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Selected Trips

    Kirsty Chuchla

    Cheerful | Adventurous | Enthusiastic

    Mini Bio

    I am happiest when I am outside, in the wilderness, especially on a mountain top. I have always had a keen interest in the natural world, and enjoy nothing more than sharing it with others. My passion for the great outdoors led me to study Conservation Management, but it was during a year spent in New Zealand that I discovered the world of guiding. Upon returning to Scotland, I sought out a career in the industry and have not looked back since.

    Place to Play

    Assynt is high up on the list of my favourite locations in Scotland (the list is long!). The mountains are all individually unique and just seem to rise out of the many surrounding lochs. Plus the wide open vistas over land and out to sea are simply breathtaking.

    Not a lot of people know this

    In my younger years, I performed on stage. My most memorable part had to be a spitting seagull! Apparently, if you could stretch Scotland’s coastline out in a straight line, it would reach all the way to Australia.

    Adventurer's Stories about Kirsty

    Best ever!

    Mary Bremigan
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 10/12/2023

    Kirsty's love and knowledge of the landscape is infectious - she is a fantastic guide.

    Debbie Sellers
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 18/11/2023

    Impossible to praise Kirsty Chuchla enough. She is funny (so funny!), super well organized, and deeply knowledgeable about all things Scotland and every kind of flora and fauna. She took care to get to know everyone well and she would always tailor the trips in a way to make sure everyone had a great time at their desired level of exertion. That is not easy to do when the participants in our group ranged widely by age and physical skills. The trip itself was outstanding, but Kirsty made it extraordinary.

    Laura Lull
    Wilderness Walking - Glencoe and the Highlands
    Reviewed on 21/10/2023

    Kirsty was absolutely the best. She was knowledgeable and highly capable in leading the group. She went above and beyond to help individualsif they were nervous about crossing streams, etc. I loved her humor and general cheer. She exudes calm and enthusiasm at the same time, which is perfect.

    Mary Bremigan
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 09/09/2023

    Among the things I appreciate about Kirsty was the research she had put into learning about all aspects - history, geology, biology, sociology - and her willingness to answer questions at all times on anything at all, with a smile and a quick wit.

    Jill Shelley
    Wilderness Walking - Glencoe and the Highlands
    Reviewed on 05/09/2023

    Could not be better

    David Baldwin
    Wilderness Walking - Glencoe and the Highlands
    Reviewed on 28/08/2023

    Kirsty was truly amazing! She checked in with everyone frequently to see to our needs, and asked if there were specific hi-lights we wanted to see on our trip. She gave us the outline of what to expect the following day, including weather updates. She was full of information and history, and granted us the time to listen and learn. She is quick to join the group in our fun, (we had a lot of laughs)! But maintains awareness of safety. She went out of her way a few times to retrieve something that was forgotten or lost. She really made the journey the trip of a life time for me.

    Kat Miller
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra and Mingulay
    Reviewed on 15/08/2023

    If there was a mark higher than excellent, I wiould give it to Kirsty. She was knowledgeable, congenial, helpful with all accommodations, ready every day with maps and a plan and food. Overall, she is clearly experienced as a guide and I consider us lucky to have gotten to know her. She was very professional in every aspect of her job.. I have to mention Fiona as well. Even though she was just attending as a participant, she was an excellent representative for wilderness Scotland, and it was fun hearing her stories about how her part of the job worked. Both women were hilarious and they made the trip so much fun. I can’t count the times that the entire group broke up into laughter, as we tried to say hurl the purple earth hurdle, or run on the beach barefoot in glee.

    Elizabeth Rose Parker
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra and Mingulay
    Reviewed on 08/08/2023

    Kirsty was outstanding. She was so well organized always ensuring we had everything we needed. And her knowledge of the flora and fauna were stunning – when asked I don't think there was ever a species she didn't know about. She was a very impressive driver, never flagging while driving on those narrow roads that required your 100% attention. She was so patient and attentive – what a great guide.

    Charles Louis
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra and Mingulay
    Reviewed on 31/07/2023

    Kirsty is an exceptional guide. She is a natural leader with excellent interpersonal skills - well organised, ready to adapt plans if required, cheerful and fun. Her knowledge on flora and fauna and local history is outstanding and added so much to the hikes. Really hope to see her on another trip.

    Sheena Macgregor
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 29/06/2023

    Kirsty Chuchla was great. She impressed us with her competence, intelligence and local knowledge. A delightful companion. Highly observant of her clients' needs and the natural world around her. A class act. (And an excellent driver!)


    23WSPD Private Departure
    Reviewed on 26/06/2023

    Kirsty is a wonderful guide. Excellent in every way and the loveliest person too.
    She takes care of every aspect, seemingly effortlessly and always with a beautiful smile. We always know we will have the best possible trip with Kirsty as the guide.

    Catriona MacKenzie
    23WSTM Tailor Made Trips
    Reviewed on 11/05/2023

    Our guide Kirsty was a master at logistics and very knowledgeable about flora, fauna and all things Scottish - we loved her. Our group was very mixed in terms of physical abilities and she handled that quite well.

    Signa Larralde
    Wilderness Walking - Argyll & the Isles
    Reviewed on 08/08/2022

    I can't say enough about Kirsty Chuchla as a guide. She really is exceptional. A rock star. She is a naturalist and historian, in addition to having amazing interpersonal skills and wonderful instincts. I hope you know what a treasure you have in her!

    Julia Borst Brazas
    Wilderness Walking - Argyll & the Isles
    Reviewed on 05/08/2022

    See first comment. Kristy Cuchla was incredibly knowledgeable about environment, wildlife, birds, etc., and was very generous with her understanding of environmental issues and initiatives. She was able to deal with a very disparate group of walkers with very different paces, and kept us all happy and feeling like we were very valued travelers and students of Scotland’s amazing terrain and culture.

    Sarah Schlanger
    Wilderness Walking - Argyll & the Isles
    Reviewed on 04/08/2022

    Cameron the boatman was wonderful --and I've already praised Kirsti to the skies.

    Marta Varela
    Wilderness Walking - Argyll & the Isles
    Reviewed on 01/08/2022

    Welcoming, knowledgable, flexible with arrangements because of the weather. The trip to the beaver reserve was a great bonus when the visit to Castle Stalker was cancelled. Maybe keep it as part of the itinerary. So interesting and informative and opened up a whole new world of lichens to me. Familiarity with birdsong meant hearing the bird first which made location easier and less disturbing for the birds. Brilliant. Dealt well with mishaps members.
    Good fun.Patient.

    Patricia Barnes
    Wildlife Adventures - Mull, Staffa & Iona
    Reviewed on 28/06/2022

    Kirsty was amazing ! Not easy handling a group of mixed personalities and abilities but she was highly skilled at managing situations with warm attentiveness and sensitivity . Loved her extensive knowledge of wildlife .I also appreciated her careful driving on those narrow roads . Kirsty made the trip for me nothing was too much trouble for her.

    Karen Collier-Keywood
    Wildlife Adventures - Mull, Staffa & Iona
    Reviewed on 27/06/2022

    Kirsty was patient and encouraging with everyone in the group. She is very knowledgeable. Despite changes required due to the weather Kirsty remained cheerful, constructive and kept everyone involved.
    I would recommend her to anyone doing a tour.

    Christine Whyte
    Wildlife Adventures - Mull, Staffa & Iona
    Reviewed on 25/06/2022

    Kirsty was just the best of the best. I want to do another trip with her as my guide. She was so knowledgeable. She was also able to change things due to covid or weather . Always cheery. Helping the less able walkers. She makes a mean cup of tea too.

    Dianna Anderson
    Wildlife Adventures - Mull, Staffa & Iona
    Reviewed on 14/06/2021

    Kirsty is a sweet woman and manages to handle the whole group so nobody feels left out. She is very knowledgeable and has a great sense of humour!

    Inga Ebert
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 15/11/2019

    Kirsty is completely above and beyond all comparison. She continues to be at the top of her game in everything. And she’s so jolly! We have such a good time with her, and have total confidence in the soundness of her judgment in everything, We ça rely on her to give an accurate account of each single raindrop that might fall in two days’ time.

    Nina Taunton
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 06/11/2019

    Kirsty was everything you would expect of the perfect guide.

    Gunvor Rottensten
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 05/11/2019

    Kirsty is very calm and attentive.
    Only criticism: I would have walk more on first and last day

    Julie Miville-Dechêne
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 16/09/2019

    Our guide Kirsty was first rate. I have done a lot of guided trips all over the world and she was friendly, well organised and professional. Knew the area well and was able to make adjustments to the itinerary due to the weather. We had lots of rain and wind and we still managed to do the 3 big climbs. Always kept group informed of potential changes, plans for next day. Good driver.

    Melinda Long
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 09/09/2019

    Kirsty’s guiding was perfect. She was kind, relaxed, friendly and fun, as well as being very knowledgable, competent and professional. She was the best guide I have ever encountered on a walking holiday. The needs of the group were clearly her priority throughout the week.

    Maggie Bartlett
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 09/09/2019

    Kirsty was amazing and I was appreciative that she always had a backup plan for when the weather interfered. She was friendly and personable throughout the week & tried to make she understood what each person most wanted out of the trip.

    Jennifer Lowe
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 09/09/2019

    Kirsty could not be faulted!

    David Scotney
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 06/08/2019

    Kirstie was the best guide! Very knowledgeable. Fun too! There was a good assortment of hikes - easy, medium, long with options depending on weather and skill.

    Laura Fitch
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 06/08/2019

    Kirstie did a fabulous job guiding us-described the scenery plus the history. she took us on awesome hikes!!!! And adventures!

    Carrie West
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 05/08/2019

    Kirsty was outstanding and a huge credit to the organisation. Funny, highly knowledgable, flexible and judged the walking brilliantly.

    Tony Bradshaw
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 05/08/2019

    Kirsty was incredible! She was not only kind as a person, but also knowledgable about flora, fauna, the area, Scottish history, and more. She took her time with us and paced the entire day perfectly--from breakfast all the way to after-dinner coffee/tea. We never felt rushed but we always accomplished a lot every day. (I even had a trip to the Medical Center in Aviemore for a minor injury and she was cool as a cucumber! She swiftly came to my aid on the mountain and always remained calm. She has the perfect temperament for working with groups and surprise elements!)

    She was perfect and we hope to have her as a guide again! She is not only a great ambassador for Wilderness Scotland but for Scotland as well!

    Simone DeLoach
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Cairngorms National Park
    Reviewed on 10/07/2019

    Kirsty was super amazing. So knowledgeable, friendly, outgoing and adaptive. Everything you want as a local guide in Scotland!

    Rep DeLoach
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Cairngorms National Park
    Reviewed on 07/07/2019

    Kirstie was wonderful, good humoured and responsive. She worked so hard and went out of her way to add value to your brand.

    Terry Scott
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Cairngorms National Park
    Reviewed on 02/07/2019

    Kirsty was excellent, I have been with her before so know what she is like.

    Richard Stowe
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Cairngorms National Park
    Reviewed on 01/07/2019

    My second trip with Kirsty and she never fails to deliver 100% and more. Kind, friendly, unflappable, knowledgeable, extremely well-organised, she's a pleasure to have guiding you, and on the mountain, we all had total confidence that she'd be able to deal with any situation.

    Andy Lewis
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Cairngorms National Park
    Reviewed on 01/07/2019

    Kirsty is a brilliant guide. Instills confidence, obviously technically proficient and experienced and great company. Responsive to the needs and preferences of the group.

    Jennifer Mirdamadi
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 26/06/2019

    Kirsty was an excellent guide who managed to be both extremely competent and easygoing. She monitored the weather and adapted plans accordingly. Her ability to blaze a trail through the bog up the mountains was impressive. I felt like she put us first all week.

    Peggy Fake
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 25/06/2019

    I appreciated Kirsty's deep knowledge of and love for the land, its history. She shared her knowledge in a very natural way, quite organically. Her programming for each day included wiggle room, and we appreciated the changes she made to accommodate the group's interests. She's the best van parker I've ever seen, and she can park that van while telling you all about the hike you're about to partake of. And her smile is gorgeous.

    Patti Loach
    Wilderness Walking - Northumberland and the Lake District
    Reviewed on 11/06/2019

    Kirsty was friendly, knowledgeable and very willing to provide help to all guests. She was a great guide.

    Maggie Spenceley
    Wilderness Walking Luxury – North Highland Coast
    Reviewed on 27/05/2019

    I am all superlatives about Kirsty. She is a keeper!

    Barbara Macleod
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 13/05/2019

    Kirsty was truly outstanding; I don't really have the words to describe her style. She is cheerful and upbeat, but also has an intuitive gift for sussing out group dynamics. She made a point to hike alongside everyone in the group to get to know us. She could immediately sense when some people were struggling and some people wanted to push harder and she managed to maximize the experience for all of us, suggesting modifications for those of us with sore knees that never made us feel like we were compromised or impacting the others in the group. She is a funny and interesting hiking companion, and she always had plenty of great alternatives when the weather failed to cooperate.

    Amy Denton
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 18/09/2018

    Kirstie read and understood the abilities and motivation of each member of the group. There were times when some may have thought the trekking to be too easy, but I'm sure there were some who thought it too hard. She rolled with all of that and totally made the trip for me.

    Scott Carbee
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 07/08/2018

    Kirsty was a superb guide. She was cheerful and knowledgeable, calm and encouraging at all times. We learned a lot about the flora and fauna whilst we walked.
    Our weather was mixed during the week, but she matched the walk to the conditions with great skill, taking advice from the skipper too, on the sea conditions.

    Marie Beattie
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 06/08/2018

    Kirsty is an extremely good guide - great people skills and held the group together

    Paul Kinnersley
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 31/07/2018

    Cannot say enough about Kirsty. Kirsty was a wonderful guide! Very knowledgeable about the geography, wild life, birds and flowers. She tailored our itinerary based upon the weather to get the best views/experience and briefed us each evening on our walk for the next day (type of climb, what clothes to wear or bring). She was with us 24/7 and always accessible. She was motivational, kind and fun. We had a nice group of people with varying aptitudes and Kirsty tailored the walks to meet all needs. .

    Linda Bernhagen
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 31/07/2018

    Can't imagine a better guide, enthusiastic, friendly, knowledgeable, skilful, and always willing to go the extra kilometre or 10, on the ground and metaphorically in tracking down eg flower species, word origins etc.

    Ruth Urben
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 24/07/2018

    Kirsty made an excellent job

    Julia Gerber
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 23/07/2018

    I could not fault kirsty..excellent !

    Richard Stowe
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 17/07/2018

    Great personality, calm and reliant. Huge interest and knowledge re all around us from flowers and insects to all the birds. History and geography shared with ease as we walked.

    Jane Gordon
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 17/07/2018

    I just love travelling with Kirsty. Her enthusiasm and knowledge is fantastic and if a question is thrown up that she can't answer immediately, she finds out , no matter how obscure. She also makes sure that everyone in the group is included in conversation and allows enough flexibility for people to have their own time should they wish to do so.

    Jan Abbott
    Wilderness Walking - High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    Reviewed on 17/07/2018

    Outstanding!

    Ian Caldwell
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 15/06/2018

    Please see previous comments.

    Ann Maclean
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 14/06/2018

    Third time with Kirsty and better than ever.
    A wonderful ambassador.

    Gavin Bateman
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 12/06/2018

    As on each previous trip, Kirsty was brilliant and a delight to be with.

    Tricia Bateman
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 11/06/2018

    I am a seasoned Kirsty groupie. What more can I say? Her knowledge and expertise match her stamina and personality. There is nothing that is not enormously impressive about her. We know we are in safe hands.

    Nina Taunton
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 11/06/2018

    Kirsty was professional in every way. Knowledge and enthusiasm is always an appealing combination

    Paul Williams
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 21/05/2018

    Kirsty has an all encompassing knowledge of terrain, flowers/birds loves to inform anyone who is interested and so very helpful and flexible if someone prefers to do something other than the planned activity. Result everyone has a wonderful holiday

    Ethel Hickton
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 21/05/2018

    Already covered. Kirsty was perfect. I was thrilled to walk with a guide who shared my love of nature and could point out so much of interest.. natural and historical.

    Judith Hedges
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 21/05/2018

    I'm going to copy here what I wrote about the trip in general (excellent), because it was largely because of our guide--Kirsty--that it was so wonderful. Kirsty set a great tone, and her knowledge and energy were wonderful. The hikes were spectacular, and she paced them especially appropriately, given the range of endurance capabilities in the group. It never felt awkward to be stopping so others could catch up: she managed, instead, to make the pauses just as much fun as the trekking, explaining details of plants and animals along the way. Among the memories that I'll never forget: hearing her read a poem by Scottish poet Robert Burns at the gravesite of the person about whom Burns had written it. (How many guides would have even stopped at the grave?!) I regretted not getting a video of that at the time and said so later. So, huddled in a cozy hut along a trail where we'd stopped for lunch, she got out the poem again and read it so I could record it, getting the beauty of the Scots language as it should be spoken to supplement the beauty of the countryside. She is outstanding and represents Wilderness Scotland wonderfully. (She was also a pro at dealing with unexpected problems with reservations, etc.) I'd also add: the personal touch of her getting a birthday cake and candles for a fellow hiker: perfect! Give her a raise! She is outstanding in every way.

    Kathleen O'Gorman
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 11/11/2017

    Kirsty is joy personified. She embodies what is best about loving what one loves does in an environment that one thrives. She was attentive, alert, informed and poetic. What was not to love in a guide like her. :)

    Patrice Boucaud
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 01/11/2017

    Kirsty was an excellent guide - so knowledgeable and professional but most importantly good fun.

    Lesley Lind
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 25/10/2017

    Kirsty was first class in every respect

    Richard Buxton
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 25/10/2017

    Kirsty is fabulous. She's knowledgeable, flexible, funny, and fun.

    Darsie Bowden
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 09/10/2017

    Kirsty is the most professional, the most knowledgeable, and the most competent guide, let alone the loveliest person you could have to guide your Wilderness holiday

    Catriona MacKenzie
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 09/10/2017

    Kirsty is a legend. She seemed to glide effortlessly though the days while managing the constantly changing weather, interests and varied abilities of the group. We couldn't praise her skills enough.

    Linda Nankervis
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 20/09/2017

    Kirsty was absolutely superb. The weather proved to be consistently difficult and consequently she had to change our schedule daily, sometimes having to change plans mid hike, but still managed to give us fantastic hikes every day.

    Jan Abbott
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 18/09/2017

    Kirsty has had universally great feedback and I agree with this 100%. She's a top-class guide. Her ability to change the advertised programme due to bad weather and still give us enjoyable and challenging walking was extremely impressive. She's clearly focused on giving the customer his/her money's worth regardless of conditions, and she totally succeeded in this. The group gelled really well and we had some great laughs - whether it be hunkered down in the emergency shelter while a northerly howled outside or crossing a rain-swollen torrent - which was no small credit to Kirsty. She's very knowledgeable and her enthusiasm for, and love of, the Highlands is infectious.

    Andy Lewis
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 18/09/2017

    The sailing crew and walking guide were professional and personable.

    Ginnie Van Kesteren
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 21/08/2017

    Kirsty managed all the different abilities and paces really well so everyone got the experience they wanted from the walking

    Karen White
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 14/08/2017

    I already mentioned this in an earlier comment but our guide was great. Her enthusiasm for the places we hiked and her knowledge and interest in the floral and fauna we saw was exemplary. Also, she was always ready to accommodate particular concerns of each of the trip members and allow for the rather large range in hiking stamina that was evident in our group.

    Brian Shuter
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 13/08/2017

    Kirsty was absolutely marvellous, she thought of everything, and we quickly developed such confidence in her. Her positive personality lifted even the stormiest day. A credit to herself and Wilderness Scotland.

    June Toose
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 30/07/2017

    Amazing, so well organised, does small things to please individual guests - these smaller things just make the whole experience so special

    Ethel Hickton
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 28/07/2017

    Can't praise Kirsty enough, nor have enough superlatives for her. She made the trip for us all.

    Lesley Beddie
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 26/07/2017

    Kirsty was a superb guide: her extensive knowledge of the area, together with her courtesy, humour, common sense and patience made the trip a wonderful experience for us all. She worked our schedule around the weather so not one hour was wasted - perfect!

    Catharine Wall
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 25/07/2017

    Kirsty made it so easy for all of us.

    David Sloboda
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 21/06/2017

    Kristy was brilliant.


    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 19/06/2017

    Kirsty was a first class guide and by the end of our trek, we felt that we had known her all our lives! She made our hiking experience very special because of her good humour and her expert knowledge.

    Lynne Matthews
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 19/06/2017

    Kirsty was a fantastic guide and is a huge credit to Wilderness Scotland. She had enthusiasm, knowledge , great stories ,and total professionalism to ensure it all ran like clockwork. Can't praise her highly enough.

    Carl Broomhead
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 19/06/2017

    Kirsty was awesome! She's extremely knowledgeable and enthusiastic. She was very helpful in making sure we were prepared for the hikes.

    Kristy Peterson
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 19/06/2017

    I have already sent an e-mail thanking Kirsty for her excellent guiding performance.

    Emerita Pilgrim
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 19/06/2017

    Kirsty, as usual(our third trip with her) was a star. Always upbeat, enthusiastic, professional and friendly, she made the trip so interesting with all her knowledge and expertise. Great driver, super organized, and never stopped!

    Morag Mottram
    17WSTM Tailor Made trips
    Reviewed on 14/06/2017

    Can't say enough about Kirstie. She shared her knowledge about plant life, was full of legends about Scottish fairies and giants, and could name every bird that flew over head. She was
    Kind and very thoughtful.

    Kathrine MacRae
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2017

    Kirsty was superlative!

    Gordon MacRae
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2017

    I can't imagine a better guide.

    Charles Reback
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2017

    Kirsty is an excellent guide. She made sure we were all well equipped, particularly with snacks, midge protection and so on. Very well informed on the wildlife and geology, and transmits an enthusiastic love of the outdoors. Kirsty is a particularly good and courteous driver. She dealt decisively and sensitively with the hiccups we had. A lovely warm personality and a credit to Wilderness Scotland.

    Paul Davies
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2017

    Again, Kirsti was first-rate. Loved her.

    Melissa Walker
    Wilderness Walking - Isle of Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2017

    Kirsty, as in the past was superb. Her knowledge and enthusiasm about the area made the trip come alive for all members of the group. Kirsty openly shared her interests in the landscape, the history, the flora&fauna and the personalities of the people who make Harris and Lewis special.

    Jim Mottram
    17WSTM Tailor Made trips
    Reviewed on 12/06/2017

    Without question Kirsty was exceptional. Her ability to be flexible with our days and the weather...unbelievable! She was able to arrange for us to visit a weaver and a genealogy researcher on Harris. Always considerate of the groups needs she went above and beyond to ensure a good time was had by all.

    Jo-Ann Rutherford
    17WSTM Tailor Made trips
    Reviewed on 04/06/2017

    Very-very kind, intelegent, attantive guide - Kirsty.

    Elena Lovkova
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 22/05/2017

    Kirstie was fantastic- stayed positive, kept us motivated and shared so much knowledge.

    Linda Scott
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 17/05/2017

    fantastic guide, very knowledgable about vegetation, geology, mythology and about everything else out there; made everybody in the group feel good; motivating; set just the right pace on the hikes

    Justus Daechsel
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 15/05/2017

    Kirstie was totally awesome. Best guide we've ever had

    Kevin Scott
    High Points of Torridon and Wester Ross
    Reviewed on 15/05/2017

    one could not have wished for a nicer guide - Kirsty was friendly, tolerant, helpful, cheerful, innovative, knowledgeable and other attributes too many to mention. Other comments had said that of her and I was slightly sceptical but they were all true - make sure that you hold on to her!

    Clare Matchett
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 27/08/2016

    Our guide was excellent.

    Robert Broadhead
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 15/08/2016

    Kirsty is the perfect guide!
    She has a lovely manner; is very knowledgeable; extremely capable and organised; so cool, calm and collected she could be a candidate for 007 - shooting photos only, of course!
    She also seemed to have the uncanny ability to deal with inclement weather.
    Gold medal standard, without a doubt! it was a pleasure to be guided by Kirsty Cuchla.

    Mary Hahessy
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 13/08/2016

    Guide was great in every way.
    Appreciated her knowledge of flowers and wildlife.

    Patricia Bateman
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 11/08/2016

    Kirsty was absolutely brilliant. I can't recommend her highly enough.

    Gavin Bateman
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 10/08/2016

    Kirsty is made for this job! She is excellent with people, really knowledgeable, well organized, and just a fabulous addition to the trip!

    Ginny Harrison
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 09/08/2016

    Kirstie you were amazing. I loved everything about you. You were a wealth of all kinds of information that you were more than willing to share. You also had the patience of Job. You truly are a beautiful soul. I did make more comments about you earlier!!!

    Pamela Haggarty
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 08/08/2016

    Very friendly and great rapport with everybody. Safe driving and good with informing us of trails, walks and impending plans. Thank you!

    Kathleen Leonard
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra and Mingulay
    Reviewed on 02/08/2016

    You have a gem in Kirsty - she is wonderful! We were a small group and she led us on some great, great walks, joined in on the laughter and kept us together and moving. This is the second tour I have been on with Kirsty as a guide and both times I have been so impressed with her kindness, knowledge of the environment, and her sense of fun - it is a joy to be on tour with her and I would do it again for a 3rd time.

    Kate Boynton
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra and Mingulay
    Reviewed on 02/08/2016

    Kirsty was fabulous. She even had help (a hand warmer)for my back prob. She kept a nice pace, had a super sense of humor, and really knew ever so much.

    Sarah Leonard
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides: Uists, Barra and Mingulay
    Reviewed on 01/08/2016

    As always Kirsty was the lynchpin of the trip, she has such a lovely personality that everyone warms to her, relaxes quickly and enjoys their holiday. She is always perfect, there could be no improving of her. I'm sure it's all been said before!

    Catriona MacKenzie
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 16/06/2016

    Energy, knowledge, cheerful, knows when to say yes and no. Faultless, brilliant.


    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 13/06/2016

    Kirsty was phenomenal!!! She is very knowledgable in all aspects of anything Shetland/Scotland. Kirsty is a great people person, taking time to get to know each individual in the group. She made everyone feel at ease and allowed everyone to walk at their own pace.

    Valerie Koyl
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 13/06/2016

    Kirsty was brilliant very knowledgable and a perfect guide

    Jane Cheshire
    Wildlife Adventures - The Shetland Isles
    Reviewed on 13/06/2016

    I have traveled a good bit on guided trips, but Kirsty is the best guide I've ever had. Her instincts about people and the terrain (including weather) are matched by her knowledge and training. She was truly gifted. Further, she produced beautiful sunny weather, two rainbows, terrific sunsets, frequent animal sightings and a full moon. Genius. She is highly personable, funny, and encouraging. I can't imagine a better guide for this trip. I hope to repeat this experience sometime in the future.

    Darsie Bowden
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 07/06/2016

    We went on this trip because we knew Kirsty was guiding it. That girl goes from strength to strength. Our group were (all except one) revenants, 7 of us who were on the Knoydart trip this time last year. This tells you a thing or two. We need some brand new over-the-bar superlatives to even begin to do justice to her manifold talents.

    Nina Taunton
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 06/06/2016

    Kirsty is an amazing guide, she is able to keep the right pace for the whole group, she has a genuine interest in every member of the party and ensuring we are all safe and happy. I personally was able to conquer some fears/goals which has put joy back into walking.

    Natasha Redfern
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 06/06/2016

    Kirsty is outstanding! From her greeting at the trip start to her farewell at trip end she was always friendly, enthusiastic, knowledgeable, professional and engaged with our group. She offered individual attention and support for members when needed and offered thorough interpretive commentary regarding the human and natural history, the flora and fauna, along with cultural influences of the areas we experienced. Her high levels of energy and positive attitude are contagious. All members of the group were able to learn more, experience more and accomplish more than we may have originally expected thanks to Kirsty's skill and ability in leading us to our goals. The week flew by and every day was a pleasure to experience.

    James (Jim) Mottram
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 06/06/2016

    Kirsty is an outstanding guide and a true asset to the Wilderness Scotland team. She greeted us with energy and enthusiasm from the original meeting at the train station to our departure. Every day was well organized, both from a difficulty, time and logistics perspective. Kirsty's knowledge of the environment and her ability to include great interpretive material throughout each day, along with great personal anecdotes was much appreciated. Her confidence and skills driving a van full of 8 guests through a busy city, single track wilds, and dealing with a stubborn film crew near Stac Pollaidh, was most impressive. We are looking forward to planning and booking our next adventure with Kirsty for next year.

    Morag Mottram
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 06/06/2016

    Kirsty is one of the main reasons why the trip was so great. With her nice, happy and humble personality loaded with tonnes of knowledge, she just made the trip great for me and everyone else. She remembers even small details you ask and does research about the questions and comes back with even more information than you had expected. She is a true treasure at Wilderness Scotland.

    Anna-Lena Handell
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 01/06/2016

    Thanks to Kirsty for making the trip so well run.

    Jacqueline Halliwell
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 19/05/2016

    Guide very knowledgeable and capable. As a retired National park walk leader I was impressed.

    Dennis Shevelan
    Sailing and Walking - Knoydart, Skye and The Small Isles
    Reviewed on 16/05/2016

    I expect it's all been said already! Kirsty was our guide and they don't come any better. Faultless and I do not exaggerate!

    Catriona MacKenzie
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 09/11/2015

    Very knowledgeable and hospitable.

    Sera-Maria Paterson
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 03/11/2015

    As before, Kirsty was lovely and good.

    Kaija Pett
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 24/10/2015

    Guide, Kirsty. She did a great job. Lots of information, lots of laughter, knows the area very very well etc.

    Patricia Teunissen
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 21/10/2015

    I'm sure you've received nothing but glowing reports about Kirsty. She was a fabulous leader with a fine sense of humour. Her passion for the Highlands is infectious and she brings such a strong knowledge of conservation, nature and Scotland's history to her role. She seemed attuned to the different needs and interests of the group and met them unobtrusively. Her energy, and enthusiasm were a delight.

    Lesley Foster
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 21/10/2015

    Kirsty was awesome! She had a great sense of the group so tailored the walks as necessary. She was also resourceful when confronted with changes in routes - didn't miss a beat. She was extremely knowledgeable about the area. Last but not least, she had a wonderful sense of humor!

    Martha Yates
    Wilderness Walking - Autumn Highlands
    Reviewed on 21/10/2015

    Kirsty is way beyond excellent. In addition to all her attributes, she conjured up Scotland's only week of summer for us. She is in a category of her own.

    Nina Taunton
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 05/10/2015

    As had been indicated from previous reviews, Kirsty was excellent - and indeed she was. So incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, welcoming and took us on amazing and varied walks. What an asset she is to Wilderness Scotland.

    Fiona Leatt-Hayter
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 05/10/2015

    Kirsty was a joy. Her knowledge of the area is excellent and she offers it with the passion and enthusiasm she feels for it. Her care in ensuring each traveler's enjoyment was evident in the level of personal attention she gave to all of us. We had many laughs along the way because of Kirsty's lighthearted, positive spirit.

    Destiny McCune
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 05/10/2015

    Kirsty delighted us always, pointing our interesting sights and telling stories. She is the best.

    Steven Markey
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 05/10/2015

    Kirsty was our guide. She is just the best. Personal attention to detail, her amazing knowledge and people skills were excellent. She even made a rush candle for all the October birthday people in our group. :) She has a great sense of humour and tells a great story. Just loved her to bits!

    Claudia Markey
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 05/10/2015

    Kirsty was a great guide. She knows the islands and did a great job explaining their natural and human history. She is a wealth of information on flowers, geology, sheep and fairies. She had unfailing good humor and tolerance, and seemingly infinite energy. She was aware of the needs and abilities of the group and was able to set an appropriate pace and to make adjustments in the face of bad weather to keep the trip moving well. She managed to create a sense of community in the group.

    She's also a great driver and I've never seen anyone back a van through tight spaces as well as she does.

    Barbara Best
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 20/09/2015

    Kirsty was a fantastic guide. She was very knowledgeable about the trails, history, flora, fauna, and fairies! It was obvious she took pride in her work and loved sharing her country with us. She made everyone feel part of the group and kept us all very motivated and energized throughout the week. We were sorry when the week came to an end.

    Cathie Swyka
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 19/09/2015

    Our guide was Kirsty and she was first class. We achieved all the activities on the itinerary but Kirsty re-jigged the order to take maximum advantage of the forecast weather conditions which was absolutely the right thing to do. No matter how obscure the question regarding the local flora, fauna, geology, dialect and customs etc she was always ready with a plausible explanation. An excellent companion in the hills and all fuelled by porridge!

    Mark Clarke
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 14/09/2015

    I thank Kirsty for her knowledge and support. The best thing I can say is that Kirsty had a sunny disposition despite the weather and she tells the BEST fairy stories! She too has left a mark in my heart..

    Maureen Goldberg
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 10/09/2015

    Kirsty was awesome! We never ran late for anything but she never made us feel rushed or on a tight schedule. Her enthusiasm and knowledge about the flora and fauna we encountered turned a great trip into an amazing one. At the request of members of our group, she also arranged additional outings (distillery tour, music, dinners) for us.

    Caitlin Miron
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 05/09/2015

    Kirsty was great friendly and an excellent guide. Very professional. Loads of respect for her.

    Karen Powell
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 01/09/2015

    Kirsty was an absolute star.

    Allen Shaw
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 27/08/2015

    She was a super nice and very knowledgeable.

    Lucie Moses
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 20/08/2015

    Kirsty is more than excellent! She consistently managed every aspect of the trip professionally. Her sense of humour and her commitment to providing a high quality walking experience was much appreciated.

    Lynda Porszt-Miron
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 17/08/2015

    couldn't ask for better than Kirsty

    Nancy Gantzkow
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 14/08/2015

    Kristiy is so good, hope you pay her well!

    Ellen Borge
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 13/08/2015

    This is the second time that I have travelled with Kirsty and she is a fantastic guide. She is very knowledgeable about Scotland, history and wildlife. She found out what everyone wanted from the holiday and organised the trip perfectly to make sure everyone had a good time.

    Frances Burnett
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 30/07/2015

    Our friendly guide, Kirsty, showed an enthusiasm for her tasks rubbing off to all participants. Her knowledge of nature, culture and history impressed us, as well as her flexibility to adapt to the different wishes of the group. Always having a firm but unnoticeable control of time and position.

    Odd Løvhaugen
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 29/07/2015

    Well ..... I can only re-iterate all the great feedback you already have on KIrsty . Kind , considerate of every member of the group ,
    great knowledge , and very professional .

    Katherine Edwards
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 26/07/2015

    Kirsty is once again a star! She structures the day so that you do everything but never feel rushed. She is flexible and listens. And i am currently adopting her first lunch, second lunch concept!

    Dianne Edgar
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 22/07/2015

    Friendly and knowledgeable. Kirsty modified the itinerary as necessary to meet everyone's requirements.

    Liz Waddy
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 21/07/2015

    Kirsty was a truly excellent guide. A microphone in the van would help those sitting at the back to hear her comments

    Sue Sillitoe
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 20/07/2015

    Kirsty was a terrific guide. She gave us just the right amount of info and tailored the walks for the weather and group ability.

    Helen Smith
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 13/07/2015

    Perfect. The only thing Kirsty may not have realized is that our bunch of baby boomers would have liked more than an hour of flop time between walk and dinner. But she was clearly working hard to give us our money's worth and we were trying to please her!

    Sally McKee
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 13/07/2015

    Kirsty is a truly exceptional guide. She's very knowledgeable about so many things that come up on the trip, like local history, flora & fauna, local life on the islands, geography of Scotland, and basic things like how to use walking sticks. On top of all that she is DELIGHTFUL! Friendly, respectful, very diplomatic in accommodating everyone's needs, and she's super fun as well. You couldn't ask for a better guide.

    Sherry Fields
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 13/07/2015

    Kirsty did an outstanding job of herding us on our daily activities, offering options and explanations of the day's route. She was knowledgeable regarding the routes; the flora and fauna; and history. All of her interpretative stories were appreciated. Kirsty always presented herself professionally, in both manner and dress. We would be delighted to have her as our guide on a future experience.

    Morag Mottram
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 11/06/2015

    Trip leader (Kirsty Chuchla) was superb with positive attitude, warm & welcoming manner, detailed knowledge of local natural and human history, and infectious sense of good humour. When weather posed challenges for original itinerary, she was able to arrange alternate options that engaged the group and offered satisfying challenges for all.

    James Mottram
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 11/06/2015

    Kirsty is very knowledgeable both about the flora and fauna as well as about the history of Scotland. She was very friendly and made sure everyone felt good.

    Anna-Lena Handell
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 10/06/2015

    Need another box! Kirsty is the best.

    Brian Brooks
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 09/06/2015

    I want to praise Kirsty Chuchla to the skies and beyond. She is fun, she is modest, she has just the right balance of friendliness, firmness and good sense. These are personal qualities that make her eminently suitable for leadership. What makes her exceptional is her consummate professionalism, her love of the terrain and expertise in navigating us aound it, her physical and moral strength, her knowledge, and her entirely spontaneous impulse to jump to the rescue. I broke my arm. Kirsty organised a lifeboat, an ambulance to Fort William which she followed in her car, a bed & breakfast so she could stay with me at the hospital and be there first thing in the morning - and then drive/boat back to the rest of the group. She is a warrior princess! Treasure her! Pay her double!

    TEAM WILDERNESS RESPONSE:
    Nina, we are still trying to work out a way to clone Kirsty as she is a truly great person and guide! It was good to speak to you on Saturday, a week on from your tumble, and hear that you are doing okay and not letting your break get in the way of things too much. It's also great to hear that you are keen to return to Scotland before too long and we look forward to welcoming you back. Wishing you a speedy recovery!

    Nina Taunton
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 09/06/2015

    Kirsty was an excellent guide, thoughtfully planning each day to the weather and ensuring it was an amazing experience of Scotland
    The knowledge that she shared with the group was vast and when the rain set in kept us in good spirits
    Kirsty went above and beyond to ensure the group were safe and comfortable - even a rough ride in a lifeboat!

    Natasha Redfern
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 09/06/2015

    Kirsty did a wonderful job - knew lots & wasn't afraid to say she'd have to look up some obscure fact. She was responsive to the group - and regularly checked on us as individuals.

    Jonna Reeder
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 03/06/2015

    Kirsty did a wonderful job. She's very motivated, she works hard, she does her homework, and is amazingly friendly and personable. Recommend her absolutely!

    Kyle Haemig
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 25/05/2015

    Kirsty did a great job of keeping things organized and on track. She was very knowledgeable about birds and the area we traveled in. If we wanted to see something extra (Scapa distillery tour, for example), she arranged that. Kirsty is very friendly and got along well with tour members and others who helped us (taxi drivers, etc.).

    Janice Haemig
    Wilderness Walking - The Orkney Islands
    Reviewed on 25/05/2015

    Kirsty did everything to ensure that we could get the most out of the holiday. A very knowledgable and companionable guide.

    John Osborne
    Wilderness Walking - Applecross & Torridon
    Reviewed on 29/04/2015

    Kirsty was good fun & our group jelled very quickly , with her good humoured supervision to get us " in the mood " . Her attention to detail was excellent & informative.

    We were all in good spirits , our laughter kept the bad spirits away !! A great guide ( even if she did not have her Queens girl guide badge )


    Winter Highlands - Cairngorms
    Reviewed on 12/02/2015

    Kirsty is one of the best guides I have ever had on a trip. She has a great personality, is kind, considerate, attentive to the needs of the group, has great knowledge of the mountains and local area and is great fun. You feel very safe in her hands.
    Ps (thank you for finding me a moose Stef and Kirsty - amazing!)

    Laura Moore
    Winter Highlands - Cairngorms
    Reviewed on 11/02/2015

    Kirsty is so enthusiastic and fun loving. Very keen to accommodate our requests and answer our questions. What she couldn't answer she went away and researched. Excellent.

    Barbara Crompton
    Winter Highlands - Cairngorms
    Reviewed on 11/02/2015

    Kirsty, our very responsible guide was always cheerful and helpful, she had good knowledge of the history and geology of the area. She also provided us with entertainment by telling us many interesting old legends and anecdotes that happened in the Hebrides.

    Edith Steinbeck
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 31/10/2014

    Informative and responsive to the groups needs in some ' interesting ' weather. Kirsty was a cheerful and very likeable companion as well as a very professional guide.

    Brian Jones
    Wilderness Walking - Applecross & Torridon
    Reviewed on 30/10/2014

    Our guide was very sensitive to the capabilities of the people in the group, and made sure that everyone was keeping up. She was full of great information on wildlife, plants and history, and had a great sense of humor. She made the experience truly outstanding.

    Glenna Winnie
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 01/10/2014

    Kirsty is an absolute fountain of knowledge on funghii, trees, indigenous wildlife, history. She really made the trip come alive for us. She also catered to the varied needs of the group, making it a positive experience for everyone. I will come back again to Wilderness Scotland, and I really hope that I am on Kirsty's trip!

    Diana Matwichuk
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 29/09/2014

    How do I love Kirsty? Let me count the ways:
    Knowledge
    Organisation
    Flexibility
    Communication
    Positivity
    Serenity
    Ability to pack enough luggage for 20 into the back of the minibus, and to reverse into a very tight corner
    Enough connections in high places to arrange for there to be no rain all week.
    Above all, superb people/group skills. Managed to look after all 8 of us with great sensitivity and subtlety.
    Whatever she's getting, you need to give here a pay rise.

    Cherry Lander
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 28/09/2014

    Kirsty was an excellent guide. Fun & very patient . She had the ability to bring a diverse group of 6 together so that we all had an excellent time.

    Ann Cuddy
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 24/09/2014

    Our guide Kirsty was exceptional and went out of her way to make sure everyone enjoyed their experience.

    George Walker
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 24/09/2014

    OMG, if I haven't gushed on enough already in the other part of the survey, let me repeat - Kirsty was AMAZING. Went way way WAY above and beyond the call of duty in taking care of our various needs and interests. Dropped us off especially at Dunevegan Castle (not on the itinerary) and came back to fetch us, made special written notes for me on things of interest, did research on her own time on questions we had that she couldn't answer (we were a very questionie group:-) She was infinitely patient with all the different speeds both physically and intellectually. I was really impressed that she managed to get the entire group to the top of Toehead mountain just by pacing it slow enough. On that note - overall even though the hikes were rated "easy" I was a little disappointed by how slow we had to go. I was expecting to cover more territory on foot.

    Karen Shepard
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 23/09/2014

    Kirsty was a fantastic guide you could not ask for better. She was very knowledgeable about the area we were walking around and the flora and forna. Nothing was too much trouble for Kirsty she catered for the whole groups needs and made it a very fun, relaxing and enjoyable trip.

    Ann Lewis
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 23/09/2014

    Don't ever let Kirsty go. She was friendly, expert and professional.

    Peter Whitelaw
    Wilderness Walking - Cairngorms National Park & Royal Deeside
    Reviewed on 22/09/2014

    Kirsty was a fountain of information and extremely tactful throughout the trip. I think she enjoyed the trip and us just as much as we enjoyed the trip and herself.

    Janice Campbell
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 15/09/2014

    Wilds of Assynt: John Ormiston was an incredible guide - professional, passion for sharing everything Scotland, knowledgeable, fun, organized, very skilled in group dynamics, informative, flexible, great sense of humor, great sport!

    Cape Wrath & Northwest Higlands: Kirsty Chuchla-friendly, knowledgeable, skilled, personable.

    Pam Landry
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 13/08/2014

    Our guide, Kirsty, was FANTASTIC. She was really supportive and never made me feel rushed. Her encouragement helped me get over some hills that I never thought I could climb.

    Wendy Avis
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 07/08/2014

    Kirsty is knowledgeable, congenial, welcoming, and professional. With seemingly effortless grace she managed a group of individuals with disparate abilities and interests and kept us all happy.

    Stephen Robertson
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 04/08/2014

    Kirsty's enthusiasm and passion about her work and her country is contagious. She was always there encouraging any of us through the tough patches as needed. Her knowledge and professionalism is outstanding.

    Stephanie Smith
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 04/08/2014

    Kirsty. Rocked.
    That simple.

    She was patient with my sister and my friend who required a much slower pace, and she so obviously enjoyed talking about the places we visited - both the wildlife and the local history and culture.

    Yvonne Avis
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 04/08/2014

    Kirsty is an excellent guide!! She's always smiling and patient, and she will do her best to please everyone! We feel secure by her knowledge of the trails and her comments on the wild life are always interesting. I surely hope I can do another trip with her as a guide one day :)

    Marie-Claude Demers
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 30/07/2014

    Kirsty Chuchla was a fantastic guide, she was really knowledgeable about the local area and could answer any question that I had throughout the week. I really enjoyed that she would often present us with options to suit every member of the group. I also really loved learning about the history of the area, and it was really nice to have got to known her over the week. I would love to go a Wilderness Scotland week where she was the guide again, the best guide I have ever had on any holiday I've been on.

    Georgia Hill
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 30/07/2014

    If there were a more than excellent box to tick, I would do so for Kirsty, who was everything you could want in a guide. She was knowledgeable, obviously loved sharing the knowledge, organized, low-key about letting the day unravel, while keeping to the agenda, and unfailingly cheerful. She also expertly managed a group that had disparate abilities/desires for the hikes. She is a treasure.

    Rita Lloyd
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 29/07/2014

    If I could go higher than excellent, I would. Kirsty was fantastic--knowledgeable, cheerful, organized, professional, enthusiastic, fun, and skilled at working with a group. She is a gem.

    Meg Robertson
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 28/07/2014

    Loved the music (Peat Moss Fairies and Runrig) -- made it a very 'Highland' experience!

    Matthew Phan
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 27/07/2014

    Kirsty Chuchla saved my trip. She is fantastic. Not only is she a great guide, she knows the environment, flora and fauna, she is also great fun. You can tell she loves being a guide and this enthusiasm is contagious. Mostly, I have to thank Kirsty for being such a supportive person and such great help - When my knees started giving me problems she helped me get down the Ben Stack hillside with encouragement and wouldn't let me feel badly about slowing the group down. She had alternative plans ready that I could do when the current days activities would be too much for my knees. I was very happy with the alternate plans and had one wonderful afternoon and one glorious day. I never felt left out from the days activities and the group remained solid. I came home with wonderful experiences and not as a failure - I have to thank Kirsty for that.

    Katherine Boynton
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 26/07/2014

    Kirsty was a little gem, always smiling, and with plenty of good information to impart. The most enjoyable guide I have ever had!

    John McMillan
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 23/07/2014

    Kirsty is a superb guide and a wonderful person who made this trip to a fine one for everyone in the group!!

    Emilia Semberg
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 21/07/2014

    Very knowledgable on all aspects of the area (history, folklore, wildlife). Always cheerful and inclusive.

    Georgie Keane
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 16/07/2014

    Kirsty worked amazingly hard given the very wide range of abilities on the trip.

    Andy Keane
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 13/07/2014

    Kirsty was superb. Very knowledgeable. She led the group well and safely.

    Peter West
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 08/07/2014

    Kirsty continues to show professionalism, great knowledge and a passion for the job.
    She will go from strength to strength.

    Aileen McRoberts
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 08/07/2014

    You don't have a high enough category for Kirsty. She is so adaptable, plans carefully, cheers you up when your feet are dragging, gets the group mixing, and helps you see the beauty in whatever nature is around. This was my second trip with her as my guide, and she is a credit to WS.

    Dianne Edgar
    Wilderness Walking - The Knoydart Peninsula
    Reviewed on 08/07/2014

    Kirsty went out of her way to find something of interest for all of us.

    Claire Johnson
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 20/04/2014

    Kirstie was really really helpful and very encouraging to me as my experience of this kind of walking was nil. She always made sure that there were stops along the way. Tea and cake was welcome and I have pictures of these!

    Lyn Stagg
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 02/04/2014

    Kirsty is a little gem. Each day was well organised and thought through. Very personable and friendly, she made it possible for everyone to have a great time.

    Chris Walker
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 02/04/2014

    Kirsty was very knowledgeable of the places we walked. She was also very considerate of all the group and our needs. I liked that there were options to stay back from parts of the walks.

    Maureen Toth
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 29/03/2014

    Kirsty's guiding is exceptional.

    Judith Ayling
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 26/03/2014

    Kirsty was very supportive and managed the group well. She was sensitive to the different needs of individuals in the group.

    Anne Whiteford
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 26/03/2014

    We have been on a trip with Kirsty before. She is exceptionally good in my view - great interpersonal skills and she dealt with a slower member of our group with such a light touch. Her knowledge of the area/wildlife is impressive and her enthusiasm for the outdoors is infectious. There was one afternoon when the sun came out unexpectedly and so she drove us to an amazing beach when the programme for the day had finished. She really didn't have to do that and it ate into her own down-time (which must be very limited on these trips) and involved her in nearly an hour of extra driving.

    Hazel Clark
    Winter Highlands - North West
    Reviewed on 26/03/2014

    Wilderness are lucky to have her! Kirsty was well-prepared all-round, extremely reliable, sensitive to the needs of our tiny group of 2 and knowledgeable about local history, folklore, flora and fauna. She is a bonus socially and has a great sense of humour, which also helped make this trip a success.

    Noeleen Hargan
    Winter Walking - Winter Highlands (Plockton)
    Reviewed on 20/02/2014

    Kirsty is lovely. Nothing too much trouble including a trip to Portree so that I could buy a wicking top as I had forgotten to bring mine. Her guiding down from Old Man of Storr was second to none. She consistently chose the least steep gradients and knew unerringly where the deepest snow was likely to be. Full marks Kirsty!

    Sheila Dickson
    Winter Walking - Winter Highlands (Plockton)
    Reviewed on 20/02/2014

    She was absolutely fabulous.

    Bob Jermon
    Julie Beringer - Bespoke Tour
    Reviewed on 10/10/2013

    Kirsty made this trip! She worked hard to ensure that we had great walking experiences, in spite of some nasty weather. Kirsty is warm, funny, knowledgeable and very capable. I could not imagine a better guide.

    Susan Gateley
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 12/09/2013

    Kirsty was outstanding in all ways. She had grace, aplomb, patience, and extensive knowledge of almost any matter that came up for discussion. (We were surprised to discover that Wilderness Scotland had so few female guides; this might be a factor in considering future trips with WS.)

    Rebecca Bryant
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 10/09/2013

    Kirsty is first class. knowledgable, nothing too much trouble, very professional and fun to be with.

    Sandra Porter
    Wilderness Walking - Cape Wrath & The North West Highlands
    Reviewed on 09/09/2013

    Kirsty really looked after us and nothing was too much trouble. Always had a smile on her face.

    Elaine Warriner
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 27/08/2013

    Kirsty was at all times very attentiv. She shared a lot of her knowledge with us and was always ready for a laugh. I appreciate that very much. I felt very comfortable and safe with her as our guide.

    Claudia Amgwerd
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 26/08/2013

    See previous comments. I very much look forward to meeting up with Kirsty again!

    Sue Waton
    Wilderness Walking - Wilds of Assynt
    Reviewed on 26/08/2013

    Kirsty is a really great person. Reliable, warm and openminded. I learned a lot about Scotland and nature and wildlife.
    Her smile is absolutly winning and there was a lot of laughter.

    Marina Sindichakis
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 26/06/2013

    Kirsty has exceptional interpersonal skills in addition to prerequisite knowledge of all things Scottish.

    Peter Franklin
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 15/06/2013

    Kirsty has a lovely personality and went out of her way to make our experience wonderful. She had a good knowledge of the area, birds, plants and animals. She is also a very good driver which meant we could relax while on the road.

    Joanna Davidson
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 14/06/2013

    Very professional, good knowledge of wildlife landscape, history etc
    But also a very good sense of humor and very good driver

    Els Verplanke
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2013

    She is a very professional and pleasant person with a great knowledge of the area, history, plant and animal live;
    Enthousiastic, humorous and patiënt. She managed to have every one to get along well.

    Anke de Vries
    Wilderness Walking - Outer Hebrides & Skye
    Reviewed on 12/06/2013

    Book a trip with Kirsty

    Trip / DepartureAvailabilityStatusPriceBook
    Wilderness Walking – High Points of the Outer Hebrides
    4th May - 11th May 2024
    1 place(s) leftGuaranteed £2,495Book Now
    Wilderness Walking – High Points of the Cairngorms National Park
    20th Jul - 26th Jul 2024
    6 place(s) leftAvailable £2,495Book Now
    Wilderness Walking – Argyll & the Isles
    10th Aug - 16th Aug 2024
    4 place(s) leftGuaranteed £2,495Book Now

    Make Trip Private

    Sometimes it's nice to get family and friends together and travel privately for some quality time. This means you benefit from all the features of the group departure, including hand-picked accommodation and expert local guides and we'll take care of it all. Then you can make your choice of departures dates and we'll get back to you to finalise the details.

    We work together with our team of guides to decide which departures they lead each year. As part of that, guides provide available dates that they are free to be booked. This means that any of the dates you see in the first field of the form below, could be perfect for your private departure or customised tour.

    Kirsty's Gallery

    © Kirsty Chuchla / Wilderness Scotland

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