Travel Insights

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

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Cartagena & the San Bernardo Islands - 5 Days

One of the best aspects of visiting Cartagena on Colombia's northern coast is having close proximity to nearby Caribbean Islands for the ultimate culture/beach adventure. On this 5-day trip, you'll start off experiencing the city's narrow streets with palaces, churches, and mansions painted in pastel colors (not to mention hip hotels and galleries that are popping up). Then, boat over to San Bernardo's beautiful coral islands for white-sand beaches and watersports. Finish the adventure back in Cartagena for one more night of colonial romance.

Discover Transylvania’s Heritage by Bike - 9 Days

Wind your way by bike through the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania's hills - the mysterious, beautiful land made famous by Bram Stoker's Dracula. Perfect for those looking for an experience that seamlessly integrates culture, nature, and history, this tour will take you to citadels, fortified churches, bear sanctuaries, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Cartagena & the Caribbean Coast - 10 Days

Experience stunning highlights along Colombia's northern coast in this active 10-day adventure. You'll soak in the romance and colonial history of Cartagena's Old Town, hike in Tayrona National Park, 4x4 through remote jungles, wander majestic sand dunes, visit indigenous cultures, and go birdwatching in Minca at sunrise. Circle back to Cartagena and end the trip with a relaxing beach day in the Rosario Islands.

Bogotá, Caño Cristales & Cartagena - 9 Days

Sandwiched between Colombia’s mountainous capital and its romantic inner-walled city on the northern coast, this scenic 9-day journey highlights one of South America's most beloved ecological gems: Caño Cristales. After completing this two-day river adventure, you’ll fly back to Bogotá to visit the salt mines before heading north to Cartagena. Here, you'll have two days to explore the sites, culminating with a speedboat ride to the Rosario Islands.

A view of the mountains from Bogota's La Candelaria district.

Colombian Highlands & the Los Nevados Trek - 9 Days

This active South American adventure spotlights trekking in the high, snowy mountains of Los Nevados National Park. A good portion of this 9-day journey will take place in the rugged outdoors before you head towards the charming colonial town of Villa de Leyva in the Colombian Highlands. Start and finish the trip with time to explore the cosmopolitan capital of Bogotá for colorful street art, museums, dining, and nightlife.

Steaming Tatio geysers erupting on a geothermal field

Cultural Bike & Hike Trip at Atacama Desert - 8 Days

This journey in the Atacama desert takes you to some of the most spectacular desert scenery on the planet. You’ll see sputtering geysers, salt flats where flamingoes roam, and gorgeous sunsets over otherworldly rock formations. This Chilean adventure is for active-minded travelers, with biking and hiking among astonishing Andean landscapes.

Quito in the foreground with an erupting Cotopaxi volcano in the distance

How Many Days to Spend In Ecuador

Ecuador is a country that packs enormous diversity into a small area, so it's ideal to visit for a short trip. You can spend a long weekend exploring Quito and the mountains, stay for a week venturing into the Amazon jungle or cruising the Galápagos, or spend two weeks climbing volcanoes, exploring cloud forests, and enjoying adventure sports before relaxing on the Pacific beaches. Whatever your preference, use this guide to help you make the most of your visit.

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Jordan

From desert camps to quaint guesthouses to art-inspired city hotels, Jordan offers a variety of accommodations for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best boutique hotels, from north to south.

Outstanding mountain and valley views guaranteed

4 Great Hiking Regions Near Marrakech

The High Atlas mountains are more than just a backdrop for vibrant Marrakech. Only an hour from the city, spectacular scenery and culture await you, with plenty of trails to choose from. Check out one of these four easily-accessible regions and immerse yourself in varied terrain, stunning views, and local Berber culture.

Top Lapland & Northern Norway Winter Experiences

Only those looking for true adventure are suited for a trip to Northern Norway and (just across the border) Finnish Lapland in winter. The Arctic Circle admits few through its snowy doors, but if your name is on the list, you'll be escorted into another world. A world of surprises, a world of adrenaline, and a world of stories to tell.

Discover the stunning landscapes of Northern Norway

Guided Day Hiking in Northern Norway: 5 Days

Explore the famous Lyngenfjord region during the enchanting Arctic summer. From glaciers and stunning waterfalls to walks along the Arctic Sea, each scene is more breathtakingly beautiful than the next. And no need to worry about making it back home before dark: at this latitude, the summer sun never sets.

Would you stand here? The Kjerag boulder hanging 960 meters / 3150 feet above sea level!

Stavanger & Lysefjord Adventure - 4 Days

On this short tour, explore two of the best-loved mountain formations in Norway: Pulpit Rock and Kjerag Boulder. Take in breathtaking views, climb to heart-pounding heights, and speedboat through the stunning Lysefjord all in just four days. Spend your evenings shopping and dining in vibrant Stavanger.

Thrills of Northern Thailand - 4 Days

There's so much to see in beautiful northern Thailand, and this four-day trip offers a quick hit of the highlights. Enjoy spectacular mountain vistas, challenge yourself on a high-octane rafting adventure, and explore the temples and culture of Thailand's diverse people. You'll swim in waterfalls and hot springs, drink coffee in a Hmong village, and feast on flavorful Chiang Mai delicacies.

Royal Natal National Park in the Drakensberg Mountains

Country of Contrasts Road Trip: Cape Town, Garden Route, Wild Coast, Kruger National Park & More - 21 Days

South Africa contains multitudes—of people, landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and more. With three weeks to explore, you'll travel through the highlights of contemporary Cape Town, visit the beach towns of the Wild Coast, experience the animal attractions of Addo Elephant National Park and Kruger National Park, and traverse highs and lows from the Drakensberg Mountains to the Cango Caves. Along the way, you'll gain insight into the country's complex history and ecosystems with the help of local experts and experienced guides.

A man looks out over Bogotá from Cerro Monserrate

Discover Colombia's Great Cities - 14 Days

From the buzzing nightlife of Bogotá to the colorful "comunas" of Medellín and the romance of Spanish colonial Cartagena, this two-week journey hits Colombia's urban highlights—with some outdoor adventures along the way. Start with Bogotá city tours followed by hikes amid towering palms in the Coffee Triangle. Then, enjoy revitalized Medellín before wrapping up in Cartagena and lazing on Caribbean beaches.

Ziplining toward a waterfall near the town of Baños

Ecuador Highlands & Amazon - 7 Days

This action-packed seven-day tour of Ecuador is perfect for travelers searching for adventure, culture and spectacular scenery all within a few hours' drive from the capital Quito. The trip begins with a thrilling bike ride down an active volcano and continues with hikes in the cloud forest, a climb up a waterfall and visits to an indigenous community. There will be plenty of opportunities to unwind too, with stops at hot springs and a quiet, mountainside hacienda.

Choose your own route on hikes throughout Colombia's El Cocuy National Park

Outdoor Adventures in Colombia: Bogotá, Medellín & El Cocuy - 14 Days

This scenic two-week trip loops around Colombia's interior, focusing on two of Latin America's most exciting cities and one of its best national parks nestled amid the peaks of the Sierra Nevada del Cocuy. On a multiday hike, you'll witness El Cocuy's spectacular mountains, glaciers, waterfalls, and lakes. Before and after this outdoor adventure, you'll tour Bogotá and Medellín, plus enjoy the crystalline waters of the Río Claro Nature Reserve.

Volcano views from the streets of Antigua

Best of Guatemala: Antigua, Lake Atitlán & Tikal - 8 Days

This eight-day trip packs in some of Guatemala's greatest hits, from touring Maya ruins to climbing an active volcano. Hike, bike, and kayak around the country as you explore the picturesque colonial city of Antigua, scale the lava fields of Pacaya, experience the magic of Lake Atitlán, and venture deep into the rainforest to discover the ancient pyramids of Tikal.

Trek to the impressive Preikestolen aka Pulpit Rock for exceptional fjord views

How to Experience Kjerag, Pulpit Rock & Trolltunga Like a Local

The three most photogenic rock formations in Norway are drawing more in-the-know travelers than ever, and with good reason. Fantastic hiking, beautiful photo ops, and proximity to an interesting harbor town make this trifecta a worthy (and crowded) destination—but with some planning, you can still have an experience all your own.

Lake Titicaca and the "floating islands" made from reeds.

Explore Peru and Bolivia - 11 Days

Combine the Andean highlights of two diverse countries on this 11-day tour. Explore the Inca sites of Peru, including Cusco, the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. Then travel south by train through high Andean plains to spectacular Lake Titicaca, and cross into Bolivia to the unworldly Valley of the Moon, before exploring two contrasting capital cities: La Paz and Lima.

Looking toward Norway from the edge of the Malla Strict Nature Reserve

Guided Three-Country Scandinavian Trek: 7 Days

Designed for avid hikers seeking a route truly less-traveled, this stunning three-country trek crosses the fabled Land of Giants as it winds through Finland, Norway, and Sweden. Overnight in picturesque, well-equipped mountain cabins, spend your days ambling through untouched wilderness, and let go of the stress of modern life for a week of true digital detox.

Lapland Winter Activities - 5 Days

Outdoorsy travelers and snow-lovers rejoice: this Lapland winter tour was crafted with you in mind. Spend five days on snowshoes and skis, making your way across a winter wonderland that spans both Finland and Norway. Explore Norwegian fjords and arctic tundra - and keep an eye on the snow for wolverine and lynx prints.

See megalithic sculptures at San Agustín, Colombia

Culture & Archaeology of Colombia - 14 Days

Over two weeks, see the highlights of Colombia's central and southern regions, from revitalized Medellín to the sultry salsa clubs of Cali. But this adventure isn't all about the cities—you'll also enjoy coffee tours in the famous Zona Cafetera, explore historic colonial towns, and visit ancient archaeological sites. A real treat is traveling to the otherworldly Tatacoa Desert, one of Colombia's many natural wonders.

Summer is the right time to explore Torres del Paine National Park in Chile's Patagonian south

Best Time of Year to Visit Chile

Stretching for more than 2,600 miles, Chile is a narrow country of dramatic extremes. You'll find bone-dry deserts in the north, glacial fields in the south, and lush valleys, smoldering volcanoes, and enchanting beaches in between. With its diversity of geography and climates, Chile offers year-round appeal, from trekking in spring and beach-hopping in summer to wine tasting in fall and skiing in winter.

Llamas graze in the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu © Kiki Deere

Peru Classic Tour with Jungle Trail - 15 Days

Experience the best Peru has to offer in just over two weeks with this exciting itinerary that takes in the very best the country has to offer. From freewheeling into the jungle to visiting ancient Inca ruins and remote islands on Lake Titicaca, this tour takes you to Peru’s most exciting destinations where you will delve into local culture, age-old customs, and traditions.

A view of Cabo San Juan in Colombia's beautiful Tayrona National Park

Colombia's Caribbean Coast & Lost City Trek - 14 Days

From colonial Cartagena to the ancient Lost City ruins and the dunes of La Guajira, this two-week journey covers the highlights and hidden gems of Colombia's Caribbean coast. It's a trip ideal for travelers who want to immerse themselves in one beautiful region, explore its cities, embark on multiday treks, snorkel the Caribbean, and more.

The colorful volcanic mountains at Landmannalaugar.

Hiking in the Highlands: Iceland's Volcanic Trails

Get off the beaten track and discover Iceland’s otherworldly volcanic landscape on a multi-day hike in the country’s less traveled Highlands region. Choose one of these 3 trekking itineraries and experience everything the storied Volcanic Trails have to offer: lava fields, mountains, and so much more.

Food & Culture in Cape Town - 6 Days

Delve into South Africa's rich cultural heritage through its diverse cuisine on this five-day food tour of the Cape Town area. This vibrant city is bursting at the seams with exciting culinary experiences. You'll swirl your wine glasses at a vineyard, attend an African musical dinner theatre performance, and learn to cook traditional Cape Malay dishes with a local.

Trekking & Watersports in Northern Patagonia - 7 Days

This weeklong trip packs in a lot of adventure—trekking, kayaking, rafting, and canyoneering—plus sleeping in some beautiful and unique locations. With ample time devoted to training, travelers of all levels of experience will get the most out of this itinerary. From canyons and rapids to hiking in the forest and spending the night in a tree house, experience the best of northern Patagonia.

Cycle through incredible scenery from one Inca ruin to another: one of the world's best days in the outdoors!

Inca Classic: Moray, Chinchero and Salineras By Bike - Day Tour

This day trip offers active travelers of any ability the chance to cycle along ancient trails once used by the Incas. The ride includes three spectacular Inca terraces, joined together by roads that meander over the central cordillera of the Andes: it's the perfect blend of culture, fitness and history.

View of Los Estoraques Unique Natural Area.

Top 7 Places in Colombia That Most Travelers Miss (But Shouldn't)

Colombia is a big country, and extremely diverse. It’s easy to find little-visited places of interest and intrigue tucked in the folds of the Andes or otherwise off the well-trodden path. Some are in areas that have only recently become safe to visit, such as Área Natural Única Los Estoraques. Others, such as Mompox or Capurgana, simply require a bit of planning to get to. The following 7 cool places are well worth seeking out to escape the masses.

Colorful balconies in Saltento, the heart of Colombia's Coffee Region.

The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Colombia's Coffee Region

Colombia's Coffee region has great accommodation options, from haciendas on coffee plantations to small hostels and boutique hotels in towns and cities. Use this list to find the best places to stay after a long day of biking, hiking, and coffee tasting.

Ultimate Guide to Norway's Fjords

There is perhaps no place on Earth that can rival the beauty of Norway's fjords—as if Odin himself carved out mountains, splattered waterfalls on his canvas, and then flooded his own work into the Norwegian Sea. Each spot will seem more beautiful than the next...so where do you choose to start?

Summit one of Guatemala's tallest volcanoes on this eight-day adventure

Multi-Sport Adventure in Guatemala - 8 Days

You're in for a week of adventure on this action-packed trip to one of Central America's lesser-known gems. Discover the rugged natural beauty of Guatemala as you hike, bike, and kayak around its most stunning attractions and charming towns. Camp overnight on a volcano, go mountain biking through colorful Indigenous villages, and paddle along the peaceful waters of Lake Atitlán.

Spectacular mountain scenery in the Sacred Valley © Kiki Deere

Best Activities in Peru

Peru’s spectacularly varied landscapes offer endless opportunities for outdoor activities and sports: trekking, rafting and mountain biking are just a handful of the activities on offer. Home to the world's longest continental mountain range, Peru also possesses the Amazon jungle and a long Pacific coastline, meaning adrenaline junkies will be able to find their next fix at every corner. This list highlights the best activities in Peru.

How to Experience Colombia's Indigenous Groups

One of Colombia’s greatest appeals is its diversity of indigenous peoples. From the Arhuaco of the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta to the Zenú of the Golfo de Morrosquillo, Colombia’s 87 native tribes represent an indigenous heritage as rich as anywhere in the Americas. While some groups are not receptive to outsiders, others welcome visitors. The following five pueblos indígenas provide an immensely rewarding way of experiencing Colombia at its most unique and intriguing.

Norway Fjords Ultimate Ski Adventure: 6-Day Itinerary

Into backcountry skiing? Always wanted to see Norway's famous fjords? This tour's for you. Spend six days exploring backcountry Norway with stunning fjord views, lush hotel accommodations, and certified mountain guides at your service.

View of the volcano from Antigua, Guatemala

Best of Guatemala & Copán - 13 Days

Delve into the endless natural beauty and rich cultures of Guatemala and Honduras on this two-week getaway. Discover Maya ruins, towering volcanoes, and historic cities on outdoor adventures and cultural tours. You'll stroll the cobbled streets of colonial Antigua, kayak on stunning Lake Atitlán, browse the artisan markets in Indigenous towns, and hike up the ancient pyramids at Tikal and Copán.

Innerdalen is said to be the most beautiful valley in Norway.

Trollheimen Ultimate Hiking Experience - 4 or 5 Days

Surround yourself with high mountains and lush natural landscapes as you hike one of Norway's most famous hiking areas: Trollheimen. Sleep in mountain cabins and on summer farms. And don't forget to train before you come—this tour includes 7-8 hours of hiking each day.

Southern Sri Lanka: Active Adventure - 10 Days

Perfect for active travelers and nature-lovers, this 10-day tour covers everything from sunny coastlines to national parks to tea plantations. Walk, swim, and drive your way through rainforests, across sandy beaches, and - if you're lucky - past some of the country's most exotic wildlife.

Mountain Biking the Croatian Islands: Brač, Hvar, & Korcula - 6 Days

Pack your cycle gear and head to the Adriatic on this 6-day cycling tour across three of Croatia's most beautiful islands. Conquer the highest peak on Brač, take in the sweeping ocean views of Hvar, and pedal slowly through the beautiful interior landscape of Korčula. Bookend your cycle rides with visits to Croatia's most popular coastal towns, Split and Dubrovnik.

Traveler Interview: Off the Beaten Path in Myanmar

It's an understatement to call kimkim traveler Sara Pfrommer an experienced traveler. She recently returned from nearly four years of round-the-world travel, and her itch to explore continues bringing her to new places. Myanmar, still off the well-trodden Southeast Asia tourist circuit, was the location of her most recent adventure. Read on to see what surprised her most about Myanmar, and where she's going next!

Trekking along the Quilotoa Loop is an Ecuador highlight

Best Things to Do in Ecuador

Ecuador boasts a remarkable range of landscapes, cultures, and ecosystems from the Amazon to the Andes and straddling the southern and northern hemispheres. From raucous festivals to wildlife encounters, historic cities to Inca ruins, colorful markets to dramatic train journeys, it has something for everyone. This article picks out 10 of the country's most memorable activities.

Classic Southern Peru - 15 Days

Experience the ultimate introduction to Peru in just over two weeks with this active itinerary that includes options for both hiking and biking. From Inca ruins to quaint villages, bustling streets to serene landscapes, this journey across the Andes will include all the main destinations that highlight Peru's unique culture and history.

Checkout the Uros Floating Islands and visit Puno on Lake Titicaca

How Many Days to Spend in Peru

No matter how much time you have in Peru, whether it's just a few days or a few weeks, this country can offer some unforgettable experiences. With just three or four days and good planning, it's even possible to visit the national highlights of Machu Picchu and the Sacred Valley. With a week or more, the experiences just get better, allowing you time for historic cities and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Use this guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Recommended gear for trekking in the Himalaya

Pre-Departure Checklist for the Himalaya

From physical preparation and training to packing and visas: there are a few things you must do before heading to the Himalaya to ensure a smooth, safe, and comfortable trip. While you don't need to be Superman or Wonder Woman to enjoy trekking in the Himalaya, the better prepared you are, the more you'll get out of the experience.

Trekking Northern Patagonia - 9 Days

Northern Patagonia is full of beautiful scenery, and there's no better way to experience it than trekking. This 9-day itinerary is based around hiking, and also incorporates a number of other outdoor activities, such as kayaking, rafting, horseback riding, rock climbing, and canyoneering. It's said that a change is as good as a rest, and this action-packed trip is sure to invigorate you long after you return home.

Futaleufu, one of the world's greatest rivers

Futaleufu River Rafting Multisport Adventure - 9 Days

Breathtaking glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain ranges are what Patagonia is all about. But the icing on the cake? Getting right into the thick of this nature by rafting, kayaking, and hiking your way through it. This 9-day itinerary is non-stop action, yet also caters to all levels and is perfect for groups of friends or adventurous families. Just bring your daredevil spirit and prepare to be amazed.

Luxury & Maya Culture in Guatemala - 8 Days

Immerse yourself in ancient Maya culture while traveling in style on this eight-day sojourn to Guatemala. Pamper yourself in luxury hotels and see famous sights from above as you travel by helicopter to some of Guatemala's best attractions. Among other highlights, you'll bask in the serene beauty of Lake Atitlán, discover the charming colonial city of Antigua, and participate in a Maya ceremonial ritual.

Admire Icelandic nature with the whole family

Best Family Activities in Iceland: North, South, East, and West

With a variety of fun and unique outdoor and indoor activities, your kids will love Iceland just as much as you will. Where else can kids take a dip in a natural hot spring, explore a Viking village, and go ice-skating on the same day?

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