Travel Insights

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

Filter by destination: Albania · Argentina · Armenia · Australia · Austria · Belgium · Belize · Bhutan · Bolivia · Bosnia and Herzegovina · Botswana · Brazil · British Columbia · Cambodia · Canada · Chile · China · Colombia · Costa Rica · Croatia · Cuba · Ecuador · Egypt · England · Estonia · Ethiopia · Fiji · Finland · France · Galapagos Islands · Gambia · Georgia · Germany · Greece · Guatemala · Hawaii · Iceland · India · Indonesia · Ireland · Israel · Italy · Japan · Jordan · Kenya · Latvia · Lithuania · Malaysia · Mexico · Mongolia · Morocco · Myanmar · Namibia · Nepal · New Zealand · Nicaragua · Norway · Panama · Patagonia · Peru · Philippines · Portugal · Romania · Russia · Rwanda · Scotland · Slovenia · South Africa · South Korea · Spain · Sri Lanka · Sweden · Switzerland · Taiwan · Tanzania · Thailand · the Azores · the Dominican Republic · the Faroe Islands · The Netherlands · the United States · Tibet · Turkey · Uganda · Ukraine · United Kingdom · Vietnam · Wales · Zambia · Zimbabwe

8 Days in Morocco - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in Morocco, you can take a grand tour of big-ticket cities like Casablanca and Fes or spend your time exploring off the beaten path, hiking through villages in lush countrysides, and enjoying cultural experiences, including cooking lessons and homestays. Of course, the iconic Sahara awaits: incorporate a desert adventure into a Tangier-to-Marrakech road trip or soar above the dunes on a luxury Morocco tour. Learn more about the best ways to spend eight days in Morocco below.

Combining Arenal/La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde - Recommended Itineraries from 8 to 14 Days

A trip to Costa Rica that includes Arenal, Manuel Antonio, and Monteverde takes around 8 to 10 days. If you don't have that much time it's possible to see the highlights in 6 or 7 days, but your trip will feel quite fast-paced. If you have more time, or want to pack more places into your trip, you can add Tortuguero, Tamarindo, or Puerto Viejo to your itinerary. Read on for the best itineraries to explore Arenal, Manual Antonio and Monteverde.

Kenya Wildlife Safari - 10 Days

This exciting 10-day itinerary allows you to truly discover Kenya's diverse wildlife and dramatic landscapes. Your trip will start in the bustling central city, Nairobi before you depart for the countryside and visit Amboseli National Park, which is home to Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Over these 10 days, you will also see the most famous Kenyan parks, including Hell's Gate, Mount Longonot, Lake Nakuru, Lake Bogoria, and Maasai Mara, which are home to thousands of wildlife species as well as incredible hiking trails and viewpoints.

Portugal: The North & Douro Region - 5 Days

Discover the unparalleled beauty and charm of Portugal's North and Douro region on this beautiful five-day itinerary. You'll start in iconic Porto, where you'll taste your way through the city and learn about its history, culture, and landmarks. Then you'll hit the road for the Douro Valley, which is perhaps the most beautiful wine region in all of Europe. Taste local Ports, learn about the olive oil pressing process, or glide along the Douro River on a relaxing boat ride. You'll end your trip with stops in gorgeous Braga and Viana do Castelo, a charming town with access to fantastic beaches.

Combining Arenal & Manuel Antonio - Recommended Itineraries from 6 to 10 Days

Most people visiting both Arenal and Manuel Antonio spend about 8 to 10 days in Costa Rica, usually with some time in Monteverde as well. For travelers wanting to visit Arenal and Manuel Antonio exclusively, plan 6 to 8 days for a well-paced trip. With less time it's possible to see the highlights in as few as 4 days. Read on for best itineraries to explore Arenal and Manuel Antonio.

Treasures of the Yucatán Peninsula with Beach Stay - 10 Days

This 10-day itinerary starts and ends in Cancún. In between, you'll enjoy a journey through the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, learning about Mayan history at Chichén Itzá, visiting colorful seaside villages, relaxing on the beach, snorkeling around the coral reef off Puerto Morelos, and taking a boat to Holbox Island for a few days away from civilization.

Self-Driving Highlights of Slovenia: Ljubljana, Lake Bled & Piran - 9 Days

Start your adventure in Ljubljana, then explore northern Slovenia's rugged alpine landscape and crystal clear lakes before continuing south to wine country for a dazzling culinary experience that includes wine fine dining and wine tasting. For a change of pace, visit the underground depths of the Škocjan Caves before finishing your trip in the coastal town of Piran.

Parque Labastida in the historic center of Oaxaca, Mexico

Magical Oaxaca & the Pacific Coast - 10 Days

Explore the cultural and natural highlights of Oaxaca on this ten-day itinerary around the region. You'll explore colorful marketplaces, see a 2,000-year-old tree, feel the spray of crystal-blue waterfalls, visit traditional villages in the Northern Highlands, learn how to make mole in a private cooking class, and spend the last few days on Oaxaca's idyllic Pacific beaches.

Highlights of Slovenia: Bled, Bovec, Ljubljana, & More - 9 Days

Discover the highlights of Slovenia on this road trip that includes the country's most popular sights. Start off on the shores of Lake Bled, then drive through the Julian Alps and down to the Adriatic Coast, before heading to Ljubljana, the country's capital. From the heights of Vršič Pass to the depths of the Škocjan Caves, Slovenia has so much to offer visitors.

Highlights of Chiapas - 10 Days

Experience the best of Chiapas with this 10-day itinerary. Start with a mix of nature and culture in San Cristobal de las Casas with a walking tour of the city and day trips to Sumidero Canyon and Montebello Lakes National Park. From there, spend four nights in Palenque, where you’ll visit craft markets and archeological sites, and learn about the indigenous Tzotzil people.

Experience London, Windsor Castle, and the White Cliffs of Dover - 6 Days

This tour covers the key London experiences, as well as popular day tours to Kent, The White Cliffs of Dover, and Windsor Castle. Explore this bustling city with a private guide and tick off all the major sites, including Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, Big Ben, St. Paul's Cathedral, and more. Watch the changing of the guard, stroll through Hyde Park, and discover the foodie scenes at Camden and Borough Markets.

Slovenia Multisport Adventure - 6 Days

This self-guided six-day adventure covers Slovenia's highlights and gives you the chance to discover the country in a short time. Start at Lake Bled in northwestern Slovenian to see rugged alpine landscapes, crystal clear rivers, and peaceful lakes. Hike through Triglav National Park and sleep in a cozy mountain hut, then explore the emerald Soča River and the surrounding valley, before finishing up with a tour of Ljubljana, the country's capital.

Views from Incahuasi island over the Uyuni Salt Flats

Discover Bolivia's Landscapes - 10 Days

Take in the glorious natural landscapes of Bolivia on this 10-day trip. From the otherworldly rock formations of the Valle de la Luna (Moon Valley) to massive dinosaur footprints in Torotoro National Park, and from the white expanse of the Uyuni Salt Flats to underground caves that stretch on for miles, there's so much to explore. Bring your hiking boots and make sure your camera battery is charged up; you'll be overwhelmed with once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunities on this active adventure.

Bolivian Landscapes, Cultures, and Communities: Cochabamba, Torotoro, Uyuni, La Paz & More - 14 Days

Take in the ever-changing landscapes and culture of Bolivia on this two-week itinerary. You'll start with a trip out to Samaipata, an archaeological and geological site in the Andean midlands. Explore the city in Cochabamba, then return to nature with canyon treks and caverns in Torotoro National Park. Scope out historical architecture in Sucre and Cayara before you finish your trip with the famed Uyuni Salt Flats.

Culture & the Great Outdoors on the Yucatán Peninsula - 7 Days

On this colorful trip plan, you'll experience Mexican culture in an authentic way. See the highlights of the Yucatán Peninsula, visit the archaeological sites of Chichen Itzá, Cobá, and Xcambó, and view flamingos at Río Lagartos before finishing up in Mérida, where you'll go on a kayak tour and relax on the beach.

Best of Bhutan - 9 Days

Until 1961, Bhutan could only be entered on horseback. Now, the "Land of the Thunder Dragon" is emerging from the mists of its self-imposed isolation. Bhutan offers high mountains and lush valleys, pristine ecology and an incredible wealth of wildlife—and on this nine-day tour, you'll get a taste of it all. From hiking trails to monasteries, views of the snow-clad Himalaya to rolling valleys and fluttering prayer flags, this comprehensive tour will introduce you to Bhutan's gentle pleasures.

Bhutan Trails, Wildlife & Culture - 10 Days

Bhutan is often considered the last Shangri La, a land of high mountains and lush valleys, snow-clad peaks with clear-running springs, pristine ecology, and an incredible wealth of wildlife. Experience the best of Bhutan on this comprehensive ten-day tour that includes hiking, wildlife spotting, mountain vistas, unbelievable architecture, and more.

Scout local eats at popular vendors throughout Mexico City, like these street tacos

Culinary Tour Through Mexico City, Puebla & Oaxaca - 7 Days

On this food-focused tour, you'll discover authentic Mexican cuisine at marketplaces, family-run restaurants, street food stands, and Indigenous farms. The itinerary isn't only about food, though: the schedule features visits to archaeological sites and other places of interest, including the pyramids of Teotihuacán and the colonial city of Puebla.

Mayan Culture & Beaches of the Riviera Maya - 8 Days

Enjoy this getaway to the Riviera Maya with a mix of cultural experiences and relaxing on the beach. Base yourself in lively Playa del Carmen as you explore Mayan ruins, swim in picturesque cenotes, and enjoy the sun, sand, and sea along the white sandy coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula.

Slovenia Cycling Trip: From the Alps to the Adriatic - 6 Days

Explore Slovenia by bicycle on this intense but rewarding six-day tour that takes you from the Alps to the Adriatic. Start off in Ljubljana, the country's capital, before popping over to Italy and down to the shores of Lake Bled, through the Julian Alps and into Goriška Brda, the country's wine region. Finish your tour in Piran, a charming city on the Adriatic Coast.

Hut-to-Hut Hiking in the Slovenian Alps - 6 Days

Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Slovenian Alps with this six-day hiking tour of the country that includes staying in cozy mountain huts, trekking through Triglav National Park, visiting famous Lake Bled and its less-famous but equally-dazzling neighbor, Lake Bohinj, discovering the Soča Valley, and lots more.

Hiking in Ireland: Dingle Way & Slea Head - 14 Days

Explore truly breathtaking scenery on this walking tour that covers the Dingle Peninsula and Slea Head, including famous Ventry Beach and Great Blasket Island. Walk through grassy bogs, thick forests, rocky coastlines, and empty beaches as you enjoy views of seal colonies, historic "beehive" huts, mountain ranges, and bright blue lakes. Climb Mount Brandon, listen to traditional Irish music, relax in local pubs, and kayak Dingle Bay: it's all part of this active adventure.

Views across the Northern Japan Alps from the Shinhotaka Ropeway cable car station.

Winter in the Japan Alps: Mountains, Villages & Hot Springs - 6 Days

Explore mountain villages, snowcapped peaks, and Onsen hot springs on this 6-day winter journey into the heart of Japan’s Northern Alps. Start in the feudal castle town of Matsumoto, venture into the Oku-Hida Mountains to find biodiverse highlands and secluded Ryokan inns, and end your stay in Hida-Furukawa and Takayama for an unforgettable winter experience.

Cultural Tour of Mexico - 7 Days

The largest pyramid in the world is in Mexico, as are some of the world's mysterious pyramids—at Cholula and Teotihuacán, respectively—and you'll visit both places on this wide-ranging cultural tour. Learn about pre-Hispanic, Maya, and Aztec cultures as you explore Mexico City, Mérida, Puebla, and Chichén Itzá, and take a break for a refreshing dip in a cenote. And a taco or two, of course.

Color and History in Mexico City - 7 Days

On this itinerary, you'll dive into Mexico City and explore everything from its historic center to the canals of Xochimilco. Travel back in time to learn about the history of pre-Hispanic people at the Museum of Anthropology, discover the mysterious temples of Teotihuacán, relax in the wilderness of Jungapeo, see a wide variety of butterflies at the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve, and get inspired in the bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán, where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera used to live.

Best Time of Year to Visit New Zealand

New Zealand has a lot of climatic variety, from sub-tropical Northland to temperate Southland, and high mountains through the center of both main islands. Summer is generally hot in the North Island and warm in the South, while winters are mild and wet in the North Island and drier but often snowy in parts of the South Island. Whenever you plan to go, there will be parts of New Zealand that offer great conditions—find helpful information below on weather, crowds, costs, and more.

Best Time of Year to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam is a long, skinny country bookended by extremes: the northern areas bordering China are mountainous, while the Mekong Delta in the south is tropical. In between are vibrant cities, temperate highlands, and a huge range of natural attractions. While you can visit at any time of year, it's important to plan where you go around the country's climatic differences—you won't want to hit the beaches in summer, for example, or the northern mountains in winter. Read on for more tips on when to visit Vietnam.

Best Time of Year to Visit Thailand

Thailand is a long country, with mountains in the north and beautiful beaches in the south. It's almost uniformly hot, but some times of year are much hotter (and wetter) than others. Thailand is busiest (unsurprisingly) when the weather is at its best, from November to March. During low season, you should expect heavy rain, but that doesn't mean you can't have a good time—you just need to know where to go. Here are some tips to know about the best time of year to visit Thailand.

Sunset over New Zealand's Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown

2 Weeks in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With two weeks in New Zealand, you can experience the natural wonders of the North and South Islands on a highlights tour. Alternatively, narrow your focus to one region and choose between a beach-filled trip on the North Island and a journey through the South Island's Southern Alps, glaciers, and fjords. Travelers who enjoy keeping active should set their sights on Franz Josef, Te Anau, and Mount Cook, while those visiting during winter can embark on an epic road trip from Queenstown to Auckland.

10 Days in New Zealand - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

You can comfortably explore four to five different destinations with ten days in New Zealand. Spend up to two days in each city, including the "Big Little City" of Auckland, geothermal Rotorua, and scenic Wanaka. There are also several opportunities to discover settings from the Lord of the Rings films in Matamata, Tongariro National Park, and Wellington. The itineraries below cover the North and South Islands with ideas for every traveler—from family-friendly excursions to hardcore outdoor adventures.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 8 Days

If you've got eight days to spare and want to explore the South of France in a creative way, this itinerary is perfect for you. You'll ride along quiet countryside roads on an electric bike, so you can let the bike do most of the work! Experience the Provence way of life as you follow the lavender roads at the heart of the Provence hinterland.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 9 Days

Bike through the heart of Provence on electric bikes on this nine-day tour. Explore the quiet country roads as you ride about 30 miles per day, stopping at night in peaceful accommodations. From the endless lavender fields of Sault to the blue-green waters of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, this itinerary delivers plenty of local experiences.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 10 Days

If ten days spent exploring the quiet countryside roads and medieval villages of Provence sounds like a dream come true, this itinerary is perfect for you. From Paris to Avignon, ride a comfortable e-bike along off-the-beaten-path roads across two nature reserves the land of endless lavender fields as you experience the Provence way of life.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 11 Days

Follow the lavender roads at the heart of Provence and experience the French way of life on this 11-day e-bike tour. Explore Paris’s cozy cafes and wide boulevards, savor Provence flavors like olive oil, Picodon (provencal cheese), & thyme, and see Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs. Spend a day in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & see the springs, then explore history & architecture in Avignon.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Sault, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 12 Days

If you've got twelve free days and adventure on your mind, head to romantic Provence for an e-bike tour you'll never forget. Ride along secured off-the-beaten-path roads across two nature parks as you visit small medieval towns, browse Provençal food markets to find local specialties, and visit the landscapes that inspired famous French painter Cezanne.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 13 Days

This thirteen-day adventure through Provence's quiet countryside roads is just shy of two weeks, but it's certainly not shy about delivering experiences. From the Rhône Valley with its endless vineyards and lavender fields to Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs, you'll enjoy the "douceur de Vivre" with the electric assistance pedaling system on your e-bike.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Sault, Roussillon, Avignon, & More - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring Provence the best way we know how: by e-bike! Enjoy the "douceur de Vivre" and let the electric assistance pedaling system do all the work for you. Browse Provençal food markets to find local specialties, see Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs, spend a day in Fontaine-de-Vaucluse & see the springs, and more!

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Vaison, Sault, Roussillon, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Avignon, & More - 15 Days

Follow the lavender roads through the heart of Provence and explore medieval villages on this 15-day e-bike itinerary. Visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the medieval Avignon, browse Provençal food markets to find local specialties, and see Roussillon’s famous ochre cliffs. Soak in the "douceur de Vivre" and let the electric assistance pedaling system do all the work!

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Sault, Roussillon, Avignon, & More - 16 Days

Visit the landscapes that inspired famous French painter Cezanne and enjoy views of Mont Ventoux as you bike along quiet countryside roads on this 16-day itinerary. From the cozy cafes and wide boulevards of Paris to romantic Aix-en-Provence, you'll relax and enjoy the "douceur de vivre" as the electric assistance pedaling system on the bikes gives your legs a break.

Discover Provence by E-Bike: Grignan, Roussillon, Avignon, Aix, & More - 17 Days

Everyone's heard of Provence, but few have cycled its quiet countryside roads and explored its many medieval village. You'll get the chance to do just that—effortlessly, on an e-bike. In this 17-day itinerary, which leads from Grignan to Aix-en-Provence in the south, you'll ride pleasant, off-the-beaten-path roads through two nature parks and experience the Provence way of life as you visit the landscapes that inspired the famous French painter Cezanne.

The Archaeological Maya Journey - 5 Days

Take a step back in time to explore ancient Maya cities shrouded in mystery—some of which were inhabited since around 1800 BCE—on this five-day adventure. You'll visit Chichén Itzá, one of the New Wonders of the World, as well as Izamal and Mérida, which will offer insight into the transition from ancient Maya civilization to contemporary Maya ways of life.

Highlights of Chiapas - 5 Days

On this quick tour of Chiapas, you'll explore the region around San Cristóbal de las Casas: highlights include striking natural landscapes, indigenous communities, the imposing Sumidero Canyon, azure-colored waterfalls, and the many lakes of Montebello Lakes National Park. You'll also roam vibrant markets, try traditional food, and visit historic colonial town centers.

The Nakasengo Trail entering the town of Magome in the Kiso Valley

Central Japan Highlights: Tokyo, Kyoto & the Kiso Valley - 9 Days

This active nine-day itinerary takes you on a memorable journey through central Japan's history and culture, from ultra-modern Tokyo to the historic imperial capital of Kyoto. In between, you'll visit the famous gardens of Kanazawa, cycle through traditional thatched villages of the Hida region, walk portions of the ancient Nakasendo Trail, and explore the preserved post towns of the Kiso Valley.

Peaceful Puerto Vallarta - 5 Days

Puerto Vallarta inspires travelers with its natural beauty and colorful cultural history. See the best of both on this five-day itinerary that features outdoor activities—swimming, boating, kayaking in crystal-clear waters, snorkeling through caves—and indigenous artistry, from dance to music to acrobatics, at a spectacular live show.

Enjoy Cancun's paperwhite coastline and stunning turquoise waters

Relaxed Vacation on the Yucatán Peninsula - 5 Days

On this short but satisfying itinerary to the Yucatan Peninsula, you'll sunbathe and swim on the white sandy beaches of the Riviera Maya, spot wildlife in the Sian Ka'an Biosphere Reserve, and explore the water-filled natural cave formations of Rio Secreto. Plus, as you'll be staying all four nights in Playa del Carmen, you can enjoy your surroundings more relaxedly.

"Trajineras" on the canals of Xochimilco

Colors of Mexico City - 5 days

On this itinerary, you'll dive into Mexico City and explore everything from the city's historic center to the canals of Xochimilco. Travel back in time to learn about the history of pre-Hispanic people at the Museum of Anthropology, discover the mysterious temples of Teotihuacán, and get inspired in the bohemian neighborhood of Coyoacán, where Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera used to live.

City walls and cliffs of "Old Town" Dubrovnik

15 Days in Croatia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With fifteen days in Croatia, you'll have plenty of time to explore more of the country. Choose a classic itinerary that hits Zagreb, the castle-laden hills of the Zagorje, and the Adriatic Coast, or go for an outdoorsy adventure that combines hiking, kayaking, rafting, and scuba diving your way through the country. Check out the following itineraries for more inspiration.

Explore the West of Ireland by Bike - 10 Days

Explore the West of Ireland on bike with this scenic tour of coastal counties Clare, Galway, and Mayo. Cycle along the Shannon Estuary and up the coast to the Cliffs of Moher, where you'll stop for traditional music in Doolin and explore the famous Burren region. Transfer to the Aran Islands by ferry and cycle through this remote and traditional landscape, returning to the mainland via the bustling foodie city of Galway. End the trip in Northern Mayo by cycling through Neolithic fields, visiting a 19th-century castle, and tasting whiskey at Connacht Whiskey Company.

A woman harvesting red chili near Kalaw, Myanmar

14 Days in Myanmar - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Travelers with two weeks in Myanmar can take a grand tour of the country, stopping in must-see places like Mandalay, Inle Lake, Bagan, Yangon, and Ngapali Beach. Those interested in local culture will have time to incorporate activities like cooking classes and a stop at a "retirement home" for elephants, while an adventurous itinerary can include biking and trekking. A multi-country trip is also possible, spending a week each in Myanmar and Thailand.

9 Days in Morocco - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days, you can hit the highlights of Morocco's famed Imperial cities and add time along the coast or the desert. Or, take a different approach by swapping in a trek through Berber villages in the Atlas mountains. If you're inspired to go off the beaten path, you can start in Marrakesh, head through smaller towns and mountain villages, swim at the base of a towering waterfall, learn how to press olive oil, and visit a saffron harvest. Read on for some unique options for your trip.

Get Started

Why travelers love kimkim

Custom trips for independent travelers who are too busy to plan

Customize your trip with the help of a local travel specialist

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.

Authentic travel experiences

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.

Secure & easy booking

Once you are happy with the trip, you can easily book via kimkim’s secure payment platform.

Local support during your trip

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.