Wildlife Adventures
Outer Hebrides & St Kilda

Day 1 – Travel to The Hebrides

We meet in Inverness and drive to Ullapool, where we catch the morning ferry across to the Isle of Lewis, the largest island in the Outer Hebrides. The ferry journey takes us through well-known seabird and cetacean feeding areas – so we will hope for some sightings before we even arrive on the islands. Driving south we’ll admire the scenery on the islands and stop for a short hike to stretch our legs before reaching our accommodation this evening.  (L, D)

Day 2 – Voyage to St Kilda*

Located over 40 miles offshore, visiting the amazing double World Heritage Site of St Kilda requires a boat crossing of 3 hours each way. Though challenging, it is a very rewarding day. The crossing provides a great opportunity to see marine life, and as we approach the islands we see, hear and smell the vast seabird colonies. We’ll have a few hours on land to explore this incredible island, home to some of the highest sea cliffs in Britain and globally-important colonies of gannets, fulmars and puffins. The incredible birdlife and the thought-provoking story of the islanders who once lived on this remote and unforgiving island will stay with you long after the cliffs become a mere dot on the horizon. St Kilda is a spectacular and very special place to visit. (B, L, D)

*Please note that the journey to St Kilda strongly depends on decent sea conditions. If it is not possible to visit on Day 2 your guide will try to reschedule for a different day during the trip. If weather prevents this altogether then a wildlife cruise in Loch Roag will be arranged instead.

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Day 3 – The History of Harris

The Isle of Harris has a long and fascinating history. Today we’ll follow the Golden Road – so called because of the cost involved to build through the rough terrain. We’ll visit St Clement’s Church, thought to be the grandest medieval building on the western isles. We’ll take a walk across the vast expanses of moorland which hold nationally important breeding populations of greenshank and dunlin. This afternoon we’ll explore the white sands of Luskentyre, truly one of the most breath-taking beaches on the Isle of Harris. Keep your eyes peeled for marine and bird life and the mysterious white ponies that roam the dunes. (B, L, D)

Day 4 – In Search of Raptors

Today we head into the hills of Harris, which has one of the highest density of golden eagles in Europe. Here we will visit a purpose-built eagle hide which is located in a dramatic glen in the hopes of spotting the eagles that call this glen home. Sea eagles, also known as white-tailed eagles, are also frequently spotted in this area as they come in to feed on salmon and other prey. Other daytime hunters include the hen harrier and furious-looking short-eared owl, either of which could turn up almost anywhere during our time on the islands.

This evening, we’ll leave Harris and head to the Isle of Lewis where we’ll stay for the night, ready to explore this intricate coastline in the morning. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – White Sands & Machair Plains

This morning we’ll take a hike around the coast discovering the vibrant colours of the wildflowers found in the Machair plains. This rare habitat is only found on the exposed western coastline of Scotland and Ireland, and is always busy with different birds and insects. Keep a careful eye on the shoreline and the rocky outcrops for the sleek otters that inhabit this area. They can be elusive but it is a special experience when you see one. This afternoon, we’ll head to the famous Neolithic-era Callanish Standing Stones which you can explore freely. Placing your hands on the stones, you can reach back through time to the ancient islanders who walked the land 5,000 years ago. (B, L, D)

Day 6 – The Butt of Lewis

Today we’ll explore what is reputedly the windiest spot in Britain, a lighthouse perched on top of the impressive cliffs at the Butt of Lewis. We’ll hope for a calm day but it is always enjoyable to watch the sea crash dramatically on the rocks. These cliffs are home to many species of seabird including kittiwakes, shags, black guillemots and fulmar petrels. It’s a fantastic place to watch the birds hang suspended at eye level as they ride the thermals, giving you an up close look. On a calm day, spot whales, dolphins and porpoises feeding along the coast. Spending the day at the very top of the Hebrides is a wonderful way to end the trip. (B, L, D)

Day 7 – Return to Inverness

We begin our journey back to Inverness today, but there are still opportunities for some wonderful scenery and excellent wildlife sightings. We’ll travel to Stornoway where we’ll visit the museum in Lewis Castle and enjoy a walk in the grounds. We’ll then return to the mainland and journey back to Inverness, arriving at the train station by 8.00pm. (B, L)