Exploring Orkney’s wonders with a private guide ensures you see what matters most. This 5-hour tour, offered by a local with over a century of combined experience, takes you to some of the island’s most iconic sites—Skara Brae, the Ring of Brodgar, and the Standing Stones of Stenness—while giving you the chance to customize your route. Starting at just under $600 for your group of up to four people, this experience promises a blend of history, landscape, and genuine local insights.
What makes this tour special? First, it’s completely private and flexible. No crowded bus or preset schedule here; your guide, Calum, who’s a native Orcadian, tailors the day to your interests. Second, it’s deeply personal. You get to experience the island through the eyes of someone who loves and knows it intimately, sharing stories, lesser-known sites, and local tips that you’ll remember long after your visit.
The only consideration? The price might seem steep for some, especially considering entry costs are not included. However, the value lies in the customized experience—you won’t be rushed or stuck following a rigid timetable—and in the personal knowledge you gain from a local who’s passionate about his homeland.
This tour suits travelers wanting an intimate, flexible day exploring Orkney’s highlights, especially those arriving on a cruise, ferry, or staying in a rental. If you prefer the idea of a private guide who can adapt to your pace and interests, this is likely a perfect fit.
Key Points
- Fully customizable itinerary tailored to your interests
- Private, exclusive experience with no other groups
- Local knowledge and stories from a native Orcadian guide
- Flexible timing and route options
- Includes pickup from various locations on the Orkney mainland
- Entry tickets not included, but can be purchased on your behalf
An Authentic, Personal Exploration of Orkney
If you’ve ever dreamed of traveling with a local who can open doors to the hidden corners of an island, this private tour offers exactly that. It’s not a cookie-cutter bus ride but a chance to discover Orkney’s rich tapestry of history, landscape, and life at your own pace. Starting with pickups from anywhere on the mainland—including the ferry terminals, hotels, and even cruise ship docks—your guide will meet you at your preferred location, ready to show you the island through his eyes.
The price of $592 per group for up to four people may seem high at first glance, especially since entry tickets are extra. But when you consider the personalized attention, the flexibility to visit as many or as few sites as you wish, and the insider knowledge you’ll gain, it’s a valuable way to maximize your short time on Orkney. You get a private vehicle, usually a midsize SUV or 4×4 estate car, offering comfort and roominess—more pleasant than crowded minibuses or large tour buses.
A Closer Look at the Itinerary
The standard route is designed to focus on the island’s most famous sites, but it’s fully adaptable. The typical stops include:
Stop 1: Pickup at Your Chosen Location
You can be collected from Saint Margaret’s Hope, Stromness, Kirkwall, or any other point on the main island. The flexibility here means you won’t need to rush or worry about tight schedules—just let your guide know where you’re staying or arriving.
Stop 2: Scapa Flow
The journey begins with scenic views along Scapa Flow, the historic naval anchorage famed for its role in both World Wars. The landscape here is striking, with wide-open waters and a sense of maritime history that’s palpable.
More Great Tours NearbyStop 3: Unstan Chambered Cairn
A shorter guided visit to this Neolithic site offers a glimpse into Orkney’s ancient past. It’s a less-visited site than Skara Brae but equally fascinating, and with a guide’s commentary, you’ll learn about its significance for prehistoric peoples.
Stop 4: Yesnaby
A rugged coastal area famed for its dramatic cliffs and sea stacks. With a brief guided tour, you’ll enjoy some of the most spectacular views on the island—great for photos and soaking in the wild landscape.
Stop 5: Skara Brae
A highlight for many visitors, Skara Brae is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most complete Neolithic villages. With about an hour here, you’ll have time to explore the reconstructed stone dwellings and learn about life 5,000 years ago.
Stop 6: Ring of Brodgar
This stone circle is impressive in size and mystery. Your guide will share stories about its cultural role and the stones’ possible symbolism, making the visit both scenic and thought-provoking.
Stop 7: Standing Stones of Stenness
Close by, these stones are part of the same ancient complex. A quick 20-minute stop allows you to walk among these giants and soak in the atmosphere of prehistoric Europe.
Drop-off: Return to Your Base Location
Your guide will drop you off at your original pickup point or another convenient location, concluding a day rich with history, landscape, and personal stories.
What Travelers Say About This Tour
Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility of Calum, the guide. One reviewer called him a “wonderful guide who loves his land,” highlighting his depth of local knowledge and willingness to show off off-the-beaten-path spots. Others appreciated how he tailored the route to their interests and was eager to answer questions about contemporary life and history alike.
Many reviews emphasize the personalized experience—not just seeing the sites but understanding their stories in the context of local life. As one traveler remarked, “Calum is a native Orcadian who loves his land and its incredible sites,” making the visit feel authentic and genuine.
Several visitors mentioned how comfortable and well-maintained the vehicle was, allowing them to relax and enjoy the scenery without the discomfort of larger group tours. The timing flexibility means you can spend more time at sites that fascinate you, or skip those that don’t align with your interests.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
While the upfront cost might seem high, it’s important to consider what’s included. You’re paying for exclusive, private access—no sharing with strangers—and the expert guidance of someone who truly loves his homeland. The ability to customize your day means you’ll get the insights and experiences YOU want, rather than a predetermined route.
You also gain local tips for dining, additional sites, and insider knowledge that adds depth to your visit. The small vehicle ensures comfort and flexibility, allowing you to navigate narrow roads and scenic routes that larger buses can’t access.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is ideal for independent travelers seeking a personal connection with Orkney. It suits those who value customization and local insights over large-group sightseeing. If you’re arriving on a cruise or ferry and want to maximize your short time on the islands, this private tour offers a relaxed, tailored approach.
It also works well for families or small groups wanting a comfortable, private day with flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those unable to handle the physical terrain at sites like Yesnaby.
The Sum Up
This private tour offers a compelling way to see some of Orkney’s most iconic sites without feeling rushed or confined by a set schedule. Led by a native guide who genuinely loves his island, you’ll gain a nuanced understanding of both ancient monuments and modern life, all in a comfortable, private vehicle.
If you’re a traveler craving an authentic, personalized experience and want the flexibility to shape your day on the islands, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate the stories behind the stones and want to explore off-the-beaten-path spots that larger tours often miss.
While the price is on the higher side, the value of personalized attention, local knowledge, and the ability to customize your route makes this a memorable and worthwhile investment for a short but meaningful visit to Orkney.
FAQ
How many people can join this tour?
Up to four guests can be accommodated in the private vehicle, making it a cozy, intimate experience.
What is included in the price?
The price covers pickup, transfers, a private guide, and the customizable tour route. Entry fees to sites like Skara Brae are not included but can be purchased separately.
Can I extend the tour beyond 5 hours?
Yes. The standard duration is 5 hours, but the guide is happy to extend the tour for an additional cost on the day.
Where can I be picked up?
Pickup is available from anywhere on the Orkney mainland, including ferry terminals, hotels, rental houses, and the airport.
Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the tour suits small groups seeking a personal experience. Be mindful of the terrain at some sites and the age of children.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s also wise to carry some cash for optional site tickets or purchases.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour goes ahead regardless of weather. Waterproofs are provided free of charge if needed, so you’ll be prepared for rain or wind.
Can I book this tour if I arrive by cruise ship?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how well the guide coordinates pickups from cruise ship docks, making it a convenient choice for cruise travelers wanting a private experience.
This private, flexible tour of Orkney is a fantastic way to truly connect with the island’s history, landscape, and local life—perfect for those who want more than just a run-through of top sights.
You can check availability for your dates here: