Tunisia Explored

Tunisia Explored

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12 Days From

$4594

Tunisia Explored

12 Days Starting and ending in Tunis, Tunisia

Visiting: Tunis, Kairouan, Tozeur, Djerba, Sousse, Cap Bon Peninsula, Carthage

Tour operator:

Crooked Compass

Tour code:

9222

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Walking

From: $4594

NB: Prices correct on 22-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview


  • Visit Tozeur with its medina full of unique brick-patterned architecture and sprawling palm grove

  • Inspect the unique underground homes of Matmata

  • Hike in the Caves of Haouaria

  • Explore the Roman ruins of El Djem and Dougga

  • Discover Djerba - home of the last Tunisian Jews


Come and explore Tunisia - wedged into the top of North Africa. Marvel at the stunning Mediterranean coastline, hidden beaches and mouthwatering seafood. Dive head first into imperial Rome as you uncover some of the world's best preserved Roman ruins.

Mingle with fascinating cultures and experience a time frozen way of life as you spend time with locals who still live in caves dug deep into the ground. The vast contrasts of natural wonders is extreme yet incredibly beautiful. From rolling Saharan sand dunes, crumbled Berber villages and lush oases to forested bays, natural hot springs and tangles of medinas, you will lose yourself entirely. Haggle in souks whilst sipping on mint tea, float in the aroma of a scented shisha or get scrubbed and steamed clean on the marble slab of a traditional hammam whilst the call to prayer rings overhead. Embrace age old traditions as they intertwine with the chic modern world.

Highlights

  • Visit Tozeur with its medina full of unique brick-patterned architecture and sprawling palm grove

  • Inspect the unique underground homes of Matmata

  • Hike in the Caves of Haouaria

  • Explore the Roman ruins of El Djem and Dougga

  • Discover Djerba – home of the last Tunisian Jews

  • Marvel at the stunning views of the canyon at Midès

  • Experience the vibrant souks and local markets in the Medina of Tunis

  • Visit the ancient city of Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 - Arrival

Location: Tunis

Accommodation Name: Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar

Welcome to Tunisia!  Upon arrival at Tunis airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Tunis has always been a resilient and forward-looking settlement, one that makes an excellent starting point for any exploration of Tunisia. Now littered with artsy cafes and boutique hotels, the old is entwined with the new making this a buzzing city to explore.


Meals


None


Accommodation


Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar


Services


Private Airport Transfer


Day 2 – Medina Of Tunis – Bardo Museum

Location: Tunis

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Medina of Tunis


After breakfast, head out to explore the Medina of Tunis.  This tangle of history and character is a great introduction to the city’s infrastructure decorated with ancient palaces, mosques, and Arab-style houses. Here, you will explore the layers of “old Tunisia,” encompassing the Medina itself, the quaint “European” quarter dating back to the early 20th century, and the contemporary charm of the modern suburbs.


Souks and local markets


Next, explore the bustling souks and local markets, where vibrant colours and lively sounds fill the air. Here, discover the exquisite crafts of Tunisian artisans, each piece telling a story of the country’s rich traditions and cultural heritage.


Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore the enchanting streets of the Medina at your own pace. Then, lunch at Dar El Jeld, an ancient Tunisian Palace which has been restored into one of the best restaurants in the capital.


Bardo Museum


Continuing on, head towards Bardo Museum for about 1 hour and 30 minutes’ drive. This museum stands as one of the Mediterranean’s premier archaeological institutions, known for its exceptional collection of mosaics. Housed within a former palace once belonging to the Beys, the rulers of Tunisia. As you explore its halls, you’ll encounter not only exquisite mosaics but also sculptures, ceramics, and a wealth of other archaeological treasures. Afterwards, return to your hotel.


Meals


Breakfast


Accommodation


Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 3 – Bulla Regia – The Family Reserve In Thuccabor - Tunis

Location: Tunis

Accommodation: Homestay

Accommodation Name: Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Bulla Regia


Following breakfast, set off for Bulla Regia, this city was initially mentioned in Latin classical sources when Roman armies caught up with the Numidian king Hiarbas in 81 BC, who sought refuge there. It’s also noted in one of Saint Augustine’s sermons from the end of the 4th century AD, where he criticised the inhabitants for frequenting places of debauchery such as the theatre. Marvel at the rich villas adorned with mosaics, baths, temples, and even theatres. What makes this site particularly intriguing is the presence of homes with two-tier architecture, including underground levels.


Ben Ismail Family reserve (with lunch)


Continue to Thuccabor to visit the Ben Ismail Family reserve near Medjez El Bab in the governorate of Béja. This reserve encompasses around 50 hectares of land surrounding an archaeological site dating back to Roman times, evidenced by the remains of a triumphal arch. Within this picturesque landscape, approximately 5000 olive trees are cultivated. The reserve offers guided tours which include educational walks through the olive groves providing insights into the unique characteristics of these ancient trees.


Visit the olive oil mill and explore the farm where you’ll gain insights into olive oil production. Here, you’ll have the chance to participate in an initiation session for olive oil tasting in the newly renovated room. Afterwards, enjoy some of the region’s culinary treasures and explore the reserve’s shop, offering the estate’s olive oil and other Triumph products for purchase. Then, drive back to Tunis and the rest of the day is yours at leisure.


Meals


Breakfast, Lunch


Accommodation


Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 4 – Tunis – Dougga – Kairouan

Location: Kairouan

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar Hassine Allani or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, drive for about 2 hours towards Kairouan with a stopover at Dougga along the way.


Dougga


Make a stop at Dougga, a 65-hectare archaeological Roman site, declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage site.  The site contained a large number of elaborate mosaic floors – some are in situ, but most are housed in the Bardo Museum in Tunis. Most notable of all, however, are the twenty temples found, a truly disproportionate number of temples for the size of the population. At first, it was thought that Dougga was a major religious site, but it has since been decided that the temples were constructed  by wealthy residents as a tribute to their good fortune.


Explore the renowned Dougga theatre.  Built during the 2nd century AD, it’s one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in North Africa. The theatre has a capacity of around 3,500 spectators which is today used for its Drama festival.


Kairouan


Continue to Kairouan, often referred to as the fourth holiest city in Islam. The city is renowned for its Great Mosque, one of the oldest and most important mosques in the Islamic world, known for its stunning architectural features such as its distinctive minaret. Kairouan was established in the 7th century and became a major centre for Islamic learning and culture.


Aghlabiden Pool


Upon arrival in Kairouan, visit the Aghlabiden Pool, a historic water reservoir that served as a vital resource for the sacred city.


The old town (la Medina)


From here, head to the charming old town, known as la Medina, and enjoy leisure time exploring the bustling souks. These markets, divided by trades, have lively activity as vendors and shoppers engage in trade.  Explore nearby tranquil alleyways lined with tall white walls and pale blue doors, where veiled figures move swiftly and occasionally pass by groups of cheerful, playful children.


Afterwards, check into your hotel in Kairouan.


Meals


Breakfast, Dinner


Accommodation


Dar Hassine Allani or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 5 – Kairouan – Sbeitla – Tozeur

Location: Tozeur

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Diar Abu Habibi or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Great Mosque of Uqba Bin Nafi


After breakfast, head to the Great Mosque of Uqba Bin Nafi also called the ‘Mosque of Uqba Bin Nafi’. Built in the 9th century by Arab general Uqba ibn Nafi, it’s an important Islamic landmark in Tunisia and one of the oldest and most important mosques globally. Marvel at its early Islamic architecture, featuring a unique minaret and prayer hall, and appreciate its profound religious and cultural significance, representing Islam’s spread in North Africa and its lasting influence on the region’s history and architecture.


Zaouia of Sidi Sahab


Next, head to Zaouia of Sidi Sahab, also known as the Prophet Barber, home to the tomb of a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. Legend has it that this companion preserved three hairs from the Prophet’s beard as relic. Explore this sacred site and immerse in the rich history and spiritual significance surrounding the legacy of this revered companion.


Sbeitla


Later, drive for 1 hour and 40 minutes to Sbeitla. Sbeitla also known as Sufetula, famous for its best-preserved Roman Forum temples in Tunisia, inhabited by the Byzantines before becoming a significant geographical point in the Muslim conquest of North Africa.


Tozeur


Afterwards, transfer to Tozeur through the enormous landscape of Gafsa.  Tozeur is a perfect desert oasis which enchants all who visit. Tozeur is a world apart from coastal Tunisian resorts and houses a medina full of unique brick-patterned architecture and a lush sprawling palm grove that makes for a refreshing sea of green through the desert sand.


Meals


Breakfast, Dinner


Accommodation


Diar Abu Habibi or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 6 – Chebika – Tamerza – Mides – Ong Jmel – Nefta -Tozeur

Location: Tozeur

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Diar Abu Habibi or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, embark on a thrilling 4X4 ride to explore the Canyon Mountain oasis of Chebika, Tamerza, and Midès.


Chebika


Begin your adventure with a 53-minute drive to Chebika. Marvel at the stunning sight of water cascading over an impressive waterfall, creating a wadi surrounded by palm trees nestled at the bottom of a gorge.


Tamerza


Next, head towards Tamerza for about 18-minute drive. Marvel at the town seemingly barricaded by mountains, suspended on the side of a vast canyon. Here, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view over the expansive plains, Chott, and the sandy hills in the distance.


Midès


Then continue to Midès for about a 43-minute drive from Tamerza. Situated as the westernmost oasis, Midès is renowned for its stunning views of a towering canyon. Afterwards, return to your hotel for lunch.


Medina of Tozeur


In the afternoon, explore the Medina of Tozeur, renowned for its unique architecture found only in Tozeur. Its mud-brick buildings, intricately decorated with captivating patterns, offer a charming atmosphere. Here, you’ll gain insight into the daily life and customs of the local community.


Ong Jmal


Continue to Ong Jmal on a  4X4 ride, renowned as the Star Wars filming location. Its Arabic name, “Camel Head,” perfectly reflects the sandstone formation resembling the hump and head of a camel. This iconic site has appeared in movies like Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace and The English Patient. Movie enthusiasts will surely recognise this spot!


Camel ride at sunset (Optional)


Here, you’ll have the chance to experience the tranquil beauty of the desert as the sun sets on a camel ride.


Village of Nefta


Explore the Village of Nefta, known for its charming streets lined with traditional mud-brick houses offering a glimpse into the local life and culture of the region. Afterwards, return to your hotel and enjoy dinner.


Meals


Breakfast, Dinner


Accommodation


Diar Abu Habibi or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 7 – Tozeur – Chott El Jerid – Douz – Matmata – Djerba

Location: Djerba

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar Dhiafa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, check out at your hotel. You will then be met by your guide and drive for about 2 hours to Douz passing by Chott Djerid, the “Salt Lake,” with a stop along the way.


Douz


Visit Douz, a small town nestled amidst the dunes, known as the “gateway to the Sahara.” In ancient times, it served as a vital stop on the trans-Saharan caravan routes.


Matmata


Continue to Matmata, a small Berber village known for its troglodyte habitations and home to the second most popular Star Wars site in Tunisia. Many Berbers still live in these cave houses. The homes in Matmata are not built on the side of the mountains. Instead, they are created by digging a large pit in the ground, and then around the sides of the pit, caves are dug to be used as rooms. The open pit functions as a courtyard and is sometimes connected to other ‘pit’ courtyards nearby through trench-like passageways forming a large underground maze.


Afterwards, enjoy lunch at a troglodyte restaurant and visit a local troglodyte house to learn about the inhabitants’ way of life.


Then, proceed to Djerba, travelling via the Roman Causeway, the only land entrance to the island, built by the Romans. Djerba is renowned for its Mediterranean beaches and desert towns with a blend of Berber, Arab, Jewish, and African influences. The island is filled with charming, whitewashed buildings, palm groves, and traditional souks (markets). One of its most iconic landmarks is the El Ghriba Synagogue, one of the oldest synagogues in the world.


Meals


Breakfast


Accommodation


Dar Dhiafa or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 8 – Djerba

Location: Djerba

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar Dhiafa or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, set off to explore Djerba Island.


Guellala


Visit Guellala, the pottery capital of Djerba, where the art of pottery-making dates back centuries before the Roman era. Explore the traditional pottery workshops, where skilled artisans craft a variety of ceramic items, from bowls and vases to intricate decorative pieces. Enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.


Erriadh


Next, head to Erriadh. This village is where a Jewish community has lived for over a century. Here, explore the famous El Ghriba Synagogue, the oldest synagogue outside of Israel, housing one of the world’s oldest Torahs.


Houmt Souk


Afterwards, visit the downtown area of Djerba, Houmt Souk, meaning in Arabic ‘the market Neighbourhood’. Previously referred to in the Roman era, as the ‘Girba’ which is also the birthplace of two Roman Emperors, Djerba is home to whitewashed buildings, sandy beaches rimmed with turquoise water, and colourful souks.


Meals


Breakfast


Accommodation


Dar Dhiafa or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 9 – Djerba – El Jem – Sousse

Location: Sousse

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar Antonia or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

El Jem


After breakfast, drive to El Jem, a small city built by the Carthaginians and later colonised by the Romans. It was once the centre of the production of olive oil, with age-old techniques still used today by a few hundred inhabitants as a source of life and income. Here, visit the famous Colosseum, this ancient amphitheatre is one of the largest in the world, after those in Rome and Capua. Built by the emperor Gordian around 230 AD, it boasts a seating capacity of 30,000 people and has stood the test of time as a witness to countless spectacular events.


Sousse


Continue to the coastal city of Sousse, known as the capital of the Sahel. Explore the narrow streets of the bustling Medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where traditional souks offer a glimpse into Tunisia’s vibrant culture.


Museum of Sousse


Visit the Museum of Sousse, renowned for its impressive collection of mosaics. Marvel at the detailed designs and vibrant colours showcasing ancient life, offering a captivating glimpse into Tunisia’s artistic legacy.


Port El Kantaoui


Next, head to Port El Kantaoui, a charming seaside resort with a picturesque marina. Enjoy a delightful lunch at Le Mediterranean while taking in panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.


Meals


Breakfast, Dinner


Accommodation


Dar Antonia or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


 


Day 10 – Nabeul – Kelibia – Kerkouane – Haouaria – Korbous – Hammamet

Location: Cap Bon Peninsula

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar El Gaied in Nabeul or similiar

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, set out to explore the cultural and historical gems of Tunisia’s Cap Bon peninsula.


Nabeul


Begin with a visit to Nabeul, renowned as an important handicrafts centre, particularly famous for its exquisite pottery. Explore local pottery workshops and witness skilled artisans crafting intricate designs by hand, carrying on centuries-old traditions. The city is also famous for its production of distilled water from orange blossoms, fragrant roses, and jasmine plants.


Fishing port


Afterwards, visit a charming fishing port nestled near a historic vestige and beautiful beaches. This lively port is distinguished by its 12th-century fort, which commands breathtaking views of the sea from atop a hill. Take in the scenic beauty of the coastline and learn about the port’s rich maritime heritage as you explore its historic landmarks.


Kerkouane


Continue to Kerkouane, an archaeological site overlooking the sea, where you’ll find the best-preserved remnants of the Carthaginian civilisation. Wander through the ruins of this ancient city, which include houses, a temple, and well-preserved ramparts, offering a fascinating glimpse into Tunisia’s rich history.


El Haouaria


Then depart for El Haouaria, located at the tip of the Cap Bon peninsula. This picturesque village is known for its charming blue and white architecture and nearby ancient mines known as the Grottes, dating back to antiquity. Here, you’ll have the chance to witness the local tradition of falconry, celebrated annually with the Hawk Festival, a vibrant celebration of the region’s cultural heritage.


Korbous


Continue to Korbous, nestled on the north coast of the Cap Bon peninsula. This thermal resort is famous for its healing spring waters, renowned since ancient times for their therapeutic benefits. Enjoy the rejuvenating properties of these natural springs, providing a tranquil oasis amidst the stunning coastal landscape of Tunisia. Continue to Hammamet and the rest of the evening is yours at leisure.


Meals


Breakfast


Accommodation


Overnight in Hammamet


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 11 – Carthage – Sidi Bou Said – Tunis

Location: Carthage

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Carthage


Following breakfast, visit Carthage, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former capital of the ancient Carthaginian Empire. Carthage was founded in the 9th century B.C. on the Gulf of Tunis. From the 6th century onwards, it developed into a great trading empire covering much of the Mediterranean and was home to a brilliant civilisation. During the long Punic wars, Carthage occupied territories belonging to Rome, which finally destroyed its rival in 146 B.C. A second – Roman – Carthage was then established on the ruins of the first.


The Cathedral, Byrsa Hills and Antonine Baths


Visit the Cathedral for a panoramic view of its architectural grandeur from the outside. Then head to the Byrsa hills, where you’ll discover the remnants of ancient Roman buildings and the Tophet, an archaeological site holding urns containing ashes and milk teeth from children dating back to the 8th century BC. Continue to the Antonine Baths, a colossal Roman bath complex located on the Mediterranean coast.


Sidi Bou Said


Continuing on,  drive for about 10 minutes to  Sidi Bou Said,  a picturesque small town nestled on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea famous for its stunning blue and white architecture. The entire town is simply beautiful and has inspired many artists to take up residence here.


Baron D’Erlanger Palace


Visit Le Baron D’Erlanger Palace, a historic mansion built in 1912 by Baron Rodolphe d’Erlanger, a French painter and musicologist enchanted by the village. Transformed into a museum, it showcases his passion for North African and Arabic music.


Dar El Annabi


Continue to Dar El Annabi, a historic mansion originally built near the end of the 18th century. Transformed into a summer retreat for Taib El Annabi in the 20th century, it now serves as a museum, showcasing typical Islamic architecture on the exterior and offering insight into the lifestyle of a traditional Tunisian family inside. Explore the private library, prayer hall, lounges, bedrooms, Andalusian Garden, and terraces, providing a fascinating glimpse into Tunisia’s rich cultural heritage.


Meals


Breakfast


Accommodation


Dar El Jeld, Medina of Tunis or similar


Services


Private vehicle with English-speaking guide


Day 12 – Departure

Location: Tunis

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward flight.


Meals


Breakfast


What's Included

  • Return airport transfers

  • 11 nights’ accommodation including breakfast daily

  • Meals as per itinerary

  • All transfers, sightseeing and excursions by air-conditioned private vehicle

  • Entrance fees as per the  itinerary

  • Professional-speaking local guide

What's Not Included

  • International & domestic flights

  • Visas

  • Travel and medical insurance

  • All services, meals other than those indicated above

  • Personal porters

  • Any changes to the proposed and confirmed program

  • All items of a personal nature e.g. drinks, laundry, telephone calls, tips etc

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides private transportation by a minivan with a professional English-speaking guide, ensuring a comfortable and seamless journey through Tunisia's captivating landscapes and historical sites.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 11 nights of comfortable accommodation, including breakfast and dinner, at charming hotels such as Dar El Jeld in the Medina of Tunis, Dar Said, and Dar Dhiafa, which offer a blend of traditional and modern amenities.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    The tour package includes breakfast and dinner for the duration of the tour. Lunch is provided on certain days, such as during the visit to the Ben Ismail Family reserve.

  • What are some of the unique experiences included in the tour?

    Unique experiences include exploring the underground homes of Matmata, visiting the ancient city of Carthage, hiking in the Caves of Haouaria, and experiencing the vibrant souks and local markets in the Medina of Tunis. Additionally, there is an optional camel ride at sunset in the desert.

  • Is there an opportunity to learn about local crafts during the tour?

    Yes, the tour includes a visit to Guellala, the pottery capital of Djerba, where you can explore traditional pottery workshops and witness skilled artisans crafting a variety of ceramic items.

  • Will there be a guide during the tour?

    Yes, a professional English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing insights and information about the various sites and experiences.

  • What historical sites will be visited during the tour?

    The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as the Roman ruins of El Djem and Dougga, the ancient city of Carthage, the Great Mosque of Uqba Bin Nafi in Kairouan, and the Colosseum in El Jem.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes. Focusing on providing authentic experiences where ever you are in the world, Crooked Compass has access to a vast array of accommodation styles. From boutique properties in larger cities to local guest houses and home stays within small villages. Crooked Compass ensures that local authenticity flows through your accommodation throughout your tour without compromising standard.

  • What sort of transportation is used for your tours?

    Transportation utilised on a Crooked Compass escorted small group tour is a combination of a private air conditioned vehicle and local transport where appropriate. This may include a local bus ride, use of the cities metro system, a domestic flight to another city or overnight train ride.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Crooked Compass strives to be a leader in sustainable tourism. Crooked Compass is firmly committed to the principles of ethical travel. Our comprehensive Sustainable Tourism Practices policy summarises our commitments and actions. Although the very basis of our ground operations lends itself to the ethos of sustainable tourism, this policy re-iterates our commitment to: Use locally owned hotels Use locally owned ground agents Use local guides and drivers Promote community tourism projects from homestays to craft shops Support charities that work within the destinations that we travel to Carbon offset our travels

  • Who runs your tours and are they experts in their fields?

    Crooked Compass works with the worlds best operators who are specialists in their country, region and cities providing you with in depth local knowledge. We use local guides who live and breathe the areas they work in, making sure you experience their region, their way. We believe it is far better to have a local guide who knows a lot about a little than a text book trained Western tour guide who knows a little about a lot. Using local guides also ensures that money stays within local communities and supports the regions we visit.

  • What can I expect from a Crooked Compass tour that I wouldn't get from travelling with an alternative company?

    Crooked Compass provides a sensory way to understand the world – we help you live like a local, eat like a local, do what the locals do and seek the faces behind the places whilst discovering untouched lands and natural beauty. Crooked Compass tours delve deep into the heart and soul of a destination ensuring you get out of your journey all you intended and much, much more. Our intriguing itineraries have been created by travellers for travellers. Steering travellers to follow a different path, Crooked Compass’ itineraries allow you to experience the world’s most fascinating destinations in ways you never dreamed possible. It brings to life those ‘bucket list’ experiences you have yearned to do and separates the travellers from the tourists. Crooked Compass tours are culturally rich, reward travellers with unexpected encounters and uncommon rendezvous, creating truly unique, authentic travel experiences.

  • Who do your tours cater for?

    Crooked Compass escorted small group tours cater for those who are well travelled seeking the what’s next and what’s new. Our travellers are curious minded soft adventurers who want to uncover something more than the mainstream tourist trail. Crooked Compass tours draw travellers with an interest in sustainable tourism and conservation for the areas they visit. A Crooked Compass traveller is someone who is seeking something fresh and unique, who has a yearning for authenticity and discovery, with an appreciation for cultures, tradition and the natural world. We call them Cultural Purists.

  • I am concerned about my impact on travelling through untouched regions. Can I offset?

    Yes. All travellers on Crooked Compass tours have the option to offset their part of their tour’s carbon footprint by donating $4AUD (tax-deductible) at time of booking. 100% of these funds are donated to Greenfleet, an environmental non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting our climate by restoring our forests. By partnering with Greenfleet, we are confident that our carbon offset program provides genuine and lasting environmental benefits. Your offset donation funds plant trees and restore permanent native forests in Australia and New Zealand. As they grow, these forests provide many community and environmental benefits by absorbing carbon emissions, protecting our unique biodiversity, restoring habitat for native wildlife, preventing soil salinity and erosion, improving water quality and much more. If you’d like to find out more and offset the rest of your carbon emissions, visit www.greenfleet.org.au

Reviews of this operator

Jeff Rehn  

A wonderful trip to Saudi Arabia organised by Crooked Compass

07-Apr-2022

A wonderful trip to Saudi Arabia organised by Crooked Compass. Considering the country is just opening up to tourism everything went very well - flights, trips, transfers, guides and accommodation - thank you CC - highly recommended

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Pauline Mavis Rusby  

We were kept safe at all times.

09-May-2022

We were kept safe at all times. When unexpected hurdles appeared they were handled without fuss. Our tour was informative, picturesque and comfortable.

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Tina Watts-Seale  

Family holiday to Vietnam

01-Aug-2022

We booked a family holiday to Vietnam with Crooked Compass and it was perfect. The booking process was easy and Lisa took all of our requests on board so that the trip was exactly what we wanted. All flights, transfers, accommodations, guides and activities were fantastic, with great communication throughout the whole trip. Would highly recommend, we will be booking again soon!

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1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Tuesday

Apr 25, 2025 - May 06, 2025
$4594

Monday - Friday

Sep 08, 2025 - Sep 19, 2025
$4594

Saturday - Wednesday

Apr 25, 2026 - May 06, 2026
$4916

Tuesday - Saturday

Sep 08, 2026 - Sep 19, 2026
$4916

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Crooked Compass requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of crooked compass charges.

    Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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