Travel Insights

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

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The curious rock formations of the Zagori landscape

Adventurous Athens, Central Greece, and Corfu - 12 Days

This exciting itinerary squeezes plenty of thrills into 12 days spent on the mainland and Corfu. Soak in the history of Athens as you bike through its various neighborhoods, and then head for the monasteries of Meteora and the villages of Zagori. There you'll trek through the mountains and be at one with nature. For a change of scenery, take the ferry over to Corfu, where you'll hike, bike, and kayak around its ruggedly beautiful coastline and historic Old Town.

Adventurous Athens, Central Greece, and Corfu - 13 Days

Spend 13 days hiking, biking, and paddling around some of Greece's most stunning locations with this whirlwind itinerary. Discover Athens by bicycle and go fishing for your supper before heading to the clifftop monasteries of Meteora. Trek through the hilly villages of atmospheric Zagori and learn to cook a traditional meal. Finally, sail to Corfu to explore its rocky coastline, gorgeous beaches, and picturesque Old Town.

Adventurous Athens, Central Greece, and Corfu - 14 Days

You'll go from the bustling capital to the serenity of traditional hillside villages to the shores of Corfu on this two-week adventure. Explore the sights and sounds of Athens by bicycle before taking to the water to fish for your dinner in the Saronic Gulf. Next, you'll trek through the mountains of Meteora and Zagori, where you'll learn to cook a three-course Greek meal. Hop on a ferry to Corfu to end your journey with some hiking, biking, and kayaking along the beach to the fortresses of the Old Town.

Adventurous Athens, Central Greece & Corfu - 15 Days

In just over two weeks, you'll see some of Greece's most striking locales by hike, bike, raft, and more. First, immerse yourself in ancient mythology and see Athens on two wheels. Then learn to fish like the locals before heading for the clifftop monasteries of Meteora. From there, you'll hike through the hilly villages of atmospheric Zagori and see its famous stone bridges from your raft on the Voidomatis River. Finally, head to Corfu for more hiking, biking, and a sea kayaking excursion along its rugged coastline.

Wildlife, Rainforest & Beach Adventure - 14 Days

Go from coast to coast as you encounter wildlife, swim under jungle waterfalls, and unwind on magnificent beaches on this well-rounded Costa Rican adventure. You'll start in the rugged Osa Peninsula, where you'll find untouched shores and a plethora of tropical animals. Then explore the rainforests of Monteverde and Arenal before embarking on a two-day whitewater rafting trip down the famous Pacuare River. End your unforgettable stay in the Caribbean town of Puerto Viejo, where you'll snorkel, surf, and enjoy "pura vida".

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 20 Days

Delve into Greece's culture and history with this 20-day adventure around the mainland. Discover Athens by bicycle, and learn about classical mythology and modern art along the way, before hiking in the mountains of Meteora and the villages of Zagori. Tackle some rapids and take a dip in the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese. Then head to Nafplio, where more hiking, biking, and some cheese-making await!

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 19 Days

You'll explore Athens and Greece's stunning countryside with this 19-day adventurous itinerary around the mainland. Bike your way around the capital and learn to fish like the locals before hiking to the clifftop monasteries of Meteora. Then make your way to the picturesque villages of Zagori, where you'll tackle the rapids of the Voidomatis River. Spend some time swimming under waterfalls before heading to Nafplio on the coast, where you'll kayak around a castle and learn how to make cheese the Greek way.

Sunset at the Temple of Poseidon, Sounion

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 18 Days

Get ready to see mainland Greece by foot, bike, kayak and more on this 18-day adventure. First, you'll explore the capital on two wheels and immerse yourself in the street art scene. Then learn the traditional Greek way of fishing before tackling the mountains of Meteora. Head to the hilly villages of Zagori, where you'll explore by raft. Next, make your way to to the turquoise waters of the Peloponnese for a swim under a waterfall and a dip in mountain lakes. Finally, travel to coastal Nafplio for a sea kayaking excursion around its famous castle, and more!

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 17 Days

This 17-day adventure will take you from the sights and sounds of Athens to the clifftops of Meteora to the tranquil villages of Zagori and the crystal waters of the Peloponnese. Along the way, you'll hike, bike, and paddle your way around mainland Greece's stunning landscapes. End your journey with a trip to coastal Nafplio and a sunset finale at Sounion.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 16 Days

In two and a half weeks you'll go from the bustling capital to the peaceful villages of Zagori to the Venetian side streets of Nafplio with this active itinerary. Get ready to discover the Greek mainland by bicycle, kayak, and on foot, as you climb to the clifftops of Meteora, bike along the coast, and paddle in the sea below imposing castles. After all that effort, reward yourself with a sunset finale at Cape Sounion's Temple of Poseidon.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 15 Days

Spend just over two weeks discovering Greece's stunning mainland, from the clifftop monasteries of Meteora to the tranquil waters of the Peloponnese to the historical shores of Nafplio. You'll explore Athens by bike before hiking the hills and rafting the rivers of Zagori. Finish your journey with a kayaking excursion beneath imposing castles and an unforgettable sunset finale.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 14 Days

You'll tackle clifftop monasteries, river rapids, and the southern coastline on this two-week adventure. Start in Athens, where you'll explore the sights by bicycle. Then make your way to the curious rock formations of Meteora and the picturesque mountain villages of Zagori. After an excursion to the waterfall pools and alpine lakes of the Peloponnese, head to Nafplio for more hiking, biking, and a sea kayaking trip with stunning views.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 13 Days

Hike, bike, and paddle your way around the Greek mainland with this 13-day itinerary. Begin in Athens, where you'll see all the sights from two wheels. Then stretch your legs with hikes in the mountains of Meteora and Zagori. Take a refreshing dip in the lakes of the Peloponnese before heading for the coast for a sea kayaking excursion. Finally, reward your hard work with a sunset at the Temple of Poseidon.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 12 Days

Make the most of your 12 days in Greece with this adventurous itinerary around the mainland. You'll discover the sights and sounds of Athens by bicycle before hiking in the hills of Meteora and Zagori. Stop for a swim in the waterfalls and lakes of the northern Peloponnese, and then head for the historic coastal city of Nafplio for biking and kayaking with a view.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 11 Days

Go from the bustling metropolis of Athens to the tranquil hills of Zagori to the beaches of Nafplio on this 11-day adventure. Along the way, you'll climb to the clifftop monasteries of Meteora, swim in the refreshing waters of the northern Peloponnese, and tackle sea waves on a kayaking excursion with a view.

Mainland Greece Adventure Trip - 10 Days

This 10-day active itinerary will take you from the lively streets of Athens to charming traditional villages to the shores of Nafplio. You'll tackle the mountains of Meteora, hike the hills of Zagori, and unwind with a relaxing dip in the lakes and waterfalls of the northern Peloponnese. End your adventure with a coastal bike ride and a paddle in the turquoise waters of the Aegean.

Peru's Cities, History & Ecotourism - 7 Days

Explore Peru's iconic cities, ancient archaeological sites, and coastal wildlife in this seven-day exploration. Start in the capital of Lima, then head south to Paracas for a marine wildlife tour and views of a 2,200-year-old geoglyph. Try your hand at sandboarding in the desert oasis of Huacachina before heading to the imperial Inca city of Cusco. Explore Inca ruins, bustling textile markets, and the local culture of the Sacred Valley. Finish your visit with a day trip to Machu Picchu, the iconic 15th-century citadel.

Machu Picchu & the Amazon Jungle - 7 Days

From the remote Machu Picchu ruins to the lush Amazon rainforest, this seven-day itinerary brings you to Peru's iconic landscapes. Fly to metropolitan Lima, then connect with the Inca capital of Cusco. Explore colorful textile markets, small towns, and Inca ruins in the Sacred Valley before traveling east to Puerto Maldonado, your launch point to the lush Amazon. Spend three days viewing wildlife, like the giant river otter, river cayman, and vibrant parrot species, while enjoying a comfortable stay at an eco-lodge.

Autumn Road Trip in Norway's Arctic - 7 Days

This relaxed road trip explores an area of Norway's Arctic rarely visited by tourists. Start in fjord-side Alta and drive inland to experience indigenous culture while staying in a cozy wilderness lodge. You'll then make your way toward the northernmost tip of the continent for hiking trails, colorful villages, and breathtaking views. Spend each night looking for early glimpses of the northern lights—they usually start in October.

A summer evening in the village of Reine

Summer Road Trip: Norway's West Coast - 7 Days

This lightly-trafficked, summertime road trip is a great way to experience Northern Norway's stunning coastline from late May to early September. The adventure starts with a half-day in Tromsø—"Paris of the North"—before you continue to Sommarøy, the first of many islands. You'll then take car ferries to Senja island and Andoya island to enjoy remote nature where fewer travelers venture. Finish the adventure in Lofoten's stunning, and yes, more popular, islands for hiking and kayaking while based in the charming village of Reine.

Stay a night along the Geirangerfjord between Bergen and Trondheim

Summer Road Trip: Oslo, Bergen & Trondheim - 12 Days

This journey highlights Norway's three biggest cities with scenic detours along the way. Start off in sophisticated Oslo before traveling by train and ferry to UNESCO-listed Bergen. From here, drive through fjord-side villages to Ålesund, known for its art nouveau architecture, and Kristiansund. Finish off in Trondheim with colorful wooden homes, café culture, and tree-lined streets for cycling.

Magnificent Domes of St. Basil's Cathedral

Russia's Capital Cities & Golden Ring Tour - 7 Days

Russia has sometimes been described as a nation of two souls. Moscow represents traditional tsarist Muscovy, with its Orthodox faith and nearly 900-year history—not to mention the legacy of the authoritarian Soviet Union. St. Petersburg speaks to another side of Russia: a nation of intelligentsia, inspired by the Enlightenment. This tour provides an in-depth overview of Russia's contrasting capitals, along with the historic towns of the Golden Ring.

View of the Kremlin from the Moskva River

Highlights of Russia's Capital Cities - 8 Days

Moscow and St. Petersburg may be Russia's twin capitals, but each has a distinct spirit of its own. This tour helps you discover both cities by exploring beyond the highlights to hidden local gems. Whether this is your first time in Russia or a repeat visit, you’ll be sure to find something new and exciting on this tour.

Highlights of Russia's Two Capitals - 9 Days

This comprehensive tour of Russia’s two capital cities—Moscow and St. Petersburg—will bring you beyond the highlights to hidden gems known only to locals. Whether this is your first time in Russia or a repeat visit, you’ll be sure to find something new and exciting on this tour. Visit iconic sites like the Kremlin, Hermitage Museum, and Bolshoi Theater along the way.

Russian Capitals & Golden Ring Tour - 14 Days

Russia is sometimes described as a nation of two souls. Moscow represents old world tsarist Muscovy, with its Orthodox faith, onion domes, and thousand year history. St. Petersburg is an elegant city born from Enlightenment, aristocracy, and revolution. Discovering these two contrasting capitals is pure travel magic, and this exciting tour of Moscow and St. Petersburg will give you a taste of their compelling stories.

Tips for Visiting Costa Rica During the Holidays

Any way you cut it, traveling to Costa Rica during the holidays will coincide with the tourist high season. This has its advantages, as there are more parties and celebrations than at any other time of year. Here's some advice to ensure you get the most out of your festive tropical vacation.

The Guanacaste region on the Pacific Coast is known for its arid landscape and beautiful beaches

Relaxed Costa Rica Family Adventure - 10 Days

Costa Rica is a favorite destination for all ages. This 10-day adventure allows your family to experience the highlights of the country from the towering Arenal Volcano, to the spectacular, remote beaches of Guanacaste. There are plenty of kid-friendly activities along the way, from sampling locally produced chocolate, to zip lining through the trees, to surf lessons in the Pacific.

Costa Rica Volcanoes & Pacific Coast Adventure - 12 Days

Combine a beach holiday and jungle adventure in one self-drive vacation. Arrive in Liberia and head to Tenorio National Park, where you'll hike along the electric blue waters of the Río Celeste. Next up is Arenal Volcano National Park, a hotbed of adventure activities. After a waterfall trek and whitewater rafting excursion, drive to Monteverde for a zip-line tour of the cloud forest canopy and a guided wildlife night hike. Finally, it's off to the beaches of Sámara and Tamarindo on the Nicoya Peninsula for surfing and relaxation.

A pretty snowfall in the historic waterfront city of Bergen

Norway in December: Travel Tips, Weather & More

December attracts Christmas and New Year travelers looking to spend the holidays in Norway's festive villages and cities—or perhaps the snowy north, where you can search for the northern lights, hit the slopes, or take a reindeer safari. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Autumnal colors and crisp air in Oslo's Vigeland Sculpture Park

Norway in November: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Take advantage of the last fall colors in November, a month offering fewer crowds, northern lights, great whale watching, and the cozy feeling of "kos"—the Norwegian version of the Danish "hygge." There's even a culinary festival featuring a favorite local delicacy. Read on to learn more about visiting Norway in November.

Take in the sweeping views of the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord

Norway in October: Travel Tips, Weather & More

October is an ideal time of year to enjoy Norway's colorful fall scenery in peace, as travelers are few and far between. This is also when days get shorter, temperatures drop, and the northern lights begin to reappear above the Arctic Circle. Find out what to do and where to go with this monthly guide.

September means crowd-free beaches north of the Arctic Circle

Norway in September: Travel Tips, Weather & More

September marks the end of the high season, with mild temperatures perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and iconic scenery without the crowds. This is also a great month to visit Bergen for its annual food festival. Read on for more tips on where to go and what to expect in Norway this month.

Take a guided kayaking tour in the western fjords during the warmer summer months

Norway in August: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Get here while it's still hot—August is the last full month of Norway's busy and expensive high season. With that comes spectacular weather, a sporty vibe from tourists and locals who spend as much time outdoors as possible, and loads of fun events like Bergen's Beer Festival and Oslo's Jazz Festival. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Pulpit Rock is a popular hike during summer months with incredible fjord views

Norway in July: Travel Tips, Weather & More

July is high season for Norway. Expect long days of gorgeous summer weather, a lively vibe not only from foreign visitors but locals who spend as much time outside as possible, and loads of fun events like Scandinavia's largest food festival. This monthly guide will tell you what to do and where to go (and how to beat the inevitable crowds).

This is as close to a sunset as it gets in the Lofoten Islands during June

Norway in June: Travel Tips, Weather & More

It's called the Land of the midnight sun for a reason, and June is the month that celebrates the longest day of the year—a time when the sun barely sets in southern Norway (and doesn't at all above the Arctic Circle). Thus begins, arguably, the best season of the year to experience Norway. Read this monthly guide to learn more.

Norway's many waterfalls, like Huldefoss, are rushing during this time of year

Norway in May: Travel Tips, Weather & More

May is the best time to visit Norway if you want to feel like a local. A month ahead of the summer crowds, you can enjoy relaxed sightseeing, long days of bright-green scenery, and rushing waterfalls in the fjords from snow melting in the mountains. This is also the month of Norway's biggest holiday, Constitution Day, with celebrations all over the country.

Cruise the Sognefjord for pretty views of budding wildflowers and coastal villages

Norway in April: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Norway's first month of spring brings warming temperatures, melting snow, and budding blossoms. This is a great time to get outdoors and hit the open road as the entire country comes of out hibernation for Easter tourism—yet it's still more affordable and less crowded than summer. Find out what to do and where to go with this April guide.

Solo Trips in Nepal

Planning to visit Nepal by yourself? You may be flying solo, but you won't be alone—Nepal is a popular destination for solo travelers, and great options are available whether you want to join a small group tour or hire a private guide. Before planning your adventure, read on to learn what to expect when booking a guided solo trip to Nepal through kimkim.

Costa Rica Self-Drive Adventure - 8 Days

This itinerary is perfect for those who want a vacation filled with tropical beauty and adventure. Take a self-drive tour of Costa Rica that begins in the cloud forests of Monteverde, where you can hike over suspension bridges and zip-line over the forest canopy. Then it's off to Arenal Volcano National Park—your days here will be spent trekking around the base of the volcano, soaking in natural hot springs, and embarking on waterfall hikes.

Sunset from above in the Art Nouveau city of Ålesund

Norway in March: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Out of the dark and into the light: Travelers to Norway in March will catch the earliest glimpses of spring, and with that, longer daylight hours. This is a great month to hit the uncrowded slopes and festivals, explore the cities, and catch the northern lights before they hibernate until October.

Norway in February: Travel Tips, Weather & More

Norway's last full month of winter is a spectacular, snow-laden paradise with fun outdoor activities and local festivals, as well as fewer foreign travelers and lower prices. February is also a great time to catch the northern lights before they disappear in the spring. Read on to learn more.

Explore the La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park of hiking trails, waterfalls, and a wildlife sanctuary

Costa Rica FAQ

Costa Rica is a natural marvel—a relatively small country boasting four UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and 28 national parks. Travelers heading to this biodiverse wonderland can read on to have all your questions answered—including how to get around, what to eat, how much to tip, and more.

Catch the northern lights in Norway's Arctic region

Norway in January: Travel Tips, Weather & More

January in Norway is a bona fide winter wonderland with snowy activities, fewer crowds, and lower costs than other times of the year. This is also one of the best months for viewing the northern lights above the Arctic Circle. Let this monthly guide help you find the best places to visit and things to do.

Buenos Aires & Patagonia Ski Adventure - 10 Days

This epic winter holiday covers some of the most beautiful destinations in the country. Arrive in Buenos Aires before jetting off to the southern lakeside retreat of San Carlos de Bariloche to enjoy the best ski conditions in the nation. Next, head to Argentine Patagonia, where you'll sail the same waters as Charles Darwin and walk with Magellanic penguins. Finally, fly back to Buenos Aires to catch a tango show before heading back home.

A whale breaching the surface in Puerto Madryn

Classic Argentina: Patagonia & Iguazú Falls - 16 Days

Experience Argentina's highlights on this 16-day adventure in the great outdoors. After some cosmopolitan fun in Buenos Aires, head south to the untamed wilds of Patagonia, where you'll visit remote ranches and hike atop glaciers. Then hit the water for wildlife tours to spot whales and orcas before heading north to explore one of the largest waterfall systems in the world, Iguazú Falls.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 11 Days

You'll cover plenty of ground with this 11-day itinerary as you hike and bike your way around the Greek mainland and isles. You'll travel from the ancient ruins of Athens to the clifftop monasteries of Meteora to the beaches and mountains of Crete and the Cyclades. Along the way, you'll indulge in Greek culinary delights, enjoy a sunset visit to the Temple of Poseidon, and wander the pretty lanes of Chania.

The beautiful interior landscape of Crete

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 12 Days

Discover the intense beauty of the Greek mainland and islands as you hike, bike, and kayak your way around. This 12-day itinerary will take you from the bustling capital to the clifftops of Meteora to the shores of the Cyclades. You'll hike the hills of Tinos and trek through Crete's Samaria Gorge, bike along the perfect beaches of Naxos, kayak in the sea beneath a castle fortress, and more on this action-packed adventure.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 13 Days

In just under two weeks, you'll take the mainland and islands by foot, bicycle, and kayak as you explore some of Greece's most beautiful locales. After taking in the sights in Athens, you'll go fishing with the professionals and learn traditional techniques. Then set sail for the Cyclades, where you will trek through the rocky landscape of Tinos, and bike around the beaches of Naxos. Next, hit the trails in Crete's Samaria Gorge before returning to the mainland for a kayaking excursion in the historic coastal town of Nafplio.

Crystal clear waters on the shores of Crete

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 14 Days

On this two-week adventure around the Greek mainland and islands, you'll do everything from hiking to biking to kayaking as you explore the country's beauty and culture. You'll learn to fish the traditional way in the Aegean, go trekking through the lunar landscape of Volax on Tinos, and bike your way around the beaches of Naxos. Soak up some history along the way at Delphi, Chania, and Nafplio.

Active Athens, Mainland Greece, Cyclades, and Crete - 15 Days

Gear up for a thrilling tour of the Greek mainland and isles. In just over two weeks, you'll see the ancient ruins of Athens and Delphi, go trekking on the islands of Tinos and Crete, and discover the beaches of Naxos by bicycle. In between, you'll visit clifftop monasteries, sample local Cretan delicacies, and go sea kayaking around Nafplio's Palamidi Castle.

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