Pitlochry is a charming Highland town that packs a punch when it comes to adventure and scenic experiences. It’s a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from adrenaline-pumping water activities to peaceful scenic drives. What truly sets Pitlochry apart is the variety — whether you want to leap into a waterfall canyon, paddle through roaring rapids, or explore Scotland’s iconic lochs and mountains, there’s something here for everyone. We especially love the Bruar Canyoning Experience for its perfect mix of thrills and natural beauty, plus the chance to capture your adventure with free photos and videos.
If you’re looking for a quick, high-energy activity, the canyoning and river tubing tours are great bets. But for those wanting a full-day immersion in the Highlands, the private Loch Ness and Glencoe tour offers a deep dive into Scotland’s legendary landscape. Below, we’ve rounded up the five best tours in Pitlochry to help you choose the perfect fit for your interests, fitness level, and schedule.
1. Perthshire: Discover Bruar Canyoning Experience
This exciting canyoning adventure takes you through the waterfalls and pools of the Bruar Gorge. It’s a three-hour experience that’s perfect for those who want a hands-on, active day in the Scottish Highlands. Led by an expert guide, you’ll learn the basics of canyoning before jumping, swimming, sliding, abseiling, and zipping down waterfalls. The activity is designed to be accessible yet challenging enough to give a real adrenaline rush.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to explore Scotland’s hidden waterfalls while being guided by someone with plenty of local know-how. The guides are experienced and friendly, ensuring everyone is safe and having fun. Plus, you get free photos and videos to relive the experience later. With a 5/5 rating from six reviews, this tour is highly recommended for adventure-seekers who don’t mind getting wet and muddy. It’s a fantastic option for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a memorable Highland adventure that combines nature, excitement, and great company.
Bottom Line: If you’re craving a mix of thrill and scenery with professional guidance, this canyoning trip offers excellent value and memorable fun.
2. Pitlochry, Scotland: Summer White Water Rafting Tour
For those who love a splash of adrenaline, the white water rafting experience on the River Tummel is hard to beat. This 2.5-hour trip includes a comprehensive safety briefing and the chance to raft grade 3 and 4 rapids with a professional guide. The trip is set in one of Scotland’s most scenic areas, offering both excitement and stunning views.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of thrill and scenery. You’ll be navigating the turbulent waters while surrounded by rugged Highland landscapes, making every rapid a thrill and every calm stretch a moment to enjoy the view. The last rapid, an 18-foot grade 4, is a highlight for many, providing that perfect mix of scream and satisfaction. The reviews score this at 4.8/5 from five participants, with many praising the safety measures and the fun, adrenaline-filled ride.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a quick, intense dose of Highland water fun, with top-notch safety and spectacular scenery.
3. Edinburgh: Loch Ness, Glencoe & Highlands Private Tour
Looking for a full-day, immersive experience? This private tour from Edinburgh offers a comprehensive Highland adventure, perfect for those eager to see Scotland’s most iconic sights. Over approximately 12 hours, your guide will take you through the Trossachs and Cairngorm National Parks, with stops at Glen Coe, Loch Ness, and charming Pitlochry.
The tour includes scenic drives past dramatic mountains, peaceful lochs, and historic sites. Highlight stops include a walk along the shores of Loch Ness and a chance to try spotting Nessie, as well as a visit to Glen Coe’s stunning peaks. The itinerary is flexible, allowing you to soak in the landscape and learn about the region’s stories. With a 4.6/5 rating from reviews, travelers appreciate the personalized attention and expert commentary.
If you’re interested in a deep dive into Scotland’s natural beauty and legendary stories, this private tour offers excellent value for a full day of sightseeing. It’s perfect for families or couples wanting a well-rounded Highland experience.
Bottom Line: This tour provides a detailed, scenic exploration of the Highlands, combining natural beauty with storytelling—great for those who want to see a lot in one day.
$1,232 per group up to 6
4. Pitlochry: Gorge Walking Family Tour
If you’re traveling with family or looking for a fun outdoor activity, this gorge walking tour is a highlight. It lasts about 2.5 hours and takes you through the stunning Bruar waterfall gorge. Led by experienced guides, you’ll get behind waterfalls, swim through pools, and jump or slide through the water as you explore the wild beauty of the Scottish landscape.
What makes this tour special is the chance to get underneath and behind waterfalls, offering a unique perspective on Scotland’s rugged terrain. The guides are friendly and safety-conscious, making sure everyone has a good time, regardless of age or experience. The tour is rated 5/5 based on reviews, with families noting how memorable and exciting it was.
The free photos and videos are a nice touch, helping you remember your adventure. It’s suitable for active families who want to experience the outdoors in a safe, fun environment. Expect a splashy, wet, and lively experience that’s both energizing and scenic.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families seeking a fun, active day in nature with plenty of photo-worthy moments.
5. Pitlochry, Perthshire: River Tummel Tubing
For a more laid-back but equally exhilarating experience, river tubing on the River Tummel delivers pure fun. Lasting about 3 hours, this adventure lets you float along the river in a tube, enjoying Scotland’s beautiful countryside from a fresh perspective. Top-quality equipment and safety are priorities, so you can relax and focus on the thrill of gliding over gentle rapids and enjoying the scenery.
This tour is perfect if you want an active but less intense water experience, ideal for families or groups wanting to combine sightseeing with some fun. Reviewers praise the outstanding customer experience and the free, high-quality photos that capture your ride. The scenery along the river is stunning, and the whole experience is designed to be fun and safe.
If you’re looking for a relaxing yet exciting way to see the Highland landscape, river tubing offers a great balance of adventure and comfort. It’s also a good option if you prefer a shorter, less adrenaline-heavy activity but still want to try something memorable.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for those wanting a gentle, scenic water adventure without the intensity of rapids or canyoning.
$101 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour in Pitlochry
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, the Bruar Canyoning or white-water rafting trips are top options — just be prepared to get wet and muddy. For a more relaxed but visually stunning experience, the private Highland tour offers a comprehensive look at Scotland’s iconic landscapes. Families with kids or those seeking fun on a smaller scale might prefer the gorge walking tour, which combines adventure with safety and great photo opportunities.
Consider your budget and schedule as well. The canyoning and tubing tours are shorter and more affordable, while the private tour offers a full day of sightseeing at a higher cost. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and avoid missing out.
Final Thoughts
Pitlochry offers a wide range of tours that cater to thrill-seekers, nature lovers, and families alike. Whether you want to zipline down waterfalls, paddle through rapid waters, or explore the Highlands at a relaxed pace, the options are plentiful and varied. For pure adrenaline, the Bruar Canyoning and white water rafting tours are unbeatable. If scenic beauty and storytelling are more your style, the private Highland tour hits the mark.
No matter your choice, booking ahead ensures you’ll get to enjoy these memorable experiences without stress. So, pack your sense of adventure and get ready to discover Scotland’s stunning landscapes in a way that suits your style.