Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes and rich heritage of Jordan, where ancient wonders and hidden gems await at every turn.
Our immersive tour takes you beyond the well-trodden path to explore not only the iconic sites such as Petra, where ancient civilisations carved their legacies into the rose-red cliffs but also lesser-known regions like the enchanting Dana Biosphere Reserve, a sanctuary of biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. From floating effortlessly in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea to camping beneath the star-studded skies of Wadi Rum, where timeless desert landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see, our experiences promise to ignite your senses and awaken your spirit of adventure.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Ahlan Wa Sahlan – Welcome to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan! you will be met and be assisted through immigration and customs procedures. Afterwards, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in Amman, which is about a 30-minute drive. Check in and have some leisure time.
In the evening, meet your fellow travellers as you enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant situated in Downtown Amman, offering a taste of authentic Jordanian cuisine. (D)
Overnight – Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar
After breakfast, drive to Jerash (50km,1hr), one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the Middle East. Explore its ancient wonders, including paved streets, colonnaded walkways, majestic temples, and impressive theatres, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of Roman civilisation.
Afterwards, return to Amman, and delve into the city’s rich history with a guided tour of its historical sites. Begin at Citadel Hill, where you’ll discover remains dating from the Roman to the early Islamic period and visit the Archaeological Museum to further explore Jordan’s heritage. Continue through Amman’s bustling downtown area, strolling through the vibrant Souk to experience everyday life in the city. Admire the Roman Theatre, dating back to the 2nd century and boasting a seating capacity of 6,000 spectators.
Stroll through Jabal Amman and Jabal Weibdeh, renowned for their vibrant artistic communities, charming handicraft shops, and delightful restaurants. (B)
Overnight – Khan Khediwe Hotel or similar
This morning you will drive to the Dead Sea (54km, 1hr), the lowest point on Earth sitting at 400 metres below sea level. Experience the unique sensation of floating effortlessly in its buoyant waters, known for their therapeutic properties since the time of Herod the Great. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a Dead Sea resort, taking in the stunning views of this natural wonder.
Next you will drive to Kerak Castle (120km, 1.5hrs), a remarkable Crusader fortress perched on a hilltop. Explore its underground passageways and imagine the epic battles that once took place here as forces clashed during the time of Salah Ad-Din’s siege. From here you will travel to Dana Village (60km, 1hr 15m), home to Bedouin communities for centuries. Explore the breathtaking views of Jordan’s largest nature reserve and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area.
Finally, head to Feynan Ecolodge (90km, 2hrs), nestled in the heart of the Dana Biosphere Reserve. Hailed as one of the best 25 ecolodges in the world by National Geographic Traveler Magazine, this enchanting lodge offers the most developed eco-experience in Jordan.
Staying at Feynan Ecolodge is a truly enriching and memorable experience, rooted in sustainability, community engagement, and natural beauty. It is entirely off-grid, constructed from adobe (a blend of mud and straw), and operates without conventional electricity. While there may be limited charging opportunities in the lobby, it is recommended you bring a power bank if you feel you will need to charge devices on this night. Lighting is provided by candles and lanterns, creating a peaceful, magical ambiance at night. The rooms are simple yet beautiful, blending comfort with natural design.
When approaching the lodge, your guide will accompany you to the edge of the reserve and then for the final 5-10-minute journey from the main road, you’ll transfer into a local Bedouin vehicle. This approach is actively encouraged by the lodge to provide income to the surrounding Bedouin community. These vehicles are rustic and well-worn, often dusty and marked from years of use – all part of the authentic experience.
Feynan Ecolodge offers various activities, some are free of charge, and others can be paid directly to the lodge with all funds going to the local Bedouins in Feynan. These can include visiting archaeological sites, sunset walks through the landscape, cooking classes and visiting archaeological sites. You will be advised when you check in as to what activities are available on the day. You are also welcome to simply relax and unwind in the serene courtyards or rooftop terrace. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Feynan Ecolodge or similar
After breakfast you will travel in a Bedouin vehicle for the short distance back to the edge of the reserve where your guide will be waiting for you. From there you will drive to Petra (65km, 1.5hrs), Jordan’s most iconic attraction. Petra, known as the “Rose City,” was established around the 6th century BC by the Nabataean Arabs, who carved magnificent structures into rose-coloured sandstone cliffs. You’ll enter the narrow canyon known as the Siq, a mesmerizing journey leading to Petra’s hidden treasures.
As you walk through the Siq, explore the stunning monument known as the Treasury, one of Petra’s most iconic structures. Continue along the Street of Facades to explore the Royal Tombs and Pharaoh’s Castle, each offering a glimpse into Petra’s rich history and architectural grandeur.
Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Petra at your own pace, soaking in the majestic beauty of this ancient city. (B)
Overnight – Petra Guest House or similar
After breakfast at your hotel in Petra, drive to Wadi Rum (113km, 1hr 50m). Wadi Rum, Jordan’s largest wadi, is a breathtaking desert landscape inhabited since prehistoric times. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling adventure with a 4×4 jeep tour led by a local Bedouin driver. Explore the rugged terrain, marvel at the ever-changing colours of the sand and mountains, and soak in the serene atmosphere that surrounds you. As you traverse through the vast expanse of Wadi Rum, you’ll encounter dramatic canyons, towering red sand dunes, ancient Nabatean rock inscriptions, and natural rock formations, including a stunning rock bridge formed over centuries.
Later, check into your campsite in Wadi Rum, where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner under the desert sky, hopefully, adorned with a canopy of stars, creating a magical ambience for your night in the desert. (B,D)
Note: 4x4s in Wadi Rum are old vehicles and belong to the Bedouin association
Overnight – Sun City Camp or similar
Enjoy breakfast at Wadi Rum and early check out at camp. Return to Amman for your onward flight to your next destination. (We recommend booking an evening flight) (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 2 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.