Travel Insights

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

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Patagonia Trekking & Vineyards -12 Days

Ever dreamed of embarking on an unforgettable mountain trek in Patagonia? Then this active 12-day itinerary is perfect for you. The journey begins with a tour of Santiago and the port city of Valparaiso, with a delicious wine tour in between. Then you'll head south to Patagonia and arrive at one of the greatest trekking sites in the world: Torres del Paine National park. Here you'll embark on the iconic W Trek, and spend five adventure-filled days amid the park's lakes, valleys, and glaciers. By the end of this excursion, you'll truly be able to say you did Patagonia right.

Rwanda Highlights - 12 Days

This adventurous itinerary checks off Rwanda's top 3 national parks. Start in Kigali and visit historical museums, browse local art, and see the 1994 Genocide Memorial. Visit a rural village to see everyday life, then trek into the forest to see wild chimpanzees and Dian Fossey's gorilla research station. End your journey with a trip to Akagera National Park to see Africa's largest game—elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and the magnificent African lion.

A gorilla with her baby in Rwanda's mountains

Wildlife & Culture in Rwanda - 14 Days

Start your adventurous trip in Kigali and visit historical museums, browse local art, and see the 1994 Genocide Memorial. Visit Ibyi Iwacu and Gastura villages to learn about traditional life and support local tourism, then trek into the forest to see golden monkeys and rare mountain gorillas. End your journey with a trip to Akagera National Park to see Africa's largest game—elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and the magnificent African lion.

Cuernos del Paine in Torres del Paine National Park

Santiago & "W" Trek Adventure - 10 Days

Explore Chilean culture and experience the rugged landscapes of Patagonia on this ten-day trip. Start your adventure in the capital city of Santiago and explore the city's markets, skyscrapers, and parks. Next, head to the coast to experience the vibrant and colorful cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar. Then, venture south to Patagonia for a visit to Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll head out on a four-day version of the famed "W" circuit trek to take in the stunning beauty of Patagonia on foot.

Los Torres in Torres del Paine National Park

Santiago & Modified W Trek Adventure - 9 Days

Discover the best of Chile's urban and natural landscapes on this 9-day adventure. Begin with a cultural exploration of Santiago on a full-day city tour. Next, head to the Maipo Valley to take in its stunning mountain landscapes while sipping Chilean wine. Then, venture south to Patagonia for a visit to the iconic Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll embark on a 4-day version of the famed "W" circuit trek—a multi-day hike featuring some of the park's most breathtaking scenery.

Guanacos in Torres del Paine National Park

Atacama Desert & W Trek Excursion - 11 Days

Explore Chile's beautiful extremes on this 11-day itinerary. After getting a taste of Santiago, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part in the world known for its geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then, travel south to Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park to challenge yourself on the W-trek, a world-famous route that will take you through some of the most breathtaking landscapes the park has to offer.

Argentine Tango & Wildlife Exploration - 6 Days

Get in touch with the rhythm and wildlife of Argentina on this 6-day adventure. Begin in the modern metropolis of Buenos Aires. Here, you'll take in the city's sights and sounds on a half-day tour, followed by a traditional Argentine tango lesson. Next, head south to Puerto Madryn, a seaside community in Patagonia famous for its diverse ecosystem featuring many unique birds and marine mammals. Here, you'll take in the stunning scenery and wildlife while visiting a penguin colony and going a whale watching excursion.

Chilean Wine & Lakes Tour - 8 Days

This itinerary is ideal for those travelers looking to discover Chile's natural beauty and culinary heritage. Start in Chile's wine region with excursions to both the Maipo and Casablanca Valleys. Here, you'll learn all about Chilean wine while enjoying the scenery and delicious pairings. Next, experience the coastal cities of Valparaíso and Viña del Mar before traveling south to the Lake District, where central Chile meets Patagonia.

Santiago, Valparaíso & Patagonia Nature Trip - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in the unique landscapes and culture of Chile. Start your journey in Santiago and head to the Casablanca Valley to indulge in Chilean wine before traveling to the coastal city of Valparaíso to discover its beautiful murals and artsy vibe. Then, get an up-close look at a 150,000-strong penguin colony before heading to the famed Torres del Paine National Park to experience some of the best hiking trails and landscapes the region has to offer.

Buenos Aires & Puerto Madryn Adventure - 8 days

Experience the culture and wildlife of Argentina on this 8-day adventure. Begin your adventure in the cosmopolitan capital city of Buenos Aires. Take in the city's sights and sounds on a full-day bike tour. Then, head just outside of the city to experience gaucho culture, and enjoy some traditional Argentine asado. Next, head south to Puerto Madryn, a seaside community in Patagonia famous for its diverse ecosystem featuring many unique birds and marine mammals.

Exploring Santiago, Valparaíso & The Lake District - 6 Days

Indulge in some of the best urban and natural landscapes Chile has to offer. Begin your journey in the cosmopolitan capital city of Santiago to explore its cultural and culinary delights. Next, head to the coast to experience the artsy vibe and colorful streets of Valparaíso, followed by wine tasting in the world-renowned Casablanca Valley. Then, head to Pucón in Chile's Lake District, where central Chile meets Patagonia. Here, you'll enjoy trekking through the native Alajuela forest, hiking up to glaciers, and relaxing in hot springs.

Santiago & Valparaíso Exploration - 4 Days

If you want to experience some of the highlights of the Santiago region but are strapped for time, then this quick four-day trip is perfect for you. Arrive in Santiago and take in the major sights during a full-day walking tour. Then, it's off to the coast for some wine tasting and an exploration of the most romantic city in the nation: Valparaíso. Take your time to explore the colorful streets and take in the city's artsy vibe before returning to Santiago for the evening.

Exploring Santiago & the Atacama Desert - 8 Days

This itinerary allows you to experience the major cities and wine regions of central Chile and the arid desert landscapes in the country's north. First, you'll arrive in Santiago and take a city tour before discovering the nearby wilderness and wine country. Then, it's a trip to the coastal seaport and UNESCO World Heritage Site of Valparaíso. Afterward, you'll jet off to the Atacama Desert in the north, where you'll visit the Indigenous villages, geysers, painted mountains, salt flats, and lunar landscapes for which the region is deservedly famous.

Ski Portillo, Santiago & Valparaiso - 8 Days

Begin your adventure in Santiago, and explore the colorful city of Valparaiso, and take in the sights and sounds of the modern metropolis. Next, head to the coast for a tour of the colorful city of Valparaiso accompanied by wine tasting in the Casablanca Valley. Then, Head out to the mountains to hit the slopes at the world-renowned Portillo Ski Resort. Spend several days testing your skills on the slopes, followed by evenings of relaxing at the spa or dining at the resort's fine restaurants.

Los Glaciares National Park Quick Trip - 5 Days

Explore the highlights of Argentine Patagonia on this five-day adventure. Begin in Buenos Aires before heading south to El Calafate. Then travel to Los Glaciares National Park to get an up-close look at the famed Perito Moreno Glacier. Next, take a trip to Estancia Cristina to visit the local folkloric museum as well as the Continental Ice Field Refuge, where you'll be treated to incredible views of Upsala Glacier and Lake Guillermo.

Boating on the Beagle Channel in Ushuaia

Buenos Aires, Ushuaia & El Calafate Adventure - 9 Days

Discover the wonders of southern Argentine Patagonia on this whirlwind itinerary. Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Buenos Aires, then fly down to Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—to see penguins in the wild, sail on the Beagle Channel, and hike in Tierra del Fuego National Park. Top it all off with a visit to El Calafate, where you'll see the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier, visit a traditional ranch, and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field.

Punta Arenas & Torres del Paine National Park - 7 Days

Begin your weeklong Patagonian journey in Chile's metropolitan capital city. Next, head south and walk with Magellanic penguins on Isla Magdalena. Top it off with a trip to Torres del Paine National Park. Here you'll be treated to breathtaking views of vast grasslands, glaciers, forests, and more. You'll even have the opportunity to hike to the base of the park's iconic towers.

Torres del Paine Express Trip - 5 Days

On this quick trip, you'll get to explore one of the most impressive landscapes on earth, Torres del Paine National Park. You'll enjoy an in-depth exploration of the park's natural beauty, including a hike to the base of the iconic towers and an up-close look at the majestic Grey Glacier during a boat tour.

Chilean Patagonia vs. Argentine Patagonia: Which is Right for You?

Rugged and romantic, Patagonia encompasses the southern cone of South America, including parts of both Argentina and Chile—and each side has unique advantages for travelers. Want to get as far off the beaten path as possible? Head to Chile. Deadset on visiting Tierra del Fuego and have limited vacation days? Argentina is right for you. Read on for highlights and things to consider when deciding where to go in Patagonia—you might just decide to see it all.

View of Osorno volcano from Petrohue waterfall

Exploring Chile's Lake District - 12 Days

On this active and comprehensive 12-day itinerary, you will discover one of the lesser-visited gems of South America: Chile's Lake District, where central Chile meets Patagonia. Begin your journey in the cosmopolitan city of Santiago. Next, head to the southern city of Puerto Montt, where you'll visit the mythical island of Chiloé. The remainder of your trip has it all: penguin colonies, kayaking fjords, trekking through native Alajuela forest, hiking up to glaciers, and much, much more.

Remarkable Rwanda - 6 Days

This exciting itinerary hits Rwanda's top cultural and natural sights. Try your bargaining power at a busy market, shop for local art, and visit the Kigali genocide memorial. Trek in Nyngwe Forest National Park to see reclusive chimpanzees in their natural habitat. End your journey with a visit to Volcanoes National Park to see where renowned naturalist Dian Fossey worked to protect the endangered mountain gorillas.

Dingle Peninsula and the Blasket Islands

Hiking & Island Hopping in Cork & Kerry - 7 Days

Explore the islands and peninsulas of Ireland's southwest side on this 7-day itinerary. Start out in the former smuggler's landing port at the village of Baltimore, then head out for hikes along the coastline, up the stone steps of the island of Skellig Michael, and out on the Blasket Islands. Meet the local puffins and basking sharks along with dairy products and musical pub traditions as you travel along the Cork and Kerry Way.

Western Ireland on Foot: The Burren, Aran Islands & Connemara - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in the glorious scenery of western Ireland on this eight-day walking itinerary. Start in the coastal village of Doolin to hike through the lunar landscape of The Burren, along the Cliffs of Moher, and out to the Irish-speaking island of Inis Mór. Skirt inland mountain ranges and the lakes of Connemara to end your adventure in Galway, where cozy pubs and live music await. Luggage transfers and daily breakfasts mean all you have to do is set off with your day pack and enjoy the scenery.

Self-Guided Dingle Peninsula Walk - 6 Days

Spend six days on Ireland's rugged West Coast with this hiking tour. You'll head down the Dingle Way from the country town of Tralee down to Inch Beach and onward to Dingle town, offering great pubs and traditional music in this Gaeltacht, a majority Irish-speaking area. The trail takes you through a landscape inhabited for 6,000 years, full of history and archaeological monuments alongside the crashing Atlantic Ocean.

Rwanda Wildlife Highlights - 5 Days

This exciting itinerary hits Rwanda's cultural and natural highlights. Try your bargaining power at a busy market, see art and historical sites in Kigali, and visit Ibyi Iwacu cultural village to learn about traditional life. End your journey with a trek deep into Nyungwe Forest National Park to see wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Wildlife & Culture in Rwanda and Uganda - 10 Days

This adventurous itinerary checks off two of Rwanda and Uganda's top national parks. Trek with gorillas and golden monkeys, see art and historical sites in Kigali and visit a rural village to learn about traditional life. End your journey with a trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park to see Africa's largest game—elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and possibly the elusive African leopard.

Mount Fitz Roy in Argentina's stunning Los Glaciares National Park

Los Glaciares National Park & Fitz Roy - 7 Days

If you want to experience the heart of Argentine Patagonia, come to Los Glaciares National Park. This one-week itinerary begins with your arrival in Buenos Aires, where you'll have the day to explore the city. Then you're off to El Calafate to hike across the iconic Perito Moreno Glacier before checking out the town of El Chaltén and enjoying hiking excursions around the famous Mount Fitz Roy.

Torres del Paine & Ultima Esperanza Fjord - 11 Days

There are few places in the entire world more desirable as a trekking destination than Torres del Paine National Park. Located in Chilean Patagonia, this vast portion of unspoiled mountain wilderness is protected, safe from development and welcoming to anyone looking for outdoor adventure. This itinerary covers all the highlights of the park, including visits to its mountain peaks, lakes, glaciers, and even a kayak outing on a nearby fjord. What could be better?

Lago Pehoé in Torres del Paine National Park

Central Chile, Lake District & Patagonia - 10 Days

Check off three spectacular regions of Chile on this active 10-day itinerary. After touring the capital of Santiago, and the vineyards of the Maipo Valley, fly to Puerto Montt and transfer to Puerto Varas in the Lake District for snowcapped volcanoes and plunging waterfalls. Finish off on the southern tip of the continent for cycling, kayaking, hiking, and horseback riding, surrounded by Patagonian scenery in Torres del Paine National Park.

Central Chile, Lake District & Atacama Desert - 10 Days

Explore three distinct areas of Chile with this 10-day itinerary. After getting a taste (literally) of the big city and its nearby wine region, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part of the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. You'll then base yourself in a German-style lake town while taking day trips to volcanoes, waterfalls, and an exotic rainforest along the coast.

Ride horses at a ranch in Chilean Patagonia

Ultimate Chilean Patagonia Adventure - 12 Days

Experience the best of Chilean Patagonia on this epic 12-day adventure. Take some time to sightsee in the capital city of Santiago at the start of the trip, then travel to the port city of Puerto Natales. You'll ride horses at a remote Patagonian ranch and boat on a pristine fjord before entering Torres del Paine National Park. Spend the next five days exploring the park's spectacular scenery on day hikes and boat tours, then wrap up the itinerary with a day of kayaking and bird-watching on the Eberhard Fjord.

Exploring Pucón & Chile's Lake District - 6 Days

On this active 6-day itinerary, you will discover one of the lesser-visited gems of South America: Chile's Lake District, where central Chile meets Patagonia. Begin in the cosmopolitan capital city of Santiago, and take in the city's vibrant art and culinary scene. Next, head to Pucón to enjoy kayaking, trekking through native Alajuela forest, hiking up to glaciers, relaxing in hot springs, and much, much more.

Get plenty of views of the Lysefjord during two day-hikes

Norway's Best Cities & Hikes - 9 Days

Accomplish a stunning variety of trails on this active 9-day itinerary while staying in some of Norway's best cities. After an expert-curated tour of Oslo, take an overnight train to Stavanger—your gateway for legendary hikes in the Lysefjord: Pulpit Rock and Kjerag. Then, ferry to Bergen where you'll explore the city by foot culminating with a cruise (and hike) to a farm in the Hardangerfjord, nicknamed 'Queen of the Fjords'.

Best Hikes in Norway - 8 Days

Experience western Norway's best natural landmarks on a series of moderate to challenging hikes. Begin with a local-led tour of Oslo before heading to Stavanger, the gateway to the famous Kjerag and Preikestolen treks—get ready for unbeatable views of the surrounding fjords. Then it's a scenic bus ride to Odda, your home base for your next adventure: hiking to the famous cliffs of Trolltunga.

Philippines Beaches, Waterfalls & Lagoons - 15 Days

This 15-day itinerary offers the perfect combination of adventurous and relaxing activities. You will snorkel shipwrecks and aquamarine lagoons, visit secluded beaches, and climb and rappel slippery trails. Enjoy the Philippines as you island hop your way across the country, ending on the white sandy beaches of Boracay.

Patagonia's Torres del Paine National Park

Patagonia & Atacama Desert - 10 Days

Explore regions on both ends of Chile's latitudinal spectrum with this 10-day itinerary. After getting a taste of Santiago, fly north to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part of the world known for geysers, moonscapes, and starry skies. Then, fly all the way south to Patagonia's Punta Arenas, where you'll meet a penguin colony before finishing in Torres del Paine National Park for a range of activities and wildlife viewing.

Torres del Paine Modified W Trek Adventure - 7 Days

Have you ever dreamed of trekking through one of the most famous and beautiful protected areas in the world? If so, then this quick seven-day itinerary is for you. In just a week, you can jet off to Chilean Patagonia and partake in the famed "W" circuit trek—a multiday hike that covers the furthest reaches of the awe-inspiring Torres del Paine National Park. Be sure to get in shape beforehand because this is the very definition of an active adventure.

Lake Pehoe, Torres del Paine National Park

Best of Chile - 9 Days

Explore two spectacular regions of Chile where few travelers venture on this nine-day itinerary. After checking out Santiago, you'll fly to the Atacama desert—an oasis in the driest part of the world known for geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. From here, head to Patagonia, where you'll experience Torres del Paine National Park via a range of activities while staying in a fully sustainable EcoCamp.

Philippine Honeymoon: Boracay, El Nido & Coron - 11 Days

Covering some of the Philippines' most desirable beaches, this 11-day tour offers the perfect romantic getaway for couples. Stay in luxury resorts in exotic locations from private islands to jungle hideaways. Enjoy customized private tours of nearby islands, snorkel shipwrecks, and lounge beachside with a cocktail in hand.

Easter Island Exploration - 5 Days

Explore the incredible natural and cultural heritage of Easter Island on a 5-day tour. This Chilean territory, also known as Rapa Nui, was formed of volcanic rock 2.5 million years ago and offers an array of unique flora, fauna, and landscapes. However, the island is most famous for its iconic Moái statues, the huge humanoid stone sculptures found nowhere else on earth. During your visit, you'll explore ancient Polynesian archaeological sites and learn all about the culture and history of the people who created these mysterious statues.

Wine tour in Santiago de Chile - 5 Days

Do you ever get the urge to just drop everything and take a quick jaunt to wine country and relax with a few glasses of good reds and whites? Then this 5-day sojourn to Chile's famous wine country is just what the doctor ordered. You'll arrive in the capital of Santiago, which will be your home base for excursions into Chile's renowned wine country. Over a couple of days, you'll visit various wineries and taste the different varietals produced on site. As an added bonus you'll get to explore the streets of Santiago on foot and discover its many treasures!

Explore the Atacama Desert - 5 Days

Spend your trip exploring San Pedro de Atacama, a laid-back oasis town on the edge of the driest desert on the earth. Revel in the stark beauty of the desert landscape, marvel at the dramatic scenery, and enjoy some of the world's best stargazing while enjoying the cozy hospitality and art in town.

Chile's Deserts, Lakes & Culture - 9 Days

Chile may be a small country geographically, but it's filled with some of the world's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Over a quick nine days, you'll discover the farthest reaches of this ecological paradise, from the otherworldly landscapes of the northern Atacama Desert to the native lenga forests and active volcanoes of the rugged Lake District, which is also known as the "doorstep to Patagonia." And to kick it all off, you'll discover Santiago and Valparaíso, two of Chile's most beautiful cities.

Atacama Desert Highlights - 6 Days

One destination that should be on any traveler's list of must-visit desert landscapes is Chile's northern Atacama region. It's an arid, high-altitude desert filled with incredible natural wonders, including salt flats, geysers, lunar landscapes, painted mountains, and towering volcanoes. This quick six-day itinerary covers the highlights, including stops in the remote colonial outpost of San Pedro de Atacama, tours of the Moon Valley, stargazing, visits to natural hot springs, and traveling to indigenous villages.

Discover Chile's Lake District & Chilean Patagonia - 9 Days

Experience the natural highlights of Chile's Lake District and Chilean Patagonia on this exciting nine-day journey. Begin with sightseeing in the capital of Santiago, then travel south to Puerto Varas to see pristine lakes, waterfalls, volcanoes, and more. Visit the mythical island of Chilóe and walk through a penguin colony before venturing into Torres del Paine National Park for hiking, ice trekking, and horseback riding.

Argentine Culture & Waterfalls Experience - 8 Days

Take in the beauty and complexity of Argentine culture and natural landscapes on this eight-day journey. First, learn all about the history and people of Buenos Aires on a full-day walking tour. Next, head just outside of the city to experience the culture of the gaúchos. Then, travel north to the iconic Iguazú Falls, the largest waterfall system in the world. Top it all off with a trip back to Buenos Aires to enjoy a traditional dinner and tango performance.

Chilean Deserts & Towers Excursion - 10 Days

Experience Chile's beautiful extremes on this 10-day journey. Begin your adventure in the Atacama Desert—a region characterized by its lunar landscapes, geysers, salt flats, and starry skies. Next, head south to Patagonia to experience Torres del Paine National Park. Here, you'll enjoy an in-depth exploration of the park's natural beauty, including a hike to the base of the iconic towers and an up-close look at the majestic Grey Glacier during a boat tour.

Discover Argentina's Highlights: Buenos Aires, Patagonia & Iguazú Falls - 13 Days

Perfect for travelers looking to experience more of Patagonia and see Argentina's natural wonders, this 13-day itinerary includes a visit to the famed Perito Moreno Glacier and stops in Ushuaia—the southernmost city in the world—to see penguins and trek in Tierra del Fuego National Park. You'll hike through the rugged mountain scenery around Mount Fitz Roy, learn to dance the tango, and experience the crashing immensity of Iguazú Falls.

Ultimate Guide to Luxury Travel in Jordan: Exclusive Experiences & Trip Planning

With its lunar landscapes, ancient history, and warm hospitality, Jordan is a destination worthy of pulling out all the stops. Take your experience to the next level with luxury travel touches like VIP border crossings, spa treatments in a hidden oasis, or a sunset dinner cruise on a private yacht.

Hip Franco in the Escalante neighborhood

Where to Eat in San José

As the capital of Costa Rica, San José is a metropolitan hub with no shortage of incredible dining options. Skip the guesswork with this list of the best places to eat, including fine dining in luxury hotels or farm-to-table eateries like Furca, plus specialty coffee cafes and family-owned spots where you can chow down on gallo pinto—Costa Rica's national dish.

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