Even amid Ecuador's tourism boom, there are still plenty of enticing destinations that remain under the radar, offering travelers the chance to explore architectural gems, surf off gorgeous beaches, visit wildlife-rich reserves, and much more. Here are a few suggestions for escaping the crowds.
Ten days in Peru is an excellent amount of time to enjoy a well-rounded introduction to the country's highlights on a tour featuring Machu Picchu, Lake Titicaca, and the Amazon, and it's also enough time to tick off the four-day Inca Trail and relax while admiring the floating islands on Lake Titicaca. Those eager to spend time searching for unique wildlife should head to Manú National Park, while travelers interested in history but not the crowds should venture to Northern Peru.
Cartagena is one of South America's most enchanting colonial cities. Enticing boutique hotels are already a feature of the Centro Histórico (walled city), with newer properties starting to appear in hip, artsy Getsemaní. Most hotels feature an elegant colonial Spanish theme (in keeping with the city's history) but with plenty of individual touches and splashes of modern art, and there are even swish, contemporary options to consider.
You'll be amazed at just how many adrenaline-inducing activities you can fit into a 6-day itinerary in Northern Patagonia. Float down serene rivers and hurtle over rapids; jump from cliffs and zip-line over the water; stay in comfortable camps and soak in riverside hot tubs. This area of Patagonia is an adventure wonderland, and you won't want to waste a minute.
As the rest of the world slowly discovers the beauty of Norway, its northern reaches—all the way into Lapland—still offer off-the-radar adventures. With 24 hours of sunlight for well over two months come summer, you've got nothing but time to cram your itinerary with a lifetime's worth of experiences.
With 10 days to explore nearly 60,000 miles of coastline, you'll want to ensure you're equipped with a plan to tackle Norway's wide-ranging scenery, wildlife, and culture. If you're keen on exploring Norway's fjords, pick up a rental car and journey through Stavanger, Bergen, Voss, and Aurland. Alternatively, consider an action-packed road trip, a winter adventure in northern Norway, a culturally rich exploration in western Norway, or an active trip featuring a multiday hike through the Aurland Valley.
From the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery to the sleepy streets of Paro, visiting Bhutan is all about the simple pleasures of natural beauty and a distinctly preserved culture. Experience this long-isolated country's stunning mountains, colorful architecture, and lush countryside on this comprehensive 10-day tour.
Home to Andean peaks, dramatic coastlines and otherworldly deserts, Chile has an astonishing variety of landscapes that set the scene for unforgettable adventures. You can trek through Patagonian wilderness in the deep south or buzzing beach towns in the north. In between, you’ll find award-winning wineries, art-filled bohemian enclaves and impossibly picturesque valleys, not to mention one of South America’s most dynamic cities. The biggest challenge is deciding where to begin.
The five-day Lares Trek takes you high up in the Andes, hiking during the day and overnighting in luxurious lodges along the way. Providing impressive views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes, it’s a relatively demanding hike that will test your fitness.
Get ready, cyclists: this one's for you! The Eroica is a world-renowned vintage bike race, held annually in the hilly, vineyard-dotted region of Chianti in Tuscany. With a week to spare, you can follow the route of this legendary race, experiencing the "strade bianche" (unpaved white roads) that take you through the heart of this magnificent countryside. Between epic rides, you'll spend your free time strolling through hilltop medieval villages, sampling the local wines, and relaxing at peaceful agriturismos.
Named after the highest peak in the Vilcabamba mountain range, the Salkantay Trek takes you high in the Andes outside Cusco, providing specular views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush cloud forest. It’s an easy to moderate hike, with some sections of challenging terrain. The trek involves comfortable stays at luxurious lodges in remote locations so that you can enjoy the gorgeous Andean scenery without having to give up your comforts.
Explore mystical, naturally resplendent Bhutan - also known as Druk-Yal, the land of the thunder dragon - as it emerges from the mists of its self-imposed isolation. From museums to monasteries, this tour will guide you through some of the best of Bhutanese life, culture, nature, and history.
The trail to the majestic Glymur Waterfall offers all kinds of challenges - but the stunning views from the top are well worth the adventure. Get to the trailhead prepared for your exhilarating day of hiking with this detailed trail description and other helpful tips.
This Bhutan bike tour is an excellent combination of biking through Bhutan's stunning landscape. Experience the real Bhutanese countryside life and visit some cultural highlights as well. Biking is done mostly on good roads with very little traffic, but you'll take quiet roads as much as possible, and during the last days, you'll leave the main road and cycle on farm roads exclusively. You'll stay in decent hotels, sleep in traditional farmhouses, and camp in nature.
It’s already a luxury to be in a country this beautiful, but if you’re looking to take your trip from merely memorable to truly lavish, there are plenty of private tours, personalized experiences and high-end lodging options that will really up the wow factor.
Chilean wines are today considered to be among the best in the world. Chile’s geographical diversity coupled with its Mediterranean climate makes it ideal to grow sustainable wines and to produce a variety of wine styles. The country is home to a wide range of wineries, from age-old to new biodynamic establishments committed to sustainable viticulture.
From snorkeling with sea turtles and hiking up a dormant volcano to spotting giant tortoises and penguins, a journey to the Galápagos brings an array of incredible sights and activities. With a cruise, you'll get farther from the main islands, and there's no need to pack each day for a new hotel as your accommodation and transportation are combined. Use this guide to get the most out of your Galápagos cruise.
Challenge yourself to a week of trekking in the mountains of Bulgaria. This small Balkan country's stark beauty makes a perfect getaway for the climbers and would-be mountaineers among you. You'll hike to mountain peaks, take in the beauty of glacial lakes, and delve into Bulgarian culture with trips to the Rila Monastery and a tour of Sofia.
Set off on an amazing trip covering the highlights of the Slovenian Alps. Partake in hiking and biking options as you venture from northwestern Slovenia with its rugged alpine landscape and crystal clear rivers to the fertile wine hills and coastal towns of the south.
The Gambia is a sought after destination for many reasons, and its impressive array of over 500 bird species is just one of them. Enjoy a week of daily birdwatching excursions led by a local expert, all while staying at an oasis-like eco-lodge in the middle of the action.
Experience the diversity of the Slovenian Alps in this ultimate nature lovers tour. Take on a mix of serious hiking, white water rafting, kayaking and even canyoning. Explore the vibrant city of Ljubljana and savor authentic Slovenian food and wine on an adventure you won't soon forget.
Ideal for anyone who loves nature and leisurely walks, this itinerary takes you through the beautiful Slovenian landscape while tackling trails of low technical difficulty. Visit stunning viewpoints of the Julian Alps, meander along turquoise rivers, and marvel at the mysterious underworld of Karst before relaxing along the Adriatic coast. There's no better way discover Slovenia’s natural treasures.
The kingdom of Bhutan remains one of the last unspoiled gems of the Himalayas. Closed to foreign visitors until the 1970s, Bhutan's past and present are firmly grounded in traditional Buddhist culture. On this quick 5-day journey around the country, you'll visit quiet monasteries, explore ancient fortresses, and enjoy stunning views of the mountains as you hike through peaceful valleys.
Get off the beaten path and onto the Kumano Kodo, a network of ancient pilgrimage trails in the remote Kii Peninsula. Trek to grand shrines and thermal hot springs on this self-guided trip, great for those looking to challenge themselves with full-day hikes through hilly terrain. You'll be rewarded, however, with unforgettable experiences as you follow in the footsteps of emperors.
Western Bhutan is home to many of the kingdom's top sights and most beautiful landscapes. You'll explore the region on this well-rounded 7-day trip that starts in the capital city of Thimphu. Discover the glacial valley of Phobjikha, attend an evening prayer ceremony in Punakha, enjoy a picnic in the mountains, and hike to the famous Tiger's Nest Monastery. Since the itinerary focuses on just one part of the country, you'll spend less time traveling between destinations and more time simply enjoying them.
Perfect for cyclists seeking a sunny, self-guided itinerary, this Croatian cycling adventure spans the best of the beloved Dalmatian Coast. Start your adventure in ancient Split, where Diocletian's Palace sits along the sea. You'll cycle through olive groves and vineyards on nearby islands before making your way south to Dubrovnik.
Bhutan is home to more than 700 avian species. You'll spot many varieties on this colorful excursion through the western part of the country, which takes you to both well-known and off-the-beaten-path birding zones. Fall in love with Bhutan's forested landscapes and majestic wildlife on this itinerary that's tailor-made for nature lovers.
A great option for active travelers who want to combine stunning scenery with outdoor adventure. Starting in Split, you'll explore popular Krka National Park and canyon the Cetina River before taking to the sea to discover Hvar Island. You'll hike, paddle, and rappel your way across the southern Dalmatian coast ending your stay in historic Dubrovnik.
Santiago de Chile boasts a one-of-a-kind location, sprawling below some of the highest peaks of the Andes range, providing a breathtaking city backdrop. Fabulous Buenos Aires, the most European of South America's cities is world famous for its tango, restaurants, vibrant nightlife, fashion and traditional cafés. You'll experience both of these dynamic cities on this 9-day itinerary, enjoying not only urban culture but beaches, an Argentine ranch and the quirky seaside town of Valparaíso.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in nature on this five-day hiking trip along the historic Nakasendo Trail. Feudal lords and samurai once walked this mountain path connecting Kyoto and Tokyo, stopping to rest in historic jukus, or Edo-era post towns, each night. You'll follow in their footsteps as you trek through picturesque valleys, explore idyllic villages, sleep in traditional inns, and relax in the thermal waters of hot springs along the hike.
Every Christmas, kimkim travelers Jen and Garrison Draper give each other the gift of travel. This year, their goal was to glimpse the Northern Lights - so they headed to Iceland for a once-in-a-lifetime winter road trip. From climbing glaciers to eating hot dogs, Garrison shares his favorite moments and some great advice.
Colombia is an incredible country for birdwatchers. It boasts a list of 77 endemics (birds found in no other country) and is home to well over 1930 bird species — around 20 percent of the world's total bird count. This 16-day adventure is designed to showcase the best birding sites in the country. You'll experience Colombian culture, excellent food, and vibrant cities as you travel between incredible birding habitats.
Colombia's second-largest city, Medellín is young, dynamic, and on the up. It’s a place where people like to go out, enjoy life, and eat well. During the day, you’ll find plenty of cheap diners where you can fill up on hearty local staples, with lots of stalls on the street selling fresh fruit and juices. But come the evening, you’ll probably want to check out the increasing variety of excellent modern restaurants serving local, international and fusion cuisine.
The Santa Cruz four-day trek takes you high into the Cordillera Blanca in northern Peru, providing spectacular views of glacier-wrapped peaks, turquoise lakes and fields of wildflowers. It's a demanding hike that will test your body and lungs, but well worth it for the epic scenery. This article will help you make the most of your Peruvian high altitude adventure, and provide information on extending the hike to five or more days.
The Manaslu Circuit Trek, crossing Larkya La pass (16,752 ft. or 5106 m.) to the legendary Annapurna region, is one of Nepal's most spectacular and culturally diverse treks. Its dramatic Himalayan vistas, challenging terrain, mix of Gurung and Tibetan villages, Tibetan Buddhist gompas, birds, and wildlife make it one of Nepal's best camping treks.
Ever since a chance conversation with a Moroccan uber driver about his native land, kimkim globetrotter Niea Rosa was determined to see this magical destination for herself. As an architect and savvy solo traveler, Niea brings an especially unique perspective to the table. Read on for her impressions of beautiful Northern Morocco and how she prioritized her itinerary.
Looking for an eventful winter vacation? The South Coast of Iceland is chock-full of fun winter activities, from glacier hiking to snowboarding, snowmobiling and more. If you're lucky, you'll have the chance to witness the unparalleled beauty of the Northern Lights that often grace the crisp Arctic sky. Here's our recommended way to spend the winter on Iceland's South Coast.
Strap on your snowshoes and make your way through two Bulgarian national parks full of independent massifs separated by deep gorges and mountain passes. This tour winds through southwestern Bulgaria for a truly authentic experience of snowy wilderness, traditional cuisine, and local hospitality.
Pair up the colorful culture of Havana and the outdoor adventure of the Viñales Valley for an epic tour of western Cuba. Perfect for adventurers with eclectic tastes, this itinerary will take you from rural schools to silkscreening workshops to Latin America's largest cave.
Even with just a few days to spare, you can still take in all that Havana has to offer. Discover Cuba’s creative culture with entrepreneurs, artists, intellectuals, and chefs – the people who are creating Cuba’s future. You'll see the art , taste the flavors, hear the rhythm, and feel the soul of the thriving Cuban lifestyle.
Explore three amazing Croatian jewels—Split, Hvar, and Dubrovnik—and discover why so many people fall in love with Croatia. In just a week you'll have time to learn about Croatia's long, rich history in the cities of Split and Dubrovnik; relax on beaches and go sailing around the Pakleni Islands, and hike to monasteries and forgotten villages on Hvar and Brač.
Croatia has something for all interests, with historic old towns, sparkling sea for swimming and kayaking, and beautiful hiking trails. See a bit of them all on this 8-day itinerary that takes in some of Croatia's gems: the lovely cities of Split, Dubrovnik, and nearby national parks and islands for wilderness adventures.
There is perhaps no better way to get "off the beaten path" in Jordan than to walk or ride the trails that traverse its spectacular landscapes and diverse communities. The Jordan Bike Trail takes you behind the scenes and away from the crowds, on a challenging and rewarding journey from ancient Greco-Roman ruins in the north to refreshing Red Sea waters in the south. Here are some tips to get you started.
You could spend a whole year in Norway and barely scratch the surface of its expansive beauty. If you've only got two weeks to try and do so, give one of these itineraries a try. You'll scope out Norwegian nature, culture, and more through the seasons.
Avid walkers celebrate: this village-to-village walking tour was designed just for you. Hike through national parks, great forests, and the exceptional landscapes of the Bucegi Mountains. Visit traditional villages. And take in the dark, eerie history of Bran Castle - also known as Dracula's Castle.
There is so much to see in Romania, and this two-week trip offers a glimpse into a country and culture where the people's connection to nature runs deep. Explore charming medieval towns, visit the castle that inspired the location of Bram Stoker's "Dracula," and take a steam train ride through the countryside. You'll discover authentic villages straight out of a fairy tale, jaw-dropping landscapes, and carefully preserved traditions.
Planning to follow in the footsteps of Charles Darwin and spot the extraordinary wildlife on the Galápagos Islands? A great way to make this journey is on a land-based tour: sleeping in hotels by night and shuttling between the islands by day. In between, you'll have the chance to spot giant tortoises in their native habitat, snorkel with sea lions, hike up an active volcano, and spend time experiencing the culture of these Enchanted Islands.
This 7-day adventure is perfect for those planning to visit the top two sights in Peru – Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. In addition to these unforgettable highlights, this itinerary will take a detour over some stunning Andean scenery, from icy peaks to steamy jungle. Along the way, enjoy a dip in hot springs, a visit to a coffee cooperative and shopping in traditional Andean markets.
Cusco serves as the perfect base to explore the numerous sights of the Sacred Valley. Colonial settlements and ancient Inca towns are dotted here and there, while in remote mountain settlements life has largely remained unchanged for centuries. Use this guide to plan your day trips from the ancient Inca capital.
Love getting off the beaten track and traveling like a local? This tour was tailor-made for you. Experience the best of the French Riviera, including the hilltop villages of Luberon, multicultural Marseille, charming Aix-en-Provence, and vibrant Cannes.
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.
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.
Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.
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.
