Travel Insights

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

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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'.

Hop between three islands in the Galápagos for outdoor adventures and activities

Galápagos Islands Multisport Adventure - 10 Days

Discover a nature lover's heaven through a wildlife tour that will uncover the most extraordinary sights of the Galápagos Islands. Over a week and a half, you'll discover the local flora and fauna through outdoor activities like kayaking, mountain biking, trekking, and snorkeling. This socially and environmentally-responsible itinerary features top-notch guides and immersive educational experiences, in addition to benefitting local communities.

Highlights of Sri Lanka - 12 Days

Known as the "Jewel of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka is famed for its centuries of history and exotic tropical wildlife. Explore the island's top destinations through this introductory tour that will satisfy both nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

The lush green mountains of Ella, Sri Lanka

Cycling Tour of Sri Lanka - 13 Days

This is the quintessential Sri Lankan bike ride! On this two week trip, you will discover local tea plantations, small villages, and historically significant cities — along with some wonderfully diverse riding through a sizeable portion of the island. You'll cycle from the culturally rich north through tea country then down into the southern plains and Horton Plains National Park, finishing in Galle.

Flavor and Luxury in Peru - 10 Days

Embark on a private, 10-day food and luxury tour of Peru, and discover what makes it the ultimate culinary destination. Explore Lima, home to some of the world's best restaurants. Delight in fine dining, browse markets, sample local fare and learn culinary techniques from leading chefs. Taste an incredible variety of ingredients from the coast to the jungle, and enjoy the country’s impressive scenery — including Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley.

Best Nightlife in Pokhara

It's easy to have a blast in Pokhara — especially at night! Between the open-air cinemas, booming live music scene, sports bars, and stunning sunsets, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Just be sure to make the most of everything before midnight, when the city shuts down.

Best Places To Eat & Drink in Pokhara

Pokhara is brimming with restaurants that cater to all tastes and travelers. From ayurvedic and vegan to Korean and Italian, deciding where to go can be the hardest part of your day in this relaxing lakeside town. Stress not: this dining guide is here to help.

Hiking in Thorsmork - 2 Days

Explore Thorsmork, the valley of the mighty Thor. Cross rugged terrain in a Super Jeep and hike in the remote wilderness of southern Iceland on this 2-day itinerary. Discover ice-capped volcanoes, deep canyons, and stunning black sand beaches — all while breathing in the fresh mountain air on this adventure tour.

Dana Biosphere Reserve - Start of the Dana to Petra Trek

Trekking the Jordan Trail from Dana to Petra – 9 Days

Experience Jordanian hospitality and rural life on an adventurous trek through the deserts and wadis of this Middle Eastern gem. Descend through Wadi Dana and the biodiverse Dana Biosphere Reserve, hike through Siq Canyon, and take a 4WD tour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadi Rum. At night you'll sleep under the stars in Bedouin wilderness camps.

Take in Norway's stunning coastline from the water.

Southern Norway's Fjord Coast - 8 Days

Trace the impact of the sea and the country's maritime heritage across Norway's fjord coast on this weeklong journey. From charming Bergen, set sail for modern-day fishing villages and remote islands where you can not only sample the day's catch, but also dive into pristine environments now home to diverse aquatic wildlife and numerous seabirds. Urban and rural outdoor pursuits from hiking to cycling to kayaking are daily highlights of this active trip.

One of many small villages on the Sognefjord

Norway Slow Travel: Oslo, Aurland & Bergen - 7 Days

This relaxing weeklong journey starts in the capital city of Oslo before heading west via the steepest train in Norway (the Flåm Railway). From here, embrace the slow-paced local culture of Aurland while staying two nights at a secluded and upscale lodge that serves organic cuisine. Take part in some light hiking and paddling and then cruise the Sognefjord by ferry, finishing the adventure in scenic Bergen—Norway's UNESCO-listed second largest city, surrounded by seven mountains.

A view of the "aurora borealis" near Tromsø, Norway.

Norway Northern Lights Road Trip - 7 Days

This scenic winter adventure traverses the Norwegian Arctic and checks off a number of natural and cultural sites starting in the city of Tromsø, nicknamed "Paris of the North." From here, hit the road and see rock art in Alta, learn about the Indigenous Sámi people in Karasjok, and visit a hotel made of snow along the Finnish-Russian border. Each day ends with another opportunity to view the northern lights in this beautiful and remote part of the world.

Bedouin camels rest outside the Treasury at Petra

Family Trip to Jordan: Petra, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, & More – 8 Days

This well-rounded tour is designed to suit families and has something for everyone. Visit the ruins of Gerasa and stay in a Bedouin camp in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wadi Rum. See the holy Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics at Madaba and frolic on the beach at Aqaba. Add to this Petra and the Dead Sea and you have the complete highlights of Jordan.

The stunning old town of Rovinj along the coast of Istria

Istria to Dubrovnik: Land & Sea - 12 Days

Explore Croatia's Istrian Peninsula and be mesmerized by medieval fortress towns, discover the beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and look upon stunning coastal views as you make your way from Rovinj to Hvar. Board a private sailboat and be dazzled by Croatia's islands as you make your way across the Adriatic Sea to Dubrovnik. Feel the spirit of the Mediterranean on this 12-day adventure.

Iceland Multisport Adventure - 4 Days

Adventurers get ready: this intense 4-day Iceland itinerary was made just for you. Ice climb, camp, trek, cycle, and Super Jeep your way across the island in small groups, experiencing the best outdoor adventures the country has to offer.

Italian Highlights from Rome to Cinque Terre - 8 Days

From artistic Florence to the famously beautiful National Park of Cinque Terre, this week-long highlights tour will give you a taste of some of the best that sunny, charming Italy has to offer. Explore Rome's ancient monuments, soak in the beauty of the Tuscan countryside, and visit vineyards, food shops, and incredible restaurants along the way.

Cycle along vistas like this Andean lagoon

Cycling the Atacama Desert in Chile - 7 Days

Mountain bikers, this one's for you! Cycle through the Atacama Desert off the beaten path and into areas not yet accessible by vehicle, only currently frequented by llama and goat herds. Small villages, geysers, lagoons, valleys, archaeological ruins, Andean wildlife, and spectacular panoramas crowned by dormant volcanoes await!

Hiking and Fly Fishing in Slovenia – 15 Days

Discover hiking and fly fishing in the Slovenian Alps. Travel independently with a rental car, starting in Ljubljana and heading north and north-west. Experience rugged alpine landscapes and crystal clear rivers and lakes, before continuing south to the fertile wine hills. Visit the magical Skocjan caves and the charming coastal town of Piran.

Best Cafés in Pokhara

Nepal's love affair with coffee is in full swing in Pokhara, where over 35 coffee shops have cropped up in the last five years — all touting locally grown, organic Himalayan Arabica.

Hiking and Biking Adventure in Southern Iceland - 3 Days

Perfect for the more active adventurer, this high-octane itinerary takes you through beautiful southern Iceland. Explore some of Iceland's most stunning sites on a partially self-guided hiking and biking tour from the Thórsmörk Valley to the black sands of Reynisfjara to the must-see Skógafoss waterfall. Discover impressive coastlines, thunderous waterfalls, towering ice-caps, and glistening glaciers.

Bolivia & Atacama, Chile – 12 Days

From La Paz to Potosi to the salt flats of Uyuni and San Pedro de Atacama, this trip will take you through some surreal landscape in Bolivia and Chile. Explore the Witches Market in Laz Paz, see the dinosaur footprints at Cal Orcko, and bathe in the hot springs of Sol de Mañana. Culture, nature and the mystical collide on this incredible adventure.

Highlights of Italy: Venice, Florence, Rome, Naples - 14 Days

Discover the sights and delights of Italy on this two-week highlights tour. Explore the floating city of Venice, the Renaissance jewel of Florence, and the Eternal City of Rome. Ride a Vespa through picturesque Tuscany and discover the beautiful Amalfi Coast. Soak up the culture, food, and wine while you fall in love with Italy.

Planning Your Honeymoon in India

From the famously erotic temple carvings at Khajuraho to star-crossed lovers in today’s Bollywood films, India is in love with romance—and it has the honeymoon spots to show for it. The country rolls out the red carpet to honor the newly betrothed, so even if you didn’t have a destination wedding, you can still have an Indian honeymoon.

A young woman meditates in the Annapurnas

Best Yoga Retreats and Treks in Nepal

While many yogis flock to the tropical beaches of southern India to hone their practice, it's hard to beat doing downward dog or meditating against the backdrop of the world's highest peaks. This roundup of the best yoga treks, retreats, and adventures in Nepal, from a yoga rafting trip on the Sun Kosi to a luxury yoga trek in the Annapurnas, will have you booking a flight before you can say Om-M-G.

Oslo Like a Local

Oslo, Norway's capital, is one of the fastest-changing cities around. The population—and a diverse one at that—is booming, but its humble, Scandinavian roots remain strong. With new restaurants popping up every month, an artistic movement experiencing a renaissance, and a history that's steps from downtown, the only way to do Oslo is like a local.

Kerala Hiking Tour - 12 Days

India's Kerala state, located in the south of the peninsula, is home to lush vegetation and wild animals, aromatic spices and stunning temples. Indulge your senses and experience Kerala's diversity. Trek through forest and jungle to heights that offer stunning views, take in cultural sights of bustling towns, and relax on a bamboo raft on the winding waters, with nature at your fingertips.

Phoksundo Lake Trek – 10 Days

Discover Nepal's majestic region of Dolpo. This remote area, made famous by Peter Matthiessen’s book 'The Snow Leopard,' has only been open to trekkers since 1989. Its most alluring attraction, Phoksundo Lake, is sacred to Buddhists and followers of the Bonpo religion. This relatively easy trek involves no high passes, and winds through Himalayan forests and traditional Tibetan villages.

7 Days in Iceland - 7 Unique Itinerary Ideas

1 Week in Iceland - 7 Unique Itinerary Ideas

A full week in Iceland is an ideal amount of time to explore three regions. In the itineraries below, explore the classic Golden Circle and South Coast stops, or venture to lesser-known areas like the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Arctic Coast, and the Westman Islands. For adventurous hikers, the multi-day Laugavegur Trek offers an incredible outdoor experience, while winter travelers can enjoy an entirely different side of the country, complete with seasonal activities and snowy scenery. Read on for more 7-day trip inspiration.

Performers in the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland

Places Most Travelers Miss (But Shouldn't) in India

Have you taken a selfie in front of the Taj Mahal? Hopped a camel for a sunset ride through Rajasthan? If you’ve ticked those items off your India bucket list— or are simply looking to explore less trodden regions— then we’ve got you covered with these suggestions for unbeatable, but overlooked, sites in India.

Discover Tibet - 6 Days

Go on an adventure at the top of the world and let ancient Tibetan myths and mysteries enchant you. This 6-day tour includes a thorough cultural and historical exploration of Tibet's capital, Lhasa, and surrounding areas. You'll also get a taste of nature with a trip south to the pristine freshwaters of Yamdrok Lake.

A pretty sunset near the village of Arendal.

Explore Southern Norway by Bicycle - 5 Days

Pack light for this summertime biking adventure that takes you through charming towns in Southern Norway, sometimes referred to as the Norwegian Riviera. You'll start in Oslo and then spend the next three days pumping at your own pace through places like Tvedestrand, Arendal, Fevikkilen, and Lillesand, which are known for their narrow streets, white wooden houses, and warm weather vibes. Enjoy stops along the way for sunbathing on rock formations, visiting historic lighthouses, and taking day-trips to nearby islands.

Hike up to these views overlooking Lake Ringedalsvatnet and stay overnight.

Nordic Adventure for Outdoor Lovers - 5 Days

This epic jaunt through Western Norway encompasses a slew of outdoor activities — like hiking, biking, and camping — for travelers who want to experience as much summer fun as they can fit in five days. After a night in Bergen, you'll drive through some of Norway's most spectacular scenery as you make your way to Trolltunga, Aurland, Myrdal, and Flåm. Squeeze in a speedboat ride through a UNESCO-protected fjord before heading to the airport for your flight home.

Scenic trails meander through this mountainous route in central Norway.

Ultimate Guided Trollheimen Trek - 5 Days

Surrounded by dramatic mountains, lush forests, and pristine lakes, Trollheimen (Home of the Trolls) is one of Scandinavia's most beloved trekking destinations. This five-day adventure takes you through central Norway's spectacular views from well-maintained trails (by day) while staying in comfortable lodges (by night). To round it out, fly through Oslo and soak up the history and culture of Europe's fastest-growing capital.

Ferry through the Sognefjord to reach the city of Bergen.

Norway's Cities, Mountains & Fjords - 5 Days

This Nordic adventure covers several key highlights in a short amount of time, starting in Europe's fastest growing capital. Next, hike in Norway's mountainous interior before taking the scenic Flåm Railway towards the western coast. Finish with a ferry ride through Norway's longest and deepest fjord (Sognefjord) to get to Bergen—a colorful waterfront city surrounded by seven mountains.

Northern Norway Arctic Adventure - 5 Days

In less than a week, experience snow-covered scenery and the Northern Lights with this photogenic road-trip through the Lofoten Islands. The trip begins with a car ferry from Bodø, where you'll drive across the coastline at your own pace and explore some of Norway's oldest and most colorful fishing towns hugging the shore with traditional red 'rorbu' (fishermen's huts). Conclude the adventure with an overnight coastal steamer to Tromsø for a slice of Northern Norway's biggest city.

Spectacular Huchuy Qosqo is accessible only by foot

Huchuy Qosqo & Machu Picchu - 6 Days

Hike to ancient, off-the-beaten-track Incan sites, trek through breathtaking high-Andes mountain scenery, stay overnight with a charismatic local family, and eventually find yourself among the famous, mysterious ruins of Machu Picchu! Perfect for the adventurous traveler, this tour squeezes a taste of everything into a short, sweet itinerary.

Manu Adventure - 8 Days

Down in the Amazon basin, off the edge of the tourist map, lies Manu — arguably the most biodiverse area in the world. Trek off the beaten track and into the land of tapirs, parrots, and jungle rivers — a place without luxury hotels, hot showers, or 24/7 WiFi.

Epic Ecuador Multi-Sport Tour - 8 Days

This active tour of the Ecuadorian mainland is sure to get the adrenaline pumping. In just over a week you'll enjoy adventures on both land and water. Brave the rapids of the Río Jatunyacu, cycle down the slopes of the Andes, hike through virgin rainforest to secluded waterfalls, trek to the shores of Cuicocha Lagoon, and soak in Papallacta's volcanic springs.

Discovering Bandipur: A Crown Jewel of Nepal

The Newari town of Bandipur is one of central Nepal's hidden gems. It combines traditional village architecture, epic Himalayan views, lovely countryside walks, local adventure sports, and excellent accommodation. It's also an ideal place to break up the drive between Pokhara and Kathmandu while getting a relaxing taste of rural Nepal in the process.

Best of South America - 21 Days

Discover the famous Machu Picchu ruins and the Amazon rainforest in Peru, immerse yourself in the Torres del Paine National Park in Chile, and explore Iguazu Falls and Perito Moreno Glacier in Argentina. This 3-week itinerary combines each country’s natural highlights with the cosmopolitan cities of Lima, Santiago, and Buenos Aires.

The Inca trail leads to the ruins of Machu Picchu

Inca Trail to Huchuy Qosqo & Llactapata with Machu Picchu - 10 Days

Follow in the footsteps of the Incas as you hike an ancient trail and explore meticulously preserved ruins with this 10-day itinerary. Relax in mineral hot springs and learn traditional coffee roasting techniques with experts at an organic farm. Afterward, lose track of time exploring the narrow, winding streets of Cusco—the historic capital of the Incan Empire.

An aerial view of Bergen from Mt. Fløyen

Bergen Like a Local

How many cities can you name that sit along a fjord, in the mountains, surrounded by islands? If you've been to Bergen, your answer is probably one. It's a microcosm of all of Norway's best scenery with a dash of both traditional and contemporary culture. The city, though world-class, has humble, unpretentious roots—and the only way to do it is like a local.

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