Travel Insights

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

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Ecuador's Main Highlights: Top Places To Visit

Ecuador is one of the world’s most biodiverse countries: in this small but breathtakingly varied nation, you can visit tropical beaches, volcanoes, cloud forest and jungle all on the same day. Ecuador is also steeped in culture, with colonial Spanish churches, pre-Columbine archaeology, and bustling indigenous markets. The icing on the cake is the incredible Galapagos archipelago which belongs to Ecuador. From the Andes to Amazon, here are our main highlights.

Discover the Atacama Desert - 4 Days

Spend four days taking advantage of the natural beauty of the town and hinterlands of San Pedro de Atacama. Visit geysers, volcanoes, valleys and salt flats on this trip around the arid Chilean plateau and be wowed by the formidable grandeur of the Andes at every turn.

The 7 Best Boutique Hotels in Lima

Lima is one of South America's most cosmopolitan cities. New boutique hotels are popping up overnight in the hip neighborhoods of Barranco, Miraflores, San Isidro, and beyond. There are artsy hotels, bohemian hotspots, swish modernist joints bathed in white, and plenty of options in between that cater to all tastes and budgets.

Best Things To Do In Cusco

The former capital of the Incas, Cusco is today a bustling city that attracts scores of travelers for its ancient Incan remains, Andean culture and Spanish colonial splendors. Small stonewalled alleyways spill onto impressive plazas full of brightly dressed indigenous women, while tucked away are surprisingly excellent museums, quirky nightlife venues, and stylish clothing stores. This guide will direct you toward the best Cusco has to offer.

Colombia's Urban Walking Tour: Bogotá & Medellín - 7 Days

City slickers who like to hoof it will love this weeklong itinerary in Colombia spotlighting two of Latin America’s most exciting (and mountainous) hubs. The trip starts in the sophisticated capital of Bogotá where you'll have time to soak in the culture, restaurants and nightlife. From here, take a day-trip to the highlands to visit the region's salt mines. Next, it's a flight to Medellín, the scenic metropolis in the midst of a transformation after a turbulent past. With year-round spring temps and a free metrocable, there's plenty to see and do. Take a hike in lakeside Guatapé to round out this fun adventure.

Troll's Road, Mre og Romsdal county, Norway

5 Top Norway Road Trips: Villages, Fjords, & Scenic Routes

If you're in Norway and you've got four wheels, throw away your guidebook. You're going to want to visit towns you can't pronounce, places your friends don't know exist, and vistas you won't find on Instagram. With plenty of time — driving through mountains and fjords, hopping on ferries, and navigating single-lane roads is never quick — the entire country should be on your list. Here are five specialist-recommended ideas for an incredible road trip through Norway.

Trip Ideas for the Perfect Honeymoon in Iceland

Looking for a unique destination to celebrate your marriage? Iceland offers the perfect escape for a newlywed couple, and with so many thrilling adventures that await you there, you can rest assured that your honeymoon will be an unforgettable experience.

Hacienda El Tambo and Antisana Volcano on the backdrop

Cotopaxi Volcano By Horseback - 5 Days

If you love horses and want to experience Ecuador in a unique way, consider this five-day journey to volcano country. On this trip, multiple days are spent in the saddle as you traverse the high plains, stopping off to take in the views or walk amid stands of native trees. Magical nights are spent in the Andes at haciendas, where you'll eat hearty meals and rest up for the next days' journey.

Ecuador Volcano Trek - 6 Days

This 6-Day trekkers delight crosses stunning grasslands dotted with volcanoes in the highlands of Ecuador. Each day will be spent trekking in the open high altitude plains until the final ascent up Cotopaxi volcano. Along the way, we'll spot wildlife, meet Andean cowboys, sleep in tents and overnight in comfortable haciendas.

Ultimate Guide to Tayrona Park: Natural Wonders and Ancient Culture

With miles of white sand beaches, dense jungle, and waves crashing into enormous boulders, Parque Nacional Tayrona is one of the most visually stunning natural reserves in Colombia. Days can be spent swimming in the sea and exploring the jungle, and there are opportunities to visit the remnants of ancient indigenous cities. Use this expert guide to help you get the most from one of Colombia's true natural wonders.

Horseback Riding in the Ecuadorian Andes

Multi-Adventure in the Ecuadorian Highlands - 3 Days

This multi-activity 3-day trip in the Ecuador Highlands offers adventure by day and high comfort by night. During this trip, you'll hike up a volcano, do a high ropes course, go horseback riding and enjoy a cooking class. Nights will be spent at a cozy and historic hacienda, a short drive from the capital Quito.

Mountainbike tour in the Verdon region, Provence

Family Adventure in Provence: 8 Days

Spend a week exploring Gorges du Verdon, the biggest canyon in Europe, on this family-friendly adventure. Hike, bike, and raft through the canyon, all while enjoying some of the most picturesque scenery in southern France.

Hiking & Hilltop Villages in Provence - 7 Days

Immerse yourself in the best that Provence has to offer with a week-long retreat in the Mont Ventoux area. You'll hike to charming villages, cook with locally-sourced ingredients, and enjoy plenty of relaxation time at the region's world-class spas.

Dettifoss, Europe's most powerful waterfall

Ultimate Guide to Northeast Iceland: Waterfalls, Wildlife, and Wilderness

Northeast Iceland is more remote and wild than its southern counterpart. It’s known for abundant wildlife, from whales in Húsavik harbor to puffins on the Rauðanes Peninsula, as well as desolate cliffsides by the sea.

A view below Dettifoss waterfall leading to Asbyrgi Canyon (photo by Chris McCarty)

Hiking & Touring in Jokulsargljufur National Park

Just a few hours’ drive from Akureyri, the northeast of Iceland is a mix of curving highlands, dramatic canyons and bubbling mud pits. One of the best locations is Jokulsargljufur National Park, home to three forceful and elegant waterfalls, canyons and craters.

7 Signature Sicilian Dishes and the Best Places to Try Them

In Sicily, culinary tradition is a unique mix of flavors from the Greeks, Arabs, and Normans who once called this island home. Dynamic food experiences reach far beyond Sicily's famed eggplant specialty, caponata. To give you a glimpse of Sicily’s food culture, we share a few less-talked-about (but equally important) signature dishes—paired with a list of restaurants locals swear by.

Northern Lights in Norway: What To Know & Where To Go

Viewing the Northern Lights is an experience like no other, and Norway is the perfect destination for travelers keen on seeing it for themselves. See them from a fishing village in the Lofoten Islands, after a day of dogsledding in Tromsø, or from a glass-front sauna in a luxury resort. Read on for more of the best places to witness the phenomenon, along with some tips for planning your trip.

Five Places in Norway that Most Travelers Miss (But Shouldn't)

From fjords to mountains, waterfalls to fishing villages, Norway is as picturesque as a country can be. More and more travelers are discovering the offerings of this Scandinavian nation, but most stick to the tourist track. Head off the beaten path to find solitude and scenery in these lesser-known locales.

Multi-Activity Adventure En Route to Machu Picchu - 9 Days

Beyond Machu Picchu, where the Andes slope off into the Amazon, lies the forgotten region of Concepción. Little penetrated by foreign tourists, it is a multisport playground for adventurous travelers. If you're prepared to rough it a little, you'll be richly rewarded with biking, hiking, ziplining, swimming in rivers, waterfalls and jungle water parks, and the best rafting in Peru!

Best Day Trips from Reykjavik

Iceland’s capital is ideally situated only a couple of hours from some of the country’s most beautiful natural sights, and there's plenty to be seen in the span of a single day. Whether you drive the popular Golden Circle route or opt for the basalt columns and lava fields of the remote Snaefellsnes Peninsula, it won't take you long to feel far from the city.

Hands forming a heart in front of Quilotoa lake

Great Honeymoon Ideas for Ecuador

Ecuador makes for a superb honeymoon destination that combines romance and adventure: canoe in Amazon jungle and then enjoy a spa treatment, go wildlife watching and then stargaze in the Galapagos, climb a volcano and then dip in thermal baths. Use this guide to kick off your marriage in a country of astounding biodiversity, diverse landscapes and unique culture.

A mountainous plantation in Colombia's Coffee Triangle

Bogotá, Coffee Triangle & Caribbean Coast - 7 Days

Colombia is a nation of vibrant cities, sleepy pueblos, and extraordinary landscapes. This action-packed seven-day tour gives you a taste of the true diversity of this country. Within the span of a week, you'll visit the museums of Bogotá, savor freshly roasted coffee near Salento, and gaze at the sea from Cartagena's ramparts.

A Quick Trip to Jordan: Traveler Interview with Arnold Abelman

While vacationing in Israel, kimkim traveler Arnold Abelman set out on a two-day trip across the border to fulfill his dream of exploring and photographing the ancient city of Petra. He shares what he loved about the experience, what surprised him most, and why you should consider adding Jordan to your Israel itinerary.

Four Classic Treks in Jordan

Jordan is one of the world's most incredible hiking destinations. Its scenic terrain is strikingly varied throughout the country, and you'll encounter everything from hidden waterfalls to sand dunes and ancient ruins on these four classic treks.

Staying at a jungle lodge in Ecuador is a great way to experience the Amazon.

The 9 Best Wildlife Lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon

Eco-lodges in the Ecuadorian rainforest offer excellent bird-watching and wildlife-spotting opportunities, guided tours, eco-adventures, and surprising luxury. This article breaks down the best lodges in the Ecuadorian Amazon, from exclusive boutiques to functional huts deep in the jungle.

2 Weeks in Ecuador - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Two weeks in Ecuador gives plenty of time to enjoy all three of the country's main ecosystems—Amazon, Highlands, and Galápagos—or focus on one to fully immerse yourself in the area. Use Quito as a base for day trips to local volcanoes and national parks while still exploring the capital's history, or opt to spend your time looking for wildlife on the remote Galápagos Islands. Alternately, maximize your trip by adding a week in Peru to see Lima, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Read on for more unique itineraries.

Kids baking a chicken according to a traditional Peruvian recipe

Tips for Traveling with Your Family in Peru

Exploring Inca ruins, watching Amazon wildlife, riding dune buggies, rafting on river rapids, petting alpaca, learning to make chocolate - Peru has so much that will captivate children and adults alike. So if you want to explore this fascinating country with your family, this guide will tell you all you need to know - from the best destinations and activities, to how to prepare for challenging terrain.

Cusco is home to excellent boutique hotels.

The 10 Best Boutique Hotels in Cusco

Cusco and the Sacred Valley are brimming with accommodation, from friendly guesthouses to luxurious hotels. This article highlights the best among them, giving you options for the perfect stay during your time in the area.

Planning Your Honeymoon in Nepal

For adventure lovers (and adventurous married couples!) there's hardly a more appealing destination than Nepal. Add the romance of stunning mountain vistas, luxury accommodation, and atmospheric cultural sites to classic adventure activities like trekking and paragliding and you have the ideal honeymoon destination.

Top Winter Experiences in Norway

At a glance, Norway may not seem like a winter destination—but when the snow hits, its lush landscapes truly turn wild! With fewer crowds to share the wilderness and the Northern Lights dancing overhead, there may be no better season to pay Norway a visit.

Game of Thrones: 6 Places in Iceland Every Fan Should Visit

As Game of Thrones fans already know, Westeros is a fictional continent, home to the famous Seven Kingdoms and the uncharted, snow-covered territory beyond. In reality, much of the hit show was filmed in Iceland, and you can visit many of these stunning locations on your next trip to the real land of ice and fire.

Best Things To Do In Morocco

Morocco has activities for travelers of all ages and interests. With such a diverse landscape — from plains to mountains to coast and desert — Morocco is a great place both for both adventure and relaxation. Check out our list of favorite things to do, below.

Colombia FAQ

Planning a trip to Colombia can be exhilarating as you dream of the adventure ahead, but it also raises questions—about costs, visas, language, packing, and more. If you're headed to Colombia for the first time, this article is a good place to start your research and learn some basic facts about travel in the country.

Dog Sledding in Northern Norway: 3 Multi-Day Itineraries

Dog sledding through the wonderland of Norway's winter landscape is a classic Scandinavian experience. Combine this uniquely thrilling activity with overnight camping the traditional Sami way for an unforgettable adventure—all during the best season for spotting the Northern Lights.

Beautiful Rio Celeste in Tenorio National Park

Best of Costa Rica - 14 Days

This two-week itinerary includes many of Costa Rica's greatest hits. You'll venture into the country's most beautiful national parks and enjoy zip-lining adventures, nature hikes, beach excursions, and more. All the while you'll spot exotic animals as you traverse some of the most virgin rainforest landscapes in Central America.

Snorkel with the family along Costa Rica's Caribbean Coast

Family Fun on the Caribbean Side - 7 Days

With your kids in tow, get out and explore Costa Rica's capital city before making your way through the lush lowlands toward the Caribbean Coast in this adventure tour. From nature treks to river rafting to pristine beaches, this week-long itinerary is created for families who want to experience Costa Rica's splendid scenery, wildlife, and distinctly laid-back culture.

Trekkers enjoy exciting views in Patagonia

Torres del Paine "W" Circuit Trek - 7 Days

Hike in some of the most stunning landscapes in the Western Hemisphere, located at the extreme of the South American continent. This itinerary will be sure to challenge even experienced hikers, and offers stunning views of sharply-defined peaks, azure lakes, and vast ice fields.

1 Week in Sicily: Mount Etna, the Ionian Coast & Cefalú

This region of Sicily is perhaps the most popular part of the Mediterranean's most iconic island—for good reason. Europe's largest volcano, ancient archaeological sites, shimmering turquoise waters, and easy-to-navigate resort towns are all reasons travelers flock to this region of the island in droves each year. Step slightly off the beaten path, however, and it's still possible to glimpse the Ionian coast's beauty, history, and culture.

Costa Rica's 10 Best National Parks for Hiking

Hilly nature walks are practically guaranteed while visiting the rugged terrain of Costa Rica. While some travelers prioritize beaches and water sports on either coast, many will want to save space on the itinerary to explore the vast interior and myriad of wildlife. Good news for hiking enthusiasts: The majority of Costa Rica's 27 national parks offer well-maintained trails. From volcanoes, to tropical dry forests, to remote rainforests, here’s a list of the country’s 10 best national parks for hiking.

Appreciate views of Perito Moreno Glacier in Los Glaciares National Park

Explore Los Glaciares & Torres del Paine National Parks - 10 Days

Discover some of the most stunning landscapes in Argentina and Chile on this 10-day itinerary around Patagonia. Begin in Buenos Aires, then fly south to El Calafate to see the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. Enjoy a scenic drive to El Chaltén, Argentina's trekking capital, for unparalleled hiking through mountain scenery. Finish the trip in Torres del Paine, touring the national park's spectacular natural highlights before the trip comes to an end.

Best Things to Do in Akureyri

Whether it’s summer or winter, Akureyri proudly reigns as Iceland's second city. It may be no larger than a small town, but the capital of Northern Iceland abounds with activity. From taking in the town's history to hiking north of the Arctic Circle, Akureyri has something for every traveler.

Iguazu Falls National Park, Misiones, Argentina

Buenos Aires & Iguazu Falls - 6 Days

Stroll through Buenos Aires' eclectic neighborhoods before visiting the breathtaking Iguazú Falls National Park in this short but sweet itinerary that balances culture with nature. This is the perfect short trip for active travelers who are short on time but hoping to catch some of Argentina's most famous highlights.

Red hills of northern Argentina make for great hiking opportunities

Explore Northern Argentina - 11 Days

From the multicolored gorges of Cafayate to the Yunga cloud forest, and on to the salt flats of Jujuy, northern Argentina is an immensely diverse destination. This off-the-beaten-path region is great for hikers and bikers to get out and explore easygoing villages and gorgeous natural wonders while taking in some gaucho culture and enjoying superb local wines.

Where to Eat & Drink In Akureyri

Despite being Iceland’s second largest city, Akureyri is home to a mere 18,000 residents. Don’t let its size fool you though: this epicenter of Northern Iceland is home to world-class restaurants, hip cafés, and even a few hotspots for nightlife.

View of the Plaza San Pedro Claver with the Towers of Bocagrande in the background.

Ultimate Guide to Cartagena: A Colonial and Modern City

You’ll likely hear about Cartagena long before you arrive. While the main attraction is the historic Old Town — packed with wonderfully preserved mansions and churches — Cartagena is much more than its colorful streets: it has highrise developments, long stretches of coast, offshore reefs and vibrant neighborhoods where locals express themselves through dance, food, and art. Here's our expert guide to help you navigate this romantic and high-energy Caribbean city.

10 Best Treks in Ladakh

Only an hour’s flight from Delhi, Ladakh looks like nowhere else on earth. Turquoise lakes reflect snow-dusted peaks. Monasteries tower like beehives over the stark, sun-drenched hillside. The high-altitude desert, home to a welcoming Buddhist and Muslim population, is one of India’s safest and most spectacular regions. And it is best explored on foot. Here are some of the best treks in Ladakh to choose from.

The ruins of Kuélap are a great destination that receives few visitors

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

In a place like Peru, there's so much to see and do that many travelers often miss the truly amazing and authentic experiences. With journeys to these off-the-beaten-path destinations, you have the chance to connect more closely with the people, places, history and culture that make Peru special. Trek to forgotten ruins, explore a witch's market and come closer to the living heart of Peru in tiny villages and enchanted valleys.

Family Travel: Best Kid-Friendly Activities in Norway's Cities

Norway is a great place to travel as a family, and its charming cities are no exception. From museums to playgrounds, aquariums to mountaintops, there are plenty of kid-friendly activity options in Oslo, Bergen, and Alesund.

Kali Gandaki River Rafting - 6 Days

This medium-length rafting expedition is an excellent way to take advantage of Nepal's post-monsoon rivers. Leaving from the popular lakeside town of Pokhara, you'll brave class III and IV rapids with an expert guide, camp and dine under the stars on riverside beaches, and kayak on smooth sections of the Kali Gandaki. This makes a fun addition to a trekking trip, or a stand-alone journey for travelers short on time.

What to Do In Reykjavik: The Essential List

7 Best Things to Do In Reykjavik

Most people come to Iceland to explore its natural beauty away from the hustle and bustle of cities, but its capital is worth your time and attention as well. Reykjavik offers an impressive array of activities, so whether you visit in the summer or winter, spending a couple of days here is a must.

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