Private Tours • Since 2008

Private Tours of the Scottish Highlands & Islands

Historian-guided private tours from Inverness and Edinburgh

Explore Tours
★★★★★ 316 Five Star Reviews  •  17+ Years of Private Tours

Explore Private Tours

Getting off the beaten track and exploring the best of the region is always the aim. Tours are designed to ensure the right balance between travelling and time spent discovering the breathtaking landscapes, deep-rooted history, and rich cultural heritage of the Scottish Highlands and Islands.

Why Choose The Hebridean Explorer

The Hebridean Explorer (John Alasdair Macdonald) has been an independent private tour guide for over seventeen years specialising in multi-day guided tours for small groups (up to 3) from Inverness and Edinburgh to the Isle of Skye, Outer Hebrides, Orkney, Shetland and throughout the Scottish Highlands.

Private Tours

Private and exclusive tours for small groups (up to 3)

17+ Years

Touring the Highlands and Islands since 2008.

5‑Star Rated

316 five star reviews on Tripadvisor.

Highland History

PhD-level expertise in Highland history.

Born in the Hebrides

Local knowledge and cultural insights.

316+ Five Star Reviews on TripAdvisor

What Customers Say

★★★★★

The most beautiful place on Earth

"For the best tour imaginable of The Highlands and Outer Hebrides of Scotland, John Macdonald - The Hebridean Explorer - is the ultimate guide. Not only will you see magnificent scenery around every bend, but will hear firsthand the actual history of these mythical lands..."

Jan C. — United States

★★★★★

Expert in Scottish History

"This was a sixth trip to Scotland with John. Our seventh is already planned for next year. My wife and I approach travel the same way. We both love history. As John is just finishing his PhD in Scottish history, there is no one more qualified..."

Jim C. — United States

★★★★★

Fantastic Journey, Extraordinary Guide

"We have travelled the world, and this was one of the best trips I have ever taken – because the very north of Scotland is so magnificent, and because of John Macdonald, the Hebridean Explorer. John is a gifted guide, with broad in depth knowledge of the places he goes, passion, and the ability to relate..."

Mary S. — United States