Loch Ness & Highlands Day Trip from Edinburgh

From£69
12 hours
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

About this activity

Experience the magic of Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands on a guided day trip from Edinburgh, including a visit to Urquhart Castle and scenic landscapes.

Highlights

  • Explore the legendary Loch Ness
  • Discover the historic Urquhart Castle
  • Enjoy scenic views of the Scottish Highlands
  • Learn about local myths and legends
  • Travel in a comfortable luxury mini-coach

Full description

Join us for an unforgettable journey through Scotland's most iconic landscapes. Departing from Edinburgh, you'll traverse the picturesque Scottish Highlands, renowned for their breathtaking beauty and rich history. At Loch Ness, embark on a scenic cruise, offering panoramic views of the loch and the majestic Urquhart Castle. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will share captivating tales of local myths and legends, enriching your experience. With comfortable transportation in a luxury mini-coach, this day trip promises a perfect blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. Don't miss out on this opportunity to immerse yourself in Scotland's enchanting heritage and landscapes.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands
  • Visit to Urquhart Castle
  • Comfortable transportation in a luxury mini-coach
  • Meals and beverages

Meeting point

Start Location

Highland Explorer Tours, 60 High St, Edinburgh EH1 1TB, UK

Important information

Know before you book

  • This tour is conducted in English; proficiency in the language is recommended for full enjoyment.
  • The tour involves walking; ensure you are comfortable with moderate physical activity.
  • Children under 5 years old are not permitted on this tour.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and historic sites.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly to ensure comfort throughout the day.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Easy Public Transport

Good to know

  • Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5.
  • Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities.
  • It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals.
  • In cases of extreme weather, the Loch Ness boat cruise may be cancelled on short notice. If you have purchased ticket for this you will be refunded.
  • The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures.
  • The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.

Traveler reviews

4.8
4,493 reviews
5
3,793
4
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3
126
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58

Avoid Ordering Hot Food Before The Loch Ness Boat Tour

Greg was our tour guide. He was very knowledgeable of Scotland and its history as well as the media it's been featured in. The Highlands and Loch Ness were gorgeous and worth the price of admission alone. On the subject of Loch Ness -- the boat tour is separate and run by a different company. That company has food and drinks you can buy on board. So, once you get dropped off, don't bother getting hot food even if it is rainy and windy. Maybe get some chips/crisps and a bottle of water at the gas/petrol station's convenience store, but that is it. The boat company won't allow hot food on board (which they should state on a board somewhere or at least have the ticket person tell you before you get in line/the queue, but I'm not reviewing them here, so). It is a busy tourist area so getting hot food will take about 20 mins. That won't leave you much time to eat, get to the boat, and get a good seat. We had to scarf down our fish and black pudding (18 pounds) so it didn't go to waste.

Caitlin_GSep 19, 2026VIATOR

Wild Haggis Sighting with Ryan

Ryan was a fantastic tour guide and an all-round good chap. Very accommodating, friendly, and knowledgeable. My friends Darren and Christopher even said he was the best tour guide they’ve ever had. The absolute highlight of this trip was seeing a wild haggis making its way up the slope. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime sight. Things got a little tense when it looked like we were about to be attacked, but thank God Ryan was there to protect us. His bravery in the face of an aggressive downhill haggis will never be forgotten. 11/10 would recommend.

willied430Sep 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Would recommend

Lord Torva was an amazing guide!

mayafB3080HSSep 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Beautiful Scotland experience

Our tour guide Korva’s the best! He’s very passionate and keep us entertained throughout the whole trip with folklore tales, history stories etc. Too bad the weather is not good at that day but the experience’s good.

524puffaSep 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Looking for Nessie

I re-discovered the scot History thanks to our guide Lord Tova.I appreciated his sense of humor and how he told stories. Highlands such beaufiful landscape even with must and rain.

MarysmithbobSep 17, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Children under 5 years old, including infants who do not require a seat, are not permitted to travel. We are unable to accommodate any child under the age of 5. Return times are approximate and subject to road conditions and weather. Please ensure you allocate sufficient time for any onward travel plans, allowing at least 3 hours after the scheduled return time for connections or activities. It is recommended to book transport to the departure point in advance. Please also allow extra time to get to the departure point for check-in. We advise you arrive at least 15 minutes before the tour departure to allow time to check-in for the tour. Unfortunately, we are unable to hold the bus or refund for any late arrivals. In cases of extreme weather, the Loch Ness boat cruise may be cancelled on short notice. If you have purchased ticket for this you will be refunded. The tour may operate with our sister company, HAGGiS Adventures. The order of the itinerary route is subject to change.