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!
Travel Insights
Insights, ideas and itineraries from kimkim's trusted network of Local Travel Specialists and Experts
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Volcano & Pacific Beach Family Adventure - 6 Days
With cascading waterfalls, idyllic beaches, and smoking volcanoes, Costa Rica is an ideal destination for families. This exciting 6-day itinerary takes you to some of the country's major highlights. Hike around the towering Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, then go for a swim in Oropendola Waterfall. Then move on to the surf village of Tamarindo, where you'll learn to ride the waves during a private lesson. Finish the trip with a whitewater rafting adventure or a safari float before heading back to Liberia, where the journey comes to an end.
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.
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.
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.
3 Days in Iceland: Blue Lagoon, South Coast, Reykjavik - 3-day itinerary
If you are short on time, or perhaps you are looking for an extended layover on your way from Europe to North America or vice versa, your options in Iceland are limited to closer to Reykjavik. Here is a 3-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.
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.
5-Day Tour of the North: Akureyri, Lake Myvatn, Waterfalls, and Geothermal Hotspots
For a unique Iceland experience, avoid the crowds of the south completely. This trip has it all: volcanoes, waterfalls, hot springs, nature baths, whale watching, fjords and more. Below are 2 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 Reykjavik.
5-Day Self-Driving Tour: Snaefellsnes Peninsula, Akureyri, Myvatn Area
This 5-day self-driving itinerary is a great way to get away from the crowds of the south and explore the more remote areas in the north of Iceland. Maximize your time exploring with a one-way domestic flight from Akureyri back to Reykjavik.
Camino de Santiago - 7-Day Itinerary
Make your way along a legendary 1,100-year-old trail and trace the footsteps of ancient pilgrims like St. Francis of Assisi and Louis VII. It's a pilgrimage through the centuries, full of miracles, legends, and apparitions at every turn of the road to Santiago. History, nature, gastronomy, adventure and walking mixed together on this journey crossing the north of the Iberian peninsula. You'll become part of the history that surrounds you.
Quito & the Galápagos Islands - 8 Days
See contrasting sides of Ecuador on this eight-day islands-and-city adventure. Discover the astonishing biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands, where you'll meet playful sea lions, marine iguanas, and giant tortoises during stays on San Cristóbal and Santa Cruz. The country's capital, Quito, sandwiches your island time—your springboard to discover Indigenous and colonial culture and the surrounding volcanic Andes.
Spectacular Self-Drive Tour Around Sicily - 14 Days
Experience Sicily in all its glory by driving around the island in 2 weeks. Highlights of this tour include Palermo, a cultural melting pot with stunning monuments and vibrant local markets and Taormina, the elegant village famous for its Greek theater and the postcard views. You'll also visit Syracuse and Agrigento, with their archaeological masterpieces, and hike Mt. Etna—Europe's most active volcano.
Climb Mera Peak: Nepal's Highest Trekking Peak - 23 Days
Mera Peak is the highest trekking peak in Nepal, and an ascent of the 6,476 m/21,246 feet mountain is just one of the highlights of this amazing expedition: trek and camp through some truly wild and remote valleys and enjoy the colors of native Rhododendron forests and other spectacular mountain scenery.
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