautiful coastal city to another, from Palermo to Taormina to Syracuse to Catania.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 13 Days

If you want to see as many of Italy's historic sights and locales as possible on a limited time frame, you'll visit two places: Rome and Sicily. This 13-day itinerary covers both, beginning in Italy's capital with tours of the city sights and art museums. You'll then fly to Sicily for a road-trip adventure in which you'll stop at its most famous cities, ruins, and landmarks, like Mt. Etna.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 14 Days

In two weeks you'll not only immerse yourself in the splendor of historic Rome, but you'll also embark on an unforgettable road trip around the cultural melting pot that is Sicily. In the former, you'll tour famous sights like the Colosseum and Vatican plus take part in a local cooking class. In the latter, you'll drive around the island at your leisure, stopping at historic and beautiful cities like Syracuse, Agrigento, and Taormina.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary places you in the heart of two of Italy's most historic locales: Rome and Sicily. The adventure begins in Italy's capital where you'll have multiple days to tour its most famous sights and uncover its lesser-visited gems. Then you're off to Sicily for the road trip of a lifetime as you visit Greek and Roman ruins, dine on incredible street food, and ascend Mt. Etna.

Rome & Sicily Highlights - 16 Days

Lose yourself in the sights and sounds of Italy's capital before venturing south to the historic island of Sicily. This packed 16-day itinerary begins in Rome, where you'll visit the emblematic city sights. Then you'll jet south to Palermo and embark on a road trip around Sicily to discover its rich culture, cuisine, and history.

Naples, Amalfi Coast, & Sicily - 10 Days

Over 10 days you can add some of the most beautiful locales in Italy to your holiday scrapbook. This itinerary begins in the south and Naples and includes tours of both the ruins of Pompeii and an ascent of Mount Vesuvius. Then it's pure postcard beauty as you travel to the Amalfi Coast and Capri before jetting off to Sicily for a road trip around that island's most famous and historic sights.

Naples, Amalfi Coast, & Sicily - 11 Days

11 days is enough time to plan a whirlwind tour of southern Italy's most beautiful locales and historic sights. You'll start in Naples, birthplace of pizza, before sojourning on the Amalfi coast with its terraced vineyards and lemon groves. After fun and sun on Capri, you'll head to another great island—Sicily—for an unforgettable self-driving tour of ancient cities, Greek ruins, and active volcanoes.

Naples, Amalfi Coast, & Sicily - 12 Days

Southern Italy always makes for an unforgettable vacation. This 12-day itinerary guarantees that outcome, as it begins in Naples, continues along the ruggedly beautiful Amalfi Coast, and includes a jaunt to Capri, the crown jewel of the Mediterranean. You'll cap the adventure with a road trip from one side of Sicily to the other, during which you'll enjoy all the great food and historic sights that island has to offer.

After exploring Pompeii, hike 30 minutes up Mount Vesuvius for views over the Tyrrhenian Sea

Naples, Amalfi Coast & Sicily - 13 Days

In less than two weeks you can visit some of the most incredible locales in Italy. This includes the ruggedly beautiful Amalfi Coast, the postcard island of Capri, the cultural hotbed of Sicily, and even the birthplace of pizza: Naples. In addition, you'll get to tour historic sights like the ruins of Pompeii and natural wonders like Mount Etna, the largest active volcano in Italy.

Taste the best of Sicilian street food with this two-week tour through southern Italy

Foodie Tour of Naples, Amalfi Coast & Sicily - 14 Days

You can do a lot with the traditional two-week vacation. Case in point, it's enough time to jaunt to southern Italy and tour beautiful foodie locales like Naples, Pompeii, the Amalfi Coast, and the island of Capri. You'll even have time to polish your Neapolitan pizza-making skills and sip volcanic wine in the foothills of Mount Etna, rounding off your trip with a masterclass in Sicilian cuisine.

Naples, Amalfi Coast, & Sicily - 15 Days

Southern Italy is a treasure chest of historic sights and locales of unparalleled beauty. You'll discover much of it over 15 days as you travel from Naples and the Amalfi coast to the island of Capri and finally to the cultural melting pot of Sicily. Throughout, you'll dine on great pizza, pasta, and seafood while also taking wine tours, visiting ancient ruins, and hiking up to the top of iconic volcanoes.

Naples, Amalfi Coast, & Sicily - 16 Days

Get ready for the trip of a lifetime as you abscond to southern Italy for 16 unforgettable days. The grand tour begins with a bit of history on a tour of the Pompeii ruins before you sail off to the ancient Roman playground of Capri Island. The last portion of the trip is a comprehensive tour around the island of Sicily as you enjoy street food in Palermo, visit Greek ruins in Agrigento, and ascend Mount Etna volcano.

Naples, Amalfi Coast, & Sicily - 17 Days

This packed 17-day itinerary includes visits to the most stunning locales in southern Italy. It begins in the birthplace of pizza, Naples, with excursions to the ancient city of Pompeii and Mount Vesuvius. You'll continue to the incomparable Amalfi Coast and Capri Island for some leisure and beach time before heading to Sicily for street food tours and visits to ancient Greek temples.

Naples, Amalfi Coast & Sicily - 18 Days

Get away from it all on this comprehensive 18-day trip to the Amalfi Coast, Naples, and the island of Sicily. You'll soak in the sunshine of Amalfi and visit the ancient ruins of Pompeii, located near the pizza epicenter of the world: Naples. The trip ends in Sicily with a drive around this Mediterranean island while visiting its many highlights.

New Zealand South Island Adventure - 5 Days

On this five-day adventure through the South Island, explore four regions of New Zealand. Begin in Christchurch and go punting on the Avon River, followed by a ziplining excursion at the Adventure Park. Then, embark on several scenic walking tracks through the incredible terrain of Mount Cook National Park. Next, visit the town of Clyde for some sightseeing and wine tasting, followed by Queenstown for excursions like bungee jumping, skydiving, whitewater rafting, and more.

Take a local trail with views of the Aurlandsfjord

Family Hiking in Oslo, Bergen & the Sognefjord - 7 Days

This fast-paced itinerary covers three popular destinations with plenty of local twists for a unique family adventure. Start in Oslo where you'll have a few days to explore the capital's forests and rivers. Then head west to catch trails and views around the Sognefjord as you travel by train, ferry, and rental car. Finish with a fjord cruise to Bergen and pick between many hikes within its seven surrounding mountains.

Bardia National Park is one of the best places to catch a glimpse of the rare Royal Bengal Tiger

Wild & Remote West Nepal - 6 Days

Situated more than 300 miles (500 km) from Kathmandu, Bardia National Park is as remote and wild as it gets. For wildlife enthusiasts seeking an off the beaten path experience, it is a must. With only a fraction of the number of visitors compared to the more famous Chitwan National Park, you'll have a truly wild experience, one that is not overrun by crowds.

Catch panoramic views of Ama Dablam by helicopter

Namche Bazaar Heli Trek - 6 Days

Explore the Everest region by foot and by air in this unique Nepali tour. You'll have time to wander Kathmandu's windy, eclectic streets before heading to Lukla to begin your trekking adventure. Pass through local villages, cross thrilling suspension bridges in the verdant Dudh Koshi Valley, and spend some time in the charm and history of Namche Bazaar. You'll end your trip with a once in a lifetime flight aboard a private helicopter for a tour of the Himalaya, including a stop at Everest Base Camp.

Sailboat in the Supetar harbor on Brac Island

Sailing Dalmatia: Vis, Lastovo, Mljet, & Brač - 8 Days

A perfect combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation on this 8-day private sailing trip sees you sail from the ancient coastal city of Split to chart a course for nearby famous islands of the Adriatic. You'll spend the night in the harbor of five different islands, from isolated Lastovo to the larger islands of popular Korčula and Hvar as well as enjoy a little time on land discovering each of the island's character.

Ban Jelačić Square in Croatia's capital, Zagreb

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Rovinj, Plitvice, Hvar & Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Explore the best of Croatia on this 15-day itinerary, from Zagreb's edgy museums and architectural treats to the imposing fortress city walls in Dubrovnik. Spend three days enjoying the captivating Istrian peninsula and its gastronomy scene, then head to the travertine lakes of Plitvice before journeying down the Dalmatian coast to the historical cities of Zadar, Sibenik, and Split. You'll kayak amid the wooded Pakleni islands off the coast of Hvar, drink grk wine in Korcula, Marco Polo's hometown, and venture through the rugged wilds of the Peljesac peninsula.

The stunning Old Town of Rovinj along the coast of Istria

Best of Croatia: Pula to Dubrovnik - 15 Days

Explore the highlights of Croatia as you cross the country starting in the Istrian Peninsula in the north and working your way down the Dalmatian Coast to the "Adriatic Pearl", Dubrovnik. Along the way, you will explore ancient Roman ruins, medieval fortressed towns, and beautiful national parks. You will also bike, hike, kayak, and zip-line on this tour that highlights both adventure and cultural discovery.

Namo Buddha Monastery with the captivating Himalaya in the background

Balthali Village Trek - 6 Days

The Balthali Village Trek starts a short distance from Kathmandu on the edge of the Kathmandu Valley. Starting your trek in Jarsing Pauwa, you'll pass through quiet farming villages, verdant forests, and explore ancient temples. Immerse yourself in local traditions all the while enjoying stunning views of the Himalaya mountains wherever you turn.

8 Days in Chile - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In eight days, you can combine exploration of the Santiago area with one other major region—the Lake District, Atacama Desert, Patagonia, or Easter Island. Close to the capital, you can enjoy the culture of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar, and wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley. For the adventurous, hiking, biking, kayaking, and wildlife tours await via the trip plans outlined below.

Explore Pucón and Chile's Lake District with a visit to Huerquehue National Park to see ancient Araucaria trees

6 Days in Chile - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With six days in Chile, you can get a taste of Santiago and spend a few days in one other region. Explore Pucón and the Araucaria forest, visit Valparaíso and Viña del Mar in Central Chile, trek through the Atacama Desert or Torres del Paine in Patagonia, or discover the ancient stones of Easter Island—all in these five itineraries below.

New Zealand: Auckland & Rotorua - 5 Days

On this active, five-day tour, experience two different cities in New Zealand. Begin in Auckland and stroll the trendy neighborhoods, followed by a day outdoors, including a dolphin and whale watching excursion. Then, travel to Rotorua, a geothermal destination. Explore the cultural and historical sites, dip into the hot springs, bike through the Redwoods Forest, and visit the famous Polynesian Spa.

Ultimate Auckland Tour - 5 Days

Enjoy an eventful five days in Auckland on this active itinerary. Upon arrival in the “Big Little City,” explore the town’s best shopping nooks, restaurants, museums, and parks. Then, go kiwi spotting on a day-to-night nature tour, followed by a wine tasting trip to Waiheke Island. The vacation concludes with a ferry ride to Rangitoto Island to explore the scenic volcanic destination and its lava tunnels.

Sunset colors in the peaceful woods near Tromsø

Multi-Day Dog Sledding Adventure in the Arctic - 8 Days

Norway's snowy landscapes above the Arctic Circle offer perfect conditions for dog sledding. With this 8-day itinerary, you'll spend half of the trip at a sustainable farm taking part in day-trips (traveling by dog sled, of course) involving trapping and fishing, while learning about local culture with an expert guide. Spend the other half of the trip in the 'Paris of the North'—a lively city called Tromsø—to round out this fun adventure.

How Many Days to Spend on Santorini

The crescent-shaped island of Santorini is compact enough that driving from one end to the other takes less than an hour, and it's easy to maximize a short trip. With only 24 hours here, you can see the ruins of Akrotiri, the vineyards at Megalochori, and the whitewashed villages of Oia and Fira. But to really experience Santorini, consider spending three to five days: you'll be able to sightsee, hike, and beach-hop while embracing the relaxed pace of island life.

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