Her company specialises in hiking and cultural holiday packages, but one of the most magical is stargazing. “I’ve always been into nature. Even as a child, I spent hours outside, playing in dirt, growing plants, and exploring”, she told Central Magazine. “It was never a decision to start this career - it just evolved naturally.”

Kiki’s journey to Portugal began when she left Belgium in search of a better quality of life. “I wanted more sun, a warmer climate, and to be close to nature... it was a reset”, she stated. “I packed everything I could into my van and drove out here without knowing anyone, no job, just a little money, and a vision.”


Having worked in hospitality for 15 years, she also successfully ran a pop-up bar that hosted events in old buildings slated for demolition. “I moved around a couple of times, organising workshops, parties, and tastings”, she recounted. “I’ve probably arranged every event you can think of, but that was about giving historic beauty one last chance to shine.”


Stargazing hike

Exploring the Algarve at night offers a completely different perspective, far from the bustling beaches and sunlit trails. This 3.5-kilometre hike leads into the fading light, following dirt tracks through untouched landscapes.

The journey is not about reaching a destination but about immersing yourself in the transition from day to night. “Glowworms flicker in the undergrowth and the calls of frogs create an atmospheric soundtrack, guiding us toward our spot.”

Credits: Unsplash; Author: david-babayan;

“It’s something that really makes you stop and appreciate the universe”, she continued. The Algarve is home to some of the clearest skies in Europe, making it an exceptional place for stargazing. “We hike to remote locations to watch the stars, planets and distant galaxies through a professional telescope, accompanied by our own astronomer, who teaches you all there is to know.”

Available from May to October, this stargazing hike is only offered on request. The exact meeting point varies, depending on humidity levels, with locations either along the wild West Coast or within the serene forest of Barão de São João. “People often come back from these experiences feeling motivated and recharged, often describing it as a moment of clarity.”

All about connection

Kiki attracts guests who tend to be adventurous and open minded. “Many people want to escape the rat race and are looking for something deeper, perhaps a connection with themselves, others, or even with history.”

The tours are carefully curated to ensure a personal approach, accommodating small groups of up to eight people. “I prefer it that way so I can get to know everyone by name, and it’s actually a challenge I set for myself because I don’t want people to feel like numbers.”


This business takes pride in highlighting the more traditional side of the country, introducing guests to hidden trails, small villages, and the most authentic gastronomy. “I enjoy taking groups on an adventure, through the underground of the South and bringing them to the places with bright TL lights, good prices, the best food, and local people”, she expressed. “That’s what they appreciate the most.”

A hobby into business

Kiki Trips started with day hikes but gradually evolved into full holiday packages. “I mix my own hikes with local activities, covering anything from nature to history and culture”, she elaborated. “My goal as a guide is to inspire to try new things, spark something within, and promote the fun in life.”


“I turned my hobby into a business”, she admitted. “Even if I didn’t need the money, I would still do it. This is my life, my passion and my freedom. I love hearing the laughter, sharing stories and hiking together.”

Despite the challenges of being self-employed, she wouldn’t trade it for anything. “My parents strongly advised me against it, but I can’t imagine myself doing anything else. Every part of this business is 100 percent me, from the hikes to the logo and experiences.”


Kiki has big plans for the future, such as expanding her packages to central and northern Portugal and even the Azores. “I am constantly creating new holiday packages, and hopefully soon, there will be a kick-off on the catalogue collection on my website.”

For those interested in joining one of her experiences, Kiki encourages reaching out via https://www.kikitrips.com, signing up for the newsletter, or joining the WhatsApp group. “Just send me a message”, she concluded. “I love connecting with people and sharing what I love.”

Author

A journalist that’s always eager to learn about new things. With a passion for travel, adventure and writing about this diverse world of ours.

“Wisdom begins in wonder” -  Socrates

Kate Sreenarong