Travel Insights

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

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Norway's Best Natural Highlights

Norway, meaning "the way leading to the north", is so long that if you spin it around on the map you would end up in Rome. Similar in size to California and with a population of only 5 million people, this Nordic country has plenty of open space to explore. Its stunning fjords, mountains and natural phenomena such as the Northern Lights and the Midnight Sun make Norway a must-visit destination. Get inspired for your next journey by these must-see natural highlights and destinations in Norway.

Adventure Awaits: Rafting, Biking & Trekking - 15 Days

An activity-filled expedition to the South of Peru. A multi-day tour full of new experiences that excite & challenge. This is a tour for all age ranges, group sizes and all types of experience.

Typical Burmese curry lunch with all the fixins!

Mandalay Munchies: A Culinary Discovery - 2-Day Tour

Perhaps you have tasted fiery Thai curry and slurped steaming bowls of Vietnamese noodles. But most foreign travelers have no idea what to expect from Myanmar food. This two-day Mandalay city tour introduces you to the exotic flavors of traditional cuisine as well as the country’s foodie culture.

The Amazon & Inca Trail - 12 Days

A great 12-day tour that incorporates the best of Peru. In under two weeks, you'll explore the Amazon Jungle and trek to the heights of Machu Picchu. You'll experience the best of both worlds — from the jungle to the Andes.

The Vilcanota & Urubamba Ridges of Cusco

Cusco Ridges - 8 Days

An active tour of the important mountain ranges around the Cusco Region: the Urubamba & Vilcanota. This is the perfect 8-day itinerary for those who enjoy adventure and want to have an authentic Andean experience in the mountains.

The Fascinating Valley - 9 Days

A stunning tour which includes the best of the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu. See the most important Inca ruins in this activity-filled itinerary. This is the best way to experience the Cusco Region in our opinion!

Best of Rajasthan Tour - 10 Days

With its colorful culture and rich history, Rajasthan is a splendid display of a unique Indian heritage. This trip focuses on spectacular sights of India’s largest state, including the palaces and temples of Jaipur, Udaipur and Jodhpur. This itinerary not only showcases the traditional architecture characteristic of the region, but also allows you to understand the depth of India’s past, making for an unforgettable experience.

Rainbow Mountain Trek - 2 Days

Journey through an undiscovered land of wild desert landscapes, snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas, to arrive at the ultimate destination: the rainbow-painted slopes of Rainbow Mountain hidden deep in the Andes.

Inca Trail Permits for 2018

Only a limited number of people are permitted to hike the Inca Trail each year. If you have your heart set on this classic trek to Machu Picchu, be sure to book your trek months in advance to get permits for your desired dates.

Ethiopia's Northern Historical Route - 10 Days

Drive through the Simien Mountains and visit four UNESCO Cultural World Heritage Sites, along with the other main highlights of the classic historical northern route, like Bahir Dar, Gondar, Axum, and Lalibela. At night, enjoy a stay in the highest hotel in Africa, the Simien Lodge.

Trekking in the Simien Mountains and around Lalibela - 9-Day Itinerary

Explore the most important places along the classic historical northern route, like Gondar and Lalibela. You'll trek through Ethiopia's Simien mountains, accompanied by a guide, park rangers, cook, assistants and several mules and muleteer. In the Lasta Mountains above Lalibela, you'll stay in a beautiful eco-lodge. Finally, don't miss the opportunity to pass local Amhara villages and get in touch with its people and local farmers.

Inca Trail & Ausangate Trek - 14 Days

Discover three of Peru's top destinations: Cusco, the Inca Trail, and Ausangate, in this comprehensive, unforgettable tour. Wander through cobblestone streets, mountain trails, and lush forests to experience the best sights the region has to offer. From Incan ruins to the highest Andean peaks, this tour gives a taste of both Peru's rich history and breathtaking scenery.

Bike Journey Through Cambodia - 12 Days

See Cambodia by bike, following a pilgrimage route from Angkor to the Siem Reap Province. By getting off the beaten path, this challenge is a truly unique way to experience the lost temples and unknown sites of Cambodia. Alternatively, the tour can be completed on foot, offering great opportunities for trekking and hiking.

Tamang Heritage Trail - 7 Days

On this moderate seven-day trek just North of Kathmandu Valley in Nepal, get up close with the Tamang people while trekking amid green valleys and snow-capped mountains. The Tamang Heritage trail has the added benefit of providing sustainable economic benefit to the local community.

Arun Valley to Everest Base Camp - 26 Days

The Arun Valley and Everest Base Camp trek provides superb views of both Mt. Everest and Mt. Makalu. It is located between the Sagarmatha and Makalu-Barun National Parks. While it follows some of the traditional Everest Base Camp trekking route, there are also enough differences to keep return trekkers in Nepal interested.

Beautiful valleys along the Manaslu Circuit trek

Manaslu Circuit Trek: Group Departures - 14 Days

Interested in joining a group departure for the Manaslu Circuit Trek? Kimkim travel specialists are running weekly set departures for the Manaslu Circuit Trek during the Spring and Autumn trekking seasons. Dates, cost, and availability are listed below, along with a day by day itinerary.

Best Places to Eat in Kathmandu

Kathmandu is a big city. There are many dining options to suit all budgets and palates. Traditional Nepali food served street-side or with silverware; backpacker hangouts for home comforts when you tire of lentils and rice; casual modern restaurants serving affordable international cuisine... You’ll never go hungry in Kathmandu!

Best Cafes in Kathmandu

There’s not a single Starbucks (or other Western chain) in Kathmandu, and that’s good news for finding unique, atmospheric places to sit and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. While Nepalis still prefer sweet, milky, heavily spiced chiya (tea) or Nestlé instant coffee when relaxing at home, there’s a growing cafe scene in the capital where you can get a good mug of whatever you prefer, with a tasty slice or cake or sandwich on the side. Here are some suggestions for places to seek out. Most will have Wifi.

Hot air balloons flying over Dhammayangyi Temple in Bagan

Magnificent Myanmar - 8 Days

Discover Myanmar — a destination rich in culture with stunning scenery — by venturing off the beaten path on this 8-day tour. You'll visit dazzling pagodas, local villages, float down the Irrawaddy river, as well as catch the country's most famous sites.

Unique Ways To Experience Costa Rica

Costa Rica's most common outdoor destinations are so sought-after for a reason: they truly are beautiful landmarks. But, for every popular attraction, there are plenty of lesser-known must-sees that'll treat open-minded explorers to an incredibly fulfilling and memorable adventure.

Best Time of Year to Visit Costa Rica

For access to all the country has to offer, visit during the dry season that runs from December through April—winter is the most popular time, with great weather and sizable crowds. The rainy (or"green") season is great for travelers heading to the perennially sunny Caribbean coast—or to Monteverde, which will likely be wet no matter when you visit.

Northern Peru: Jungle To The Andes - 9 Days

This 9-day tour through northern Peru will not only show you the culinary side of Peru, but also a range of natural highlights. You will visit the major attractions in the Amazonas region, such as the fortress of Kuelap, also called the “Machu Picchu of the North”, and Gocta, one of the 10 highest waterfalls in the world.

Komodo National Park Kayak Expedition - 6 Days

This six-day expedition offer a unique experience where you'll paddle your sea kayak to some of Indonesia's more remote beaches. You'll drift over magnificent coral reefs, access little-visited coves, and visit the only islands on Earth still inhabited by dragons, the famous Komodo dragon.

Getting from Kathmandu to Pokhara

Pokhara may not seem far from Kathmandu (the cities are only 126 miles / 204 km apart), but the Nepali terrain and road quality make for a very long drive. That's why many travelers opt to fly. Here are your options for traveling between the two cities, either by air or road.

Best Day Hikes in Lower Mustang

Lower Mustang is a dry, wind-swept region of Nepal that lies in the rain shadow of the Himalayas. If you want to experience some of the most incredible landscapes in Nepal and enjoy challenging, scenic hikes without the strain of a multi-day trek, then several days spent around Jomsom and Kagbeni are an ideal choice.

Kalinchowk Temple Trek - 7 Days

The Kalinchowk Temple trek is an excellent, moderate short trek within easy reach of Kathmandu. You will experience local hill culture, forest and river landscapes, panoramic views of the Himalayas and the beautiful pilgrimage spot of Kalinchowk Bhagwati Temple.

Dhorpatan Trek - 14 Days

The Dhorpatan trek is a seriously off-the-beaten-path experience that isn’t too challenging. The Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve lies a day’s drive west of Pokhara in the shadow of Mt. Dhaulagiri. Trekking here will give you the chance to spot some rare wildlife as well as views of Nepal’s Western Himalaya that few travelers experience.

Essential Basque Country - 5 Days

Discover the most emblematic spots of this gentle corner of Spain. Here you'll find ancient history, culture, and language, but a modern way of life with amazing gastronomy and wines. For nature lovers, there is also a wide array of great outdoor activities and fantastic beaches at the foothills of the Pyrenees. This 5-day itinerary helps you discover these great places, as well as learn about the Basque Country and its people.

Day Trips from Addis Ababa

Looking for a list of great day trips around Addis Ababa? While starting and ending in Addis Ababa each day, you're still able to get away to explore the natural beautiful and cultural heritage outside of the city. Activities range from multi-hour hikes to visiting holy lakes and ancient monasteries.

Ethiopian orthodox church with sun rays in Addis Ababa

Best Things To Do In Addis Ababa

Almost everyone starts and ends their trip to Ethiopia in Addis Ababa. No matter what your interests may be, there is a variety of cultural highlights and adventurous activities to explore. Below you'll find a list of some of the great things to do around Addis Ababa.

Volcanic Landscapes of Landmannalaugar in the Iceland Highlands

Iceland’s Highlands: The Ultimate Guide to Getting off the Beaten Path

Iceland’s interior is by far its most rugged area. The terrain can be tough, and the F-roads are only accessible by jeeps with 4WD (in Winter, only by modified “super jeeps”). But the increased difficulty level means you will have the place to yourself, as few tourists reach the highlands.

A lush green landscape in the Vietnamese countryside

Best of Northern Vietnam - 7 Days

Experience the best of northern Vietnam on this weeklong getaway. You'll tour the historic streets of old Hanoi, travel to mountain villages home to ethnic communities, and hike around the terraced rice fields of Vietnam's highland region. The adventure culminates with an unforgettable boat ride in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hạ Long Bay.

Hidden Gems of Japan: Discovering Unique Places to Visit

Looking for lesser-known, beautiful places to visit in Japan? Here is a shortlist of under-the-radar destinations to visit outside of the usual places most people go, like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto.

Highlights of Jordan & Israel - 9 Days

From the Rose City of Petra to the shores of the Dead Sea, enjoy nine days of exploration in Jordan and Israel on this comprehensive tour. With a curated focus on the area's most fascinating highlights, you'll hit all of the cultural sights and natural wonders that make this region a timeless and sought-after destination.

Jordan: Petra & the Dead Sea - 3 Days

Curated for travelers with limited time, this itinerary prioritizes quality over quantity with a 3 day, 2 night tour of Jordan. Visit the landmarks that Jordan is famous for, like the beautiful Dead Sea and the rock-carved metropolis of Petra. You'll also immerse yourself in local culture with an authentic cooking class. Short but sweet, your travels will focus on the country's most popular highlights, providing a satisfying glimpse of its rich history and vibrant heritage.

Petra, one of the Seven Modern Wonders of the World.

Jordan: Amman, Petra and Wadi Rum - 4 Days

Have limited time, and want to see Jordan's highlights in a few days? Experience a perfect snapshot of Jordan's history and natural beauty on this 4-day, 3-night journey. This efficient itinerary packs a punch, balancing exploration of ancient Petra with a mellow evening camping in the desert of Wadi Rum.

Hiking in Basque Country - 5 Days

Discover the amazing landscapes and diversity of the Basque Country. Enjoy five days of walking through diverse nature and local culture along the famous St. James Way—a combination of inland routes with spectacular coastal ones. From the glamorous city of San Sebastián to small towns rich in Basque history, you'll meet locals and learn how the Basque heritage has survived for thousands of years. Combined with fantastic gastronomy and charming hotels, this will be an experience that you won't easily forget.

Panchase Trek - 7 Days

For travelers wanting an authentic Himalayan trekking experience with incredible views without the time (or stamina) required for a long trek, the Panchase trek is perfect. It starts close to the popular town of Pokhara, takes just four days, and can be done in autumn, winter, or spring.

The best off-the-beaten-track adventure, from Tupiza to Uyuni

Tupiza to Uyuni: Best Off-The-Beaten Path Adventure - 7-Day Itinerary

Multi-colored mountains, giant cacti, canyons, monumental rock formations varying in color from white to red blood, turquoise-blue lagoons, brick red, emerald green — just to name a few of the highlights on this magical 4WD expedition from Tupiza to Uyuni. Welcome to southern Bolivia!

Combine rainforest hikes and volcano views with beach time and surfing adventures on this six-day family trip

Costa Rica Volcano & Pacific Beach Family Adventure - 6 Days

Combine towering volcanoes with Pacific beaches on this six-day itinerary that's perfect for active families looking for plenty of adventure in a short amount of time. Start with wildlife-spotting hikes and waterfall swims in Rincón de la Vieja National Park, then head for the coastal surf village of Tamarindo for family surfing lessons and laid-back beach time. Wrap things up with a sailing cruise along the Guanacaste Peninsula, stopping for a barbecue lunch and some snorkeling along the way.

Monks during prayer time - Rene Jungsnickel

Kathmandu Inside Out - 7 Days

This trip gives a very good feel of Kathmandu Valley and includes all the highlights during a week-long trip. Cultural highlights, local food, and hikes ensure that you will get a taste for all the great things Kathmandu has to offer. It also highlights some of the events that happen in the city, giving a feel for the modern side of the valley.

Chartering your own sailboat is one of the best ways to explore Croatia's beautiful islands

Ultimate Guide to Sailing in Croatia: All You Need To Know

Croatia is one of the best sailing destinations in the world for a number of reasons: the islands are close together so you don’t have long distances to cross (meaning it’s safer), the winds are generally much calmer compared to other destinations, and the islands and coastline are lined with ancient historical ruins. You essentially have over a thousand islands and a thousand miles of coastline to explore!

Golden Triangle Tour - 6 Days

Perhaps the most popular route in India, you'll visit the three famous sites of India's northwest—Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur—known as the Golden Triangle. You'll travel by road or train over the course of six days, exploring each city's cultural and historical heritage. This is a great tour for people's first visit to India if you're looking to see the main highlights.

How Many Days to Spend in Iceland

You can have an epic Iceland experience when you spend five days or more in Iceland. Shorter trips are possible but won't give you enough time to explore beyond the Reykjavík area and the western section of the South Coast. Starting at eight days or more, you can complete the famous ring road and experience Iceland's natural beauty in all its glory, seeing incredible sights most tourists miss, like the Godafoss waterfall, the unique volcanic hotspots surrounding Lake Mývatn and the Westfjords.

Kirkjufellsfoss Waterfalls with Kirkjufell in the distance

Reykjavik and the Snaefellsnes Peninsula - 4 Days

If you have 4 days in Iceland you can enjoy Reykjavik's city life and then leave the masses behind by heading north to explore beautiful Snaefellsnes Peninsula with its waterfalls and volcanoes. This way you'll get a great sampling of all Iceland has to offer.

Walk behind Seljalandsfoss on the South Coast

3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast & Reykjavík - 3 Days

If you're short on time or looking for an extended layover on your way from Europe to North America or vice versa, your options in Iceland are limited to those closer to Reykjavík. Here is a three-day itinerary that will still let you experience some of the spectacular beauty of Iceland.

Best Time of Year To Visit Myanmar

Myanmar has three main seasons: the cool, the hot, and the rainy. Planning your visit around these seasons can help you get the most out of your visit. Each season offers its own unique experience, along with numerous annual festivals where you can enjoy this historic, fascinating, and energetic country.

Cotahuasi Canyon Trek - 7 Days

Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Cotahuasi is the deepest canyon in the world, cutting through the Coropuna and Surimana massifs. With numerous hiking trails and vantage points, Cotahuasi is a beautiful region that few travelers get to see. With single and multiday tours, you'll get to hike the length of one of the world's greatest natural wonders.

Green turtle swimming underwater in the Galapagos Islands

Best of The Galapagos Islands: Top Places To Visit

The Galapagos Islands are a diverse set of islands off the coast of Ecuador full of distinct wildlife, idyllic beaches, and incomparable visitor sites that offer a range of interesting activities—from hiking, to snorkeling, close-ups with pre-historic looking animals, kayaking and treks across volcanic islands—to name a few of the endless possibilities. This one-of-a-kind destination is a must when visiting Ecuador.

Hverfjall Crater rises in the distance of the Dimmuborgir lava fields

Tour of the North: Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, Waterfalls & Geothermal Hotspots - 5 Days

For a unique Iceland experience, avoid the crowds of the south altogether. This trip has it all: volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, nature baths, whale watching, fjords, and more. Below are two great ways to experience the north: all the highlights with only a fraction of the people. You can maximize your time by taking a domestic flight over the beautiful highlands of the interior to Akureyri, or you can drive one way and fly from Akureyri back to Reykjavík.

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