Half Day Private Tour with Puffins, Ponies and Past Shetland

This private half-day tour in Shetland offers an engaging look at the island’s most iconic sights, all within approximately 4 hours 30 minutes. For $962.49 per group (up to 6 people), guests explore Shetland’s scenic south Mainland, with expert guidance, private transportation, and included entry to key sites. The tour departs from Lerwick, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a personalized experience without rushing.

What truly sets this tour apart is its rich combination of wildlife, archaeology, and scenic views. You’ll visit the prehistoric settlement of Jarlshof, stroll through historic Scalloway, meet Shetland’s famed ponies, and marvel at puffins nesting at Sumburgh Head. While the trip is comprehensive and highly praised for knowledgeable guides, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical activity due to some walking. This tour balances cultural highlights with natural wonders, making it ideal for curious travelers eager to see Shetland’s best in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Private guided experience with a maximum of 6 guests ensures personalized attention.
• Includes admission to Jarlshof prehistoric site and Sumburgh Head Lighthouse.
• Wildlife viewing of puffins, seals, whales, and seabirds at Sumburgh Head (sightings depend on conditions).
• Visit Shetland ponies at Carol’s Ponies, with expert commentary on their history.
• Short stops in historic Scalloway and Sandwick, offering stunning viewpoints and photo opportunities.
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning, parking, and fuel costs covered.

Shetland’s South Mainland: The Starting Point from Lerwick

This tour begins in Lerwick, the main port of Shetland, and takes a scenic 15-minute drive to Scalloway, once the island’s capital. The route emphasizes both natural beauty and historical significance, giving visitors a well-rounded view of Shetland’s south.

The departure point’s proximity to Lerwick makes it an accessible option for cruise passengers or those based in the town. The private setup ensures that guests can enjoy a flexible schedule and personal interaction with guides, who are often praised for their friendliness and deep knowledge.

Exploring Scalloway and Its Castle Ruins

The first stop is a photo overlook of Scalloway, an ancient fishing village with a history dating back centuries. The brief photo stop allows for capturing views of the old harbor and island surroundings.

Next, the tour ventures into the village for an exterior view of Scalloway Castle and the Shetland Bus Memorial. These sites offer a glimpse into Shetland’s past, with the castle’s ruins reflecting its historical importance during turbulent times. This stop provides both scenic vistas and cultural context without requiring extensive walking or entry fees.

Meeting Shetland’s Famous Ponies at Carol’s Ponies

A highlight for many visitors is the visit to Carol’s Ponies, a Shetland-based stud farm. Here, you meet and photograph Shetland ponies, renowned for their small size and hardy nature. The ponies have a past as packing animals and are now popular as children’s riding ponies and companions for horses.

Carol provides an engaging talk about the ponies’ history and characteristics. Guests should be aware that ponies may assume fingers for carrots, so hands should be kept clear of teeth. The visit lasts about 30 minutes and offers a delightful interaction with these tiny, charismatic animals.

Discovering Jarlshof: Shetland’s Prehistoric Archaeological Marvel

The Jarlshof site is a highlight of this tour, recognized as one of the most significant archaeological locations in the British Isles. The site features remains spanning from around 2500 BC to the 17th century AD.

Guests spend 1 hour 30 minutes exploring the prehistoric and Norse settlements, gaining insight into Shetland’s ancient past. The site’s layout reveals a mixture of Stone Age, Viking, and later medieval structures, offering a tangible connection to the island’s history. Admission is included, and guides often share fascinating stories about the Vikings and early inhabitants.

Sumburgh Head Lighthouse and Birdwatching Opportunities

A short 5-minute drive leads to Sumburgh Head, home to Shetland’s first lighthouse. The lighthouse stands atop dramatic cliffs, which are also a designated RSPB reserve. Here, the chances to see puffins nesting among the cliffs are high during spring and summer, with hundreds potentially visible.

The lighthouse visit includes access to exhibits about maritime navigation. Visitors can enjoy scenic views over the sea, with wildlife such as dolphins, mink, humpback whales, grey seals, and porpoises sometimes visible from the cliffs. The site boasts a small café and toilet facilities, though these are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays during the 2025 season.

Overlooking Mousa from Sandwick and the Broch

The tour makes a photostop in Sandwick, overlooking the Mousa Island, famous for its well-preserved Iron Age Broch. This ancient round tower is reputedly the best preserved in Scotland and provides an iconic backdrop for photos.

This stop allows for a moment to enjoy the rugged Shetland coastline and take in the historic site, which adds a sense of Shetland’s prehistoric craft and engineering.

The Experience of a Private, Tailored Tour

The private nature of this tour allows guides to tailor stops based on the group’s interests and timing constraints. Many reviews highlight the guides’ wealth of knowledge, their friendly demeanor, and their ability to share personal insights, making each trip feel unique.

The air-conditioned vehicle with private transportation ensures comfort, and the inclusion of parking fees and fuel surcharges simplifies logistics. The experience is not recommended for those with walking difficulties due to some outdoor stops and uneven terrain.

Practical Tips for Tour Preparation

While meals are not included, the tour allows for timing flexibility, meaning guests could bring a snack or plan lunch afterward. Since the café at Sumburgh Head may be closed on certain days, bringing water or snacks for the day is advised.

Dress warmly and in layers, especially if visiting during spring or summer, as weather can be breezy and unpredictable. The reviews also suggest that guides are experts at explaining Shetland’s language, music, and culture, enriching the overall experience.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, wildlife enthusiasts, and those seeking a personalized experience with local experts. Its focus on prehistoric sites, seabird colonies, and unique Shetland ponies appeals to visitors interested in both cultural and natural history.

While the majority of stops involve outdoor sightseeing, some walking is required, so travelers with moderate physical fitness will find it more comfortable. The private format ensures a quieter, more flexible experience, ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting tailored sightseeing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours 30 minutes, covering multiple stops around Shetland’s south mainland.

What is included in the price?
Admission to Jarlshof and Sumburgh Head Lighthouse is included, along with private transportation, parking, and fuel surcharge.

Are meals provided?
No, lunch is not included, but the tour allows flexibility to bring snacks or plan to eat afterwards.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with limited mobility?
The tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking and outdoor exploration are involved. It is not recommended for travelers with walking difficulties.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see puffins, seals, and possibly dolphins or whales during the birdwatching segment. Wildlife sightings depend on weather and season.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, as a private tour, guides can tailor the itinerary based on your interests and timing preferences.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly and in layers, especially during spring and summer, as weather on Shetland can be breezy and changeable.

Is pickup offered from my accommodation?
Yes, pickup is available, making this a convenient option for those staying in Lerwick.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is often booked around 133 days in advance, so early reservation is recommended.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the scheduled start, with free cancellation offered. Poor weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

This private Shetland tour from Lerwick offers a careful balance of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. With expert guides, an intimate setting, and a diverse itinerary, it provides a thorough introduction to the best of Shetland’s south mainland in a manageable half-day.