Travel Insights

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

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Peru Highlights & Jungle Adventure - 11 Days

From the hustle and bustle of Cusco to the remote Machu Picchu citadel and Amazon Rainforest, this 11-day highlights tour is perfect for travelers with a thirst for adventure. Spend a few days in the Amazon viewing wildlife like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge. Then, explore the colorful textile markets and monolithic ruins of the Sacred Valley, and take in the majesty of Machu Picchu. Finally, head to Lake Titicaca to experience the region's rich culture and beautiful landscapes.

Salkantay Trek & Jungle Exploration - 11 Days

This 11-day exploration of Peru is perfect for adventurous travelers. Start in metropolitan Lima, then continue to the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Head into the mountains to challenge yourself on the 4-day Salkantay Trek—a spectacular hike with remote camping and glacial views. End in Aguas Calientes for a relaxing night, then visit the famed Machu Picchu citadel—a marvel of ancient engineering. Finally, head to the Amazon jungle to spot wildlife like macaws, cayman, giant river otters, and tapirs.

Catch panoramic views of Ama Dablam by helicopter

Namche Bazaar Trek & Helicopter Tour - 5 Days

This fast-paced trip takes you up to Namche Bazaar, a traditional Sherpa village and unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. You'll pass through Sagarmatha National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—across suspension bridges, through alpine forests, and visit ancient Buddhist sites. The adventure ends with a helicopter tour of the snow-capped Himalayas and includes a stop at the base of the tallest mountain in the world: Mount Everest.

Views along your short trek to Australian Camp, Lower Annapurna Region

Kathmandu & Pokhara Adventure - 5 Days

Explore the main highlights of the Kathmandu and Pokhara Valleys combined with an easy multi-day trek in the lower Annapurna region for great Himalayan views. You'll also have some free time to relax and explore on your own, along with recommended activities and places to eat that we'll recommend.

View from the World Peace Pagoda of Phewa lake, Pokhara, and the Annapurna Range

Best Things To Do in Pokhara

While Kathmandu holds Nepal's main cultural highlights, Pokhara is Nepal's base for adventure. The city lies on the doorstep of the Annapurna Himalaya and borders Phewa Lake and other smaller foothills, making it a great spot for a variety of outdoor activities. It also offers a number of ways to relax, whether you're interested in yoga or pleasant walks around Phewa Lake.

Authentic Greek Adventure: Athens to the Cyclades - 16 Days

Get to know Crete, Athens, and the Cycladic Islands on the 16-day version of this experiential tour. After visiting the capital city, head to Chania as your base for exploration on Crete, where you'll take in the medieval architecture and postcard-perfect Venetian port. Spend time hiking, eating, and more in a traditional village before wrapping up your journey with Santorini wine-tasting and a horseback ride on lesser-known Naxos.

Cultural Cyclades - 13 Days

This cultural tour will take you through some of the Cyclades' top spots, with four islands on your itinerary. Go from glitzy boutiques to working farms as you explore Mykonos, then hop to Naxos to learn how to cook like an islander. You'll see the winding alleys of Ios and the caldera sunsets of Santorini, with plenty of Classical history, cliffside views, and crystal waters along the way.

Experience Mykonos, Paros & Santorini - 8 Days

Hit three major hotspots on this tour of some of Greece's most beautiful and iconic sites. You'll start in Athens, with a day to experience the Acropolis and buzzing neighborhoods before hopping on a ferry to glamorous Mykonos. Here you'll explore beaches, boardwalks, and nightlife under the eyes of the island's famous windmills. Make a quick visit to Paros and neighboring Antiparos, and 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.

Crete 101 - 8 Days

Experience the culture, scenery, and romance of Crete—Greece's largest island—with this 8-day itinerary. You'll use the coastal city of Chania, with its medieval architecture, elegant mansions, sculpted fountains, and postcard-perfect Venetian port as your base of exploration. Stroll through the local markets, visit a traditional village, and savor a Cretan feast with after-dinner dancing. Then, apply your energy to hiking the Samaria Gorge before wrapping up with some relaxation on a few of the most beautiful pink-sand beaches in the world.

Walk any number of streets for a view of the Acropolis

Best of Athens & Ancient Greece - 8 Days

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

Active Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini - 8 Days

Hit three major hotspots on this active eight-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 Greek mythology 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 and take a horseback ride to the coast. End the trip in Santorini with its classic white-topped cliffs and caldera views, complete with island cruising, hiking, and stunning sunsets to spare.

Best of Athens & Ancient Greece - 7 Days

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

Active Athens & the Cyclades - 7 Days

Hit three major hotspots on this active seven-day tour of some of Greece's most beautiful and iconic sites. You'll start in Athens, with your first 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 and take a horseback ride to the coast. End the trip in Santorini with its classic white-topped cliffs and caldera views, complete with island cruising, hiking, and stunning sunsets to spare.

Delightful Athens & Naxos - 6 Days

Experience captivating Athens and a lesser-known Cycladic island with this 6-day itinerary. After getting your first taste of Greece in the capital city, you'll head to Naxos to experience the beaches, history, villages, and culture of the largest Cycladic isle.

The old port of Chania, built by Venetians in the 14th century

Local Life on Crete - 6 Days

Fall in love with the largest Greek isle with the 6-day version of this unique itinerary. With a focus on culture and local flavor, you'll stick to Chania's highlights and the surrounding countryside. Make (and eat) an authentic Cretan feast, learn and lunch at the famous Botanical Park and Gardens, and relax on some of the most beautiful pink sand beaches in the world.

Local Life on Crete - 5 Days

The 5-day version of this compact itinerary focuses on the far west region of Chania. Arrive in Crete, the largest of the Greek isles, before heading to the traditional village of Vamos for a cooking class and two nights in a charming guesthouse. Take a guided village-to-village trek, visit the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos on a day trip, and stroll the waterfront in the city of Chania without feeling rushed.

Best of Athens & Ancient Greece - 5 Days

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

Take to the waves and learn to surf in Playa Tamarindo

Arenal & the Nicoya Peninsula - 7 Days

Experience the best of Costa Rica's tropical forests and beaches on this weeklong itinerary. You'll explore the rainforest via suspension bridges and zipline tours while spotting exotic birds, playful monkeys, and other wildlife. Then, it's on to the western Nicoya Peninsula for a few days spent snorkeling, swimming, and relaxing at the beach.

The coastline of Cahuita National Park at sunset

Luxury Adventure in the Osa Peninsula - 6 Days

The Osa Peninsula is one of the most biodiverse areas on earth. Over half of all animal species in Costa Rica exist here, and on this six-day luxury tour, you'll have ample opportunity to spot unique flora and fauna. You'll also visit Corcovado National Park, a protected area and veritable Lost World that preserves one of the country's few remaining lowland rainforests.

La Fortuna & Monteverde - 6 Days

This six-day trip is ideal for travelers looking to unwind yet still experience the country's natural wonders. You'll learn to prepare traditional Costa Rican cuisine and visit a coffee plantation near Arenal, and have the chance to spot monkeys and other wildlife during a night walk in Monteverde. Spend your last full day ziplining and exploring the cloud forest by day before heading back to San José for your flight home.

Costa Rica Highlights: Arenal & Manuel Antonio National Park - 6 days

This exciting 6-day itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to experience quintessential Costa Rica. You'll take in awe-inspiring views of Arenal volcano, and have an exciting rafting day on the Sarapiqui River before heading to Manuel Antonio to explore the jungle and white sand beaches of this nature lovers paradise.

Hiking trail in Manuel Antonio National Park

Monteverde Cloud Forest & Manuel Antonio National Park - 6 days

Perfect for nature lovers and first-time travelers to Costa Rica, this fast-paced itinerary takes you to two of the country's most beloved national parks. With the diverse wildlife of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and the jungle-lined white sand beaches of Manuel Antonio, you'll get to the essence of the Costa Rican motto: Pura Vida!

Ride camels through the Saharan sand dunes

Morocco Grand Tour: Casablanca to the Atlantic Coast - 14 Days

Experience Morocco's cities and desert wonders on this two-week grand tour. Start in the north, where you'll visit Casablanca and the capital Rabat, then marvel at Chefchaouen's iconic blue-tinged architecture. Continue to the country's cultural capital, Fes, before following ancient caravan routes into the Sahara Desert, where you'll camp among shifting dunes and explore oasis towns. Finish on the coast, winding through Marrakesh's souks and relaxing in the seaside town of Essaouira.

Jemma el-Fna Square comes alive at night in Marrakech

Moroccan Cities: Casablanca, Fes, Rabat & Marrakech - 5 Days

Sample Morocco's most popular cities, including Casablanca, Fes, Rabat, and Marrakech on this 5-day trip starting in Casablanca and ending in Marrakech. Venture back in time as you explore the medieval medina of Fes. Spend a night in the capital city of Rabat before finishing in vibrant Marrakech. Leave charmed having experienced Morocco's exceptional architecture, ornate artisanship, delicious food, and bustling souks.

Enter the Rissani kasbah and find the donkey "parking lot"

Imperial Cities, Moroccan Deserts & Hiking the Atlas Mountains - 12 Days

This 12-day grand tour is a perfect mix of culture and adventure. Start in Casablanca and wander the medinas of Fes and Marrakesh. Explore desert towns, oases, and old kasbahs, ending with two days of hiking in the foothills of the Atlas mountains, spending an evening with a local family.

Sunset over Chefchaouen in the north of Morocco

Northern Morocco's Cities: Tangier to Casablanca - 5 Days

This 5-day itinerary highlights Morocco's northern cities, starting in Tangier and finishing in Casablanca. Wander blue streets in Chefchaouen, explore Roman Volubilis and Imperial Meknes. Lose yourself in the medieval medina in Fes, and Visit modern Rabat and Casablanca.

Marrakech, Desert Tour & Essaouira - 7 Days

Combine culture, desert adventures, and seaside relaxation with this 7-day trip from Marrakech. Wander Marrakech's medina, exploring its souks and fondouks. Cross the High Atlas mountains and explore Morocco's desert, filled with fortified kasbahs and old caravan routes. Relax in Essaouira as you enjoy fresh seafood and watch the sunset over the seaside ramparts.

Surf until sunset on Costa Rica's west coast

Costa Rica Surfing Adventure - 6 Days

Travel to three of the best destinations in Costa Rica to ride the waves on this 6-day trip. Start in Playa Santa Teresa, home to major surf competitions and some of the most consistent waves in the country. End the adventure in Playa Tamarindo for surf days that end with glorious Pacific Coast sunsets. You'll also have time to relax on the beach and get acquainted with the country's vast wildlife.

Explore the Jungles & Beaches of Costa Rica - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary is perfect for eco-minded travelers thirsting for a comprehensive Costa Rican adventure. Kick off the journey in metropolitan San José before braving the whitewater rapids of jungle rivers, hiking the base of Costa Rica's most famous volcano, exploring rare cloud-forest eco-systems, and learning to surf (or polish your skills) and Pacific beaches. Enjoy spotting many of Costa Rica's wildlife species along the way.

Costa Rica Self-Drive Adventure - 14 Days

This road trip itinerary is a truly off-the-beaten-path nature excursion. Head to the remote beaches and rainforest of the Osa Peninsula before a scenic drive up the Pacific coast. You'll experience white-sand beaches in Manuel Antonio National Park, along with the cloud forest ecosystem of Monteverde where you'll hike over the jungle canopy via suspension bridges. Finally, you'll pay a visit to Arenal, an active volcano and one of Costa Rica's most famous landmarks.

Volcanoes, Cloud Forests, and the Pacific Coast - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary combines mountain adventures with a bit of a beach holiday. Spend two days in Rincón de la Vieja exploring the area around one of the country's most active volcanoes. Then travel deeper inland to cross suspension bridges in the jungle, zip-line over trees, and enjoy guided hikes in La Fortuna and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. You'll end your trip by returning to Guanacaste for relaxation on the beaches of Papagayo.

Arenal Expedition - 5 Days

This immersive nature expedition packs a lot of outdoor adventure in a short timeframe. In just five days you'll experience the greatest hits of Arenal Volcano National Park, including swimming in a waterfall lagoon, hiking above misty cloud forests, and soaking in hot springs. You'll also enjoy some metropolitan excitement as you spend an evening exploring Costa Rica's capital, San José.

A beach near Puerto Viejo on Costa Rica's Caribbean side

Caribbean Coast Adventure Tour - 10 Days

Experience the best of Costa Rica's tropical flora and fauna on this 10-day trip. Spend a fun-filled week hiking in the rainforest, snorkeling in coral reefs, rafting the world-class rapids of Río Pacuare, and more. This itinerary is ideal for travelers heading to Costa Rica during the "green season" (May - November), as the Caribbean coast stays relatively dry during rainy months—and it's also the best time to see turtles nesting in Tortuguero National Park.

Osa Peninsula: Luxury Getaway and Jungle Adventure - 7 Days

Corcovado National Park, located on Costa Rica's remote Osa Peninsula, is one of the most biodiverse places on earth. It's the perfect spot for jungle exploration, and this six-day itinerary mixes rugged adventure with culture and luxury. It's designed for those who want an off-the-beaten-path nature experience featuring windswept Pacific beaches and trails that meander through virgin rainforest abounding with wildlife.

Culture & Nature in Peru: Colca Canyon, Machu Picchu, Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca - 14 Days

Start your two-week trip at the impressive Colca Canyon, one of the deepest canyons in the world. From there, visit the floating islands of Lake Titicaca and the ancient Inca capital of Cusco. Explore the markets and towns of the Sacred Valley, complete a short Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, and end your trip in Puerto Maldonado among Amazonian wildlife including macaws, cayman, giant river otters, and tapirs.

Essaouira's ancient city walls along its harbor

Marrakech, Quick Desert Tour & Essaouira - 8 Days

This 8-day itinerary starts in Marrakech and combines culture, adventure, and relaxation. Wander Marrakech's souks and fondouks, discover the ornate mosques and madrasas, and experience lively Jemaa el-Fna Square. Cross the High Atlas mountains and spend a few days exploring Morocco's desert, filled with fortified villages and old caravan routes through hidden oases, before ending your stay in the seaside town of Essaouira.

Casablanca to Marrakesh: Imperial Cities, Hiking & the Desert - 10 Days

Explore Morocco's Imperial Cities, mountains, and desert with this balanced 10-day trip starting in Casablanca and ending in Marrakesh. Wander medieval medinas in Fes and Marrakesh, explore the modern cities of Casablanca and Rabat, and adventure along old caravan routes in the desert. Spend a day hiking in the foothills of the High Atlas mountains before ending the trip in Marrakesh.

A Taste of Morocco: Casablanca to Marrakesh - 7 Days

Discover Morocco's highlights with this fast-paced one-week trip beginning in Casablanca and ending in Marrakesh. Visit the four imperial cities of Rabat, Meknes, Fes, and Marrakesh. Travel along old caravan routes in the desert and spend the night camping among Saharan dunes and listening to traditional Berber music. Discover old fortified kasbahs and hidden oases before climbing over the High Atlas mountains into bustling Marrakesh.

Traditional wares await in the bustling souks

Moroccan Cities & the Coast - 9 Days

Explore Morocco's imperial cities and Atlantic coast with this 9-day circuit from Casablanca. Start in northern Morocco between Rabat, Chefchaouen, and Fes. Continue further south to bustling Marrakech to explore the "red city" before wrapping up with a relaxing stop in Essaouira. Returning to Casablanca along the Atlantic coast.

View of Machu Picchu citadel from Machu Picchu Mountain

Machu Picchu & Short Inca Trail - 5 Days

This itinerary is ideal for travelers who have a limited amount of time in the Sacred Valley, and really want to make it count. Spend 5 days delving into the beauty and rich culture of the Sacred Valley. Walk in the footsteps of the Inca on the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, and top it off with an exploration of the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

Ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis near Meknes

Imperial Cities & the Desert - 9 Days

Explore Morocco's desert and cities with this well-rounded nine-day loop from Casablanca. Wander medieval medinas in Fes and Marrakech, explore the modern cities of Casablanca and Rabat, and adventure along old caravan routes and oases in the desert.

Enjoy the coast in Rabat, capital of Morocco

Morocco Grand Tour From Rabat: Imperial Cities & Coastal Towns - 9 Days

Explore Morocco's grand cities and coastal towns with this 9-day itinerary starting in the capital of Rabat. Explore the Rif mountains and wander the blue streets of Chefchaouen. Immerse yourself in centuries of culture in Fes as you wander the souks and visit local artisan workshops. Enjoy the evening spectacle at Jemaa el-Fna Square in bustling Marrakesh before relaxing along the Atlantic coast in Essaouira.

Sacred Valley Trekking & Lake Titicaca Exploration - 12 Days

This 12-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous and fit travelers. Begin in the imperial Incan city of Cusco, where you'll embark on a 3-day trek to Machu Picchu. Then, explore the Sacred Valley's ruins, markets, and villages before summiting Rainbow Mountain and getting your fill of culture and stellar views at Lake Titicaca.

Choquequirao Trek & Sacred Valley Adventure - 13 Days

Discover the ancient ruins of Choquequirao, the “sister city” of Machu Picchu, along this challenging yet rewarding trek. The 65 km trek passes through lush jungles, deep canyons, and snow-capped peaks en route to Machu Picchu. If you’re up for the adventure, this is one of the most beautiful treks in the Cusco Region. Top it all off with an in-depth exploration of the ruins, markets, and villages of the Sacred Valley.

Experience Local Greece: Athens, Crete, & the Cycladic Islands - 15 Days

Get to know Crete, Athens, and the Cycladic Islands on the 15-day version of this experiential tour. After visiting the capital city, head to Chania as your base for exploration on Crete, where you'll take in the medieval architecture and postcard-perfect Venetian port. Spend time hiking, eating, and more in a traditional village before wrapping up your journey with Santorini wine-tasting and a horseback ride on lesser-known Naxos.

Head to the quaint village of Vamos on Crete

Authentic Greece: Athens, Crete & the Cyclades - 14 Days

Experience the romance of Crete, captivating Athens, and the classic Cyclades with the 14-day version of this adventurous itinerary. You'll use coastal Chania as your base, taking in medieval architecture, elegant mansions, sculpted fountains, and a postcard-perfect Venetian port. Spend a few nights in Vamos, a traditional village, before wrapping up your journey with Santorini and lesser-known Naxos.

Namche Bazaar Trek - 7 Days

Ideal for those with limited trekking time, this fast-paced Nepal trip takes you along the first few days of the trail to Everest Base Camp up to Namche Bazaar, a traditional Sherpa village and the unofficial capital of the Khumbu region. You'll trek through Sagarmatha National Park with its famous suspension bridges, Buddhist sites, and of course, panoramic views of the Himalaya—including Mount Everest.

Camping (optional) on the top of the Pikey Peak

Pikey Peak Trek: One of Nepal's Best Short Treks - 7 Days

Sir Edmund Hillary claimed that the view of the lower Everest region from Pikey Peak is the best in all of Nepal, and we're inclined to agree. This short trek has the advantage of being slightly farther away from the big peaks, meaning views from the trail encompass much more of the Himalaya. Enjoy the scenery, get acquainted with Sherpa culture, and explore Kathmandu in just 7 days.

Explore Colombia's Amazon, Andes, and Caribbean Coast - 12 Days

This 12-day adventure will take you through the best of Colombia. You'll travel from Bogotá to the Amazon, the rolling hills of the Zona Cafetera (coffee region), the beaches of Tayrona National Park, and the colonial fortress city of Cartagena. The most exciting part of your trip? A visit to the little-known region of Guaviare, with its mixture of jungle, indigenous communities, red rivers, and ancient rock art that dates back 20,000 years.

Coffee Country and Trekking Los Nevados - 10 Days

This 10-day intrepid adventure covers a lot of ground. Starting in the reinvigorated city of Medellín and it's surrounding Antioquia countryside, you'll journey to Colombia's central Andean region. Go from fast-paced city culture to dense tropical rainforests and up to cool highlands and snow-capped volcanoes. Through it all, you'll experience local culture and traditions in colorful mountain towns and remote villages.

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