A combination of Jordan and Saudi Arabia with a sense of adventure and on foot exploration – layer upon layer of human history and a wealth of natural wonders is waiting to be explored.
Few regions can boast such a rich combination of heritage, culture and natural beauty. Embrace a sense of openness, vastness and quiet that invites you to wander in this living museum of Arabia. From mazes of dramatic rock formations to rolling, sand-swept dunes to a valley cloaked in palm and citrus groves to millennia-old clues in basalt lava flows, journey through this timeless desert and embrace the warm culture.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Jordan! On arrival in Amman, you will be met and transferred to the lowest point on earth, the Dead Sea. Check into your hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure.
Float on the salty waters of the Dead Sea and cover your body with the dark mud from the shores. Since the days of Herod the Great, people have flocked in search of its curative secrets. The area is characterised by high annual temperatures, low humidity and high atmospheric pressure. The air is extremely oxygen-rich. With the highest content of minerals and salts in the world, the Dead Sea water possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and the dark mud found on its shores has been used for over 2,000 years for therapeutic purposes.
Overnight – Dead Sea Spa Resort or similar
Follow a scenic route towards Petra and make your first stop at the impressive Mt Nebo. Overlooking the Jordan Valley and parts of the Holy Land, Mt Nebo is traditionally believed to be the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death and is also thought to be his burial site. Next, travel to the town of Madaba. Here, you can admire the famous 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land at St. George’s Church. The Archaeological Park also features other notable mosaics worth exploring. Journey along the renowned ancient caravan route known as the King’s Way.
Stop for a brief photo opportunity in Wadi Al Mujib, a vast valley with stunning geological formations that mirror the Arnon River of the Hebrew Bible, before continuing to the historical site of the Crusader castle, Kerak. Explore its underground passageways, take in the panoramic views, and imagine the historic sieges by the forces of Salah ad-Din. (B,D)
Overnight – Dana Guesthouse or similar
Get to know your local guide and set off from Dana Village, as you explore the second largest nature reserve in Jordan. Pass by terraced gardens, walk along dramatic mountains and sweeping valleys with changing colours and spectacular views of Wadi Dana. Your guide will share with you about life in the village, the reserve and its fauna and flora. Once returning to the village, it is time to head to Little Petra (60km, 1.5hrs), which most likely served as a caravan stopping point en route for Petra. Enter the small site through a narrow gorge, known as Siq Al Barid, to see temples, tombs and water channels carved in the sandstone. One of the caves shows the remains of a Nabatean fresco painting.
This is where many religious activities were held, including the Feast of Drink when the king of the Nabataeans hosted celebrations and provided drinks for his guests. There is also a cave with the remains of a fresco painted by the Nabataeans that represented grape vines, which shows that this was the area for wine production. In the Siq Al Barid, the Nabataean irrigation system, which distributed water through long channels, provides evidence of the greatness of this system with reservoirs carved into the rock and dams. Continue to your hotel in Petra for the evening. (B,Lunch box)
Overnight – Old Village Resort or similar
Today is all about exploring Petra on foot! Start your adventure from Little Petra, a former caravan stop featuring smaller sandstone façades. From here, pass the Neolithic village of Beidah and walk across open farmland, gradually ascending into a mountainous area. The path will lead you to the awe-inspiring Monastery El Deir, a 45-metre-high structure carved into the sandstone rock. Take in the magnificent views over the Wadi Araba as you explore this impressive monument and its surroundings. To complete the hike, descend the 800 stairs to the lower parts of Petra, following the main trail to the main gate. The hike is a moderate grading and typically takes around 4 hours to reach the Monastery. Be aware that there is one exposed section that may pose a challenge for those with a fear of heights. (B,Lunch box)
Overnight – Old Village Resort or similar
Set off with your local guide and hike/scramble the Al Madras path to the Treasury Viewpoint (1.2km, 45min hiking). Stand in awe, as you soak in the view below and imagine what it must have been like traversing the desert in the Crusader times. Back on the main trail, pass the narrow canyon, the so-called Siq, with its colourful sandstone. At the end, you will be rewarded with a view of the most beautiful monument, the Treasury. Continue via the Street of Facades to the Royal Tombs and Pharaoh’s Castle. You will have free time to explore Petra on your own this afternoon. For those still feeling active, why not climb the stairs to the High Place of Sacrifice? (B)
Overnight – Old Village Resort or similar
Start your day with an early morning drive of two hours to the Al Mudawara Border, where you will cross into Saudi Arabia. Following the border crossing, continue your journey with a four-hour drive to the stunning Wadi Al Dissah.
Upon reaching the valley, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch prepared by our team. After lunch, embark on foot on an exploration of Wadi Al Dissah. This impressive 15 km long canyon runs through the Jebel Qaraqir, a sandstone massif with breathtaking rock formations. The cliffs at the eastern entrance rise over 100 metres, while the tallest cliffs at the western entrance soar up to 500 metres. Admire the dramatic scenery from the massive rocky peaks standing on both sides of the canyon. Take a walking tour inside the valley, where you will encounter water streams and lush vegetation, including palm trees and bushes.
After you explore Wadi Al Dissah, drive to Tabuk (214km,2.5hrs). Upon arrival, check into your hotel and have dinner. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Swiss Inn or similar
Embark on a scenic 3-hour (310km) drive towards AlUla, where you will delve into the historical treasures between Jabal Ikma and Dedan. Begin your journey in the ancient oasis city of Dedan, formerly known as Lihyan, which served as the capital of two significant Arabian kingdoms in the 1st millennium BCE. The city’s strategic location near trade routes led to the discovery of extensive remains of large, fortified cities. Notably, the Lion Tombs, carved into the cliff of Jabal Dedan, are a must-see marvel.
Continue to Jabal Ikmah, renowned for its open library of inscriptions in Aramaic, Dadanitic, and Nabataean. Set amidst a stunning desert landscape, this site provides a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
A brief drive will take you to a local palm farm in AlUla. Here, your host will offer insights into the farm’s history and its daily operations. Enjoy a tasting session of the local sweet dates and fresh fruit grown on the plantation.
Conclude your tour in the heritage village of Al-Ula, also known as Ad Deerah or Old Town. This traditional Arabian mud-brick village was inhabited for centuries, with origins dating back eight centuries. Positioned on higher ground to avoid seasonal floods, Al-Ula Old Town is a poignant reminder of the past, with recent inhabitation enhancing its significance. Dominated by Musa bin Nusayr Castle, a 10th-century citadel, it offers commanding views of the area. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Habitas AlUla or similar
For the early risers, start your day with an exhilarating hot air balloon ride (not included) over the expansive desert. Alternatively, opt for a 30-minute helicopter flight that offers a bird’s-eye view of AlUla’s seven most famous landmarks. Your aerial journey will take you over Jabal AlFil, Maraya, Jabal Ikmah, Dadan, and AlUla Old Town, providing a unique perspective of these iconic heritage sites.
If you prefer a more relaxed start, head to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s premier historical site and the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. This was the second-largest city of the Nabataean kingdom, with Petra being the capital. Explore 110 tombs adorned with inscriptions, learn about the ancient Nabataean civilisation, and visit Jabal Ithlib, home to a Triclinium (Diwan) used for councils and rituals. Discover the remnants of Roman influence, including defensive walls, gates, and towers.
In the afternoon, embark on the Adventure Trail, an 8 km hike through a historical treasure trove. The trail features clusters of pictographs dating back two thousand years, revealing the stories of the region’s ancient inhabitants. This hike, taking 3-4 hours (8km) depending on your fitness level, showcases AlUla’s rich heritage and stunning natural beauty. Traverse through varied terrains, from volcanic rocks to soft sand, and witness water and air erosion effects that shaped the canyon. The flat trail, with a gradual elevation drop of 95 meters, is shaded by the canyon’s long walls, making it ideal for exploration during hot summer days. Be prepared for knee-deep water ponds in winter months, adding an adventurous element to your hike. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Habitas AlUla or similar
Say goodbye to beautiful Saudi, as you transfer to AlUla Airport for your departure. (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.
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