Travel Insights

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

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Rio Verde Adventure - 4 Days

If you have an adventurous spirit and a thirst for natural beauty then you're going to love this brisk four-day itinerary. You'll experience Medellín like few others, traveling outside the city for an overnight rafting expedition on the Río Verde. This vivid emerald waterway cuts through untouched Colombian rainforest and carves its way through jungle canyons, featuring miles and miles of nail-biting whitewater and class IV rapids. After your rafting adventure, return the city and enjoy a gourmet dinner and smart cocktail in one of the city's upscale restaurants and cocktail lounges.

Colombia's Cities and Nature - 12 Days

This robust 12-day itinerary eliminates the hard choices travelers often face regarding a visit to a country as diverse as Colombia. The journey begins by enjoying Bogotá's Spanish colonial plazas and pulsing nightlife. Then jet to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight stay on a working coffee farm. Then it's off to the reinvented city of Medellín and its rising culinary and art scene. End the trip on the Caribbean coast where you'll explore the beaches and mountains of Tayrona National Park and the narrow streets of Cartagena's walled city.

Discover Bogotá & Medellín - 6 Days

For travelers who love urban energy and metropolitan culture, this six-day jaunt is for you. It highlights two of Latin America’s most exciting cities—Bogotá and Medellín. You'll kick things off in the capital, Bogotá, where you can explore cobbled colonial streets, visit Pre-Columbian museums, and enjoy a thriving nightlife scene. Then, fly to Medellín, a revitalized metropolis best viewed from above—by scenic gondola car. Due to its mid-range altitude, the city enjoys a perpetual spring-like climate, so count on some delicious weather. Then there's all those hip bars and restaurants in the trendy El Poblado district that are begging to be enjoyed. Yes, six days is enough to live it all.

Bogota and Cartagena - 6 Days

Six days is just long enough to experience the energy and culture of Colombia's most exciting destinations—with a bit of beach time thrown in for good measure. You'll start off in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá where you can indulge in the thriving food and art scene, then jet off to Cartagena to explore Old Town—the inner-walled city that abounds with colonial architecture and history. Throw in a day trip to the Caribbean Rosario Islands and you have a vacation worth its weight in gold.

View of lower Pangboche village with Ama Dablam in the background

Everest, Chitwan, & Lumbini - 18 Days

This tour takes you into the heart of the Everest region, staying in Sherpa villages along the way, including a spectacular helicopter flight by Mt. Everest. Then, you'll head south to Nepal's jungle and to Buddha's birthplace in Lumbini. To break up the drive from Kathmandu to Chitwan, you'll take a short rafting trip and overnight at a cozy resort in the village of Kurintar.

Colombia Nature and Culture Tour - 10 Days

This all-encompassing itinerary combines Colombia's popular attractions with some roads less traveled. You'll begin your journey in the "city of the eternal spring," Medellín, and visit El Peñon de Guatape, a landmark granite rock jutting hundreds of feet out of the ground. If you're a caffeine lover, get ready to visit Colombia's mountainous Coffee Region. You'll embark from this area and hike, mountain bike, and birdwatch through the adjacent sub-Andean forests. Next it's off to the indigenous archeological site of Tierradentro, with its ancient underground burial chambers. Learn about the civilization who built them, then end your stay in the southern colonial town of Popayán.

5 Places to Go in Zagori: Greece's Remote Wonderland

Tucked into a remote part of Epirus, Greece's northwest region of Zagori is an off-the-radar slice of wild beauty and ancient tradition. Its wilderness is a great place to escape the summer crowds, and the Pindos Mountains ski resorts are a top draw in winter. Here are our highlights not to miss.

Near the Tizi n'Tichka pass in the Atlas Mountains sits Taddert

Tangier to Marrakech via the Desert - 8 Days

Enjoy a perfect mix of culture, history, and adventure in just over a week in Morocco. Starting in Tangier, wander the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, navigate the maze-like alleyways of Fes, and ride a camel into the shifting sands of the Sahara. Finish your trip in Marrakech among museums, medieval inns, and the many souks where you can pick up an authentic souvenir before heading home.

View from the Merenid Tombs overlooking Fes

Northern Morocco Loop from Tangier - 4 Days

This quick 4-day itinerary highlights several cities in northern Morocco: Tangier, Volubilis, Meknes, Fes, and Rabat. You'll navigate 11th-century medinas, browse wares in souks and markets, wander pretty blue-washed streets, and explore the well-preserved remains of the once prolific Roman Empire.

Imperial Cities & Desert Grand Tour - 11 Days

Discover imperial cities and desert landscapes on this 11-day circuit starting in Casablanca. Experience culture and history in historic Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakech as you navigate their ancient medinas. You'll ride a camel over shifting sands in the Sahara, explore mud-brick cities, and cross the high rocky peaks of the Atlas mountains.

Morocco Grand Tour: Tangier to Casablanca via the Desert - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary combines culture, history, and adventure. Begin in northern Morocco in Tangier and Chefchaouen before working your way south to Fes, through the desert, and over the Atlas mountains to Marrakesh. Finish in the commercial capital of Casablanca with a trip to the Hassan II Mosque.

Moroccan Cities: Tangier to Marrakech - 6 Days

This quick trip takes you through Morocco's best cities. Start in the north in Tangier and work your way south to the blue-painted streets of Chefchaouen, pass Roman ruins in Volubilis, and through the medieval medina in Fes. Carry on the west to Morocco's capital, Rabat, before reaching modern Casablanca and finishing in lively Marrakesh.

Wander the blue-hued streets of charming Chefchaouen in the north of Morocco

Moroccan Cities of the North - 6 Days

This six-day itinerary offers a nice balance of historical and modern cities in northern Morocco. Start and end in urban Casablanca before exploring Rabat and the "blue city" of Chefchaouen in the Rif Mountains. Continue south to explore Meknes, the well-preserved Roman ruins at Volubilis, and the cultural capital of medieval Fes.

Preparing the sled in the Norwegian wilderness

Norway Dogsledding Adventure - 5 Days

This wintry experience in Norway's Finnmark region starts with a night in Alta before three days of dogsledding in the Arctic wilderness. With the help of a private guide, you'll get to know the huskies by name and drive your own sleigh before falling asleep in cozy cabins—or staying up to search for the Northern Lights.

A sunset ferry cruises the Hardangerfjord

Bergen, Flåm & the Hardangerfjord - 5 Days

This five-day jaunt highlights Bergen, where you'll explore hilly streets, UNESCO-listed architecture, and surrounding mountains on your own and with a local guide. Take a day-trip through the Hardangerfjord to a manor in Rosendal, ride the scenic Flåm Railway, and ferry through the longest fjord in Norway—all while returning to the city each night to enjoy a lively restaurant scene.

Costa Rica Adventure Tour - 12 days

This high-octane trip is designed to get your adrenaline pumping as you take on some of the best adventure activities Costa Rica has to offer. You'll see the country's rainforests, volcanoes, and beaches, and encounter tropical wildlife as you take part in a variety of thrilling activities. From whitewater rafting through the rainforest to biking around a volcano to zip-lining down a mountain, this exhilarating itinerary is sure to make for an unforgettable experience.

Costa Rica's Volcanoes, Cloud Forests & Golden Coast - 14 Days

Explore some of Costa Rica's most classic settings on this adventure trip, from active volcanoes to the rainforest to its gorgeous Pacific beaches. You'll see volcanic fumaroles in Rincon de la Vieja, visit hot springs and cross hanging bridges in Arenal, encounter tons of tropical wildlife in Monteverde, and unwind on the beaches of the Gulf of Papagayo. Get ready to go hiking, whitewater rafting, zip-lining, and more on this thrilling tour of Costa Rica's northwest.

View the 2019 Solar Eclipse in Chile - 7 Days

Head to Chile in July 2019 to witness one of the most important events of the century—a total solar eclipse, observable for over four minutes. View the eclipse from a prime location in the beautiful Coquimbo region, with protective glasses and cozy blankets provided. Spend the rest of your visit touring cosmopolitan Santiago de Chile and colorful Valparaíso, sampling native varietals at Viña del Bosco winery, checking out the Enchanted Valley petroglyphs, and more.

Birding Tour of Coastal Colombia - 6 Days

This itinerary is primed for tropical bird viewing in Colombia: the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta mountains. You'll start your birding adventure in the town of Minca, where its green dry forest harbors some diverse species, from toucans to trogons and hummingbirds to red-crested woodpeckers. Then, continue towards the higher reaches of the Sierra and the San Lorenzo Ridge— you'll lodge here amidst mountain scenery, with views all the way to the Caribbean Sea.

Local villages in the lower Annapurna foothills

Luxury Annapurna & Chitwan - 14 Days

This route is an excellent opportunity to experience the culture of traditional life in the Nepali countryside, as you share the route with shepherds and donkey trains and witness traditional Nepali farming life. You'll also get those incredible views that Nepal is famous for with overnights in luxury lodges along the way. You'll then leave the mountains for the jungle to experience a completely different side of Nepal before returning back to Kathmandu.

Machapuchare from the trail, Mardi Himal trek

Mardi Himal Trek & Bandipur - 14 Days

This trek is a hidden gem, just east of Annapurna Base Camp, spectacularly situated at the base of Mardi Himal and the beautiful and imposing Machapuchare. It's enough of a challenge (yet suitable for most travelers) and very accessible from Pokhara. You'll pass through Newar, Gurung, and Brahmin villages before you return for a night in Pokhara.

5 Days in Costa Rica - 6 Unique Itineraries

With less than a week, it's possible to experience many of Costa Rica's star attractions. You can visit misty cloud forests, go whale watching on the Pacific, view wildlife in remote corners of the country, or hike around a volcano—just choose the adventure that suits you best. Let this diverse collection of 5-day itineraries inspire you to do just that.

Lower Mustang Trek - 7 Days

A great option if you're short on time but still wish to experience the stark beauty of Mustang. You'll take a moderate trek through the region bordering Annapurna and Mustang with great views of Annapurna and Dhaulagiri. Mustang is part of an ancient trade route to Tibet, up the Kali Gandaki river, and offers one of the most developed trails with comfortable teahouses run by Gurung and Thakali families.

Luxury Annapurna Panorama Trek - 7 Days

This trek is an excellent opportunity to experience the culture of traditional life in the Nepali countryside, as you share the route with shepherds and donkey trains and witness traditional Nepali farming life. Along the way, there are some steep sections to get you up to those incredible viewpoints and you will certainly have the classic experience of Himalayan trekking. At night, you'll stay in luxury lodges for a nice contrast to the day's challenge.

The Pokhara Valley, Nepal's adventure hub

Annapurna Getaway - 5 Days

This quick getaway allows you to fully experience the beauty of the Kathmandu and Pokhara Valleys. Beginning and ending in Kathmandu, you'll fly to Pokhara and then drive to the village of Astam in the lower Annapurna foothills. It's the perfect balance of getting a feel for local village life while enjoying stunning views of the Himalaya.

Himalayan views en route to Everest Base Camp

Everest Base Camp Trek & Chitwan - 22 Days

This adventure combines the Himalaya with the jungle. You'll trek to the foot of the tallest mountain in the world and then reward yourself with a relaxing getaway in the jungle of southern Nepal. During the trek, you'll pass through traditional Sherpa villages and Buddhist monasteries with great views of Cho-Oyu, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam. Then, you'll fly to Chitwan to spot wildlife, experience the elephants, and relaxing at a comfortable resort.

Annapurna South, one of the main views you'll see along this trek

Muldai & Poon Hill Trek - 8 Days

This trek is all about the views. In a short amount of time, you'll ascend two of the best viewpoints in the lower Annapurna region for views of Dhaulagiri and the Annapurna Himal. The route combines the very popular Ghorepani and Poon Hill trail with an off-the-beaten-path experience taking you up to the amazing Muldai viewpoint. As you're going off-the-beaten-path, you'll have one night in a more rustic accommodation in Dobato.

Namobuddha Monastery with the mountains in the background

Ancient Trails of the Kathmandu Valley - 6 Days

Explore the ancient trails and villages of the Kathmandu Valley along this easy multi-day hiking route. You'll hike past small farming villages, lush green forests, ancient templates, and have the opportunity to learn about the traditional lifestyle of the local people. On top of this, you'll have great views of the distant snowy peaks of the Himalaya and the option to stay in authentic local inns and farm stays each night.

View from Kalinchowk Photeng towards the Kathmandu Valley

Kalinchowk Multi-Sport Adventure - 9 Days

This trip starts off with a visit to Kathmandu's main cultural sites before heading into the wilderness for a multi-sport adventure of trekking, mountain biking, rafting, and bungee jumping. You'll get off-the-beaten-path to an area of the Himalaya yet to be discovered by the masses. You'll then return to Kathmandu for some comfort and relaxation before you depart.

Annapurna Circuit & Nar Phu Valley Trek - 18 Days

For those who have the time, this is a unique version of the Annapurna Circuit which includes the remote valley of Nar Phu as well as a visit to the high-altitude Tilicho Lake. Tucked between the more popular Annapurna and Manaslu regions, Nar Phu is a true hidden gem that offers trekkers a rare opportunity to explore unspoiled valleys, raw Himalayan nature, and ancient Buddhist culture. This trek combines high passes, glaciers, canyons, gorges, forests, rock formations, and ethnically Tibetan cultures.

Enjoy a stroll on Conchal Beach in Costa Rica

2 Weeks in Costa Rica - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks to spend in Costa Rica, travelers can truly enjoy the country's natural beauty and geographic diversity. Look for wildlife in the national parks, relax on white-sand beaches, venture underwater to snorkel or dive with colorful marine life, or try adventure activities from whitewater rafting to zip-lining through the jungle. Stick to the highlights, choose a self-drive trip, opt for a luxury tour, or get off the beaten path with these five unique itineraries that showcase the best of Costa Rica.

Walk any number of streets for a view of the Acropolis

Best of Athens & Ancient Greece - 12 Days

Long dominated by the omnipresent Parthenon, Athens mingles its classical past with a budding art scene and bustling markets. You'll spend twelve days exploring this city's many cultural treasures and cool neighborhoods—along with day trips to archaeological sites in nearby Eleusis, Mycenae, Epidaurus, Olympia and Delphi. See why the epicenter of antiquity and philosophy is well worth a trip today.

The blue lagoon of Porto Timoni beach on Corfu

Athens, Northern Greece & Corfu Adventure - 12 Days

Northern Greece stretches across more cultures and terrains than any other region in the country. After arriving in Athens, you'll head to Thessaloniki, with some of the best food and wine in the country. From here, you'll go hiking and river rafting on the mainland and then ferry to Corfu island for beaches, kayaking, and a Jeep safari toward ancient monasteries.

Explore Athens, Meteora, Delphi, & the Cyclades - 11 Days

Hit several major hotspots on this 11-day tour of some of Greece's most beautiful and iconic sites. You'll start in Athens, with a full day to experience the Acropolis and buzzing neighborhoods before visiting the monasteries of Meteora suspended in the sky and the amazing ruins of Delphi. Next, hop a ferry to glamorous Mykonos. Here you'll explore beaches, boardwalks, and nightlife under the eyes of the island's famous windmills. End the trip in Santorini with its classic white-topped cliffs and caldera views, complete with island cruising, wine tasting, and stunning sunsets to spare.

View from Palamidi fortress in the seaport town of Nafplio

Argolic Gulf Adventure - 10 Days

Live like a local in Greece's idyllic Argolic Gulf with this active 10-day itinerary. You'll explore Athens for a few days and even hop onboard a fishing boat with an expert fisherman before you head to seaside Nafplio, home to winding streets and a historic water fortress. Explore this beautiful area of mainland Greece via foot, bicycle, and kayak, then get hands-on in an olive grove and flute away as a shepherd for a day.

Aerial view of Oia on the island of Santorini

Discover Athens & the Cyclades - 9 Days

Hit three major hotspots on this nine-day tour of some of Greece's most beautiful and iconic sites. You'll start in Athens, with a full day to experience the Acropolis and buzzing neighborhoods before hopping a ferry to glamorous Mykonos. Here you'll explore beaches, boardwalks, and nightlife under the eyes of the island's famous windmills. End the trip in Santorini with its classic white-topped cliffs and caldera views, complete with island cruising, wine tasting, and stunning sunsets to spare.

The sun sets over the Ouarzazate River and Aït Benhaddou

Imperial Cities, Desert Adventures & Atlas Hiking - 11 Days

This 11-day grand tour mixes culture and adventure, featuring Morocco's 4 Imperial Cities, several days exploring the Sahara and surrounding desert, and hiking in the High Atlas mountains outside of Marrakech.

Ghandruk & Chitwan - 11 Days

Combine two classic Nepal experiences: the Ghandruk trek in the Annapurna foothills and Chitwan National Park in the lowlands of Nepal. Chitwan National Park has a wide variety of wildlife, including tigers, rhinos, elephants, and many bird species. To end the tour, you'll overnight in Namobuddha for a beautiful vantage point over the Kathmandu valley before doing some last-minute sightseeing.

Trekkers starting off their trek from Lukla

Getting From Kathmandu to Lukla

Lukla is the gateway to the Everest region which everyone passes through en route to Mt. Everest or to other vantage points in the region. Almost everyone flies into Lukla and starts their trek there, given it shaves off a few days of an otherwise already long multi-week adventure. But if you have the time, the trek into Lukla will be one of the highlights of your trek.

View of Mt. Kangtega & Mt. Thamserku in the Solu Khumbu

Nepal FAQ

Traveling to Nepal? Get answers to all your questions, from the best time to visit to the ins and outs of teahouse trekking. Much of the information here relates to trekking (given trekking in the Himalaya is a new experience for most people), but you'll also find answers to practical questions about visas and domestic transport.

Starting out to Khayer Lake from Khopra Danda Lodge in the Annapurna region with our guide, Pemba Sherpa

How kimkim Trips Work in Nepal

As you're planning your trip to Nepal, here's a quick introduction to kimkim, how our trips work, and what makes our trips unique. We'll also go over what to expect during your trip as well as how our trips are designed and assembled to make them more customized to your interests.

10 Days in Morocco - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 10 days in Morocco, you can embark on a highlights tour that includes days in Fes, Marrakesh, and Erg Chebbi, or limit travel time and instead focus on the Sahara and the laid-back port city of Essaouira. Hiking enthusiasts will love exploring the Valley of the Roses and Todra Gorge on a mountain and desert adventure, while those seeking a slower-paced trip should opt for a culturally rich itinerary featuring the highlights of Northern Morocco.

Discover the ancient ruins of Delphi on a mainland Greece roadtrip

1 Week in Greece - 7 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A popular option for a week in Greece is to spend a day in Athens upon arrival and then head out to the Greek islands by ferry or flight. Another recommended option is a road trip to explore the ancient history and mythology of mainland Greece or consider experiencing the Greek islands on a yacht. No matter which itinerary you choose, you'll experience plenty of history, culture, and food. Read on for seven great seven-day itineraries to make the most of your week in Greece.

Winter wonderland scenery in Northern Norway

Norway Arctic Experience in Alta - 7 Days

Located in the northernmost county of Norway (Finnmark), the city of Alta lies in an area with a relatively mild climate. With this winter-themed adventure, you'll meet huskies and reindeer, see UNESCO-protected rock carvings, experience Sami culture, and enjoy snow activities. Easily reachable by plane, the area offers forests, mountain plateaus, and coastal landscapes bathed in distinctive blue light—perfect for star gazing and searching for the Northern Lights.

Small villages dot the foothills of the Atlas Mountains

Exploring Around Marrakech, Hiking & the Coast - 6 Days

A perfect balance of culture, adventure, and relaxation, this 6-day itinerary features highlights of the imperial city of Marrakech, hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains, and relaxing in the coastal town of Essaouira. You'll roam exotic souks in ancient medinas, share a meal with a local Berber family, and explore centuries-old seafront fortifications.

Camels with typical Berber saddles in a Palmeraie near Marrakesh, Morocco.

Moroccan Adventure, Culture & Relaxation - 9 Days

Combine desert adventure, High Atlas hiking, cultural experiences, and relaxation with this 9-day trip with something for every traveler.

A view inside the labyrinth of souks in Marrakech

Morocco Grand Tour: Casablanca to Marrakech - 12 Days

This complete 12-day tour covers Morocco' best, from cultural stops in historic cities to desert exploration in the Sahara and surrounding desert. Explore medieval medinas, lively souks, ancient ruins, and old kasbahs. You'll trek along long-forgotten caravan routes, ride a camel over colossal sand dunes, and cool off in an oasis at the bottom of a gorge.

The Merenid Tombs overlook the imperial city of Fes

Imperial Cities, Desert Grand Tour & Hiking in the Atlas - 12 Days

Explore Morocco's cities and desert on this 12-day grand tour. Begin and end in modern Casablanca and travel around to the imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakesh, as well as the hillside town of Chefchaouen. You'll trek into the Sahara, camp under the stars, visit desert towns and kasbahs, and hike the Atlas mountains foothills.

The Sierra Nevada mountains come to meet the Caribbean sea in Tayrona National Park

Cartagena & Tayrona Park - 6 Days

This fun 6-day adventure hits two major highlights along Colombia's northern coast. First, you'll experience the culture and fairy-tale romance of Cartagena's Old Town, an inner-walled city oozing with colonial architecture and history, not to mention hip hotels and rooftop bars. Then drive east towards Santa Marta to spend a few days at Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona (Tayrona Park) for a slice of South America's prettiest coastline. Explore on your own or take a guided tour of the park's hiking trails and exotic beaches.

Adventure in Colombia's Cities & Rivers - 12 Days

Travelers who like to be on the move can check off three cities on this whirlwind 12-day tour starting with Bogotá's Spanish colonial sites and buzzing nightlife. You'll then fly to Medellín — a city with a rising culinary and art scene, as well as constant spring-like weather. Take a couple of days to experience the excitement of whitewater rafting on the Rio Verde before heading to the Caribbean Coast. You'll spend a couple of days exploring Tayrona National Park before ending the trip exploring Cartagena's inner-walled city and taking a day trip to explore the nearby Rosario Islands.

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