Our ‘traditional’ Orkney Wildlife and Culture tours have been running successfully for many years and 2027 is our 24th anniversary! Our tours always include a blend of the best of Orkney’s wildlife and history. We visit the 3 islands of Hoy (possible golden and white-tailed eagles, Scapa Flow Museum and the Old Man); South Ronaldsay (Burwick for possible Orca and the iconic Tomb of the Eagles (www.tomboftheeagles.co.uk); and Westray (Gannets, and everyone’s favourite, Puffins!). Many RSPB Reserves are visited both on the Orkney Mainland and the islands. We also spend a couple of days on the Orkney Mainland, and you will have one day to yourselves, perhaps to explore Kirkwall and/or Stromness, or take local walks from your comfortable family-run 4* hotel (www.thesandshotel.co.uk). Sites of archaeological or historical interest visited include the Heart of Neolithic Orkney’s Ring of Brodgar, the Stones of Stenness and Skara Brae see (http://www.historicenvironment.scot/visit-a-place/places/skara-brae/), and of course the unique Italian Chapel. Many important WW1 and WW2 sites are also included in the tour.
In early May you can expect to see around 80 or so species of birds, including many wintering birds such as Long-tailed duck or Great-northern Divers, or early seabirds returning to the cliffs. Our Orkney speciality, the Hen Harrier, will be seen hopefully at close quarters, and as it’s early in the breeding season the birds may still be displaying, or ‘sky-dancing’, truly a delightful experience to witness.
Out to sea or else on Scapa Flow you will encounter sea duck and divers, and may encounter cetaceans – including Orca – but, once again, an element of luck and a good sea state is required for finding and observing these and other whales and dolphins. In recent years groups in alternate weeks have managed to see Orca, so there’s a reasonable 50:50 chance of seeing these amazing creatures as they patrol our shores hunting for fish and seals. We always prioritise Orca if they are around! Harbour seals and Grey (Atlantic) seals are always around and we will enjoy watching them as they’re fondly known as ‘selchies’ here and are creatures of folklore.
Tour size is restricted to 6 total so that you are guaranteed lots of individual attention. Transport is by means of our 9-seater electric vehicle and everyone will have access to a window seat. Each week is different and depends partly on the weather and partly on chance, and we wouldn’t have it any other way! Please click on the title to book. Cost £2,450 per person (a single supplement of £300 will apply if applicable). Returning guests from our 24 years of showing people the delights of Orkney will qualify for a 10% discount!