Scotland Wildlife Tours to See Puffins and Seals: An Unforgettable Experience
Introduction to Scotland's Coastal Wildlife
Scotland's rugged coastline and remote islands provide some of Europe's best opportunities to observe puffins and seals in their natural habitats. These charismatic creatures thrive along Scotland's shores, offering wildlife enthusiasts incredible viewing opportunities between April and September. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning your perfect wildlife tour to see these amazing animals.
Getting to Scotland's Wildlife Hotspots
Most international visitors begin their Scottish wildlife adventure by flying into Glasgow International Airport. For convenient transportation to your coastal starting point, consider booking a Glasgow International Airport Taxi with a provider experienced in serving wildlife tourists. Many services offer comfortable vehicles perfect for small groups with camera equipment.
The journey to prime puffin and seal viewing locations typically involves traveling to coastal departure points like Oban, Aberdeen, or the Isle of Mull. These gateways to Scotland's wildlife wonders are easily accessible by road or connecting flights.
Best Locations to See Puffins in Scotland
1. Isle of May, Firth of Forth
Accessible by boat from Anstruther
Home to 90,000 puffins during breeding season (April-July)
Excellent viewing platforms and guided walks
Also hosts large seal populations
2. Staffa and Treshnish Isles
Departures from Oban and Mull
Dramatic basalt formations with puffin colonies
Combined tours often include Fingal's Cave
Best visited May through August
3. Hermaness, Shetland Islands
Remote location with spectacular cliffs
One of Britain's largest seabird colonies
Puffins visible from cliff-top paths
Requires more travel time but rewards with solitude
For those needing to transfer between airports, a Glasgow To Edinburgh Airport Taxi provides efficient connections to reach eastern Scotland departure points like North Berwick for Isle of May tours.
Prime Seal Watching Locations
1. Isle of Skye
Multiple colonies around the coastline
Common and grey seals present year-round
Boat tours from Elgol and Portree
Often combined with eagle watching
2. Moray Firth
Large common seal populations
Excellent viewing from Chanonry Point
Dolphins often spotted in same areas
Accessible from Inverness
3. Monach Isles
Remote Western Isles location
One of Europe's largest grey seal colonies
Over 10,000 seals during pupping season
Requires special charter boat arrangements
Choosing the Right Wildlife Tour
Boat-Based Tours
Get closest to seal colonies
Offer puffin viewing from water
Range from small RIBs to larger vessels
Typically last 2-4 hours
Island Landing Tours
Allow time on puffin breeding islands
Guided walks to viewing areas
Often include other wildlife
Full-day experiences most rewarding
Combination Tours
Pair puffins and seals with other wildlife
Popular additions: whales, dolphins, eagles
Maximize your wildlife sightings
Excellent for photographers
Best Time to Visit
Puffin Viewing Season
April to early August (peak May-July)
Birds return to land for breeding
Most active mornings and evenings
Leave colonies by mid-August
Seal Watching
Year-round opportunities
Pupping season varies by species:
Grey seals: September-November
Common seals: June-August
Low tide often best for coastal viewing
Photography Tips for Wildlife Tours
Equipment Recommendations
Telephoto lens (300mm minimum)
Weatherproof camera cover
Extra batteries and memory cards
Lightweight tripod or monopod
Technique Advice
Use fast shutter speeds (1/1000s+)
Focus on eyes for compelling shots
Shoot in burst mode for action
Be patient and ready for moments
What to Bring on Your Tour
Essential Gear
Warm, waterproof layers
Sturdy walking shoes
Binoculars (8x42 ideal)
Sun protection (even on cloudy days)
Recommended Extras
Seasickness remedies if needed
Notebook for recording sightings
Waterproof bag for valuables
Snacks and water
Responsible Wildlife Watching Guidelines
Respectful Observation
Maintain safe distances
Follow guide instructions
Avoid sudden movements
Never feed wild animals
Habitat Protection
Stay on marked paths
Don't disturb nesting areas
Take all litter with you
Use eco-friendly tour operators
Accommodation Near Key Viewing Areas
Isle of Mull
Luxury: Isle of Mull Hotel
Mid-range: Western Isles Hotel
Budget: Tobermory Hostel
North Berwick (for Isle of May)
Luxury: Marine North Berwick
Mid-range: Nether Abbey Hotel
Budget: Rockcliffe House BB
Shetland Islands
Luxury: Busta House Hotel
Mid-range: The Shetland Hotel
Budget: Islesburgh House Hostel
Sample 5-Day Wildlife Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival
Land in Glasgow
Transfer to Oban
Overnight in coastal town
Day 2: Puffin Adventure
Boat to Treshnish Isles
Full-day puffin watching
Return to Oban
Day 3: Seal Discovery
Travel to Isle of Skye
Afternoon seal watching cruise
Overnight in Portree
Day 4: Combination Tour
Boat trip from Elgol
Seals, eagles, and marine life
Return to mainland
Day 5: Departure
Travel to Inverness
Optional dolphin watching
Flight home
Why Choose Scotland for Puffin and Seal Watching
Scotland offers unparalleled wildlife experiences because:
High probability of sightings
Spectacular coastal scenery
Knowledgeable local guides
Conservation-focused tourism
Whether you're a serious wildlife photographer or simply want to witness these charming creatures in their natural environment, Scotland's puffin and seal tours create memories that last a lifetime. With careful planning and responsible tourism practices, you'll enjoy an authentic wildlife experience while helping protect these species for future generations.
