Join us on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Israel, where history, culture, and spirituality converge.
Explore this diverse and dynamic land, delving deep into its ancient sites, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Soak in an in-depth understanding of Israel’s remarkable past and present and take in lesser-known sites, minority groups and experiences you never dreamed possible. From the ancient walls of Jerusalem’s Old City to the tranquil shores of the Sea of Galilee, uncover the layers of history that have shaped this land for millennia.
Led by expert guides with intimate knowledge of Israel’s history, culture, and traditions, this journey promises to be an enriching and perspective-shifting experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a food enthusiast, or simply seeking to deepen your understanding of the world, join us as we uncover the treasures of Israel.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Israel! Upon arrival at Tel Aviv airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Jerusalem (55km, 1hr). The remainder of the day is yours at leisure.
Jerusalem, the timeless heart of three major world religions, is a city steeped in history, spirituality, and cultural significance. With its ancient stone walls and labyrinthine streets, Jerusalem is a living testament to thousands of years of human civilisation. Here, sacred sites such as the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock, and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre draw pilgrims and visitors from around the globe, each seeking a connection to the divine and a deeper understanding of their faith. But Jerusalem is not merely a city of the past; it is also a vibrant modern metropolis, where bustling markets, vibrant neighbourhoods, and a blend of cultures converge to create a unique and dynamic atmosphere.
Overnight – Brown Villa BaMoshava or similar, Jerusalem
This morning, you’ll start at the Mount of Olives. Revered by multiple faiths as a sacred site, this iconic hill offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Old City’s domes, minarets, and ancient walls, casting a spellbinding allure over all who behold it. From its storied summit, where olive trees whisper tales of the ages, pilgrims and visitors alike are drawn to its hallowed ground, where biblical events unfolded and prophetic visions were cast – an ideal spot to understand Jerusalem’s history and why it’s known as “The Holy City.”
Next, walk down to the holy Jewish Cemetery to reach the Garden of Gethsemane, renowned for its ancient olive trees. This site holds significance in the New Testament as the place where Jesus went with his disciples to pray on the night before he was crucified.
Continue to “Yad Avshalom”, a grand Petra-style tomb attributed to Absalom, son of King David. Finally, you’ll visit the Wailing (Western) Wall, the last remains of the Jewish Temple, where you can pray or write your wishes on a note and place it between the ancient temple stones, as thousands have done before you. (B)
Overnight – Brown Villa BaMoshava or similar, Jerusalem
Today, you will continue to explore the Old City of Jerusalem. Jerusalem holds a unique significance in the world as it is considered holy to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.
Explore the City of David, the ancient heart of Jerusalem, often referred to as “where it all began”, and experience the daring walk through the nearly 3,000-year-old Hezekiah’s Tunnel.
At the Davidson Centre, witness recent excavations of the Southern Wall of the Temple Mount and immerse yourself in an audio-visual presentation detailing the journey of Jewish pilgrims who ascended three times a year to the Temple in Jerusalem.
Next, visit the Temple Mount, if open to visitors, home to the Muslim Dome of the Rock and Al Aqsa Mosque. Explore the colourful oriental market of the Old City, the “Souk”, experiencing its vibrant mix of colours, sounds and scents.
Follow some of the “Stations” of the Via Dolorosa to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, believed to be where Jesus was crucified and buried. Continue to the Western Wall tunnels where you’ll walk deep underground for a unique experience spanning 400 metres beneath the vibrant streets of the Muslim Quarter.
Finally, you will visit the Armenian Quarter and explore ancient churches with intricate artwork, rich symbolism, and ornate decorations, while learning about their significance to the Armenian community and Christian heritage in Jerusalem. (B)
Overnight – Brown Villa BaMoshava or similar, Jerusalem
Today, drive to Bethlehem to discover its sacred sites. Begin your visit at Rachel’s Tomb, a sacred site in Jewish tradition that serves as the burial place of the Biblical matriarch Rachel. It symbolises hope, prayer, and maternal compassion.
Proceed to the Church of the Nativity and learn about its significance as the birthplace of Jesus Christ and its status as one of the oldest continuously operating Christian churches in the world. Visit Shepherd’s Field, traditionally believed to be the site where the angels announced the birth of Jesus to the shepherds. Next, observe the exterior of The Walled Off Hotel, designed by the anonymous London-based artist known as Banksy. The hotel is not currently open; however, it has previously served not only as a place to stay but also as a powerful art installation and a platform for political commentary on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Drive through Mea Shearim, an Orthodox Jewish neighbourhood. Founded in the 19th century, the neighbourhood remains a stronghold of tradition, where residents adhere faithfully to customs passed down through generations. Your guide will offer insights into the rich traditions and practices that define this tight-knit community.
At lunch, head to Mahane Yehuda, a bustling market offering diverse culinary delights. Enjoy a tasting tour where you will try 10 different foods representing Jerusalem’s diverse flavours, from traditional Middle Eastern dishes to international cuisine.
Later in the afternoon, visit Yad Lakashish, a community program supporting elderly residents of Jerusalem. Here, you’ll engage with traditional handicrafts, interact with local residents, and have the opportunity to try crafting yourself. The program provides meaningful engagement, connection and a sense of fulfilment for Jerusalem’s elderly community. (B, Lunch on food tour)
Overnight – Brown Villa BaMoshava or similar, Jerusalem
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the Judea Desert and begin at Wadi Qelt. Amidst rugged mountains, you’ll hike along a scenic trail, discovering a beautiful spring where you can enjoy a refreshing swim. Next, drive to Moses’ Tomb in the Judea Desert. Here, you’ll explore the surrounding area, delving into its rich history and archaeological significance.
Continue to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth and renowned for its mineral-rich waters. Experience floating effortlessly on its buoyant waters. If time permits, why not indulge in a rejuvenating natural spa treatment? This is not included and can be paid locally.
In the afternoon, continue to Hebron. The city is divided into two sectors: H1, under Palestinian control, and H2, under Israeli control. Explore its ancient streets and gain insight into the city’s complex history and cultural heritage before returning to Jerusalem. (B)
Overnight – Brown Villa BaMoshava or similar, Jerusalem
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and journey north to Kfar Kama, a charming Circassian Muslim town nestled in the Galilee region. Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of the area as you explore the town and learn more about its distinctive community and traditions.
Continue to the iconic Mount of Beatitudes. Here, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Sea of Galilee, also known as Lake Kinnereth. Explore the serene surroundings and visit the peaceful church designed by renowned Italian architect Antonio Barluzzi.
Next, visit the archaeological excavations of Capernaum. Here, you’ll learn about the fascinating history of the settlement and its diverse cultural and religious heritage, including the remains of its famous synagogue.
Afterwards, embark on a captivating boat ride across the tranquil waters of the Sea of Galilee aboard a vessel reminiscent of those used during the time of Jesus. As you sail, immerse yourself in the Christian traditions and stories associated with this sacred body of water.
Later, drive along the Northern Road to Safed (Zefat), known as the capital of Kabbalah. Towards sunset, explore some of the city’s historic synagogues and visit its art galleries before continuing to Haifa. (B)
Overnight – Hotel Colony or similar, Haifa
After breakfast, drive to Akko (Acre) to visit the remarkably preserved underground Knights’ Halls dating back to the Crusader period. At Akko Prison, learn about the Jewish underground fighters who were imprisoned and executed here during the British Mandate period.
Continue to the historic Turkish Bath, where stories and legends bring Akko’s colourful past to life, before exploring the bustling bazaar with its distinctive sights, scents and atmosphere. You’ll also visit the Tunisian Or Hatorah Synagogue, a unique synagogue covered in intricate mosaics depicting Jewish history and religion.
Continue north to Rosh Hanikra, situated on the Lebanese border, where you’ll descend by cable car to explore the spectacular sea grottos carved naturally into the cliffs by the Mediterranean Sea.
In the afternoon, visit one of the Galilee’s renowned wineries for a wine-tasting experience. Sample locally produced wines and learn more about the region’s winemaking traditions before returning to Haifa. (B)
Overnight – Hotel Colony or similar, Haifa
After breakfast, begin the day with a panoramic view over Haifa Bay and the striking golden-domed Bahá’í Shrine and gardens.
Continue to Daliyat el Carmel, a Druze village located on Mount Carmel, where you will learn about the Druze community, their traditions and their special connection to Israel. While here, enjoy an included tasting-style lunch, sampling a variety of local flavours and dishes.
After lunch, drive along the coastal plain to Caesarea, once the capital of Judea under Roman rule. Explore the excavations of the Crusader city and Roman port, see the ancient aqueduct and visit the impressive amphitheatre, which has been restored to its former glory and is today used as a concert venue.
Continue to Tel Aviv, where you will spend the night. (B, L)
Overnight – Hotel Shalom & Relax by Atlas, Tel Aviv, or similar
After breakfast, explore the bustling streets of Tel Aviv, Israel’s vibrant centre of business and entertainment. Discover the architectural beauty of the White City, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before stopping at Rabin Square, the site of the assassination of former Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin.
Continue to Old Jaffa, an ancient port city with a history spanning more than 4,000 years. Explore its ancient ruins and wander through the restored artists’ quarter before visiting the Ilana Goor Museum, home to an eclectic collection of contemporary Israeli art and design.
Next, stroll through Neve Tzedek, Tel Aviv’s first neighbourhood, established in 1887, before visiting Nahalat Binyamin, a lively pedestrian street known for its musicians, handmade jewellery and artisan stalls (available on Tuesdays and Fridays only).
Immerse yourself in the sights, aromas and flavours of Carmel Market (Shuk HaCarmel), Tel Aviv’s largest and most centrally located market, where stalls overflow with local foods, fresh produce and unique goods.
Conclude your exploration at Sheinkin Street, a colourful and energetic precinct known for its unique shops, cafés and youthful atmosphere. (B)
Overnight – Hotel Shalom & Relax by Atlas, Tel Aviv, or similar
This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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Enquire About a Private Option**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 6 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.
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