Hike on century-old paths, through a land of lush forests, rolling tea plantations, towering ocean cliffs and shimmering lakes. The landscape of Taiwan will leave your jaw hanging and there is no better way to explore it than on foot.
Discover volcanic geysers and tranquil lakes, witness Zen drumming on a mountaintop, and follow your taste buds through local markets as you savour incredible local delicacies. Climb to spectacular viewpoints and lose yourself in the teahouse lined alleys of quaint historic villages and laid-back coastal towns. Follow paths over rolling green hills adorned with alpine wildflowers and accompanied by the sound of birdsong. The adventurous landscape, paired with Asian elegance, 15,000 temples and the morph of Taoism, Buddhism, Confucianism and all other walks of faith, makes Taiwan one of the most blended nations on the planet. Taiwan really does have something for everyone.
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Signature Tour 
Welcome to Taiwan! Upon arrival in Taipei, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Taiwan’s sprawling capital city is an exciting mix of Southeast Asia, US and Japanese influences. The skyline is dominated by the impressive Taipei 101 Tower, once the tallest in the world, and made more impressive by its backdrop of rolling mountains in the North. The city is quirky and friendly and one of the safest capitals in Asia. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure to get acquainted with the city.
Overnight – ArTree Hotel or similar
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning before departing to explore Taipei. You will start at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, an impressive local monument with a square with the National Concert Hall and National Theatre on either side. Similar in shape to Beijing’s Tiantan, the building has been designed to invoke the character of the number 8, which represents good fortune and abundance. Next, you will continue to Lunghsan Temple, one of the oldest and largest temples in Taiwan, built in 1738 and housing the statues of hundreds of Buddhists, Confucian and Taoist Deities. Close by is Herb Lane, a fresh produce market that sells a wide variety of herbs, to be used primarily in traditional healing. The range of herbs includes rare and specialty herbs such as Japanese Knotweed and saxifrage – learn how they have been used in the past and in the present day.
Now it is time to get an incredible aerial view over Taipei, as you head to the 89th floor observation deck of Taipei 101 Tower. From 2004 to 2010, this was the tallest building in the world, and it is the perfect place to take in a bird’s eye view of the city. From here you will continue to Mt. Elephant, where a trail of around 600 stairs will take you to a lookout from where you can get impressive views of the city, but this time the iconic Taipei 101 Tower is included in the skyscape.
For something slightly more challenging, your next stop will be Jinmian Mountain, which will be the first trail walk that you do in Taiwan. This trail is classified as moderate, and in certain areas, you will need both hands to climb, with ropes permanently attached to these areas for you to use to assist you as you walk. The view from Jinmian Mountain is simply breathtaking.
This evening, continue to Raohe Night Market, one of the oldest traditional markets in Taipei and bustling with street food stalls, carnival games and quaint little shops. You might like to try some of the interesting local specialties as you walk around the eateries (paid locally). Afterwards, you will return to your hotel and have the evening at leisure. (B)
Overnight – ArTree Hotel or similar
After breakfast at your hotel, you will depart to visit Yangmingshan National Park, a stunning National Park that is well known for its sulphur crystals and hot springs. At the western entrance of the park, you will see the Flower Clock, a large garden artwork formed of colourful flowers. From here you walk to the volcanic landscape of Thermal.
Your hike today is known as the Jinbaoli Path (Yulu Historical Trail), a century-old path that linked the villages of Daping and Dapu and was used as a trade route to deliver fish, tea and sulphur. This 6.3km route will take around 3 hours to hike, and you will see wildflowers and tantalising glimpses of the coast as they follow the dirt trails and stone steps that make up the path.
This afternoon, you will visit Dunshui Harbour Town, a laid-back coastal town with a main shopping street full of historic buildings and interesting street vendors. You will explore Fisherman’s Wharf which is full of little cafes and restaurants as well as being a hub for fishing boats. Here, you can walk along Lover’s Bridge, a curved white cable-stayed pedestrian bridge that gets its name from its original opening which was on Valentine’s Day. At night, it is lit up with changing colours and a great place to watch the sunset. After enjoying the Danshi Riverbank with its interesting variety of wetland plants, you will take a ferry ride to the other side of the river. At the end of the day, you will return to your hotel in Taipei and have the evening at leisure. (B)
Overnight – ArTree Hotel or similar
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before departing for Yehliu Geo Park. Located on a strip of land that stretches into the Pacific Ocean, this beautiful park is known for its bizarre rock formations formed by wind and sea abrasion. These include mushroom and honeycomb-shaped rocks, and one particularly regal rock tower known as the Queen’s Head which looks like either Queen Nefertiti or Queen Elizabeth in likeness, depending on which angle you are looking at it from.
You then continue to Jiufen (Chiufen) Village, a quaint and charming small town packed with history. The word “Chiufen” means nine pieces and refers to when this town was originally so small and isolated that its inhabitants were made up of just nine families. With markets far away, when they needed supplies, they would send just one family who would come back and divide the spoils into nine pieces. For a while in the 1890s, the town swelled to a larger size as it became a site of the gold rush, and there are multiple historic sites to be seen as you explore the narrow alleyways lined with teahouses, giving a glimpse of the past glory of this location. Throughout the town you will find nooks that have beautiful mountain views, as well as vistas that take in the Yingyang Sea.
This afternoon, you will trek for around 3.5 hours on the Caoling Historic Trail, which cuts across Sandiao Cape (Sandiaojiao) starting at Yuanwangkeng, and finishing at Dali on the coast. It is the only section that remains of the old Ching Dynasty Trail, which is over 130 years old. The present trail is approximately 10 kilometres long and beautifully scenic, as you walk over rolling green hills, with stunning ocean views.
When you have finished your hike, you will drive to Yilan, where you will check into your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure. Your unique accommodation includes hot and cold spring water baths in your room, perfect for soaking in as you relax at the end of a long day. (B)
Overnight – Well Springs by Silks, Lakeshore Suao or similar
*Hot springs only at Wellsprings by Silks
After breakfast at the hotel, you’ll embark on a journey to Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area, which is about a two-hour drive. Taipingshan, one of Taiwan’s three major national forest recreation areas, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, featuring valuable Taiwan cypress trees and geothermal energy from the Renze Hot Spring. Here, you’ll visit the Bailing Giant Tree and experience the Bong Bong Train.
Next, you’ll explore the Jioujhihze Scenic Area, where Qingshui Geothermal Park, nestled deep in the valley, offers foot soak pools, raised cooking pools, and bathhouse facilities. Enjoy the unique experience of cooking eggs and corn in the hot-spring water using a wicker basket. Following this, a walk along the Jioujhihze Natural Trail awaits, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature along its 1.2-kilometre path. After a day of exploration, you’ll return to your hotel for a relaxing evening at your leisure. (B)
Overnight – Well Springs by Silks, Lakeshore Suao or similar
After breakfast at the hotel, you will drive to central Taiwan to a famous lake resort (approx. 300km/ 3 hrs 34 min drive). Sun Moon Lake is the largest body of water in the country. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, with the lake’s eastern side resembling the sun and the western side resembling the moon. Surrounded by lush mountains, the area offers a tranquil setting and is popular for boating, cycling, and hiking. The lake is also home to cultural sites like the Wenwu Temple and Ita Thao Village. Once you check-in to your hotel the rest of the day is at your leisure. (B)
Overnight – Sun Moon Lake Hotel or similar
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and enjoy the beautiful views of Sun Moon Lake. The lake sits at an altitude of 762m in the mountains of Nantou County. After breakfast, you will drive around part of the lake to visit Wen Wu Temple. This impressive temple is the only Confucius temple in Taiwan where you will see a statue of Confucius himself, and some of the other bronze statues also represent his disciples. If time permits this morning, you will also visit Tse En Pagoda and Tehua Village.
It will then be time for your hike of the day, the Mt Moalan Trail (approx. 3 hours). This is a relaxed scenic walk that takes you to a weather observatory that was built by the Japanese in 1940. From the summit, at 1020m, you can see as far as Puli. The 3km trail is paved, and you will wind through villages, cedar trees, and vast tea plantations, accompanied by the sound of birdsong. The scenery around you is spectacular, with the view of rolling green hills and silhouetted mountains in the distance. (B)
Overnight – Sun Moon Lake Hotel or similar
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a drive to the Mt. Hehuan National Forest Area, situated 2900-3000 meters above sea level. This region is renowned for its breathtaking high mountain landscapes and diverse wildlife. Depending on the season, you can witness various types of flower blossoms. Your adventure includes a walk along the Mt. Shimen Trail, which sits at 3,237 meters above sea level. This 0.8-kilometre trail is one of the most accessible high mountain trails in Taiwan, suitable for both young children and the elderly, allowing for a relaxed stroll with stunning views of open grasslands and the surrounding mountains.
Next, continue to Mt. Hehuan Main Peak, which reaches 3,416 meters above sea level. The 1.8-kilometre trail to the summit rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding mountain range. There may even be time to walk to the East Peak of Mt Hehuan if time permits. Following your hike, you will drive to Taichung City for an overnight stay. Check-in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B)
Overnight – Millennium Hotel Taichung or similar
After breakfast, you will visit the Taichung Opera House (external visit only), taking in the fascinating architecture. Continue to Rainbow Village where you will see how this retired soldier’s community has been transformed into a colourful and eye-catching attraction. Alternatively, you may choose to explore the elegant Wufeng Lin Family Mansion, known for its intricate details and traditional architecture.
After your explorations, we’ll drive you to the airport. It’s time to wave goodbye to Taiwan. (B)
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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 4 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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