If you’re planning a visit to the Orkney Islands, a private tour designed by a native islander offers an authentic, personalized experience that captures the essence of this rugged, historic archipelago. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but based on glowing reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a tailored journey through Orkney’s key sights, with the flexibility to suit your interests.
What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s completely private, meaning you won’t be stuck with a large bus or noisy group—just your party and a guide who knows the land inside out. Second, the tour’s customizable nature means you can focus on what interests you most, whether it’s ancient Neolithic sites like Skara Brae or iconic standing stones like the Ring of Brodgar. A potential consideration is the price—at $592 for up to four people, it’s an investment, but one that seems to offer excellent value given the personalized approach.
This tour is ideal for travelers who value flexibility and local insight. If you prefer to avoid rigid schedules and want to explore at your own pace, or if you’re arriving by cruise or ferry and want a compact yet comprehensive experience, this private Odyssey could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Fully customizable itineraries tailored to your interests and pace
- Private experience with just your group, no large bus crowds
- Local guide with deep knowledge of Orkney’s history and landscape
- Flexible timing and route, with no strict schedule
- Pickup and drop-off at your chosen location on the mainland
- Ideal for short visits or day-trippers arriving by ferry or cruise
What to Expect from This Orkney Private Tour
This is not a cookie-cutter tour but a bespoke journey crafted for your group. The tour lasts 5 hours, but you can extend it on the day if you wish, making it adaptable to your energy levels and curiosity. You’ll be picked up from any convenient location—be it the ferry port, hotel, or cruise terminal—and transported in a comfortable SUV or estate car that comfortably fits four adults.
The itinerary is built around your preferences, but the standard route includes notable highlights such as Skara Brae, the ancient Neolithic village, and iconic stone circles like the Ring of Brodgar and Standing Stones of Stenness. Along the way, scenic stops like Scapa Flow offer stunning views and photo opportunities. You can also explore sites like Unstan Chambered Cairn and Yesnaby—the latter offering a guided tour of rugged cliffs and coastal scenery.
Reviewers consistently praise the local guide’s depth of knowledge. One reviewer notes that their guide, Calum, was “a native Orcadian who loves his land and its incredible sites,” sharing entertaining stories and insights about modern life and ancient landmarks alike. Another traveler called him “very flexible” and appreciated that he tailored the day to their specific requests, including visiting off-the-beaten-path spots and secret viewpoints.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Orkney.
The Highlights and Their Significance
Skara Brae: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the jewel of Orkney’s prehistoric offerings, dating back over 5,000 years. You’ll love the way your guide explains how these stone dwellings were built, and how they give a direct link to early human settlement.
Ring of Brodgar & Standing Stones of Stenness: These majestic stone circles are among the most famous prehistoric monuments in the UK. Expect to hear stories about their possible functions—ceremonial sites, astronomical observatories, or something else entirely. The 45-minute visit here is a perfect blend of history, landscape, and photo moments.
Unstan Chambered Cairn: This less-visited Neolithic site offers a quieter, more intimate experience. The guide’s tour here (around 20 minutes) can give you a taste of Orkney’s ancient past—perfect for those interested in archaeology.
Yesnaby Cliffs: A highlight for nature lovers. The guided 15-minute stop here provides spectacular views of rugged coastline, cliffs, and possibly spotting seabirds or puffins. It’s a great contrast to the ancient sites, offering a glimpse into the island’s geological beauty.
Scapa Flow: As you pass this historic body of water, you’ll uncover stories of wartime shipwrecks and strategic naval importance, adding depth to your understanding of modern history.
The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Customization
The tour is designed to be completely flexible. Using a midsize SUV or estate car, the guide can navigate narrow country lanes and scenic routes, providing a comfortable ride with plenty of room for your group. The standard 5-hour tour is a good starting point, but many reviews mention extending the trip—something your guide is happy to arrange if your group wants more time exploring.
Pickup and drop-off are included at your preferred location—whether that’s the ferry terminal, your hotel, or the cruise port. This level of convenience means you won’t have to worry about transportation logistics, especially if you’re arriving on a tight schedule. The guide emphasizes punctuality and responsiveness, though travelers should note that email communication might sometimes be slower; contacting directly is recommended if urgent.
Pricing at $592 per group (up to 4 people) reflects a focus on quality over quantity. When you consider the personalized, private experience and the flexibility to tailor your day, this fee offers good value—especially compared to large group tours, which often have fixed routes and less interaction with a guide.
What You Need to Bring
Comfortable shoes are a must—many of the sites involve walking over uneven terrain. Cash is recommended for optional entry tickets or small purchases, as not all sites accept card payments.
More Great Tours NearbyWeather and Preparation
Orkney’s weather can be unpredictable. The guide mentions that tours will proceed regardless of rain or shine, and waterproofs are provided free of charge if needed. This means you should come prepared for outdoor conditions, even if the forecast looks uncertain.
Reviews: Authentic Insights from Past Travelers
Multiple travelers highlight Calum’s expertise and personable approach. One wrote, “Calum was an excellent guide! He was very flexible and showed us what we asked to see, plus a lot more we didn’t know to ask for,” capturing the personalized nature of this experience.
Another reviewer shared, “We thoroughly enjoyed our day with him and appreciated his in-depth knowledge and all the interesting facts and stories he shared.” These comments underscore how the guide’s enthusiasm and local insights elevate the tour beyond a simple sightseeing trip.
Many comments also mention the stunning landscapes and unique sites—from the ancient stones to the rugged coastlines—and how the tour allows plenty of free time to explore and appreciate each stop.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This private tour is perfect for those seeking an intimate, flexible experience. Travelers who appreciate the value of a knowledgeable local guide, want to avoid large crowds, or have specific sites they want to prioritize will find this experience highly rewarding. It’s especially suitable for cruise passengers or day-trippers who need a well-organized, efficient way to see key highlights in a limited time.
It’s less ideal for travelers with mobility issues, as the tour involves walking over uneven terrain and isn’t wheelchair accessible. Also, if you’re traveling with a larger group, you’ll need to consider booking multiple spots or look for other options.
The Sum Up: Why Choose This Private Odyssey?
In a nutshell, this private, customizable tour offers exceptional value for travelers eager to explore Orkney on their own terms. The guide’s local expertise ensures you’ll gain insights that go beyond guidebooks, revealing stories, legends, and viewpoints that only a native can share. The flexible timing means you can linger at your favorite sites or skip others, tailoring the day perfectly to your interests.
The experience’s size and private nature make it an ideal choice for couples, small families, or friends who want a relaxed, personal encounter with Orkney’s ancient landscapes and modern life. For those wanting a deeper connection to the land and its stories, this tour promises a memorable journey.
However, be prepared for the weather—Orkney is famously unpredictable—and pack accordingly. The cost reflects a premium on personalized service and flexibility, but the insider knowledge, scenic stops, and opportunity to explore at your own pace make it worthwhile.
In short, if you’re after a private, authentic, and flexible way to see Orkney’s main sights—and enjoy the company of a passionate local guide—this tour is hard to beat.
FAQ
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes. The tour is fully private and customizable, so you can choose the sites you want to see or focus on certain themes like archaeology, landscapes, or history.
What sites are included in the standard route?
Typically, stops include Skara Brae, Ring of Brodgar, Standing Stones of Stenness, Unstan Chambered Cairn, Yesnaby, and scenic views like Scapa Flow.
How long is the tour?
The standard tour lasts about 5 hours, but you can extend it during the day if you wish, usually for an additional cost.
What vehicle is used for transportation?
A midsize SUV or estate car is used, both offering more comfort and room than minibus-style vehicles, suitable for groups up to four adults.
Are entry tickets included?
No, tickets to sites like Skara Brae are not included but can be purchased on the day at cost price, or you can buy them in advance to avoid capacity issues.
Is the tour suitable for all weather conditions?
Yes, the tour proceeds regardless of weather, and waterproofs are provided free of charge if needed, so come prepared for outdoor conditions.
Choosing this private Orkney tour means embracing the island’s authentic spirit at your own pace, guided by someone who truly knows and loves the land. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or simply seeking a personal connection to Orkney’s stunning scenery, this experience offers a memorable way to discover the best of what the islands have to offer.
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