3-Day Budget Backpacker Isle of Skye and the Highlands Tour From Edinburgh

Explore Scotland’s Isle of Skye and the Highlands on this 3-day budget backpacker tour from Edinburgh. You’ll visit iconic landmarks like Eilean Donan Castle, marvel at natural wonders like Sligachan Old Bridge, and have the chance to spot the Loch Ness Monster. The tour includes shared dorm-style accommodations and an expert local guide to keep costs down. You’ll also learn about conservation efforts at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. With a flexible cancellation policy and a moderate level of fitness required, this budget-friendly tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Continue reading to discover more about the tour’s highlights and inclusions.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best 3 Day Tours In Edinburgh.

Key Points

• A 3-day guided budget tour that explores the natural wonders of the Scottish Highlands, including Loch Ness and the Isle of Skye’s iconic landmarks.
• Visits Eilean Donan Castle, Sligachan Old Bridge, Kilt Rock, and Old Man of Storr, offering immersion in the region’s rugged beauty.
• Includes a stop at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre to learn about conservation efforts in the Highlands.
• Accommodation is provided in shared dorm-style lodging, keeping the tour cost affordable for budget-conscious travelers.
• Tour departs from a central location in Edinburgh and returns to the same point, providing convenience for participants.

Tour Itinerary

The 3-day tour begins with a departure from Edinburgh’s High Street at 7:45 am, setting out to explore the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye.

Travelers will visit Loch Ness, home to the legendary Loch Ness Monster, and the iconic Eilean Donan Castle.

On the Isle of Skye, the group will marvel at the dramatic Sligachan Old Bridge, the towering Kilt Rock, and the mystical Old Man of Storr. They’ll also have the chance to explore Dunvegan Castle, the oldest continuously inhabited castle in Scotland.

Overnight stays will be in shared dorm accommodations, allowing for a budget-friendly and immersive backpacking experience.

Highlights of the Highlands

Beyond the itinerary, the tour promises a captivating exploration of the Highlands’ natural wonders. Travelers will enjoy the rugged beauty of this iconic Scottish region, from the misty shores of Loch Ness to the dramatic cliffs of the Isle of Skye.

Along the way, they’ll marvel at the historic Eilean Donan Castle, cross the picturesque Sligachan Old Bridge, and gaze upon the sculpted formations of Kilt Rock and the Old Man of Storr.

At the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, they’ll learn about the ongoing efforts to restore the Highlands’ natural habitats. With an expert local guide leading the way, this budget-friendly tour offers an unforgettable adventure through Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.

Loch Ness and Dunvegan Castle

One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the legendary Loch Ness, where travelers will have the chance to spot the elusive Loch Ness Monster.

After exploring the mysterious lake, the group will venture to Dunvegan Castle, the ancestral seat of the Clan MacLeod and one of the oldest continuously inhabited castles in Scotland. Visitors can wander the castle’s grand halls, admire its impressive defensive architecture, and learn about the clan’s rich history.

The tour also includes a stop at the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, where guests can discover the area’s conservation efforts and enjoy the breathtaking Highland scenery.

Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable local guide will share captivating stories and insights, immersing the travelers in the cultural and natural wonders of the Scottish Highlands.

Accommodations and Inclusions

This budget-friendly tour provides 2 nights of shared dorm-style accommodation, allowing travelers to keep costs down while seeing the stunning Scottish Highlands.

Alongside the lodging, the package includes the services of a knowledgeable local guide who’ll lead the group through the region’s windswept landscapes and share captivating tales of its history and legends.

Travelers will also gain entry to the Dundreggan Rewilding Centre, where they can explore the ongoing conservation efforts in this picturesque part of the country.

While meals and entry fees for select attractions aren’t included, the tour’s inclusions provide an affordable way to discover the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Isle of Skye and the Scottish Highlands.

Exclusions and Additional Costs

While the tour package includes several key elements, there are some additional costs travelers should be aware of.

Food and drinks aren’t provided, except where specified, so you will need to budget for their own meals throughout the trip.

Plus, entry fees for certain attractions, such as Eilean Donan Castle and the National Wallace Monument, aren’t covered by the tour price and will need to be paid separately.

Gratuities for the guide are also an exclusion, so travelers may want to set aside a small amount to tip the guide at the end of the tour.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The tour departs from 60 High Street in Edinburgh at 7:45 am, and you will return to this same meeting point at the end of the 3-day adventure. This central location in the heart of the city makes for a convenient starting and ending point for the tour. Travelers should arrive promptly to ensure they don’t miss the scheduled departure, as the tour cannot wait for latecomers. At the conclusion of the journey, the group will be dropped off at the original meeting spot, allowing everyone to continue their explorations or head back home.

Departure Time	Meeting Location	Return Location
7:45 am	60 High Street, Edinburgh	60 High Street, Edinburgh
Punctuality	Convenience	Flexibility
Avoid Delays	Central Spot	Further Options

Tour Requirements and Restrictions

To participate in this tour, travelers must meet certain requirements and be aware of the applicable restrictions.

Specifically, the minimum age for joining the tour is 18 years old, and it isn’t wheelchair accessible. Plus, a moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour involves some walking and exploration in the rugged Scottish Highlands landscape.

The group size is capped at a maximum of 30 travelers. Cancellations made up to 24 hours before the tour date are eligible for a full refund, providing flexibility for potential participants.

It’s important for interested travelers to carefully consider these factors to ensure the tour aligns with their abilities and expectations.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Travelers can receive a full refund if they cancel their tour reservation up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

This flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind for those who need to adjust their plans last-minute.

After the 24-hour window, no refunds are available, though travelers can change the date of their tour for a small fee.

The tour operator understands that unexpected circumstances may arise, so they’ve designed a cancellation policy that balances the needs of both the travelers and the business.

Guests can feel confident booking this tour, knowing they’ve the option to receive a full refund if their plans change within a reasonable timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour, but they are not included in the tour price. The tour provides accommodation, transportation, and an English-speaking guide, but meals are at the traveler’s own expense.

Is There an Option to Upgrade to Private Accommodation?

The tour offers shared dorm accommodation only, with no option to upgrade to private rooms. Private accommodation would need to be arranged separately from the tour. The tour focuses on immersing travelers in the natural landscapes and local experiences of the Scottish Highlands.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Hikes?

For the hikes, travelers should bring sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, layered clothing, and sun protection. The terrain can be rugged, so proper hiking equipment is recommended to fully enjoy the windswept landscapes and local legends of the Scottish Highlands.

Can I Extend My Stay in Isle of Skye After the Tour?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in Isle of Skye after the tour. The tour only includes 2 nights of accommodation, so participants are free to book additional nights and explore the island further on their own.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Overnight Stays?

The tour provides shared dorm accommodation during the overnight stays, but it does not specify whether Wi-Fi is available. Travelers should check with the accommodation providers for information on Wi-Fi access and connectivity during their stay.

Recap

This budget backpacker tour offers an affordable and immersive experience in the Scottish Highlands and Isle of Skye.

Travelers will marvel at the region’s breathtaking landscapes, from the mysterious Loch Ness to the striking Eilean Donan Castle.

With shared dorm accommodations and a knowledgeable local guide, this tour provides an authentic way to explore the untamed magic of Scotland’s northern wonders.