Do you want to know where to see puffins in Scotland? Puffins spend most of their lives at sea, coming ashore to breed in April. Scotland’s cooler climate and rugged islands make ideal nesting grounds for these endearing birds. About 10% of the worldwide puffin population is found in the UK, with Scotland accounting for 80% of the UK total.
In this article, we will tell you the best places to see puffins in Scotland.
I’m in the office today, it’s grey wet and cold outside so thought I’d cheer you all up with some Isle of May Puffins. pic.twitter.com/BmI8OYqn7t
— David Steel (@SteelySeabirder) December 12, 2023
All about puffins
Measuring just 25 cm in length, the puffin is a pint-sized seabird. With their distinctive orange beak and legs and awkward gait on land, they are often referred to as the “clown of the sea”. In the air and water, however, puffins are adept fliers and skilled swimmers – flying low over the waves and diving for fish up to 60 metres from the surface of the water. Their small wings act as fins underwater, allowing them to move with agility. They are speedy in the air and can reach speeds of up to 88 km per hour by flapping their wings up to 400 times a minute.
Breeding Habits
Puffins are monogamous and bond for life, the average lifespan being around 18 years. For 8 months of the year they live at sea, only returning to the land to mate, breed and rear their young. They typically return to the same nesting site year after year and form large breeding colonies. They don’t build nests but rather make burrows, which can be up to 3 ft deep, in soft soil or use natural crevices in the rocks for nesting. This is why they are so vulnerable to predators, making some of Scotland’s remote islands without mammalian predators ideal breeding grounds.
During the breeding season, puffins’ bills and legs change colour – the bright orange and yellow hues signalling health and attractiveness to potential mates. Puffins lay a single egg, and both parents take turns incubating and caring for the chick. Adorably, baby puffins are called pufflings!
Feeding Habits
Puffins feed on sand eels, krill, crabs and small fish and are able to carry numerous small fish in their beak, secured by their spiny tongues and beaks. This allows them to catch and carry multiple fish at once. Puffin chicks are hungry and can require up to 13 feedings a day in the first six weeks of life.
Where to See Puffins in Scotland?
Scotland, with its rugged coastline and remote islands, is home to significant puffin populations. These cute birds can be found nesting on Scotland’s sea cliffs, rocky shores, and offshore islands, so a puffin watching trip is a must for wildlife enthusiasts visiting Scotland who want to witness their playful antics.
Isle of May, Firth of Forth
As the third largest puffin colony in the UK, head to the Isle of May for a guaranteed up close puffin experience. Thousands of puffins nest on the island, and you can see them either from a boat trip that goes close to the cliffs or by landing on the island itself. However, if going onshore to explore the island make sure you stick to the paths so as not to disturb or damage their nests. Want to know more about visiting the Isle of May? Read our full article about Isle of May Boat Trips.
Go there with:
Anstruther Pleasure Cruises: Isle of May Ferry Departs from Anstruther
Isle of May Boat Trips Depart from Anstruther
Scottish Seabird Centre Depart from North Berwick
Sula Boat Trips Depart from North Berwick
BlueWildNature Boat Tours Depart Dunbar Harbour
Staffa Island, Inner Hebrides
The tiny Staffa Island (it’s only ½ a mile long and ¼ mile wide) is a puffin paradise. The puffins normally arrive here in early April and stay through May, June and July. Puffins usually leave Staffa at the end of July, but you may still catch a few in the early days of August.
The best place to spot puffins is on top of the cliffs on the east side of the island. They are quite curious, and if you sit still, they will come and investigate you from a safe distance. The clean seas around Staffa are home to many other marine species, including seals and sea otters on the coast, and porpoises and dolphins on the open sea. In June, July and August, when the sea temperature rises. Notable for the hexagonal basalt columns of Fingal’s Cave, the island is worth a visit in its own right for those interested in geology.
Getting There
You can catch a ferry to Staffa from the Island of Iona or take a boat trip with:
Lunga, Treshnish Isles
The largest of the Treshnish Isles, just off the south west coast of Mull. Uninhabited Lunga hosts a thriving puffin population of around 4,500 between mid-April and early August. To make sure you can see them in numbers, wait until May to visit.
Lunga is a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and there are no facilities on the protected habitat at all – not even a toilet. Most of the boats running trips have facilities.
The puffins here have little fear of humans, as they see our presence as protection from predatory sea eagles, providing an opportunity for close encounters and fantastic photography. However, please stay at least 10 metres away from them so as not to disturb them.
There are 47 species of birds on Lunga Island. Walk on from the breeding site to Harp Rock and you will encounter numerous other birds, such as guillemots, petrels, razorbills, kittiwake, fulmar and great skua.
Getting There
There is no public ferry so you will need to take a tour if you want to see puffins on Lunga Island. Go with:
Isle of Canna, near Skye
You won’t find Puffins on Skye but they can be found on the offshore islands around the Skye. Because of this, you may be able to catch a glimpse of puffins from Skye, but if you really want to see them, it’s best to take a boat trip. There is a sizable puffin colony on the remote, volcanic island of Canna, home to a small human population and 20,000 seabirds. You can also see puffins on Sanday, adjacent to Canna (not to be confused with Sanday in the Orkney Islands).
Canna is also part of the Hebridean Whale Trail and you can occasionally catch a glimpse of an Orca en route. Canna is owned by the National Trust and you can camp at Canna Island Campsite on the island if you want to stay overnight.
Canna is owned by the National Trust and you can camp at Canna Island Campsite on the island if you want to stay overnight. There is a signposted Puffin Trail from the campsite to help people find the puffin stacks. They advise visitors to park their vehicles in Mallaig and take the Calmac ferry to Canna. Campsite owner, Isebail, will meet you at the ferry and collect your luggage and take it to their accommodation while you enjoy the island.
Getting there
You can reach Canna by the ferry to the Small Isles, run by Calmac which departs from Mallaig. Or take a tour with:
Handa Island, Sutherland
Another Site of Special Scientific Interest, Handa Island’s cliffs are teeming with seabird life, and puffins are among the stars of the show. It is run as a nature reserve by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. There are around 150 species of bird on the island, over 216 species of plants and in excess of 100 types of moss.
The island closes to visitors in the winter months, opening in March. You can reach the island by ferry from Tarbet. Once on the island, you will be met by a ranger who will explain about the island and precautions to take to preserve the habitat. Visitors can follow well-marked trails to observe not only puffins but abundant birdlife, seals, otters and other wildlife.
Getting There
Handa Ferry serves the island Monday to Saturday between 9 and 5 (last outbound trip is 130pm), exact times dependent on weather conditions and costs 20 for adults, 10 for children. Children under 5 go free.
Northern Coast of Scotland
There are a number of spots to see puffins along the rugged northern coast of Scotland’s mainland.
Strathy Point on the northern coast of Sutherland is under one of the main seabird migration routes. It’s a 15 minute walk to the headland from the last bit of road (the turning to Strathy Point off the A836). You will also find Strathy Lighthouse here. Looking out to sea, you may also spot dolphins or porpoises in the waters below the cliffs.
Puffin Cove & Western Clett (nicknamed Puffin Island), Drumhollistan, is just east of the little hamlet of Redstar. This is a very remote viewing spot not recommended for people with walking difficulties. Park in the tiny car park on the border between Caithness and Sutherland and follow the footpath across the grassland for around half a mile and then down the hill to the secluded Puffin Cove. There is a breeding colony in the cliffs around the bay and surrounding clifftop grassland. The path to Puffin Cove can be boggy so make sure you are wearing suitable footwear.
Dunnet Head, the most northerly point of mainland Scotland is an RSPB nature reserve in Caithness. Walk the grassland path to the peninsula and you will be rewarded with panoramic views across the sea and the wild landscape inland, as well as being able to watch the puffins and other seabirds nesting in the cliffs below. There are no facilities at Dunnet Head, so come prepared.
Go with:
Seawolf Tours offers ecologist-guided walks to see the puffins and to view the pufflings as they take flight after dark (the latter July only). The Far North Naturalist offer guided walks of the northern coast with an ecologist.
The Shetland Isles
Sumburgh Head
The cliffs of Sumburgh Head host breeding colonies of puffins along with other seabirds. The location offers breathtaking views of the surrounding seas, providing a picturesque backdrop for puffin watching. It’s also been a location for the TV programme Shetland.
Noss
The towering 180 metre cliffs of Noss nature reserve make a dramatic backdrop against which to watch its thriving seabird colony, including puffins. The island reserve is managed by Nature Scot. To reach the island, there is a short but exciting ferry service in a small inflatable boat run by Nature Scot. The island closes in the winter months.
Go with:
Local, family-run company Seabirds and Seals operate daily catamaran tours to Noss between April and November, departing from Victoria Pier, Lerwick.
Shetland Seabird Tours run daily small group (maximum 12) birdwatching and photography tours of Noss Island from their wildlife watching boat out of Lerwick.
Shetland Nature run wildlife and photography tours which include not only puffin watching but viewing the native Shetland ponies.
Shetland Photo Tours run specialist seabird photography workshops in various locations in the Shetlands.
Travel Advice when you go to see puffins in Scotland
Best Time to Visit
You can see puffins in Scotland from early April to August. The best time to see puffins in Scotland is during the breeding season, typically from late spring to early summer (May to July). During this period, puffins are more active and visible on cliffs and islands.
What to Bring
Essential items include binoculars, a camera, sturdy footwear for coastal walks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing waterproofs is advisable.
Top Tips for Puffin Watching
Respect wildlife and follow any guidelines provided by tour operators or local authorities.
Maintain a safe distance from nesting birds to avoid alarming them and disturbing their natural behaviours.
Make sure you take all your litter home.
Be prepared to sit and wait for a while to get the best views of wildlife.
Don’t climb on old walls or move stones, as they could have archaeological value
Keep children well away from cliff edges
Don’t bring dogs (unless assistance dogs) or any pets onto the islands.
Book boat trips in advance, especially during peak seasons.
The weather can turn quickly in the North and on islands, so bring warm clothes and waterproofs even if it is fine when setting out.
Make sure you are wearing appropriate footwear.
Bring snacks and water, as many places to view are very remote.
Puffin Preservation
Puffin populations have declined in recent years, with colonies facing threats from rising sea temperatures due to climate change, overfishing and predators (including humans). Conservation efforts are underway to protect their habitats and ensure the continued thriving of these charming seabirds. Worryingly, in February 2023, hundreds of dead puffins washed up on the shores of Spain and the Canary Islands. Many of the birds, thought to have died of starvation, were traced back to Scottish puffin colonies.
What can I do to help preserve Scotland’s Puffin Population?
Maintain proper biosecurity when visiting the islands. This means checking your bag and clothes for pests, cleaning and disinfecting your boots and shoes and keeping food containers shut so they don’t attract vermin onto the boats. Puffins are extremely vulnerable to land based predators due to the way that they nest in burrows and the introduction of rats onto the islands could devastate them.
Maintain a reasonable distance from the birds (at least 10 metres) so as not to alarm them. Leave your dog at home when visiting breeding colonies.
Keep on the paths so you don’t damage or destroy their nests.
Join a conservation group or take part in a campaign.
Join the Scottish Wildlife Trust
Big Sky Campers Campervans for Hire
Scotland
Big Sky Campers is based in Rosyth, just outside Edinburgh. If hiring a van from us, it is just a 1 hour drive to Anstruther and 1 hour 20 to North Berwick where Isle of May boat trips depart. All our campervans for hire come fully equipped with everything you will need for your road trip in Scotland. There are no hidden extras – everything is included in the price, including unlimited mileage, insurance for one driver, gas bottle, camping accessories, bedding, towels and extra sets of bedding if requested.
Got a question? Give us a call.
+44 (0)7768 973804
Or send us a mail
Reviews
We had an amazing holiday thanks to big sky campers. We rented the van for 6 nights in march. This gave us plenty of time to explore the Isle of Skye and some of the Mainland. The communication between us and big sky campers was seamless. The pick-up and the drop-off was easy, fast and friendly. The Van itself was also amazing, the bed was comfy, the stove and fridge great. Everything you could need was already in the van.Absolutely would rent there again! Warm recommendation for everyone who is looking for van for the holidays.
Overall the van was super clean and really well maintained. Issue from our side was around paying for an additional driver to be included and highlighting that an international driving license would be used we had been informed by Big Sky campers that we need to confirm that its valid for the UK, which it is. When collecting it was not accepted and we asked for a refund for the additional driver as it was not required it was simply refused.
We had an incredible trip exploring the Scottish Highlands! The van had everything we needed, the staff were incredibly helpful, accommodating, and kind. Highly recommend!
Friendly service, they'll pick you up from Inverkeithing train station. New VW Transporters with everything you need, power hookup, hob, gas heating the works.Great value(almost half price compared to big renting companies!), and they won't scam you out of your deposit!
Great experience with Betty, it was really great. Thanks to Rob for his advice and kindness. We highly recommend big sky ;) see you soon.
Rob and his team were very patient and assuring with my many questions (being the over-thinker that I am) even before we collected the van. We had the pleasure to drive Bonnie, the beautiful and reliable campervan with HEATED seats! This was such a life saver in winter. Also, everything we needed was all in the cost - no hidden fees!Despite my first time driving a van, it was super easy. Thank you again to George, who sent us from and to the station, saving us precious time and money. Definitely recommend Big Sky Campers!
We had an amazing 6 nights exploring Loch Lomond, Glencoe, Skye, Ness, and the Cairngorms in late November. Big Sky Campers in the best in the business and I have nothing bad to say about them or the vans. They include everything without extra charge and are very personable and understanding for what’s needed for this type of adventure. They are super fair and honest with security deposit and don’t rip you off like some other larger companies may attempt to. Well worth the cost for the service and all that’s included. 10/10, will come back again!
We had an absolutely magical trip with Big Sky Campers in October. The van was cosy and comfortable (even with two kids who insisted on sharing the bed with me), it was a pleasure to drive and we had everything we needed – including hot water bottles for those chilly nights. The team at Big Sky Campers was amazing from the very start, giving us suggestions of great campsites and places to go, and put me at ease about driving a much bigger vehicle than I'm used to. One of those trips that we'll be talking about for a long time – thank you!
I recommend Big Sky Campers. Individual approach to the client. Helpful owner who patiently answers every question.The cars are in very good condition.
Cant recommend Big Sky Campers enough. Excellent customer service throughout. We hired Bonnie and she was a dream to drive and stay in. Will definitely be using them again for our next adventure. Thank you Rob & Alex.
Extraordinary experience lived aboard the Oona. The van was really comfortable, clean and very well equipped. We were able to discover the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. A very professional, accommodating and attentive team. We are already nostalgic. I highly recommend Big Sky Campers to discover the magnificent landscapes of Scotland ⭐️
We went on a great trip back in June, and everything was just great. Really professional communication and support from the team. But also a great car that was clean, well kitted, comfortable and just a blast to drive. I do really not have anything else to say! Highly recommend.
Fantastic weekend in Freja she had everything we needed for 2 adults and 2 fur baby's.The team at big sky campers were fantastic I can’t recommend this company highly enough if you are looking for all in with no hidden costs camper van hire give them a go
Just back from a week of the NC500. The van (Mac) was ace, everything we needed and more was included and it performed flawlessly. Unlimited mileage and dog friendliness made them an easy choice. The booking, collection and return process were a breeze, and Rob and George were both lovely guys and a pleasure to deal with. If you are thinking about a trip, then these are the guys to use.
We had Harry for our family holiday, he didn't disappoint.Thoroughly enjoyed our time away. Thank you.
OUTSTANDING!! - we hired a camper van from here, was incredibly easy process to collect, everything included, all needs catered for. The van was spotless, and drive was perfect. Very approachable staff, Rob and Alex there to help throughout our journey, collected and dropped us at the station. Very down to earth, and accommodating. If you are going to hire a camper van in the north of Scotland, this is the company you should use!!!
We had an absolutely lovely time spending 8 days exploring the Highlands in Brodie. The van was excellent, and Rob and George made the whole experience welcoming and easy. If only every vehicle renting experience was like this, the traveling world would be a much better place.
A huge thank you to Big Sky Campers for making the Scotland leg of our family UK & Europe trip so seamless. They communicated promptly and went out of their way to accommodate our needs at pick up and drop off. Our van Magnus was perfect, easy to operate and roomy enough for the 4 of us (2 adults, 2 teens). We loved our time in Scotland and the freedom that having a campervan gave us. We hope to come back one day!
Thanks to Big Sky Campers we were able to make our long-standing dream of travelling around Scotland come true in July 2023. It was a great adventure - Rob, Alex and George are simply the best team who care about their customers :) We received answers to all our questions and felt really 'looked after'. Campervan Magnus was our home on wheels for two weeks - perfectly equipped and comfortable for a family of 4. It met our expectations in every way:) We will definitely return to beautiful Scotland in the future (NC 500, Orkney Islands, Shetland Islands...and many other magical places) and we will hire a campervan from Big Sky Campers! Best greetings from Poland to the Team and see you in the future :)
Very good rental experience with Big Sky Campers.Quality vans, very good advice for the trip. Quick and efficient exchanges even during the rental and transfers from Inverkeithing or ferrytoll to go to the airport.Thanks Rob and Alex!!
We had an amazing holiday in early July with 'Duncan' from Big Sky Campers. The van is really spacious with everything needed for a home away from home and my husband said it was great to drive!Everyone at Big Sky Campers was really, really helpful, friendly and professional with excellent customer service and as a plus, their website gives you some great tips for places to visit and how to make the most of your holiday.Highly recommended, I am already looking to book my next break with Big Sky Campers and if you are looking to book a campervan break, you will not be disappointed!
Rob and his associates at Big Sky Campers are very kind and helpful.They picked us up from the train station to the warehouse and vice versa when we returned the van.Speaking of the van, it was delivered in excellent quality, with everything we needed, as promised.It made our journey in the Higlands so pleasant.Thank you so much for your excellent service. I definitely recommend Big Sky Campers for van rental.
Great service and friendly - we were cozy in Ruby fir our week awayPeterhead- Kinloss - Rothiemurchus,BraemarThank you
We rented Flora for a week to do the NC500 as our honeymoon.She was absolutely amazing and handled a few of the dodgy roads with absolute ease.The van was in amazing condition, was comfortable and really was just great fun!The team also were so helpful and nice to us when we picked the van, a pleasure to deal with.An all round excellent experience!
We booked Bonnie for a week and absolutely LOVED our time! We had 4 adults in one van and it worked out just fine if you are okay being a little close. We never had to book a campsite. We were able to wild-camp each night and finding water to refill was our only difficulty. Your camper van has everything you would need— there are chairs, tables, cooking ware, bedding, etc. The team was very accommodating, friendly, and helpful. They picked us up from the train station and dropped us off after we were done with our stay. It was a zero stress experience and would HIGHLY recommend Big Sky Campervans to other travelers! You will have a blast!
Absolutely recommended. We had a great experience with our van from Big Sky. The van drove wonderfully. The amenities of the van were great, including the expandable roof. The beds were very comfortable. The van was also very well insulated so it stayed a comfortable temperature all night. I would absolutely recommend Big Sky Campers, and I would not hesitate to hire their van again.
Had the best trip away with Big Sky Campers. From initial enquiry to drop off Rob and the team were responsive, reasonable, and a good laugh. We were picked up and dropped off to the station with no bother, which was ideal. Brodie was the ideal vehicle who handled all roads and weather's. The fact that everything is included is a real bonus. Already highly recommended to everyone, and hope to book again very soon.
Big Sky Campers was the perfect place to hire from, we hired flora and she was amazing. Clean, in very good condition and came with pretty much everything we needed. She was the perfect companion as we travelled through the North Coast of Scotland. I will 100% be using them and would recommend to anyone.
We had a lovely 2 week trip around the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye in Harry! He is fully equipped and has unlimited mileage which for us was a must! Driving on the left was an adjustment at first but overall Harry was easy to adjust to and not too big which was perfect for the single track roads up north. Rob was very quick to reply and came to pick us up at the nearby train station which is an added bonus! Would book again without hesitation.
We had a wonderfull trip with Betty around Scottland and luckily had almost no rain :-).Pick-up, hand-over and return of the hire was well arranged and super professional. Thanks to Rob and the team, we always felt in good hands!Best, Martin and familiy
We rented Mac, the Jeep Wrangler with rooftop tent for the week and had an amazing roadtrip with it. The car was very well equipped with everything you need and communications with Big Sky campers went really well. Would highly recommend!
Flora was the best campervan we could have asked for! Extra cozy and worked perfectly. Owners are wonderful people too.
Me and my girlfriend had an excellent one week long trip with Wallace - the Landrover Defender. Booking the Landy on the website was very easy and handy. The pickup of the car and service as well as explanation provided by Rob and Alexa was perfect. The car itself is magnificent - very clever design, kitted with everything you need and for me as a Defender enthusiast one of the big highlights on my Scotland trip itself. ;)I can only recommend booking Wallace or one of the other camper vans with Big Sky Campers to explore Scotland! I especially liked the personal and individual style of the cars and service compared to the other car rentals!
We rented the VW California with integrated kitchen and bed. The car was as new, very roomy and comfortable.Rob is very helpful and you notice right away that he loves what he is doing :)Can only recommend - 5 stars :)
Rob was very kind and helpful. Picked us up from the train station and delivered back after the trip.Car was perfect and we enjoyed it. VW T2 gave us retro celebrity feeling ?
We just got back from a 7 night trip driving Rowan around the NC500. We had the best time - we were travelling with our 2 year old daughter and Rob and Alex made it so easy for us, providing everything we could need for a comfortable stay. It was our first time driving and staying in a campervan and the whole process was so straightforward - Rob made sure we knew how everything worked before we drove off. I highly recommend Big Sky Campers for campervan rental!
My family rented Flora for me post-covid for the weekend as a multiple-missed-birthdays treat! She was an absolute pleasure to drive and has been maintained beautifully. We travelled to Mull and Iona and got lots of waves and smiles as we drove by, she certainly brought the sunshine when it was raining. Such an amazing experience, I've always wanted to drive and original VW T2 ???? BSC were super knowledgeable and helpful, so easy to communicate with and gave us lots of tips. Would definitely recommend Flora if you want a classic roadtrip experience!
I recently hired VW Brodie for a 2 week trip around the NC500, Lewis & Harris and Skye and cannot fault the service received and Brodie himself! The van was the perfect way to drive around those twisty Highlands roads, the bed was comfy and everything you need was there for you. I can’t thank Rob enough for the friendly service and fantastic van!
I did a LOT of research when looking to hire a campervan to do the NC500. I’m so glad I went with Big Sky Campers! They were very transparent about costs, were flexible and clearly take huge pride and care with their fleet. Rob made us feel that the van was there to be enjoyed. We had Rowan and she was clean, comfortable and had everything we needed. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Blue Sky Camiers and I’ll definitely go back to them when planning our next adventure!
I had the most fantastic long weekend driving Dougal, the vintage VW around the beautiful roads of the Highlands. He is a true dream to drive and super spacious for two people!I can’t thank Big Sky Campers enough for making the whole experience so wonderful. They did a fantastic job in helping us plan our route and we got to see so many incredible sights as a result.Alex and Rob were extremely accommodating, they answered any questions we had and gave us a thorough tour of the van before setting off. They were also super reassuring as I hadn’t driven a vintage van before and this extra level of care made the journey that much more rewarding ????Thank you both for such an incredible experience, I will be recommending you to all of my family & friends!!
Had a wonderful trip with Dougal over a long weekend - the van was everything we needed! Really comfortable and cozy. We weren’t completely set on a route but the Big Sky team helped us out with some suggestions of destinations, scenic roads, camper van parks and places to eat and drink. The van was easy to drive and if a hiccup ever came up Rob was always on call. Looking forward to another Big Sky adventure soon!
Had an absolutely amazing 2 week escape with my partner in Duncan. Could not recommend Big Sky enough. Rob & Alex are incredibly friendly and responded to any questions we had over our trip. Definitely the best way to explore Scotland.
We had a lovely 4 night stay in Magnus. Very easy to book, the van comes with everything you need and it’s an easy train ride from Edinburgh to pick up the van with the owners coming to meet you at the station! Have recommended to all our friends and we would definitely book again to see more of picturesque Scotland. Thanks Rob and Alex :)
Brilliant company and lovely people. The van was top and Rob and Alex couldn't have been more helpful. Plus they have dog friendly vans so you don't have to leave the pup at home! Will definitely use again!
Absolutely amazing service from Rob..Camper-van was immaculate and booking process was so easy. The van itself was amazing, easy to drive and soooo comfortable - what a weekend we had with Ruby (van) climbing Ben Nevis. No hesitation in recommending this company. I will absolutely be booking again and again and again! Rob - thank you, fantastic service! Can’t thank you enough!
We have just given back ‘Harry’ who we hired from Rob at Big Sky Campers. We have had a lovely holiday and couldn’t recommend a camper van holiday enough…if you’re looking for campervan hire in Scotland, then Rob is your guy. He was accommodating and friendly from start to finish throughout the whole experience which really made a difference. The campers come equipped with everything you would need which means you can just rock up with your personal belongings and head off without having to worry. Another thing we agreed was lovely was the lack of branding on the campers, travelling around we saw some with lots of massive garish logos all over them, we loved that the camper didn’t bring attention to himself and as novice campers, made us feel more at ease and inconspicuous in situations which were new for us. All in all I would recommend them to anyone and Robs service and kindness certainly makes the business extra special.
Everything was included, no hidden extra costs. Genuine, helpful people who are at the end of a phone if you have any questions about the van whilst you're away. Quick replies to emails. Van was lovely and surpassed my expectations.
My friend and I recently returned from a fantastic roadtrip to Skye, and we hired "Magnus" from Big Sky Campers for the 4 days.Right from the start we could not fault the service in any way, from the initial communications sent, the subsequent follow up's, through to the pick up (having never driven a campervan - Rob explained / demonstrated very thoroughly how everything worked), and finally the hand back....there was not a single hitch along the way.Magnus was brand new and a dream to drive - totally immaculate throughout and very comfortable to sleep in.Rob and Alex could not have been more helpful and just generally absolutely lovely people - and I really appreciated that they have a secure facility to keep your own car in while you are away.I wouldn't think twice about recommending Big Sky Campers to anyone thinking about a roadtrip, we'll definitely be back and already planning our next trip away.
Awards
Facebook Reviews
Anaïs Laboucarié
17:35 30 Jul 23
Nous revenons d’un road trip avec Bonnie et qu’elle fabuleuse expérience ! Nous sommes partis avec notre fille de 3 ans... et rien à dire ! BigSkyCamper prévoient tout ce qu’il vous faut pour partir sereinement sans frais supplémentaires. Georges a été super à la passation de Bonnie! Merci, ce voyage en Écosse n’aurait pas été le même sans Bonnie ❤️read more
Joanne Kelly
10:25 03 May 23
My crazy dog & I have just had the MOST AMAZING road trip around NC500 & Skye, all facilitated by the fabulous Brodie,... courtesy of Big Sky Campers! Everything was so easy thanks to George & Rob & all of the kit that came with Brodie, making this adventure such an enjoyable one - we will return! Thanks all, it really was the best, Jo & Dixie xread more
Mollie Johnson
22:41 30 May 22
We’ve just come back from the most wonderful week away in Flora! Rob & Alex were absolutely lovely from start to... finish, and we didn’t want for anything. We had everything we needed in the van, including bedding & cleaning materials, and Rob took his time to explain how everything worked to us before we set off.
It was such a fab experience travelling Scotland in Flora because she attracts so much attention! We had many a wave, horn honk and flash of lights of appreciation and it made the experience even more special. Would 100% recommend and will definitely hire from Big Sky Campers again, when we’re next ready to brave the temperamental weather of the Highlands… !read more
It was such a fab experience travelling Scotland in Flora because she attracts so much attention! We had many a wave, horn honk and flash of lights of appreciation and it made the experience even more special. Would 100% recommend and will definitely hire from Big Sky Campers again, when we’re next ready to brave the temperamental weather of the Highlands… !read more
Mark McDonald
16:42 07 Oct 21
I was recommended to go with Big Sky Campers, so glad I did, could not fault the process or anything about my trip. I... hired Magnus, automatic, dream to drive, drove to Skye, over to Harris, pitched at Luskentyre beach for three days before heading back to the mainland for a couple of nights. Magnus is very new, super comfy, warm, I just used the bottom bed option, sheet, blanket on top of sheet and duvet, so snug and that was in Oct.
Magnus has all that you need for a really enjoyable trip.
Rob is a delight to deal with, showed me how everything worked, just as well for a novice like me.
Returned Magnus today but already advised Rob of my intention to book soon for next year
I would highly recommend Big Sky Campers, I can't wait to get back into one of their campers and head off once more.....do it, you'll not regret it.read more
Magnus has all that you need for a really enjoyable trip.
Rob is a delight to deal with, showed me how everything worked, just as well for a novice like me.
Returned Magnus today but already advised Rob of my intention to book soon for next year
I would highly recommend Big Sky Campers, I can't wait to get back into one of their campers and head off once more.....do it, you'll not regret it.read more
Aga Kubiak-Bonikowska
17:26 29 Sep 21
Highly recommended!Me and my hubby have just came back from a wee holiday with Freya! Our van was spotless, so easy to... drive! Rob is the nicest person, he explained how everything works before we set off. Amazing experience! Thank U Rob! We will be back! 😀read more
Caroline Glyde
11:17 07 Jun 21
Just returned from an amazing week on the NC500 with Betty, she was amazing and perfect for the small windy roads. ... Well equipped for the journey and very comfortable. Highly recommend Rob & Big Sky Campers 👍read more
Sarah Newcombe
11:27 17 May 21
Have had a fantastic experience with Big Sky Campers, Rob was extremely helpful and quick to respond to emails. Ruby... was perfect for our weekend trip for a family of 3 (2 adults / 1 Child) and a dog! Kitted out with everything you would need and spotless, easy to use and drive. Straight forward drop of and pick up. We will certainly be using them again. Thank you for making our weekend adventure perfect!read more
Cheryl Grace Fawcett
10:56 30 Apr 21
Highly Recommended Big Sky Campers. Just returned from 5 days doing the NC500 route and managed the full way around. We... had Rowan the campervan and what a pleasure he was. Very comfortable and has everything you need for your holiday 👌 Rob was fantastic throughout the process also, from enquiry to booking and beyond. Explained functions of the van before setting out and was happy for us to call if we had any issues whilst away. Great Business Rob, keep up the good standard 👏read more
Lucy Barrack
10:58 28 Aug 20
We loved our holiday with Big Sky Campers!
Picking up the camper was a breeze and everything was thoroughly... explained so we felt very confident driving off!
The camper was spotless and all the equipment was in perfect condition.
Great communication through the whole booking process and very reasonably priced.
Would 100% recommend Big Sky Campers- we had a fantastic holiday!read more
Picking up the camper was a breeze and everything was thoroughly... explained so we felt very confident driving off!
The camper was spotless and all the equipment was in perfect condition.
Great communication through the whole booking process and very reasonably priced.
Would 100% recommend Big Sky Campers- we had a fantastic holiday!read more
Tam Sel
14:14 08 Jun 20
Big Sky Campers are excellent. very genuine, helpful, amd encouraging with the whole process! We had a fabulous 4 day... holiday exploring some of the highlands. The camper was easy to drive, perfectly clean, and fully functioning. it was even stocked with various maps to help you along your way. Definitely the way to go if youre looking for a bit of adventure.read more
Denise Schubert
21:36 26 May 20
Awesome camper rental! I can just recommend booking with them. Handling and service are nice and personal + all campers... are in excellent condition and great fun to go on a tour with in beautiful Scotland. �read more
Baz Burton
17:41 26 May 20
Rob and Alex really care for their clients. Great campers, all well kept and clean and tidy.
Great service....
Here's hoping for the open road again soon!read more
Great service....
Here's hoping for the open road again soon!read more
Candace Atkinson
16:43 05 Nov 19
My sister and I rented a Big Sky campervan for 10 nights in October. Rob was so helpful leading up to our rental even... offering suggestions on where we might stay, transportation from Edinburgh airport, and other tips that were helpful to our camping in the “off season“. He was very prompt in answering all of our questions regarding our Scottish holiday which made our arrival really smooth. The campervan was very clean, had everything we needed, and was easy to drive. What a bonus having your whole traveling needs contained in a single space with never a worry that you had forgotten something back in a hotel! I highly recommend Big Sky Campers Edinburgh if you are contemplating the adventurous route to seeing Scotland.read more
Cyrine Almasri
17:09 10 Sep 19
We had a wonderful stay in Scotland! Second time that we hired a campervan with big Sky campers. Everything was... perfect:very clean, confortable and full equiped! Many thanks to Robert who make you stay very nice.
Un super séjour en Ecosse! C’est le second véhicule que nous louons avec la société Big Sky Campers. Tout est parfait: tres propre, confortable et tout équipé! Un grand merci à Robert qui fait tout son possible pour que notre séjour soit agréable!read more
Un super séjour en Ecosse! C’est le second véhicule que nous louons avec la société Big Sky Campers. Tout est parfait: tres propre, confortable et tout équipé! Un grand merci à Robert qui fait tout son possible pour que notre séjour soit agréable!read more
Donald Craig
12:38 30 Jul 19
we had a great holiday in the Outer Hebrides with a Big Sky Camper over Easter. pick up and drop off was smooth,... communications were good and the van itself was well equipped. next time I think we'd upgrade beyond the entry level camper for a better night's sleep but all in all it was great fun!read more
Nora Li
12:18 05 Jul 19
Today we met Rob! We were visiters in Edinburgh and had problems with our camper van. Just by chance we came to Rob.... He is such an helpful and friendly person! Thank you so much for your help. You made our dayread more
Aurélie Biancardini
09:42 21 Jun 19
My boyfriend and I rented a van for 15 days in May. It was the best holydays of my life! The van was perfect and Rob... was really Nice and quick to answer every questions we had! I highly recommend it :) And if I come back in Scotland one day, I will rent again a van from Rob's company. Thank you for every thing Rob :)read more
Cameron Hill
10:46 19 Oct 18
My friend and I rented a campervan at the end of October and it was such an amazing experience. The Bongo was fully... equipped and offered everything we needed. 10/10 would highly recommendread more
Wayne Barker
10:26 31 Aug 18
Had 11 nights in one of Rob's VW camper vans. Had an amazing holiday. Would highly recommend. Rob was very helpful... before the trip and gave us some great ideas for places to visit and stay which was great. The collection of the van was quick and easy and when we returned the van our deposit was returned quickly. The van itself was amazing. Very clean with everything we needed. Thanks again Rob.read more
Donald Mclean
13:49 16 May 18
My son and I are just back from a 4 day trip to Islay in the campervan Orla. this was our first trip in a campervan it... was brilliant, certain it wont be our last, Rob was great to deal with very helpful and considerate. would highly recommend the Orla van and Rob's Edinburgh Campervans. We'll be back.read more
Kim van Gastel
11:38 04 Nov 17
My friends and I had a blast exploring the highlands in the vw camper! Rob is very friendly and helpful, comminication... went perfect. The camper itself is in excellent shape and drives easy! I would recommend it to everyone!!read more
Carmen Mateos
10:49 31 Aug 17
From barcelona to edinburgh touring the higlands in camper. It has been a pleasure driving tha van. It has been a luck... to hire the van in this company, from the first day we feel at home, and at all times you have the security that there is someone to attend you if there is any problem. We recommend 100% have been a great holiday, thank you!
Desde barcelona hasta edimburgo recorriendo las higlands en camper. Ha sido un placer conducirla. Ha sido una suerte contratar la furgoneta en esta empresa,desde el primer dia nos sentimos como en casa , y en todo momento tienes la seguridad que hay alguien para atenderte si hay algun problema. Recomendamos 100% han sido unas vacaciones estupendas , gracias!read more
Desde barcelona hasta edimburgo recorriendo las higlands en camper. Ha sido un placer conducirla. Ha sido una suerte contratar la furgoneta en esta empresa,desde el primer dia nos sentimos como en casa , y en todo momento tienes la seguridad que hay alguien para atenderte si hay algun problema. Recomendamos 100% han sido unas vacaciones estupendas , gracias!read more
VisitScotland / Kenny Lam
Visit Scotland/Kenny Lam