3 Days Tour Viking Express A Shetland Experience

Shetland, a remote archipelago off the northeastern coast of Scotland, has long captivated adventurous travelers. The 3 Days Tour Viking Express promises an immersive journey through this remarkable region, offering visitors a chance to uncover its Viking heritage, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes. From the archaeological marvels of Jarlshof to the iconic Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, this guided tour immerses participants in the rich cultural tapestry that defines the Shetland Islands. With thoughtful inclusions and a focus on moderate fitness, the Viking Express experience is poised to leave a lasting impression on those seeking an unforgettable exploration of this captivating corner of the world.

Key Points

• A 3-day Viking Express tour that takes travelers from Edinburgh, Scotland to the Shetland Islands, featuring Viking heritage sites and Shetland’s natural wonders.
• Includes accommodation, meals, air-conditioned transportation, and ferry crossings, as well as admission to highlights like Carol’s Ponies, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and Jarlshof archaeological site.
• Guided by a local expert who provides insights into the history and culture of the Shetland Islands.
• Moderate fitness level required, not wheelchair accessible, with a maximum group size of 49 travelers.
• Gratuities not included, with suggested tipping guidelines based on the quality of service.

Tour Overview

This 3-day Viking Express A Shetland Experience tour takes visitors on a journey to the rugged and picturesque Shetland Islands, located off the northern coast of Scotland.

The tour departs from Edinburgh, Scotland, and includes accommodation, meals, and transportation via air-conditioned vehicles and ferry crossings.

Travelers will be accompanied by a local tour guide in Shetland, who’ll provide insights into the region’s history and culture.

The tour’s highlights include visits to Carol’s Ponies, the Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and the archaeological site of Jarlshof, offering a glimpse into the islands’ Viking heritage.

Inclusions

The tour includes accommodation, meals, and transportation services.

Travelers will enjoy 2 nights of accommodation as well as breakfast on 2 days, 1 lunch, and evening meals. A local tour guide will provide services in Shetland.

The transportation includes air-conditioned vehicles and ferry crossings. Admission is included for several key attractions, such as the Carols Ponies, Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, and Jarlshof.

The tour departs from and returns to a central location in Edinburgh. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are allowed.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour departs from 19 Market St, Edinburgh EH1 1BL, UK, which is the coach bays between Cockburn Street & The Mound.

The tour starts at 12:30 PM and returns to the same meeting point.

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers and service animals are allowed.

It’s located near public transportation, and a moderate physical fitness level is required.

The tour can accommodate a maximum of 49 travelers.

Additional Information

Confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers are allowed. Service animals are permitted as well.

The meeting point is located near public transportation. A moderate physical fitness level is required to fully enjoy the tour.

The maximum group size is 49 travelers. Gratuities aren’t included in the package price.

Gratuities

Though gratuities are not included in the package price, visitors may wish to show their appreciation for the tour guide’s services by providing a tip at their own discretion. The amount of the tip may vary depending on the level of satisfaction with the guide’s performance. To help guide the decision, the following table provides a general recommendation for gratuity amounts:

Service	Suggested Tip
Excellent	15-20% of the tour price
Good	10-15% of the tour price
Average	5-10% of the tour price
Below Average	No tip

Ultimately, the decision to tip and the amount is at the discretion of the individual participant.

Shetland Highlights

As visitors embark on the Shetland Experience Tour, they can look forward to seeing the captivating history and natural wonders of this remote archipelago.

The tour offers a glimpse into the islands’ rich Viking heritage, with a visit to the archaeological site of Jarlshof, which showcases the remains of Bronze Age, Iron Age, Norse, and medieval settlements.

Travelers will also have the opportunity to witness the striking Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and observe the diverse wildlife, including the famous Shetland ponies.

Throughout the journey, the local tour guide will provide insightful commentary, bringing the Shetland Islands’ unique charm and storied past to life.

Exploring the Landscape

On the Shetland Experience Tour, visitors embark on a captivating journey through the archipelago’s diverse and breathtaking landscapes. From the rugged coastal cliffs and windswept grasslands to the serene inland lochs and rolling hills, the Shetland Islands offer a mesmerizing tapestry of natural wonders. The tour takes guests to iconic sites like Sumburgh Head, where they can marvel at the dramatic sea stacks and observe seabirds in their natural habitat. Inland, the tour explores the ancient archaeological site of Jarlshof, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage. Throughout the journey, travelers are immersed in the stunning vistas that epitomize the Shetland Islands’ striking natural beauty.

Landscape Feature	Description
Coastal Cliffs	Dramatic, windswept formations along the shoreline
Grasslands	Expansive, rolling meadows carpeted in lush vegetation
Inland Lochs	Serene, tranquil freshwater bodies nestled in the interior
Rolling Hills	Undulating terrain that offers panoramic vistas

Cultural Immersion

Alongside the stunning natural landscapes, the Shetland Experience Tour immerses visitors in the archipelago’s rich cultural heritage.

From exploring the ancient archaeological site of Jarlshof to meeting the iconic Shetland ponies, the tour provides a deep dive into the islands’ traditions and way of life.

Highlights include:

• Visiting the Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, a historic landmark offering panoramic views of the North Sea
• Attending a traditional Shetland music and dance performance
• Discovering the role of textiles in Shetland culture through demonstrations of knitting and weaving
• Exploring museums that showcase the region’s history, from Viking settlements to modern-day fishing communities
• Engaging with local artisans and craftspeople to learn about their unique skills and techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Tour?

The tour does not specify a limit on luggage size or weight. However, travelers are encouraged to pack light and manageable bags, as they’ll need to transport their own luggage during the tour.

Will There Be Free Time to Explore on My Own?

The tour includes free time for travelers to explore on their own. Participants will have opportunities to discover the sights and attractions of the Shetland Islands at their own pace during the 3-day tour.

What Should I Wear for the Outdoor Activities?

For the outdoor activities, it’s best to wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing. Layer up with warm jackets, hats, and sturdy shoes or boots to ensure you stay comfortable during the tour’s outdoor excursions.

Can I Book Additional Activities During the Tour?

Yes, travelers can book additional activities during the tour. The tour operator provides a range of optional excursions and experiences that can be added to the package, subject to availability and an additional fee.

Is It Possible to Extend My Stay in Shetland?

While the tour package doesn’t include an option to extend the stay in Shetland, travelers can explore adding extra nights in the region independently. This would allow more time to experience the islands’ sights and culture beyond the tour’s set itinerary.

The Sum Up

The 3 Days Tour Viking Express offers an unparalleled Shetland experience. Travelers will be immersed in the islands’ rich Viking heritage, stunning landscapes, and diverse wildlife, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and guided transportation. With a focus on moderate fitness and a small group size, this tour promises an engaging and unforgettable adventure for those seeking to explore the enchanting Shetland Islands.