Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

Outty Ranking 83 4.8 · 837 traveler reviews12 hoursFrom $121
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Outty Ranking

83/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 837 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh worth booking?

Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh is a 12-hour experience in Edinburgh, United Kingdom, from $121 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 837 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
83 / 100
Rating
4.8/5 (837)
Duration
12 hours
From
$121 per person

Join this very small group tour (average group size of around 12 passengers) for a classic one day tour to Loch Ness. Traveling through spectacular Highland scenery, this tour is the perfect way to see lots of Scotland and search for the famous Loch Ness monster. Highlights include stunning Glen Coe and an optional boat cruise on Loch Ness, the world’s most mysterious stretch of water. This twelve hour adventure represents great value for money.

What you get

    About this experience

    Join this very small group tour (average group size of around 12 passengers) for a classic one day tour to Loch Ness. Traveling through spectacular Highland scenery, this tour is the perfect way to see lots of Scotland and search for the famous Loch Ness monster. Highlights include stunning Glen Coe and an optional boat cruise on Loch Ness, the world’s most mysterious stretch of water. This twelve hour adventure represents great value for money.

    What's included

    Included

    • Local guide
    • Driver/guide
    • Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini-coach
    • Live commentary on board
    • Very small group tour - average group size of around 12 passengers

    Not included

    • Food and drinks
    • Gratuities
    • Attraction Entrance Fees

    What you'll see and do

    1. Linlithgow Palace

      Catch a glimpse of Linlithgow Palace - birthplace of Mary Queen of Scots.

      Pass by without stopping

    2. Stirling Castle

      Pass by historic Stirling Castle on its rocky crags.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. National Wallace Monument

      The National Wallace Monument was built to honour our great Scottish hero - William Wallace.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Doune Castle

      Doune Castle is famous for its appearance in Monty Python's Holy Grail, Game of Thrones and Outlander.

      Pass by without stopping

    5. Enjoy a morning coffee stop within Scotland's first National Park. The options here include the Highland gateway village of Callander or the mountain views at beautiful Loch Lubnaig.

      30 minutes here

    6. Glencoe National Nature Reserve

      The notorious massacre of the MacDonald Clan was carried out amidst this beautiful and dramatic scenery on the 13th February 1692. You may recognise this part of the Highlands, used in the movie 'Skyfall' and 'Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban'. A majestic setting in any season!

      10 minutes here

    7. Rannoch Moor

      Travel across the wilderness of Rannoch Moor with wonderful views of the surrounding mountains.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Commando Monument

      View Ben Nevis (highest mountain in Britain at 1344 m) from the famous Commando Memorial. Here you can admire the spectacular views over the rugged landscape of Lochaber.

      10 minutes here

    9. Ben Nevis

      Enjoy views from the bus of Britain's highest mountain at 1344 m

      Pass by without stopping

    10. Caledonian Canal

      Travel alongside the Thomas Telford designed Caledonian Canal.

      Pass by without stopping

    11. Loch Ness

      Stop in Fort Augustus for lunch and to explore the largest loch in Scotland either from the shore or on an optional boat cruise (own expense).

      90 minutes here · Admission not included

    12. Cairngorms National Park

      As you enter the Cairngorms National Park there may be time for a short woodland walk and talk.

      15 minutes here

    13. Scottish Highlands

      Our final stop is in the heart of the Highlands (Big Tree Country in Highland Perthshire) where you can enjoy an early evening stroll through one of the picturesque villages or a quick refreshment before the final journey home.

      Pass by without stopping

    14. Forth Road Bridge

      Return to Edinburgh crossing over the river Forth.

      Pass by without stopping

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Edinburgh

    This tour departs from (and returns to) Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3BQ (opposite Howie's Restaurant). Please arrive no later than 07.45

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    This tour departs from (and returns to) Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3BQ (opposite Howie's Restaurant). Please arrive no later than 07.45

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Heart of Scotland Tours Ltd

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Small group tour - average group size of 12 passengers
    • Minimum age is 5 years old
    • Children must be accompanied by an adult
    • Operates in all weather conditions (unless it is unsafe to do so), please dress appropriately
    • Please inform us 7 days in advance if you are bringing a service animal

    Photos

    Glen Coe, Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from EdinburghLoch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh, photo 3Glen Coe, Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from EdinburghBuachaille Etive Mor, Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from EdinburghOptional cruise on Loch Ness, Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from EdinburghThis way to Loch Ness, Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 837 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    8 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    7 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Small groups

    3 mentions

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    837 verified traveler reviews for Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    729
    4 star
    76
    3 star
    19
    2 star
    4
    1 star
    9
    Sort
    charlessO2562OT · September 2026

    40th Wedding anniversary

    Roddy was great....very knowledgeable and IRISH as us.

    Response from the operator: Hi Charles, thanks for taking the time to review Heart of Scotland Tours and Roddy.

    via Tripadvisor

    NonalunaFamily · September 2026

    A beautiful day through the Highlands and so much more

    It was a wonderful experience, made even more special by our amazing guide, Roddy. His company, knowledge and passion made the whole day unforgettable. We saw enough to get a real sense of how beautiful Scotland is and to understand why the Highlands hold such a special place in the country’s history, culture and identity.

    Response from the operator: These are kind words, thanks so much.

    via Tripadvisor

    bobZ3160RC · September 2026

    Scottish Bliss

    This was a great tour! So much fun! Got to see so much plenty of stops Roddy was an excellent and friendly tour guide. He was so knowledgeable and I learned so much from him. First class Individual!

    via Tripadvisor

    evanrD4467MC · September 2026

    Highlight of our trip!

    Roddy was a wonderful tour guide. He was extremely personable and knowledgeable. We took many stops along our route and got to see and feed Highland Cows and get coffee/breakfast, lunch and plenty of restroom breaks. It was a very intimate experience and he was able to provide answers to all of our questions. The views on this tour were breathtaking and we had many opportunities to stop for pictures. I highly recommend this tour, it has been a highlight of our trip!

    via Tripadvisor

    Bondilyn_J · August 2026

    Highlands High! A beautiful day trip with no responsibility!

    What a wonderful experience we had! We are normally not 'book a tour' people, but we had one day to experience the Highlands and wanted to relax and let someone else do the work! Our guide/driver - Roddy - was amazing. His historical knowledge of everywhere we went was impressive, and he made us feel very comfortable during our 12-hour day (bathroom breaks, temperature control within the bus, etc). We loved that there were only 13 people on the bus, versus a giant group where you feel herded. Highly recommend!

    Response from the operator: Thanks for joining Roddy on his small group tour to Loch Ness. The wee red bus is the way to go!

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    12 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    293
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Heart of Scotland Tours Ltd, who run 4 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 73.4.

    See everything Heart of Scotland Tours Ltd runs

    Why this scores 83

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)86
    Review evidence (18% weight)84
    Booking momentum (14% weight)82
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)72
    Local standing (8% weight)48
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Edinburgh.

    How much does Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh cost?

    +

    Prices start at $121 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 Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh take?

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    Plan for about 12 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 Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 837 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Edinburgh, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?

    +

    Around 293 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?

    +

    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 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?

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    Included: Local guide; Driver/guide; Transport by air-conditioned Mercedes mini-coach; Live commentary on board; and Very small group tour - average group size of around 12 passengers. Not included: Food and drinks; Gratuities; and Attraction Entrance Fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?

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    This tour departs from (and returns to) Bus Stand ZE, Waterloo Place, Edinburgh, EH1 3BQ (opposite Howie's Restaurant). Please arrive no later than 07.45 Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh offered in?

    +

    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 Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group 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.

    What happens to Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Loch Ness and the Highlands Small Group Tour from Edinburgh?

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    Across 837 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, small groups. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

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