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With white sand beaches, a thriving marine environment, freshwater lochs, treeless moors of blanket peat and mountains the Outer Hebrides to the west of Scotland offer a range of habitats.

Much of the island chain is protected, both on land and in the surrounding waters. Nationally important populations of breeding waders such as common redshank, dunlin, lapwing and ringed plover are located in the Outer Hebrides and seabirds thrive here too. The islands also provide a habitat for other important species such as corncrake, hen harrier and golden eagle.

Otter enjoy the many lochs and vast stretches of coastline of the islands, whilst offshore, basking shark and various species of whale and dolphin are found.

View suggested itineraries

Key info

  • Ideal for viewing: minke whale, Risso’s dolphin, white-tailed eagle, corncrake, otter
  • Where: North-west Scotland, Scotland

Wildlife trips

This wildlife location is featured in the following itineraries:

Best of the Outer Hebrides with Mike Dilger

Discover some of Scotland’s best wildlife by land and sea on this expert-led tour through the Outer Hebrides. Exploring the vast sandy beaches backed by colourful machair, extensive sea lochs and mountains, we search for an astonishing range of rare wildlife that thrives on these islands on the edge. Find out more about Best of the Outer Hebrides with Mike Dilger

  • Price (exc. flights): 7 days from £2,895
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
    Tailor-made can be arranged
  • When to go:
    • M
    • J
    • J

Wild Islands of Scotland

Embark on an extraordinary journey to explore the untamed beauty of Scotland's wild isles. Renowned for breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and abundant wildlife, these far-flung and rugged islands are a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Encounter a variety of seabirds and an abundance of marine life. Find out more about Wild Islands of Scotland

  • Price (exc. flights): 12 days from £10,595
  • Trip type:
    Voyage
  • When to go:
    • M
    • J

Wildlife of Lewis & Harris

Journey through the seldom visited yet wildlife packed Western Isles on this expert led tour. From our base in Stornoway we explore all corners of Lewis and Harris in search of its majestic eagles, abundant red deer, breeding waders, secretive otters and abundance of marine life. Find out more about Wildlife of Lewis & Harris

  • Price (exc. flights): 7 days from £2,350
  • Trip type:
    Group Tour
  • When to go:
    • M
    • J
Suggested accommodation is shown below. Please contact us for further recommendations.

Cabarfeidh Hotel

Cabarfeidh Hotel

Located on the edge of Stornoway, the friendly Cabarfeidh Hotel offers a comfortable accommodation option for exploring the wildlife of Lewis. With en suite rooms and its Cleaver restaurant serving a range of typical Scottish dishes, the hotel makes for a great base. Find Out More about Cabarfeidh Hotel

Recommended cruise vessel:

Hjalmar Bjorge

Hjalmar Bjorge EXPEDITION VESSEL

The Hjalmar Bjorge is a comfortable yet sturdy ice class vessel that makes an ideal base from which to explore the rugged and wildlife rich coastline of North-west Scotland. It combines comfortable cabins, excellent food and guides with the small size required to anchor in the remotest corners of Scotland. Find Out More about Hjalmar Bjorge