Interesting festivals start popping up across the Sacred Valley during May, as dry season continues and shoulder season approaches high season towards the end of the month. May is a great month to experience Machu Picchu in some of the year's best weather conditions without those high season crowds.
The start of the dry season in the Andes makes April perhaps the best time to visit South America's most famous historical site. Machu Picchu's weather is more often sunny and rain-free than not, carpets of flowers brighten almost every vista, and the communities of the Sacred Valley have colorful Semana Santa celebrations, should Easter fall after the first week of April. Yet this is still shoulder season, with crowds far less than in June, July, and August.
The Inca Trail reopens, the wet weather starts to subside and, should Easter fall this month, Semana Santa brings in the crowds to Machu Picchu at levels not seen since the end of last season's shoulder period. Read on for more advice on traveling to Peru's most beloved attraction in March.
The big heads-up for Machu Picchu-bound travelers this month is that the Inca Trail is closed for maintenance, but Machu Picchu itself remains open. The heaviest rain of the year and the trail closure keep crowds away, but you will never see the ruins so refreshingly empty of tourists. A few interesting festivals take place across the Cusco region too, notably carnival.
For tourist-free views of Machu Picchu, visit in January. Peru's most popular attraction is much less crowded in the wet season. Rainy weather means a lot of mud—and far-from-ideal trekking conditions. But with the rain, flora flourishes. When the rains clear, as they often do, Machu Picchu appears spectacularly verdant.
December welcomes Christmas and New Year visitors looking to spend the holidays in Sicily's festive towns and cities. An excellent month to peruse Christmas markets, feast on local Sicilian delicacies, and explore ancient Greek and Roman ruins with next to no crowds.
While the weather is a little rainier than the rest of the year, November remains an excellent month for urban and cultural exploration as well as a possible beach day. November also ushers in wine season with St. Martin's Day kicking off a host of festivals celebrating seasonal fare and, of course, wine. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.
October is an ideal time of year to visit Sicily and explore its popular attractions without the crowds. Plus, the weather is pleasant enough to entice beachgoers and harvest festivals are plenty. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.
September is a fantastic month to experience Sicily as the summer weather continues and the crowds start to thin. There are endless options to take advantage of, from outdoor activities and cultural events to wine-and-food festivals, though if you're in search of a bargain you'll want to look toward the end of the month. Read on to learn more about visiting the Italian island in September.
August is the last full month of Sicily's lively (and pricey) high season. The weather is sunny and hot, perfect for beach days and all things watersport related, though you'll have to contend with the hordes of foreign and local tourists. Don't let that deter you though, as this guide will tell you what to do and where to go.
Without a doubt, July is Sicily's most popular time for travelers. The weather is hot and sunny, the Mediterranean is warm and inviting, and there are a host of fun and lively cultural and musical events that take place throughout the month and all over the island. Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in Sicily this month.
Sicily begins to heat up in June; the weather is beach-perfect drawing holidaymakers to the coastline and popular cultural attractions. And though you'll have to contend with the crowds, there are plenty of destinations to choose from in which to craft your perfect island holiday. Read this monthly guide to learn more.
May is undoubtedly one of the best times to get outdoors and explore Sicily. The weather is consistently pleasant, the crowds aren't yet at their peak, and there are a number of fun and tasty festivals to experience, granting you an all-access pass to the Italian island. Find out what to do and where to go with this May guide.
The Italian island is green, lush, and dotted with blooming wildflowers and citrus fruit—with the entire country coming out for Easter festivities. Take advantage of the fewer crowds and cheaper airfare during this shoulder season month and get yourself outdoors to experience all that Sicily has to offer. Read this monthly guide for more.
Experience the best of Slovenia and Croatia on this in-depth tour. Beginning in Zagreb, you'll work through Slovenia, from relaxed Ljubljana to its pristine lakes and the rugged mountains of Triglav National Park. Turn your attention to Croatia's Istrian peninsula and the Dalmatian Coast to wander ancient Roman ruins and medieval town centers, dine on fresh seafood and traditional fare, and climb centuries-old ramparts and parapets.
This complete two-week road trip is a great route for travelers visiting Croatia for the first time—you'll even have time for a quick visit to nearby Montenegro. Start in Croatia's capital, Zagreb, then journey along the best of the Dalmatian Coast until you reach its most popular southern city, Dubrovnik. Swim in the pristine waters of popular Krka National Park, lie out on the golden sands of Brac's Zlatni Rat Beach, and hike a medieval route between remote villages on the island of Hvar.
A combination of diverse cultural exploration and active adventure, this 10-day itinerary highlights the southern Dalmatian coast. You'll explore historic Dubrovnik, ancient Split, and idyllic Hvar, as well as venture to nearby islands, Krka National Park, and Sibenik. You'll bike Korcula Island, kayak off of Dubrovnik and Hvar, sail amid the Pakleni Islands, and discover the island of Brac.
Spring has sprung along the coast while there's still snow in the mountains and on Mount Etna, perfect for travelers looking to do it all. Tourist numbers are low, and prices for accommodation and flights remain attractive, making this an ideal time to see uncrowded popular attractions or head outdoors to hike, bike, and get in some skiing.
February is the tail end of Sicily's short winter, offering snowy adventures on the island's highest peaks, blossoming almond trees in the south, and massive festivals—as well as fewer tourists and lower prices. A predominantly Catholic region, Sicily gets into festive spirits around Lent and Carnivale, kicking off the coming of spring with Mardi Gras celebrations across the country. Find out what to do and where to go with this February guide.
Sicily's first month of the year is also its wettest. But with the rainy weather comes the start of Carnival season, fewer crowds, and lower costs than other times of the year. This is also one of the best winter months to do a little skiing on the slopes of Mount Etna.
This 9-day Peruvian tour is perfect for travelers who have a thirst for adventure. After a night in the bustling capital, you'll head to the Amazon rainforest for two nights at a beautiful eco-lodge known for hiking and viewing wildlife. Then, head to Cusco and the Sacred Valley to discover colorful textile markets and monolithic ruins. Top it all off with a guided tour of Machu Picchu before finishing on the shores of Lake Titicaca.
Experience three of the major regions of France with this trip through Bordeaux, the Loire Valley, and Paris. Start off shopping in the morning markets and sipping wine in historic vineyards, continue to tours of Renaissance-era castles and classic châteaux, and end your trip amid the city streets and cultural institutions of the City of Lights.
Discover the best of New Zealand on this 14-day road trip, covering highlights from north to south, as well as the lesser-known regions. Immerse yourself in varied landscapes, including the spectacular surfing spots of Raglan, geothermal areas of Rotorua, and glacial fjords in Te Anau. Along the way, you will also visit vineyards and encounter native wildlife as you hike, paddle, and fly your way across the country.
Explore the most scenic roads of Ireland's Wild Atlantic Way on this self-guided cycling tour. Meet friendly locals and take time to immerse yourself in Irish culture. On this excursion, you will discover breathtaking beaches, rugged cliff-lined coastlines, and majestic mountains. Spend your evenings in the homes of traditional Irish hosts, where you will learn the local, Irish way of life and be treated to warm hospitality!
Explore the culture and history of Ukraine on this seven-day, self-guided tour of Kyiv and Lviv. You will arrive in the capital city, which is rich with gold-domed monasteries to visit. In addition, you can discover the local arts, from the opera and ballet at the National Opera of Ukraine to shops along Andriyivskyy Descent, which highlights the local craftsmen. In Lviv, you can indulge in local flavors, including cherry wine and plenty of sweet treats. A hike up the ruins of Lviv High Castle will provide spectacular panoramic views of the charming town.
On this seven-day, self-guided tour from Kyiv to Odesa, you will explore the Ukrainian history and culture of both cities. Your trip coordinator will arrange apartments and guidebook materials in both locations. In Kyiv, the capital city, you can experience Independence Square and visit the many gold-domed cathedrals and monasteries. Next, in Odesa, you can kick back on the different beaches along the Black Sea, climb the iconic Potemkin Stairs, and go to the opera and ballet theater for a live performance. Make sure to indulge in plenty of Ukrainian fare along the way!
This guided road trip is the perfect introduction to Ireland for newbies. Over a week, you'll visit both classic icons and some off-the-beaten-path sites—paired with beautiful landscapes and gentle walks to breathe in the fresh air of Ireland's spectacular Wild Atlantic Way. In the evenings, partake in the local pub experience with a pint of Guinness and traditional Irish music. The tour starts and ends in Dublin, where you can bike and kayak to some of the capital's best sites.
This nine-day tour provides the ultimate off-the-beaten-path adventure in Europe. Starting in Lithuania's historic capital, you'll travel west to the Baltic coast to bike and relax on sand dunes and pretty beaches. Then, continue to Latvia's capital, where you'll explore medieval buildings and exquisite Art Nouveau architecture. Finish with some day trips to impressive palaces and castles—as well as a gorgeous national park—before returning to cobblestoned Riga for a range of restaurants and cafés.
This 14-day adventure covers the highlights of Croatia from north to south, all the way from the Dalmatian Coast to the inland national parks. You'll leave no stone unturned as you stroll the cobbled streets of ancient cities like Split, Dubrovnik, and Trogir. Discover culture and history in Zagreb, visit the waterfall-filled national parks of Plitvice and Krka, go truffle hunting in Istria, and meet the locals with an authentic family farm experience in the Croatian countryside.
Get ready for an immersive 14-day itinerary that will take you through almost every region in Croatia. It begins in the culturally rich capital of Zagreb, continues through the Istrian Peninsula, and finishes with an epic journey down the beautiful Dalmatian Coast. You'll end the trip in Dubrovnik, one of the most awe-inspiring ancient fortress cities in Europe.
This 10-day itinerary follows the path of Japan's ancient Tokaido Highway (the Golden Route) from the skyscrapers of ultra-modern Tokyo to the cultural heart of Kyoto. In between the two cities, you'll stop in the beautiful town of Hakone to soak up Mount Fuji views, hot springs, and excellent museums. Traveling by bullet train, your flexible Japan Rail Pass offers plenty of day-trips for a truly customizable adventure.
This 10-day road trip in the South Island combines the best New Zealand has to offer. Discover jaw-dropping scenery here, including Lake Tekapo and its turquoise waters, Mount Cook and the surrounding glaciers, the peaks of Mount Aspiring National Park, and the magnificent fjords. you'll also enjoy more intimate and off-the-beaten-path experiences, including the exploration of the Banks Peninsula, with its active wildlife setting, as well as immersing yourself in the historical gold rush of the small town of Clyde.
This 10-day itinerary is the ultimate introduction to South Africa for animal lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Start your adventure with two nights in Kruger National Park followed by a self-drive tour from the Eastern Cape through the Garden Route and all the way to Cape Town while seeing members of the Big Five, as well as ostriches, penguins, meerkats, and a range of marine life off the South Atlantic Coast.
On this two-week self-drive journey through Australia, visit two major cities and plenty of scenic stops in between. Begin in Melbourne before heading to Mount Baw Baw for some hiking, biking, or fly fishing. Next, spend two days in Yarra Valley, followed by a return to Melbourne to do some sightseeing. Then, head to Sydney to launch into more offshoots—Katoomba, Blue Mountains, Mudgee, Lithgow, and Hawkesbury River included. The vacation concludes in Sydney with visits to Bondi Beach, Sydney Harbour Bridge, and the famed Sydney Opera House.
This exciting Mexican road trip covers a whopping number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites—perfect for culture enthusiasts. Starting in Mexico City, you'll visit historic colonial towns, architectural sites, nature parks, and gorgeous interiors while making your way to both coasts with free time each evening to explore markets, restaurants, and art galleries on your own. This two-week itinerary is best suited for those who like to be on the move (a private driver and transfers are included).
Barack Obama and his family recently visited Provence, choosing a village near Avignon as their base for exploring the region. Follow in their footsteps with this 7-day trip inspired by their itinerary—you'll dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant where the presidential family enjoyed a celebratory meal, shop in the same off-the-beaten-path village known as the "Provençal Venice" for its charming canals, visit the region's best vineyards, and more.
This exciting Middle Eastern adventure gets to the heart of hospitable Jordan in just one week. Starting in the capital of Amman, you'll visit ancient Roman ruins, experience the UNESCO-listed sites of Petra and Wadi Rum, and see Byzantine mosaics in Madaba Archaeological Park. You'll also have two days to enjoy the Red Sea and Dead Sea, respectively, and spend a night in a luxury Bedouin Camp for stargazing.
If you're trekking in the Himalayas, you may spend a day or two in Pokhara along the way. But the lakeside city is more than a stopover: from spectacular sunrise views and paragliding to boating to a Buddhist temple and dining on traditional Tibetan food, there's plenty to see and do. Here's the perfect plan for spending 24 hours in Pokhara. Spoiler alert: you'll be getting up early.
On this scenic trip, you'll visit two of the largest cities in Japan: Tokyo and Osaka. However, your itinerary will mostly focus on some of the lesser-known islands surrounding the mainland. Hachijojima has some of the best stargazing in the country, Aogashima is a tiny, beautiful volcanic island, and the Goto islands have an impressive history with stunning beaches. Discover a side of Japan most visitors never get to see!
Spain is known for its historical charm, beaches, and (of course) incredible gastronomy. With the help of our local specialists, you can discover the must-see cities, romantic hidden villages and dramatic landscapes. In this article, we'll go over how kimkim will help you craft the perfect Spanish adventure.
The combination of historic and modern beauty makes Japan the ideal vacation destination. On this journey of old world-meets-new world, you will explore the progressive city of Tokyo, along with strolling through pockets of old Japan. Excursions into the hot springs of Gero Onsen and the gardens of Kanazawa will allow you to experience the preservation of nature. Even still, you can channel Japan’s past–in present-day–by taking up residency in a thatched-roof farmhouse in Shirakawa-go, connecting with long-time local artisans in Takayama, and exploring the ancient temples of Kyoto.
Take yourself through the scenery of Ireland on your own power with this self-driving and hiking itinerary. Your path will take you through buzzing cities rich with history, like Dublin and Cork, along with the natural wonders of the Cliffs of Moher and the Aran Islands, with plenty of opportunities to get out to stretch your legs and see the country from the trails along the way.
Vietnam is one of the most intriguing destinations in Southeast Asia, with its sublime mix of tropical coast, remote farming villages, and cities filled with culinary delights and historical significance. Learn about the nation’s harrowing past in Ho Chi Minh City, eat your way through Hoi An, or cruise through the panoramic jewel of Halong Bay with this roundup of highlights and itinerary ideas.
From the snow-dusted Alps to Liguria's coastal trails to the bright blue water of the Lakes Region, Italy's landscapes have plenty to offer active travelers. Hike in the Dolomites, cycle through Tuscan vineyards, windsurf on Lago di Garda, or ski on the snowy slopes of South Tyrol — read on for advice and itinerary suggestions for the best active adventures in Italy.
Explore the magic of Ireland independently with this self-drive itinerary. You'll go from the ancient streets of Dublin to the rebel city of Cork, the quaint village of Killarney, and the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Keep going to the spectacular views of the Cliffs of Moher and the buzzing cultural scene of Galway before you ultimately return to Dublin.
With 10 days in Chile, you can enjoy a mix of relaxation and adventure on a highlights tour of Santiago, the Lake District, and Patagonia, while those looking to tick off the famous W Trek will delight in five days on the trail hiking from one refugio to the next. Wine enthusiasts will love a slower-paced journey around the picturesque vineyards of Chile and Argentina. Or, for the hearty adventurer, head to the Atacama Desert to explore its sand dunes, salt flats, and craggy canyons.
If you have two weeks in Argentina, you can enjoy an introduction to the country's cities, waterfalls, and desert scenery on a highlights tour or focus on the Patagonia region and experience the dramatic landscapes of Los Glaciares and Tierra del Fuego National Parks. Travelers looking to explore from top to bottom should opt for a trip that includes El Calafate, Bariloche, and Salta, while those seeking a unique experience should drive around Northern Argentina's volcanic landscapes and salt plains.
Nepal is a geographically diverse place. Though many travelers associate the country with the Himalayas, a significant portion of Nepal's land is flat—including on the Terai, the plains and forests near the border of India. With this ultimate guide to the Terai, discover another side of Nepal, from national parks filled with rhinos to the birthplace of the Buddha.
This 10-day itinerary combines Spain's three most exciting cities with a nice mix of private tours and free time. Kick-off in Seville, where you'll experience the beautiful historic center and up-and-coming Triana district. Next, train to Madrid—with a stop in Córdoba—and stroll through the elegant streets and world-famous Prado Museum. Finish in cosmopolitan Barcelona for Mediterranean beaches and Gaudí highlights.
In a mere week you can see some of the most exotic birds in the entire world. The destination is Costa Rica, home to over 850 different species. On an active journey through rainforests and over mountains, you'll see many of them, including macaws, toucans, motmots, aracaris, and more.
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