At present, Iran is subject to a “Do Not Travel” advisory, and travel is not currently possible.
While Crooked Compass has long-standing expertise in delivering immersive journeys through Iran, we are not actively promoting or operating tours at this time. The itineraries featured here are shared for future planning purposes only.
We remain hopeful that, when it is safe and responsible to do so, we will once again be able to return and offer meaningful travel experiences in the region.
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A world away from the cities and deserts of Iran are the beautiful Alborz Mountains. Rising up from the Caspian Sea, a lesser explored region beckons. Experience a glimpse into a quieter, greener and more traditional side of Iran.
Travel to Alamut, one of the castles on Freya Stark’s route in her 1930s classic book ‘The Valley of the Assassins’, before visiting the impressive Roodkhan Castle. From the traditional village of Masule you will begin a series of walks into the hills and high plateaus of the Talesh Highlands taking in a combination of the stunning mountain scenery and visits to the nomadic Shahsavan.
The Shahsavan Nomads are pastoralists who have spent their summers on these high pastures tending to their herds for thousands of years. Here you will camp, (although don’t be surprised if you are invited to stay with the locals), experiencing their warm hospitality and excellent local cuisine.
A journey brimming with diversity, you finish in vibrant Tabriz with its vast UNESCO World Heritage covered bazaar and nearby troglodyte village of Kandovan.
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Welcome to Iran! Upon arrival in Tehran, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore on your own or simply relax.
Tehran has a relatively short history and is quite often smoggy and manic. Many travellers do not spend much time here at all. Although it is a concrete jungle, there is a fascinating side to this hectic city. Expect bold fashion statements, a range of ethnic and international restaurants, chic cafes and plenty of art galleries. What Tehran lacks in history, it makes up for it with impressive museums.
Overnight – Ferdowsi Hotel or similar
Following breakfast at your hotel this morning, you will be met by your local guide and begin a sightseeing tour of Tehran. Spend time exploring the bazaar, the lavish Golestan Palace which was once the heart of Tehran and excesses of the Qajar rulers. A short walk south from Imam Khomeini Sq, the Golestan Palace complex is made up of several grand buildings set around a carefully manicured garden.
From here, visit the crown jewels including the glorious Peacock Throne. Most of the collection dates to Safavid times, when the shahs scoured Europe, India and the lands of the Ottoman Empire for booty with which to decorate their capital, Esfahan. But as the Safavid empire crumbled, the jewels became a high-profile spoil of war. When Mahmud Afghan invaded Iran in 1722, he plundered the treasury and sent its contents to India.
On ascending the throne in 1736, Nader Shah Afshar despatched courtiers to ask for the return of the jewels. When their powers of persuasion proved unequal to the task, he sent an army to prove that he was serious. To get the soldiers off his back, Mohammed Shah of India was forced to hand over the Darya-ye Nur and Kuh-e Nur diamonds, a Peacock Throne (though not the one you’ll see here) and assorted other treasures. After Nader Shah’s murder in 1747, Ahmed Beg plundered the treasury and dispersed the jewels. The Kuh-e Nur, the world’s largest cut diamond, found its way into the sticky fingers of the colonial British and has been locked up in the Tower of London since. The Qajar and Pahlavi rulers enthusiastically added to the jewels collection, which grew to be so valuable that in the 1930s it was transferred to the National Bank of Iran (now the Central Bank of Iran) as a reserve for the national currency. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Ferdowsi Hotel or similar
Your adventure really begins today as you head north to the Alborz Mountains, were you will visit the ‘assassins’ castles. Whilst largely in ruins, Lambesar castle was once one of the largest castles in Nizari Ismaili state, explore its grain stores, water supply system and reservoirs. Continue on to the ruins of Alamut castle. Meaning ‘eagles nest’ Alamut was given its name by an ancient Persian king, who whilst out hunting witnessed an eagle land on a rock which was high up on a mountain where it surveyed its territory. The king, noticing how hard this location would be to reach on foot, subsequently built a castle there, calling it ‘Alamut’.
This evening, you will spend the night in a local guesthouse. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Local House
This morning after breakfast you will bid farewell to your local hosts and set out for Roodkhan castle. Almost hidden within dense forest on the top of a mountain, it is one of the best-preserved castles in the country. Explore the many towers and grounds of the castle, which covers an area of nearly 7 acres.
Continue on to the ancient village of Masuleh, where you will be staying tonight. Built into the slope of a mountain, the small town of Masuleh has a unique, purpose-built architectural style where the front yard of each of the houses on the incline is actually the roof of the house below it, with roof-lawns trickling down to the base of the mountain. The tiny village has existed in the area for around 1,000 years and the strange, stacked building tradition seems to have existed nearly the entire time. Looking almost like a clay-covered rendition of Sao Paulo, Brazil’s cramped favelas, the communities of Masuleh make much better use of the space.
Atop the roofs of many of the cascading houses, lawns have been planted, and other traditional yard fixtures have been laid out by the tenant above who in turn is covered by the front yard of their upstairs neighbour, and so on. So tightly packed are the buildings that there is only room for a maze-like network of stairs and narrow roads connecting each of the structures. In fact, automobiles are not allowed in Masuleh simply because there is no room for them.
The landscape surrounding Masuleh is lush and mountainous with a frequent covering of dense fog, so much so that many of the homes in the town are covered in bright yellow clay so they can be seen better through the haze. Today is approximately 2-3 hours of walking. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Mehran Hotel or similar
This morning enjoy a leisurely breakfast and some time to further explore the charming delights of Masuleh. Late morning you will make your way towards the Caspian Sea town of Talesh. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Negin Hotel or similar
This morning after breakfast you will set out on foot to the beautiful village of Sobatan. This alpine valley town is centred on a local spring and set amidst wonderful scenery of lush, green, mist covered hills dotted with colourful wildflowers. It could not be further from most people’s typical image of Iran. Walking time today will be approx. 4-5hrs total. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tent
Moving on from the village you’ll make your way on foot (approx. 4-5 hrs walking) through the green hills to Givi and Neor Lake, a beautiful stretch of water at an altitude of 2700m. Walking time approx. 4-5hrs total. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tent
Rejoining your vehicle today, you will head to the agricultural Khalkal region and on to the town of MeshkinShahr, one of the most ancient cities in Iran, which flourished in the 16th century in the Safavid period. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Aran Hotel or similar
This morning, drive to a region inhabited by the Shahsavan Nomads where you will go walking amidst the stunning mountain scenery. Shahsavan means ‘protectors of the king’ and refers to the fact that this nomadic tribe guards one of Iran’s most remote and vulnerable frontiers, at Azerbaijan. Today’s hike is approximately 3 to 4 hours. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping with the Nomads
Enjoy a whole day in this region with opportunities to spend more time with the local nomads and, for those wanting to keep trekking, there are various trails on offer. For those who are experienced climbers, an option may be to trek to the summit of Mt Sabalan (4811m). Today is approximately 5 to 6 hours of walking. Note that there is an additional cost for mountaineering guide and weather dependent. Further information on this can be provided at time of booking. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Camping in tent
This morning you will venture out through spectacular mountain scenery as you head to Babak Fortress (also known as the Immortal Castle or Republic Castle). It is perched high up in the mountains of east Azarbaijan and surrounded by 2300-2600m peaks and 400-600m deep valleys all around with just a single narrow dusty road leading you to the top. Babak Khoramdin is considered to be one of the most heroic freedom fighters of Iran, setting out to overthrow Irans rulers, the Arab Caliph. Babaks 23 years (816 to 837 CE) of resisting the Arab invaders came to an end when he was betrayed and handed over to the Arabs where he suffered a terrible fate. Walking time today is approx. 3-4 hours total. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Grand Hotel of Kaleybar or similar
This morning after breakfast you will transfer to Tabriz (approx. 3hrs). The former capital of Iran is a sprawling, fascinating city, which is home to many famed sights including the Blue Mosque, constructed in 1465. Despite damage from earthquakes, the mosque remains a significant cultural and historical landmark, symbolising the artistry of the Safavid era. You will also visit El Goli, also known as Shah Golu, a beautiful park with restaurants, cafes and a man-made lake. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Gostaresh Hotel or similar
Today you head to the nearby village of Kandovan which is known for its troglodyte housing reminiscent of Turkey’s Cappadocia region. Explore the steep, narrow paths around its unique troglodyte houses and storage barns which have been carved out of curiously eroded volcanic mudflow streams.
This afternoon you will return to Tabriz for some more exploring and visit the the UNESCO listed bazaar. One of the most important commercial centres on the Silk Road, this fascinating bazaar holds the title of the largest covered bazaar in the world. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Gostaresh Hotel or similar
Following breakfast, the remainder of the day is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer you to the airport for your onwards travels. (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 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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