Shetland

Dates: 2nd - 9th June 2024

A visit to Shetland is a must for anyone keen on Scotland and it's wildlife with bustling seabird colonies, dramatic scenery and the chance of catching up with Orcas in this exciting archipelago of islands that once belonged to Norway. Having lived in Shetland for 3 years before moving to the Outer Hebrides your guide has an intimate knowledge of the wildlife and the islands' highlights. This trip is timed to make the most of the breeding seabirds and we'll visit colonies at Sumburgh Head, Hermaness and Noss which are thronged with seabirds at this time of year. We'll also visit Mousa on a night trip which is a real highlight as we make our way to the Iron Age broch in the simmer dim with Storm Petrels whizzing around your ears in the twilight. It's a superb chance to see one of the best wildlife experiences in Scotland. It's not all seabirds too as we'll visit Fetlar with the hope of seeing Red-necked Phalarope and Whimbrel whilst the Keen of Hamar on Unst is home to some very rare plants that should be flowering at this time of year. We'll also look for otters and cetaceans such as Killer Whales with Shetland being the best place in the UK to catch up with these incredible animals.

Short list of species: Red-throated Diver, Great Northern Diver, Bonxie, Arctic Skua, Puffin, Black Guillemot, Razorbill, Guillemot, Storm Petrel, Gannet, Fulmar, Red-necked Phalarope, Golden Plover, Dunlin, Whimbrel, Arctic Tern, Eider, European Otter, possible Killer Whale, Harbour Porpoise, Minke Whale, Shetland Mouse-ear amogst many others.

Full printable itinerary here.

Dates: 2nd - 9th June 2024

Cost: £1,450 (£100 cheaper for 2 sharing)

Price includes 7 nights accommodation, all meals and transport throughout the tour. It also includes boat trips to Mousa for the Storm Petels and around Noss.

Accommodation: We'll be staying in a comfortable hotels on the Mainland.

Group size: 8 (maximum)

Booking: Please email: steveduffield70@gmail.com

Where to meet: Please either meet in Lerwick if coming via the Northlink Ferry from Aberdeen or at Sumburgh Airport.

Trip reports: 2019