8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 30 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh worth booking?
8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh is a 192-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $2,146 per person. It scores 58 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 30 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 58 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (30)
- Duration
- 192 hours
- From
- $2,146 per person
This tour takes you to the West coast, through the Highlands over to Skye and then up to the Orkney Isles with incredible driver-guides and comfortable panoramic windowed mini-buses and midi-coaches. Ride the Jacobite Steam Train, visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and The Cairngorms National Parks, Loch Ness, Culloden, Glen Coe, Eilean Donan Castle, Skara Brae, Maes Howe, the Ring of Brodgar and other landmarks of Scotland's rich history.
What you get
About this experience
This tour takes you to the West coast, through the Highlands over to Skye and then up to the Orkney Isles with incredible driver-guides and comfortable panoramic windowed mini-buses and midi-coaches. Ride the Jacobite Steam Train, visit Loch Lomond and the Trossachs and The Cairngorms National Parks, Loch Ness, Culloden, Glen Coe, Eilean Donan Castle, Skara Brae, Maes Howe, the Ring of Brodgar and other landmarks of Scotland's rich history.
What's included
Included
- Ferry to Orkney
- 7 nights accommodation as per selected
- Breakfast
- Orkney Attractions: Maes Howe, Skara Brae, Italian Chapel
Not included
- Drinks
- Gratuities
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Edinburgh
Please check in with Highland Experience staff inside/outside Caffe Nero by 8.15am
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Options you can book
B&B En-Suite - double
B&B En-Suite double room: Room for 2 persons with private bathroom
B&B En-Suite twin
B&B En-Suite Twin: Room for 2 persons with private bathroom
B&B En-Suite Single
B&B En-Suite Single: Rooms for one person with private bathroom
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Highland Experience Tours
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 3 years not accepted. Proof of age for children may be required at check in.
- Luggage Restrictions: Maximum weight: 15kg. Maximum size: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm per person plus small carry on
- If you are travelling alone, please choose the ‘Single Room’ option or we may not be able to accept your booking
- Double/twin room: these rooms are for 2 people. If 3 people choose this option, you will be allocated a family room for 3, subject to availability. If you prefer 2 rooms, you must choose ‘Single Room’ for one person
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 30 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
9 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Photo opportunities
4 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
30 verified traveler reviews for 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Memorable Highland Experience
This tour was an amazing experience covering a vast area of Scotland. From the breathtaking Highlands, to the amazing Isle of Skye and onto the wilderness of Orkney Islands, this tour is one to remember. We also had two amazing tour guides. For the first part, we had Craig, a big Scottish lad full of humour. For the second, Iain, a proud Scot full of passion for his country. Iain is very knowledgeable in Scottish history and narrates with much enthusiasm. His occasional jokes were such a laugh. He also went out of his way to take as places which where not part of itinerary. This is a holiday tour to remember and highly recommended. Thank you Highland Experience Tours 👍
Response from the operator: Hi there, We are very happy to hear that you had a fantastic tour with us! We are glad to hear that Iain and Craig made your experience even better and that the views and locations were amazing! We hope to see you again sometime! Kind regards Teddy Highland Experience
via Tripadvisor
Tour outstanding, accommodations and driver guides excellent. Evening requirements to be addressed.
The locations and scenery were phenomenal, the BnB accommodations were very good to outstanding, and the two driver guides were both very knowledgable, and intent on providing a wonderful tour. The one concern were the evenings - the distance between the BnBs and restaurants/shops and the lack of anyone to coordinate or drive us was difficult. Highland Experience Tours needs to address this.
Response from the operator: Hi there, We are glad to hear that you had a great time exploring Scotland and taking in the scenic views! Thank you for the feedback on the distance between the shops and Air BnB's we will take it into account for future trips. We hope to see you again soon! Kind Regards Teddy Highland Experience
via Tripadvisor
It was great, Katharine was outstanding.
Katharine, our tour guide for the second half of our our 8 Day Orkney, Skye and the Far North tour from Edinburgh, was amazing! She did an outstanding job, sharing her knowledge of Scottish history, stories and music. She made our visits to the sites more meaningful by telling us about them before we visited, and she made sure we knew the arrangements and itinerary for the day. When an issue with one of the lodgings developed unexpectedly Katharine handled it professionally and quickly, making sure everyone was taken care of. She was a great driver and she went above and beyond on numerous occasions, making this a very memorable trip. Her friendly attitude made us feel welcome and comfortable and helped to create a warm and friendly attitude among us on the van. I highly recommend Katharine.
via Tripadvisor
8 day Scotland Highland Tour
Had a wonderful experience. Booking was easy and communication and information was excellent. We had fun, wonderful, knowledgeable guides (Kenny and Stefan). They went the extra mile to show us “extra” things during the tour and got to know our groups interests/curiosities. The accommodations were very nice. We especially enjoyed the B&B experiences and breakfast with our hosts. Overall a fantastic experience in Scotland!
Response from the operator: Hi there, Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a wonderful review! It is fantastic to hear that your 8-day tour from Edinburgh was such a memorable experience. We are thrilled that Kenny and Stefan went above and beyond to tailor the trip to your group's interests and show you some hidden gems along the way. There is truly nothing quite like a Scottish B&B breakfast and the warm hospitality of local hosts. We appreciate you choosing us for your adventure in the Highlands, Orkney, and Skye, and we hope to welcome you back to Scotland for another trip in the future! Best wishes, Highland Experience Tours
via Tripadvisor
Brilliant guides Kenny and Stefan. Knowledgeable and fun, found us lots of little twists.
Lovely places and mixed weather which made it more dramatic
Response from the operator: Thank you for your wonderful review! We're delighted you enjoyed your 8-day Orkney, Skye and Highlands adventure. Kenny and Stefan will be thrilled to hear that their knowledge, humour, and personal touches helped make your journey so memorable. The dramatic Scottish scenery and ever-changing weather certainly add to the magic of the Highlands. Thank you for travelling with us, and we hope to welcome you back again soon! Best wishes, Eleonora Highland Experience Tours
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 192 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 11
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Who runs this experience
Operated by Highland Experience Tours, who run 19 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 67.5.
See everything Highland Experience Tours runsWhy this scores 58
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.
How much does 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh cost?
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Prices start at $2,146 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Edinburgh usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh take?
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Plan for about 192 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Edinburgh is not rushed.
Is 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 58 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 30 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 192-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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Around 11 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Edinburgh can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Edinburgh and add a light layer if any part of the 192-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Edinburgh within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Edinburgh?
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On Outty we rank every Edinburgh experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include The Chocolatarium Chocolate Tour Experience in Edinburgh, The Mountebank Comedy Walk of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Old Town: Historical Guided Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Edinburgh?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Edinburgh?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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Included: Ferry to Orkney; 7 nights accommodation as per selected; Breakfast; and Orkney Attractions: Maes Howe, Skara Brae, Italian Chapel. Not included: Drinks; and Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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Please check in with Highland Experience staff inside/outside Caffe Nero by 8.15am Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Edinburgh. Standard cancellation terms apply.
What do travelers say about 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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Across 30 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, photo opportunities. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for 8-Day Orkney Skye and Highlands Tour from Edinburgh?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including B&B En-Suite - double, B&B En-Suite twin, B&B En-Suite Single. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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