Travel Insights

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

Filter by destination: Albania · Argentina · Armenia · Australia · Austria · Belgium · Belize · Bhutan · Bolivia · Bosnia and Herzegovina · Botswana · Brazil · British Columbia · Cambodia · Canada · Chile · China · Colombia · Costa Rica · Croatia · Cuba · Ecuador · Egypt · England · Estonia · Ethiopia · Fiji · Finland · France · Galapagos Islands · Gambia · Georgia · Germany · Greece · Guatemala · Hawaii · Iceland · India · Indonesia · Ireland · Israel · Italy · Japan · Jordan · Kenya · Latvia · Lithuania · Malaysia · Mexico · Mongolia · Morocco · Myanmar · Namibia · Nepal · New Zealand · Nicaragua · Norway · Panama · Patagonia · Peru · Philippines · Portugal · Romania · Russia · Rwanda · Scotland · Slovenia · South Africa · South Korea · Spain · Sri Lanka · Sweden · Switzerland · Taiwan · Tanzania · Thailand · the Azores · the Dominican Republic · the Faroe Islands · The Netherlands · the United States · Tibet · Turkey · Uganda · Ukraine · United Kingdom · Vietnam · Wales · Zambia · Zimbabwe

Colombia's Best Cities & Coffee Region - 10 Days

Check off three memorable cities on this whirlwind 10-day tour, starting with Bogotá's Spanish colonial sites and buzzing nightlife. You'll then fly to the heart of Colombia's Zona Cafetera for an overnight at a coffee farm, where you'll hike the green mountains of Cocora Valley, dotted with towering palm trees. From here, head to Medellín—a city with outdoor art and spring-like weather—before ending on the Caribbean coast, where you'll explore the romantic streets of Cartagena's Old Town.

A lesser-known attraction: Las Lajas Sanctuary in Ipiales, near Pasto.

Journey Across Colombia: North to South - 14 Days

This sweeping Colombian itinerary covers major highlights from the country's Caribbean coast all the way to the Ecuadorian border. Start off with two relaxing days where you can unwind in a protected national park with white-sand beaches and tropical rainforests. Continue making your way through three of South America's most scenic and important cities — Cartagena, Medellín, and Bogotá — eventually heading south towards lesser-known destinations known for gorgeous Baroque architecture, salsa dancing, and a Gothic church built into a gorge.

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Bhutan

Travelers headed to Bhutan will find great lodging options in its towns and quiet valleys alike. You'll have your pick of beautiful hotels complete with local design details, scenic views, and even spas. From cozy renovated farmhouses to affordable luxury, here are seven unmissable boutique hotels in Bhutan.

The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Havana

Havana is brim-full of lodging options, from 1950s mobster-era hotels to simple room rentals. For the most rewarding experience, opt for one of the newer, chic boutique hotels or private bed-and-breakfasts, some offering concierge service.

Calle Brasil and the Capitolio, Habana Vieja

7 Days in Cuba - 3 Unique Itineraries

Cuba is the largest of the Caribbean islands and a dream destination unto itself. It's spectacularly scenic, and packed with cultural experiences and fun activities. If you have a week to spend, try one of these expertly crafted itineraries.

Discover the Prado Boulevard, one of Havana's main thoroughfares

Cuba FAQ

Cuba is a complex country filled with limitless options for discovery and adventure—and for travelers, this begs many questions. What's it like traveling in the countryside? Are there restrictions? What's the food like? Here are the answers to these and more of your most pressing questions about Cuba.

Sculpture of Che Guevara at Havana's Plaza de la Revolución

The Perfect Day in Havana

Havana is one of the most fascinating cities on the planet. It’s also the biggest in the entire Caribbean—both by area and population—so it’s a good idea to plan how to spend your time. Follow these suggestions to experience the best of Havana in one unforgettable day.

Paragliding over the plush neighborhood of Miraflores in Lima

24 Hours in Lima

Lima offers history, world-class museums, an unbeatable foodie scene, and the second-largest cityscape in South America. Not sure where to start? To the rescue: a foolproof plan for a perfect day in the Peruvian capital.

Stay two nights in Barichara's charming colonial village.

Colombia's Culture & Nature Tour - 14 Days

Perfect for first-timers, this smart, action-packed itinerary begins in the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá and then makes its way to the Caribbean coast. Along the route, you'll drive through the Andean highlands visiting preserved colonial towns, fly to the up-and-coming city of Medellín — and then hike through Tayrona Park to get to white-sand beaches and turquoise sea. Spend your last three nights in the romantic UNESCO-listed Old Town of Cartagena, founded in 1533.

Top 5 Short Treks in Colombia

Colombia is a land for dreamers, and those dreaming of outdoor excursions will not be disappointed. If high-endurance, multi-day trekking isn't your thing, don't worry—there are shorter options in every corner of the nation. No matter the environment in which you find yourself, rest assured that lush scenery and stellar viewpoints abound.

Hiking the Dunes of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park - 6 Days

The surreal landscape of Lençóis Maranhenses National Park is one of Brazil's many treasures, and this 6-day hiking itinerary will take you straight into the heart of this natural phenomenon. Rise early to catch stunning sunrises and trek through tall, white sand dunes dotted with thousands of freshwater lagoons that form in the rainy season. Enjoy quiet evenings and drift to sleep in a swaying hammock amid the sounds of nature.

Hiking & Camping in Þríhyrningur - 2 Days

Go off the beaten path on this moderately easy hike around Þríhyrningur and its incredible, historic landscape. Camp out overnight at the foot of the mountain and share your favorite stories from the day as you sit around the campfire. Explore the stunning Þórsmörk valley, see remote farmsteads, and discover the Vikings' former hiding spots.

Planning Your Honeymoon in Cuba

It's hard not to fall in love with Cuba. Set to a soundtrack of jazz, rumba, and salsa, it's a place where icy mojitos flow freely, classic cars cruise the streets, and historic hotels evoke the glamour of a bygone era. The perfect place, in other words, for a romantic getaway just after your wedding.

Kayaking on the deep blue waters of the Aegean

Mythical Peloponnese Adventure - 7 Days

Discover Greece's hidden treasures on this action-packed adventure. Hike the tallest mountains in the Peloponnese, paddle the beautiful Mani Peninsula, and scale the heights of ancient Sparta's Mount Taygetus. Complete your trip with a swim at the southernmost point of mainland Europe.

Paros & Naxos Family Adventure - 8 Days

Visit the world-renowned sea sports paradise of Paros and Naxos islands for 8 days of oceanside hikes, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. And when you're not taking on all the active adventures the islands have to offer? Explore the unique local architecture, delectable cuisine, cosmopolitan nightlife, and impressive archaeological sites.

A northern lights display from the Lofoten Islands

Winter Adventure in Norway's Arctic - 10 Days

This fast-paced winter trip through Norway's icy north features a stack of unique Arctic activities and off-the-beaten-path destinations. Each day presents another opportunity for unreal snowy views and a connection with local culture. Snorkel with orcas, dogsled with a team of huskies, stay overnight in an Indigenous Sámi tent, and best of all, get multiple chances to see the northern lights—including on horseback.

An inviting arc of sandy beach on Cayo Levisa, in Pinar del Río province

Best Beaches in Cuba

The island of Cuba is lined with white sandy beaches and surrounded by turquoise Caribbean waters. But it takes a little effort — and some dedicated travel planning — to break away from the crowds and find your own slice of paradise. Follow this handy guide to the best beaches in Cuba and you'll be relaxing under a palm tree in no time.

How Many Days to Spend in Cuba

Cuba, an island measuring 780 miles end to end, is much larger than many visitors imagine. With its diverse ecosystems and cultural distinctions among regions, you could easily fill several weeks with exploration. Have limited time? Not to worry: you can discover Havana's highlights in just a matter of days.

Lomo Saltado - a Peruvian stir-fry and one of the most popular foods of Peru

Cuisine of Peru: Top Dishes and Where to Try Them

Peru's cuisine has been hitting the headlines in restaurants around the world for a while now, and rightly so: its colorful, spicy takes on meat, fish, and potato dishes are one-of-a-kind. This journey into Peru's fascinating gastronomy identifies the best of the must-try foods and the ideal places to sample them.

Drive through the village of Loen on the Nordfjord at the end of this trip

Aurland Valley Trek & Norwegian Fjord Road Trip - 10 Days

Make your way through some of Scandinavia's most spectacular landscapes and connect with Norwegian culture in the two biggest cities on this 10-day trip. It starts with a train ride from Oslo that connects you to a three-day trek in the brilliant Aurlandsdalen Valley. From here, ride a scenic ferry to Bergen via the famous Sognefjord, then grab a rental car to make your way to coastal villages and mountain towns on your way back to the capital.

A rushing river in the town of Lom—gateway to Jotunheimen National Park

Norway Outdoor Adventure: Oslo to Trondheim - 10 Days

Hiking enthusiasts will love this 10-day summer adventure in Central Norway's great outdoors. You'll climb several of the best summits with a guide, and take memorable drives through mountains, fjord-side villages, and working farms. There's also time to hit the water with a kayak in the UNESCO-protected Geirangerfjord and take a rafting trip in the Driva River. Plus, with overnight stops in Oslo and Trondheim, you'll experience just the right dose of urban fun.

Ålesund is considered Norway's prettiest city, and rightfully so.

Discover Norway by Train & Boat - 10 Days

This relaxing summer itinerary checks off Norway's three biggest cities, traveling by train, ferry, and fjord cruise for a true Scandinavian adventure. Spend a night in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund, explore cultural sites and cool neighborhoods with a guide, and take advantage of great hiking, biking, and stand-up paddleboarding along the way.

Rio de Janeiro: 7 Ways to Spend A Day

Rio de Janeiro isn't called Cidade Maravilhosa (Marvelous City) for nothing. For a mega-metropolis, it boasts some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. Whether you prefer to stay in the city or venture out, there are plenty of ways to spend a day: visit Petrópolis, lounge on the beaches of Buzios, or hike to instagram-worthy viewpoints within the city limits.

The Prince's Trek through the Annapurna Foothills - 9 Days

Originally designed for the Prince of Wales, this easy trek takes you on quiet, off-the-beaten-path trails through the foothills of the Pokhara Valley. From the ridge lines and local villages where you'll stay each night, you'll have stunning views of the Annapurna Himalaya and experience a more rural and traditional side of Nepal.

3 Days on Okinawa - 3 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Over 900 miles southwest of Tokyo, Okinawa-hontō—Okinawa's main island—anchors the lesser-known string of islands straddling Japan's two southernmost prefectures. For those who fancy a beach holiday on their grand tour of Japan, its tropical climate and unique Ryūkyūan culture are just a two-hour flight from Tokyo.

Epic Summits in Ecuador: Top 10 Peaks to Climb & Trek

From glacial climbing on snow-capped Chimborazo to an easy hike up Rucu Pichincha, Ecuador offers a tantalizing range of peaks to conquer. There are mountains and volcanoes to suit all levels for climbers and trekkers alike, and Ecuador's lakes, foothills, and extinct craters offer up endless variety.

Hiking Þórsmörk, Fimmvörðuháls & Þríhyrningur - 3 Days

Follow the Þórsmörk, Fimmvörðuháls, and Þríhyrningur hiking and biking routes through stunning valleys, along exposed ridges, and across gravelly rivers. Trek next to the powerful Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which caused international air traffic mayhem when it erupted in 2010. Visit the isolated Troll Church, a speck of white architecture in a landscape of fire and ice. These day hikes are designed to take you through incredible scenery and give you a varied experience of Iceland's dramatic landscape.

Explore the Andes & the Amazon Rainforest - 10 Days

From the world's highest capital in the Andean highlands to the lush Amazon rainforest, Bolivia's natural wonders enchant visitors. Explore the hilly streets of La Paz, visit a community-based agritourism village run by indigenous artisans, and walk along the shores of Lake Titicaca, the second-largest lake in South America. Then float down a jungle river on a log raft and see a wide variety of wildlife in the Bolivian Amazon, including capybaras, macaws, caimans, anacondas, and the unique pink river dolphin.

Aerial view of Copacabana and Ipanema beaches

Discover Rio, Costa Verde & Iguazu Falls - 14 Days

Discover Rio de Janeiro: a vibrant and diverse city where emerald blue water, inky green forest, and rocky mountains meet. Explore the lush Costa Verde and the picturesque colonial town of Paraty and visit the island of Ilha Grande to relax on dreamy beaches and enjoy a private boat tour. Get up close to the magnificent Iguazu Falls in all their thundering glory.

Essential Japan: Top 10 Things to Do & See

Crescent-shaped islands surrounded by deep blue sea, Japan has everything from Buddhist temples to great beaches. Home to both a robot restaurant and an ancient rainforest, it's beautiful, diverse, and never boring. Here are ten essential things to do in the Land of the Rising Sun.

An Ecuadorian woman selling fruit in a marketplace

Ecuador Like a Local: Top 5 Cultural Experiences

Sip coca tea, chat with vendors in colorful markets, and stay in a historic hacienda: from souvenirs to countryside cuisine, here are some ideas for experiencing authentic Ecuador.

Explore Santiago & Torres del Paine National Park - 10 Days

This 10-day Chilean itinerary combines city life, nature hikes, and wine tasting. Lose yourself in the cosmopolitan city of Santiago as you explore it on a city tour, visit Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, then head to southern Patagonia to hike in the amazing Torres del Paine National Park. End your trip with a relaxing stay at a charming vineyard, where you'll enjoy wine tasting, horseback riding, cycling, trekking, and other excursions.

The Pantanal is brimming with tropical birds like this blue and yellow macaw

Birdwatching in the Pantanal – 7 Days

Travel to Brazil's Pantanal region for an exotic birdwatching adventure in the world's largest tropical wetland. Avid birders will spot the iconic jabiru—the symbol of the Pantanal—the blue hyacinth macaw, and the roseate spoonbill, among dozens of others. Learn the secrets of this fascinating environment through its abundant wildlife and stunning marsh landscapes.

Trekking Off the Beaten Path in the Icelandic Highlands – 7 Days

The Icelandic Highlands are home to some of the most spectacular scenery and breathtaking landscapes on the planet. Trek the famous Laugavegur and Fimmvörðuháls trails, camp in the Valley of Thor, and walk through volcanic valleys and canyons on this epic week-long adventure.

Medellín & Camino Verde - 5 Days

Grab your hiking boots — this 5-day adventure highlights an epic trek in central Colombia's rainforests. But first, the trip starts (and ends) in the progressive city of Medellín, a place with a rising culinary and art gallery scene, as well as perpetual spring-like weather. Explore the city by foot and gondola, and check out a wave of construction projects happening in every neighborhood. Then set out on a 3-day trek through Colombia’s last untouched tropical humid rainforests staying in local farmhouses, before returning to Medellín's great bars and restaurants.

The Lost City & Tayrona Park Adventure - 10 Days

This rugged 10-day trip is ideal for those who want to focus on nature and the outdoors, as it highlights two of the country's biggest natural attractions. Start with a four-day trek to Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) located in the heart of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, a mountain range close to the Caribbean sea. Dubbed 'the new Machu Picchu', this challenging journey reaches the archaeological ruins of Teyuna -- accessible by steep climbs and several river crossings. Continue the adventure with a sailing trip in the Caribbean Sea, and then spend two days exploring Tayrona National Park. Finish the adventure with a relaxing float on the Don Diego River.

Finish your trip in romantic Cartagena, with rooftop bars and Caribbean sunsets.

Medellín, Zona Cafetera & Cartagena - 7 Days

This classic itinerary covers Colombia's Zona Cafetera (coffee zone), bookended by two of Latin America’s most exciting cities. The adventure starts in striking Medellín, where you'll explore this up-and-coming metropolis with a local guide. You'll then drive to the heart of the coffee region and stay overnight at a working farm. Enjoy a day in Salento with a guided hike through stunning green mountains before flying north to Cartagena, where you'll have time to hit the narrow streets of this colonial inner-walled city. Conclude your week with a free day on the coast — perhaps a speedboat ride to the Rosario Islands for white-sand beaches.

Cartagena & Tayrona Park - 5 Days

This fun 5-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.

The northern lights over a Finnish forest

Lapland Highlights - 5 Days

Visit Santa Claus's hometown (Rovaniemi) and fall in love with winter sports haven Ylläs on this snow-dusted winter wonderland adventure above the Arctic Circle! Snuggle a husky, pose for a selfie with a reindeer, snowshoe through the wilderness, participate in epic snowball fights, and hunt for the elusive, magical northern lights.

Adventure Tour in Rio de Janeiro - 5 Days

From the Corcovado to Sugarloaf Mountain and Copacabana to Ipanema, this whirlwind tour will sweep you through the best, most famous, and most beautiful beaches, neighborhoods, and mountains that Rio de Janeiro has to offer. Cycle along the endless beaches, hike the largest urban forest in the world, and learn how to cook with Brazilian flare and flavors.

Explore Colombia's wild pacific coast on this quick-trip of the country

Medellín & the Wild Pacific Coast - 5 Days

The undiscovered region of Chocó on Colombia's Pacific coast takes center stage in this 5-day trip, where you'll have time to explore the massive Utría National Park. This lush rainforest has some of the highest rainfall in the world, so expect to see amazing flora and fauna. The park also protects the coastal marine environment and is known for humpback whales and nesting sea turtles (and these empty beaches are great for surfing). Start and end the trip exploring scenic Medellín—one of Latin America's most exciting cities—on this awesome Colombian adventure.

Kayak the Pirate Routes in Nicaragua – 11 Days

Retrace the old pirate routes on this kayaking adventure in Nicaragua. Your journey will start in the 500-year-old Spanish colonial city of Granada. You will then fly to San Carlos and paddle the San Juan River from Sabalos to San Juan de Nicaragua. See exotic fauna such as the rainbow-billed toucan, visit the fort at El Castillo built to fend off pirates, and camp on the banks of the San Jan River. Finish your trip with a free day in Nicaragua's exciting capital, Managua.

Trekking Ecuador's Avenue of the Volcanoes - 8 Days

This eight-day trekking adventure delivers the highlights of the Ecuadorian Andes as you explore stunning landscapes, secluded villages, and the famous peaks along the Avenue of the Volcanoes. Hike along narrow mountain trails in the heart of the Andes as you make your way up the Quilotoa and Chimborazo volcanoes. Swim in the icy waters of Lake Quilotoa, then relax in the natural hot springs at Baños.

Enjoy numerous hiking opportunities in this remote part of the world

Wild Islands in Norway's Arctic - 8 Days

Wilder, greener, and more remote than the Lofoten Islands (though you'll have a night here, too), those who come to the Vesterålen archipelago will have access to hiking trails, peaceful beaches, rock formations, and seaside teeming with whales, not to mention extended daylight hours to soak it in by land and sea. Finish with an overnight coastal steamer to Tromsø —a lively city nicknamed 'Paris of the North'.

Ama Dablam (22,349 ft / 6,812 m) translates as "Mother's necklace"

Ama Dablam Luxury Trek - 16 Days

Experience Khumbu at its finest on this trek, which brings you to the base camp of the stunning Mount Ama Dablam at 15,750 feet. End each day at one of five comfortable lodges, with en-suite rooms, comfortable lounges, and beautifully landscaped gardens. Explore quieter trails where you will meet local people and experience their culture and ancient traditions first-hand, not to mention their enviable sense of tranquility.

Christ the Redeemer and Sugarloaf Mountain, Rio

A Brazilian Adventure, from Rio to the Amazon – 9 Days

Start your adventure in Rio de Janeiro, known as the "Cidade Maravilhosa" (the Marvelous City). Explore the Floresta da Tijuca, the largest urban forest in the world, take a cable car to the iconic Sugarloaf Mountain and relax on Copacabana beach. Then head to the Amazon, where you will canoe through the watery forest of the Igapós, spot exotic wildlife in the jungle, and swim with pink dolphins.

A rangoli to welcome the Goddess Laxmi on Laxmi Puja

Nepal's Festival of Lights - 10 Days

Tihar, or the Festival of Lights, is a five-day Hindu festival in the autumn that celebrates the intimate relationship between animals and people. It also worships Laxmi, the goddess of wealth, culminating in Laxmi Puja when rangoli patterns are made with colored powder and flowers. This trip will take you on a journey from Kathmandu to the old Malla kingdoms of Bhaktapur and Patan, and the lakeside city of Pokhara. Along the way, you will stay with local families to enjoy the full flavor of this magical festival.

View of Pokhara & Phewa Lake from Sarangkot

Annapurna Yoga & Luxury Trek - 11 Days

Embark on special yoga spirit trek in the Annapurna foothills of Nepal's sacred Himalayan Mountains. Led by an experienced international yoga instructor, this trek focuses on energizing yoga, meditation, and breathing to revitalize your inner self. With overnight stays in luxury Ker & Downey Lodges, this trip is an ideal introduction to trekking in Nepal.

Argentina, Chile & Peru - 16 Days

This 16-day itinerary combines cultural and historical highlights of Argentina, Chile, and Peru, from city life and wine tastings to the Incan Empire and natural scapes. Walk the bustling streets of Buenos Aires and taste Malbec in the wineries of Mendoza. Tour Santiago de Chile and gaze upon the snow-capped Andes. Immerse yourself in the Cusco region and discover the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

Northern Norway Lyngenfjord Trek - 8 Days

Lace up your boots and let a private guide show you this lesser-visited region of Northern Norway. With the stunning Lyngen Alps at your doorstep and extended daylight (summer) hours, you'll take part in six days of trekking with the village of Lyngseidet as your base. Highlights include the Steindalsbreen Glacier, the Gorsabrua Gorge, a trail created by WWII prisoners, a free day for biking or boating, and finally a night in Tromsø — dubbed the 'Paris of the North'.

Get Started

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

Kimkim has handpicked the world’s top local travel specialists so you will have peace of mind and an unforgettable trip that meets your exact requirements.

Authentic travel experiences

Kimkim’s local specialists ensure that you will have the best experience based on up-to-date local insights. On top of that, the vast majority of your money will go straight to support and grow local economies.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

You can always reach your local specialist with a quick message or call in case you hit a snag during your trip, or simply want some great local recommendations.