About Wild in Scotland

Meet the Wild in Scotland Gang

Who tends to come on our trips:

Young independent travellers - usually in their 20's to mid 30's.
Our customers come from all over the world and from very different backgrounds - the tours are conducted in English but every effort will be made to speak slowly and explain things to those who do not have English as their first language.

We hope that our clients are all like minded, will work together as a team (cooking) and who have an up-for-it attitude!

We DO NOT carry passengers under the age of 18.

The tours are very active (regardless of the weather) and so are not suitable for those who won't appreciate lots of fresh air and walking (we don't do tea-rooms!) and therefore for those who are infirm or just plain soft!

The tours are very lively and good fun as well - it is not uncommon for the odd naughty joke to be told and for music to be played loudly on the bus - if any of this might offend then this may not be the type of group you want to travel with.

How we started:

Wild In Scotland was established in 1999 with a view to opening up more of our beautiful country to the like minded traveller. The idea was to take small groups (quality not quantity!) and give them not only great value but an experience that would stay in their hearts and minds for a life time. We were the first backpacker company to respectfully start tours to Lewis, Harris and Orkney and we have made good friends all over these remote areas. Starting off with 2 members of staff we have grown into a great team (7) who love and respect Scotland and this, we hope is reflected in how we operate.

Who are we?

All of our guides are born and bred Scots with unrivalled knowledge and passion for their homeland. They are trained to the highest standards and are all fantastic storytellers - nothing less will bring to life the vibrant history, enchanting legends and deep rooted culture of our proud nation.

All of the Wild in Scotland team are or have been driver guides for the company. We derive from different backgrounds but all have certain things in common; an enthusiasm and passion for Scotland, a desire to show it off, an ability to work together as a team, a liking for meeting folk from all over the world and for giving them a great time. The team is young (mid 20's - 30's) and energetic.

Why are we different?

We are the only backpacker company* that operates smaller buses (16 seats max) which we believe is an ideal number to travel in (without feeling as though you are part of a gaggle of tourists!).

We are the only backpacker company* to operate the Kitty system. Covering accommodation, breakfasts, evening meals and ferry crossings (where applicable), it means that we keep the cost down for you as a traveller and also allows you to sit back and relax knowing that everything has been taken care of for you.

*in Scotland.

Our philosophy:

The Highlands and Islands of Scotland have a fragile economy, a unique culture, a fascinating history, a mind expanding mythology and a beautiful landscape. We believe that showing people this land through walks, short drives, experiencing local culture, the art of storytelling etc is a worthwhile venture and we feel honoured to be doing it.

We are also very aware that these things that make our country so special have to be protected and respected and so we strive to do this throughout our tours. For example, we do not take large groups at any one time to the areas we visit; the buses we travel in are small, environmentally sound and are of a neutral colour to not offend the locals. Using local produce and establishments is also important to us ? a way of making sure that we aren't just taking but also giving something back to them (we never take kickbacks - for your benefit and theirs)...from the two old brothers who still make Harris tweed in their garden shed to the makers of Orkney Cheese.

Re-telling the history is vital also - in a way that we hope you will find entertaining, all our guides have learnt the history of their country with pride and each will tell it in their own individual way (nothing is scripted and we will tell the truth!). This also goes for the legends and myths that encircle the land ? again these are very important to the culture - often passed down by word of mouth there is a definite respect for what is sadly becoming a dying art.

Finally we have all travelled to some extent or another - we are aware that comfort and safety are of huge importance whilst you travel and so we make sure that this is all taken care of. We are also aware that when you have precious time on your travels that a real experience of the country you are in is almost priceless (you can't buy memories), and so we strive to give you the best time you could possibly have.

Why should you come with us?

'Cos you just should!

Because Scotland shouldn't just be ticked off your list of stuff to do - come and do it properly - have a great time, meet some great people, don't blow your budget and collect yourself some magical memories.