Travel Insights

Inca Trail & Amazon Excursion - 11 Days

From bustling cities to remote jungles, this 11-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous travelers. Sightsee in the capital city of Lima, then continue to the imperial Inca city of Cusco. Tour the Sacred Valley and explore Inca ruins and colorful textile markets before embarking on the Inca Trail. Walk on the same stone steps that Inca engineers built in the 15th century, finishing your trek at the famed Machu Picchu ruins. Top off the trip with a whirlwind visit to the Amazon rainforest.

Peru's Cultural Highlights & Nazca Lines - 11 Days

From Lima to the Nazca Lines to iconic Machu Picchu, this 11-day adventure brings you to Peru's cultural and historic highlights. Start in the metropolitan city of Lima, then head south to Paracas. See the massive Nazca Lines from the window of an airplane, try sandboarding on nearby dunes, explore Cusco and the Sacred Valley, visiting ancient Inca ruins and busy textile markets, then spend a day visiting the famed ruins of Machu Picchu. Finish your trip exploring the islands and cultures of Lake Titicaca.

Discover Southern Africa's Natural Wonders: Kruger, Victoria Falls & Chobe - 7 Days

This wildlife adventure combines some of Southern Africa's most beautiful natural sights, including Victoria Falls and safaris in Kruger National Park. Perfect for those wishing to see wild game roaming the savanna while sipping their morning coffee in luxury accommodation, this trip offers endless opportunities to marvel at wildlife in their natural habitats. Traverse three countries while enjoying sunset river cruises and multiple safaris in a region with Africa's largest concentration of elephants.

Upper Mustang Trek & Jeep Adventure - 14 Days

Venture out on a timeless journey through the Kingdom of Lo, an off-the-beaten-path region that was a hidden Tibetan Buddhist enclave forbidden to foreigners until recently. From the trail, expect sights like sculpted canyons, deep gorges, ancient fortresses, and mysterious cave hermitages. You'll also see the Tibetan Buddhist gompas and soaring snow-peaks that characterize this region.

Colca Canyon, Lake Titicaca & Machu Picchu Adventure - 11 Days

From Colca Canyon to Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu, this diverse itinerary takes you to Peru's major highlights. Spend some time exploring Lima before heading out to explore the colonial city of Arequipa. Next, explore Colca Canyon and beautiful Lake Titicaca. Finally, head to the Inca capital of Cusco, discover colorful textile markets in the Sacred Valley and hike the short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.

Lima, Machu Picchu & Lake Titicaca - 9 Days

Explore Peru's cities, Machu Picchu, and the largest lake in South America on this nine-day exploration of local Peruvian culture.  Start in metropolitan Lima and explore the vibrant food scene and history. Continue to Cusco, the capital of the Inca empire, and visit ancient ruins and colorful textile markets. Next, spend a day visiting the iconic Machu Picchu ruins. Finally, venture to Lake Titicaca to see its floating islands and native culture.

Argentina Outdoor Adventure: Buenos Aires, Bariloche & El Calafate - 8 Days

This active, outdoorsy itinerary gives you the chance to hike and bike your way through Patagonia's most stunning landscapes. Start your adventure with a walking tour of Buenos Aires and learn more about the "Paris of South America." Then, fly down to Bariloche for mountain biking in Nahuel Huapi National Park. Finally, head to El Calafate and trek on top of the famous Perito Moreno Glacier. 

Inca Trail & Sacred Valley Excursion

This seven-day tour of Peru's highlights is perfect for adventurous travelers. Experience metropolitan life in the capital city of Lima, then continue to the imperial Inca city of Cusco. Next, embark on a four-day trek on the Inca Trail. Walk on the same stone steps that Inca engineers built in the 15th century, cross Dead Woman Pass, and camp at night with sweeping vistas of the Andes Mountains. Finish your trek at the famed Machu Picchu ruins. Then, spend a day relaxing and exploring the Sacred Valley before returning home.

New Zealand: Auckland, Rotorua, & Napier - 7 Days

On this weeklong tour of New Zealand, explore three entirely different areas of the country. Begin in Auckland, the "Big Little City," to do some sightseeing, kiwi spotting, and island touring. Then, drive to Rotorua to explore the famous geothermal areas and go mountain biking in the Redwoods Forest. Next, make your way to Napier, nestled on Hawke's Bay, and rich with Art Deco culture.

12 Days in Chile - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 12 days in Chile, you can enjoy a well-rounded adventure of three regions, which range from Patagonia and the Atacama Desert to the Lake District and Easter Island. While domestic flights transport you to specific regions for several days at a time, when stationed in Santiago, you have the freedom to venture out on day trips to coastal towns, like Viña del Mar and Valparaíso, and nearby valleys, such as Casablanca and Maipo. Experience the culinary, scenic, and historical highlights of Chile in these five trip plans below.

11 Days in Chile - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

An 11-day visit to Chile awards you with enough time to discover a few areas per trip, with several day excursions out of Santiago, too. By anchoring your travels in the capital, you can board short, domestic flights to hop from region to region—including Patagonia, Easter Island, and the Atacama Desert—with just enough time to cross over into another country, like nearby Bolivia.

9 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days in Peru, you're able to combine adventures in more than one region. Fly over the Nazca Lines before visiting Machu Picchu, hike the Inca Trail before decamping to the Amazon for jungle excursions, or take a cooking class in Lima before cruising around Lake Titicaca on a traditional boat. Find out more about your options with these five unique itinerary ideas for nine days in Peru.

Pikey Peak & Chitwan - 14 Days

This offbeat trip plan is perfect for the explorer looking to combine a trek with cultural discovery, a jungle safari, and an epic helicopter tour of the Himalaya. Get to know the traditions and history of the Kathmandu Valley, then hike through the gorgeous Annapurna region and summit Pikey Peak, where you'll enjoy a spectacular view that Edmund Hillary claimed as his favorite of Everest. Trade the trail for the jungles with a safari in Chitwan National Park, then end your trip on a high note with areal views of the Himalaya on a flight above the world's tallest peaks.

Everest Base Camp Heli Trek - 14 Days

This high-altitude trek through Sherpa country brings you to the base of the world's tallest peak. You'll pass hilltop monasteries, Himalayan market towns, and craggy peaks as you follow in the footsteps of famous mountaineers — eventually making your way to the iconic starting point for all Everest expeditions. Begin and end in Kathmandu, and return in style via a helicopter ride.

Sailing the Greek Cyclades: Paros, Mykonos, Serifos - 8 Days

As the ultimate sailing adventure through Greece's coveted Cyclades Islands, this tour combines bustling city life with tranquil villages nestled in the Aegean Sea. From some of Europe's best nightlife to humble fishing towns and secluded beaches, travelers will enjoy Greece's rich and varied heritage. Enjoy sunsets and local seafood while discovering important and ancient archeological sites, all from the comfort of a private yacht.

Sailing the Greek Cyclades: Athens, Mykonos, Paros - 10 Days

Best for those interested in seeing Greece by boat, this sailing adventure combines bustling and ancient Athens with some of the country's most beautiful islands: the Cyclades. Set on a yacht, you'll sail the turquoise waters of the Aegean Sea in search of the region's rich heritage, including gorgeous beaches, iconic windmills, exotic plant life, and beautiful sunsets. The days are yours to indulge in rich, local cuisine, as well as discover archaeological sites, step back in time while meandering small villages, and enjoy some of the best nightlife in Greece.

13 Days in Peru - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With 13 days in Peru, travelers' options are almost endless. Thanks to frequent domestic flights and quick connections between key destinations, it's possible to visit the Amazon rainforest, Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Lake Titicaca and the archaeological wonders of the north on a single trip—or some combination of these. Whether you want to hike, sightsee, boat through the jungle, or learn about indigenous ways of life, find out how with these five unique itineraries.

Explore Northern Peru: Trujillo, Chiclayo, Chachapoyas, & Cajamarca - 13 Days

Ancient fortresses, a museum with hundreds of mummies, towering pyramids, one of the highest waterfalls in the world: this 13-day trip showcases the best of northern Peru, featuring stops in Trujillo, Kuelap, Chiclayo, and Cajamarca.

El Calafate & El Chalten Grand Tour - 9 Days

Explore the rugged beauty of the icy wilderness of Patagonia on this adventure-filled 9-day itinerary that loops down from Buenos Aires through El Calafate and El Chaltén. Start off by learning about the culture of Argentina with a tour and tango show in Buenos Aires. Then, travel south to see the famous Perito Moreno glacier up close, raft down the Rio de las Vueltas, and hike on top of the secluded Cagliero glacier. 

8 Days in Argentina - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Eight days in Argentina gives you time to explore more of the country, from the glaciers of Patagonia to the crashing waters of Iguazú Falls. Fill your vacation with outdoor adventures like hiking through alpine forests, or relax with a glass of Malbec in Mendoza's vineyards with these five unique itinerary ideas that cover the country from north to south.

8 Days in Nepal - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With eight days in Nepal, you can undertake a short great trek or split your itinerary up into multiple regions. You could explore Nepal’s two biggest cities and add in a very short trek, or you could hit a trio of the nation’s most beloved regions (no hiking necessary). If you’re feeling adventurous, head off-the-beaten-track for a week of adventure: trekking, camping, mountain biking, river rafting, and even bungee jumping. Or head straight for the jungles of Chitwan National Park for some quality time with the country’s wildlife.

Chile: Santiago, Pacific Coast, Patagonia, & More - 13 Days

Explore many Chilean highlights in just under two weeks. Arrive in Santiago and embark on a city tour, followed by a day trip to the coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Then, discover Maipo Valley’s peaks and streams, along with a wine tasting excursion through Casablanca Valley. Then, it’s off to Patagonia to discover the Aysén region, home to beautiful glaciers and stunning marble caves. Next, fly to Punta Arenas to view native wildlife, explore the best of Torres del Paine, and visit a local estancia—before one final evening in Santiago.

Chilean Patagonia: Wildlife, W Trek, Ice Hiking, & Kayaking - 11 Days

Embark on an adventure through Chilean Patagonia on this eventful, 11-day trip. Fly into Santiago, and head straight to Punta Arenas. Do a bit of exploration before discovering the region’s native wildlife—visit the Austral dolphins in the Strait of Magellan, the penguins that inhabit Magdalena Island, and the sea lion colony on Marta Island. Then, it’s time to conquer the W Trek in Torres del Paine National Park. Hike to the famed Towers and walk along the ice of Glacier Grey. The trip winds down with a glacial kayaking excursion and a visit to a local estancia.

6 Days in Croatia - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Six days in Croatia might be a quick trip but it is plenty of time to explore the best of the country. Consider focusing on a single region like the Dalmatian coast or the northern peninsula of Istria. Or, if you don't mind a fast pace and flying open-jaw—thanks to the frequency of international flights to both Zagreb and Dubrovnik, you can start your trip in the north and work your way to the southern coast. Get a sense of what's possible with the following itineraries.

9 Days in Nepal - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

With nine days in Nepal, you'll have a couple of days to explore Kathmandu before heading off for a trek or multi-sport adventure (think mountain biking, rafting, or even bungee jumping). You can also consider a relaxing sightseeing tour of Nepal’s cultural highlights or discover Everest in luxury; you’ll fly by helicopter to various villages, then spend your days hiking, and your evenings unwinding in deluxe accommodations with some of the world’s most incredible views. These unique itineraries are sure to inspire your adventure.

9 Days in Croatia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Nine days is a great amount of time for an introductory trip to Croatia. Focus on a single region like Dalmatia or Istria for an in-depth stay or cover country-wide highlights for a faster-paced trip. Thanks to the international flight options to Zagreb, Split, and Dubrovnik, you can start your trip in the north and work your way south down the coast. Learn more with these incredible itineraries below.

Oslo, Bergen & the Sognefjord - 9 Days

This active 9-day summer tour covers Norway's two biggest cities, as well as its longest and deepest fjord, using various means of transportation for a true Scandinavian adventure. Start off exploring Europe's fastest-growing capital before taking a scenic train and ferry to the village of Balestrand. Spend a few days here kayaking and exploring nearby villages before getting on another boat—this time to the UNESCO-listed city of Bergen, surrounded by seven mountains.

Santiago & Patagonia: From Chile to Argentina - 13 Days

Few other places in the world can compete with the wild, jagged mountains, incredible glaciers, and enormous panoramas of Patagonia. On this ultimate 13-day adventure, enjoy the best of the region. Following a quick tour of Santiago and a day along the coast, fly to Chilean Patagonia. Embark on the famed W Trek, a four-day hike that covers the furthest reaches of Torres del Paine National Park. Then, bus over to Argentinian Patagonia to view Perito Moreno Glacier and iconic Mount Fitz Roy.

Chile Grand Tour: Santiago, Atacama Desert, Torres del Paine, & Easter Island - 13 Days

Experience the highlights of diverse and beautiful Chile in less than two weeks. Begin in the capital Santiago with some sightseeing, before flying off to the Atacama Desert. Discover the lagoons, geysers, salt flats, and more. Then, fly to Punta Arenas for your Patagonian adventure. Visit the native wildlife of the islands, and then head into Torres del Paine National Park for two days of private tours. The final leg takes you to Easter Island to explore the ancient moai figureheads, volcanoes, and stunning beaches.

Southern Chile: Patagonian W Trek, Wildlife, & Wilderness Adventure - 13 Days

Conquer the highlights of Southern Chile on this 13-day adventure. After a quick stop to tour Santiago, hop a flight to Punta Arenas for your first glimpse of Patagonia. Then, visit penguins on Magdalena Island and enjoy a wildlife tour along the Straight of Magellan. Next, spend four days discovering the unparalleled beauty of Torres del Paine National Park along the W Trek, the famed Towers to the ice fields of Glacier Grey. The trip concludes with a kayaking excursion out of Pueblo Serrano—with more incredible glacial views along the way.

Chile: Santiago, Pacific Coast, Maipo Valley & Patagonia W Trek - 12 Days

This 12-day Chilean vacation starts in Santiago for some sightseeing, followed by a day trip to the coastal towns of Viña del Mar and Valparaíso. Then, head out to explore the rivers, gorges, and peaks of Maipo Valley. Next, fly to Punta Arenas to begin your Patagonian adventure. Visit penguins on Magdalena Island, take a tour of a working estancia, and spend four incredible days hiking Torres del Paine's W Trek highlights—Mirador Base Torres, Lake Nordenskjöld, the French Valley, and Glacier Grey.

Best of Croatia: Zagreb, Istria, Dalmatia, & Dubrovnik - 21 Days

Experience the highlights of Croatia as well as the less-frequented hidden gems on this comprehensive 21-day tour. Start in the dynamic capital of Zagreb and cover the rolling hills and castles of the Zagorje, the hill towns and Venetian-era villages of Istria, and the unspoiled nature of Cres Island in the Kvarner Gulf before returning to the mainland. You'll explore the stunning Dalmatian coast with its ancient coastal cities of Zadar, Šibenik, Trogir, Split, and Dubrovnik along with discovering Adriatic islands, Korčula and Mljet, the rugged beauty of the Pelješac Peninsula, and the exquisite Bay of Kotor on a day trip to Montenegro.

Peru Highlights & Jungle Adventure

From Lima to the Amazon, this 12-day itinerary has it all. Take in the sights and flavors of the capital city, then head east to Puerto Maldonado, a jumping-off point for a journey to the rainforest. Spend three days staying at a jungle lodge and seeing wildlife like colorful parrots and giant river otters, then travel to Cusco and the Sacred Valley to learn about Inca history. Finish with hikes to Machu Picchu and vibrant Rainbow Mountain—the perfect way to end this whirlwind trip.

Explore Northern Peru: Trujillo, Chiclayo, Chachapoyas, & More - 12 Days

Discover the intriguing remains of the Chachapoya culture on this colorful tour of northern Peru. Visit archaeological sites, see hundreds of mummies in Leymebamba, then take a break and hike to Gocta Waterfall, one of the world's highest cascades. Find out how to manage your time with this 12-day trip plan.

6 Days in Spain - 6 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In six days, you can fully immerse yourself in one or even two regions in Spain. Those looking for something a bit different can choose off-the-beaten-path tours of major cities like Barcelona and Madrid, visiting the Moorish alcázars of Andalusia, and horseback riding to secluded beaches on Menorca. The more adventurous could take a road trip to La Mancha, head north into Basque Country for great food and rich culture, and travel up the eastern coast above Barcelona to the stunning Costa Brava.

Relaxed Buenos Aires, Mendoza & Iguazú Falls - 8 Days

Explore the streets of Buenos Aires and take in a tango show before heading off to the vineyards of Mendoza for wine-tasting and cooking classes. Finish off at the breathtaking Iguazú Falls with this relaxing itinerary that allows you to see three very different parts of Argentina at a leisurely pace. 

1 Week in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In one week, it’s easy to combine Athens or other mainland sightseeing with one or more Greek isles and experiences. You can wind through the medieval ruins of Rhodes, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and cuisine of Crete, or be a sybarite as you ferry-hop the Cyclades Islands. Let this diverse collection of 7-day itineraries inspire you.

Trekking in El Calafate & El Chalten - 8 Days

This adventure-packed 8-day itinerary takes you to the heart of Argentine Patagonia: Los Glaciares National Park. Take a day to experience the vibrant metropolis of Buenos Aires, then fly south to El Calafate and the famous Perito Moreno glacier. Then, take in the breath-taking scenery around nearby El Chaltén with several hiking excursions around the vertiginous Mt. Fitz Roy.

Classic Argentina: El Calafate, El Chalten, & Iguazú - 11 Days

See the highlights of Argentina with this complete 11-day itinerary that will give you a chance to explore the country's natural wonders at a relaxed pace. From tango in Buenos Aires to hiking in the Los Glaciares National Park to gazing down the Devil's Throat at Iguazú Falls, you'll experience the most quintessential attractions the country has to offer. 

Discover Japan: Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima - 13 Days

This trip will take you to all the places you shouldn't miss on your first trip to Japan. Discover the traditional and modern sides of Japan at shrines and temples, witness technological innovation at a digital art exhibition and a crazy robot cabaret, and get involved in hands-on cooking and craft classes.

Authentic Rio de Janeiro - 5 Days

To visitors, Rio de Janeiro is an exotic city where color and music flourish. Although the Cariocas (residents of Rio) agree, they know there's much more to their "Wonderful City." Explore irresistible beaches, surf and wooded mountains, the world-famous landmarks of the Pão de Açúcar and Cristo Redentor, and more on this quick immersion into the magic of Rio.

How Many Days to Spend in Machu Picchu

The vast and fascinating Inca citadel of Machu Picchu is what you make of it. It can be overcrowded if you have limited time and stick to the main site, but if you ascend to surrounding peaks or arrive via one of many beautiful treks, this region can hold your attention for many days. This article breaks down what you can best do here in the holiday time you have, be that a whistlestop half-day tour or an off-the-beaten-track weeklong adventure.

Hiking in Geilo, Aurland & Bergen - 8 Days

This 8-day trip is the perfect mix of hiking and relaxation in three of the most beautiful areas of Southern Norway. Your first stop is in the mountain town of Geilo, situated between two national parks. From here, ride one of the steepest trains in the world to get to Aurland—your base for checking out the area's trails before ferrying to Bergen by way of Norway's longest and deepest fjord. Finish the adventure at a waterfront hotel that boasts a plethora of paths to choose from.

Khopra Danda Trek with Kaire Lake - 10 Days

Also known as the Khopra Ridge Trek, this moderate, off-the-beaten-path adventure is a peaceful alternative to more popular treks in the lower Annapurna region. You'll climb your way through local villages, terraced farmland, and dense oak, pine, and rhododendron forests to face-to-face views of the snow-capped Annapurnas. Plus, you have the option for a challenging but rewarding day hike to Kaire, a sacred lake that Hindus believe will help you achieve Nirvana.

Oslo & the Sunnmøre Region - 8 Days

This stunning 8-day itinerary is the ultimate road trip through scenic coastal routes, fishing villages, and dramatic fjords in Northwest Norway. Nature lovers will be spoiled for choice with a range of outdoor activities, while urbanites can get their fix with two nights in Oslo—Europe's fastest-growing capital.

Chile: Lake District, Torres del Paine, & Atacama Desert - 12 Days

This extensive 12-day itinerary covers the major highlights of north, south, and central Chile—the Lake District, Torres del Paine National Park, and the Atacama Desert. The Lake District is famous for its charming villages, Prussian-blue lakes, and snow-capped volcanoes. Torres del Paine, on the other hand, is the crown jewel of national parks to explore in Patagonia. Throw in a visit to a Patagonian penguin colony and a jaunt to the mystical and beautiful island of Chiloé, and you have the perfect Chilean adventure.

11 Days in Spain - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

Eleven days are long enough to comfortably immerse yourself in up to three regions of Spain. Sunseekers can opt for the beaches in Barcelona and the Balearics and tours of the Moorish alcázars of Andalusia. Intrepid travelers can enjoy a self-drive road trip from Madrid to Seville, and foodies can go on a gastronomic odyssey to feast on the best tapas in Madrid and Andalusia—plus enjoy a flamenco show.

5 Days in the Greek Islands - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

The Greek Islands may number in the hundreds, but with less than a week, it’s possible to sample a variety of isles and experiences. You can rummage among the medieval ruins of Rhodes, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and cuisine of Crete, or visit the filming locations of the movie Mamma Mia on Skopelos. Let this diverse collection of 5-day itineraries inspire you.

2 Weeks in Australia - 5 Unique Itinerary Ideas

In two weeks, you can explore an average of four regions in Australia. The most efficient trips fly you in and out of major cities—like Sydney, Melbourne, and Adelaide—ensuring you can piggyback with free days and city tours in each location. It’s possible to take several day trips to famous destinations like the Great Barrier Reef and the Blue Mountains, venture into the outback’s desert region, and even cross over into New Zealand.

Australia in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September is the first month of spring in most of Australia and still the dry season in the tropical north. Temperatures increase throughout the country but are only slightly higher than in August, and rainfall is still low in the north. Conditions are good for traveling to the various climatic zones around the vast country.