kimkim – Our Favorite Destinations in November 2024

As the seasons change, it’s the perfect time to plan your next escape. This month at kimkim, we’re highlighting our favorite destinations that offer both relaxation and excitement. In Argentina, sip Malbec in Mendoza, kayak in Bariloche, and marvel at Iguazú Falls. Explore Norway’s Lofoten Islands with scenic hikes and cozy stays, or cruise under Tromsø’s northern lights with hot tubs and reindeer stew. For a mix of wildlife and culture, head to South Africa to enjoy Cape Town’s beaches and vineyards and track the Big Five on a safari in Kruger National Park. Wherever you choose to go, our custom trips are designed to make your next journey unforgettable.

kimkim – Our Favorite Destinations: South Africa

South Africa combines urban energy, scenic landscapes, and some of the world’s best wildlife experiences. Cape Town’s vibrant neighborhoods, coastal drives, and wineries perfectly mix city and nature. Beyond the city, Kruger National Park offers close encounters with the Big Five, while the Cape Winelands invite you to slow down and savor local flavors. South Africa is a destination where culture, nature, and adventure exist side by side, ready to be experienced at your own pace.

Itineraries

Explore South Africa: Cape Town & Kruger Safari – 7 Days
Spend a week exploring South Africa’s Cape Town and Kruger National Park. Begin in Cape Town, visiting iconic spots like Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point, and Boulders Penguin Colony, with time to relax at top-tier wineries. Then, head to Kruger for three days of thrilling day and night safaris, where you’ll encounter the Big Five—elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos—and a variety of bird species.

Cape Town & Garden Route Adventure – 10 Days
Over the course of this 10-day itinerary, you’ll take in the Western Cape with this trip plan. You’ll explore Cape Town and see Table Mountain from both a distant beach and right under your feet, sample the wines of Stellenbosch, and dive into a great white cage encounter before you hit the road on the Garden Route for canoeing, hiking, animal encounters, and more.

Activities

Cape Winelands Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Excursion, Cape Town
Begin your journey to South Africa’s Cape Winelands with a hotel pick-up in Cape Town. First, visit Fairview Wine & Cheese, a sustainable vineyard and goat farm, to pair eight wines with cheese and olives. Then, enjoy a stroll and lunch in the charming town of Franschhoek. End the day in historic Stellenbosch at Waterford Estate, sampling Shiraz, Cabernet, and sweet wines paired with light and dark chocolates.

Morning Game Drive, Kruger National Park
Set off on an early morning safari in an open-air vehicle with an expert guide. Spot wildlife like the Big Five—elephants, leopards, rhinos, buffalo, and lions—along with giraffes, zebras, and more, as your guide shares insights on their behavior and habitats. Learn about local flora, fauna, and culture, with a coffee break in the bush before wrapping up with a hearty breakfast at the lodge.

kimkim – Our Favorite Destinations: Argentina

Argentina offers a rich mix of culture, nature, and adventure for all types of travelers. Its diverse landscapes stretch from the bustling streets of Buenos Aires to the tranquil lakes of Bariloche and the vineyards of Mendoza. Whether exploring the Andes, kayaking in mountain lakes, or tasting some of the world’s best Malbec, Argentina strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and exploration. It’s a destination where vibrant city life and stunning natural wonders come together seamlessly.

Itineraries

Classic Argentina: Patagonia, Mendoza & Iguazú – 10 Days: This 10-day itinerary showcases Argentina’s top natural wonders. Start in Buenos Aires, then explore Bariloche’s lakes and mountains with kayaking and hiking. Continue to Mendoza for wine tastings, especially malbec, and end at the Brazilian border to experience stunning waterfalls from both sides.

Adventure in Northern Argentina – 14 Days: Explore Northern Argentina’s painted mountains, salt flats, and colonial cities over 14 days. Engage with local communities through culinary workshops, village visits, and tours of ancient ruins. Enjoy tango shows in Buenos Aires and a traditional gaucho barbecue in the Pampas for a rich cultural experience.

Activities

Snorkeling with Sea Lions in Puerto Madryn: Puerto Madryn, on Argentina’s Atlantic coast, serves as a gateway to Patagonia and is known for its rich marine life. A highlight is swimming with sea lions near Península Valdés, home to guanacos, orcas, penguins, and more. The tour departs by boat from Puerto Pirámides, with guides providing safety instructions and equipment. In the water, friendly sea lions often swim up to greet you, making for an unforgettable experience.

Full-Day Buenos Aires Walking Tour, Buenos Aires: Explore Buenos Aires on foot with an English-speaking guide. Visit Plaza San Martín, the Obelisco, and the Colón Theatre. Continue to Plaza de Mayo to see the Casa Rosada and Metropolitan Cathedral. Stroll through Puerto Madero, explore San Telmo’s tango scene and markets, and end in La Boca, home to Boca Juniors stadium and colorful Caminito Street.

kimkim – Our Favorite Destinations: Norway

Norway is where dramatic landscapes meet a deep sense of culture and history. The Lofoten Islands, with their rugged peaks and quiet villages, invite travelers to slow down and connect with nature. In Tromsø, winter brings opportunities to witness the northern lights, explore by dogsled, and enjoy cozy, Arctic-inspired cuisine. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, cruising fjords, or experiencing the rhythms of small Nordic towns, Norway offers space to explore and relax.

Itineraries

Hidden Lofoten: Explore Norway’s Secret Islands – 8 Days
Explore Norway’s remote Lofoten Islands on this scenic 8-day journey. Start in Bodø and travel south through the archipelago, ending on Værøy’s stunning shores. Discover secluded beaches, rugged mountains, and charming villages, with cozy stays in traditional accommodations. Enjoy hikes and excursions, perfect for an intimate, off-the-beaten-path adventure.


Oslo to Tromsø Winter Tour – 13 Days
This adventurous 13-day journey through Norway’s Arctic begins in Oslo, followed by a train to the UNESCO village of Røros. Enjoy dog sledding in the mountains, explore Trondheim, and sail to the Lofoten Islands. End with an overnight cruise to Tromsø for more dog sledding and fine dining in the ‘Paris of the North.

Activities


Northern Lights Sailing Cruise, Tromsø
Enjoy a four-hour night cruise in Tromsø, Norway, with a chance to witness the northern lights. Sail into the darkest areas away from city lights, enhancing your view of this celestial spectacle. Onboard, savor reindeer stew with local vegetables, relax in a hot tub, or stay cozy under blankets with a warm drink. Guides will share stories about the aurora and Northern Norway, ensuring a memorable and comfortable experience.


Round Trip Fjord Cruise Bergen to Mostraumen, Bergen
Explore Bergen’s stunning surroundings on a fjord cruise through Osterfjord. Sail past steep mountains, waterfalls, and charming villages, enjoying views from a heated cabin or sundeck. At Modalen, a small village with 380 residents, the boat turns back toward Bergen. Along the way, experience the spray of a waterfall as the captain brings the bow close, letting you sample the fresh mountain water.

Contact My Journey Begins Travel to book a tour with kimkim.