Highland Safaris in Perthshire, Scotland

The Scottish Highlands is home to some of the finest scenery in the UK – the land of mountains, forests and lochs. On a recent visit to Perthshire, we joined Highland Safaris to explore this magnificent landscape on their Mountain Safari tour.

Scotland Safari

Full Disclosure: I was a guest of Highland Safaris, however, all views and opinions are my own.

Highland Safaris is based just outside Aberfeldy in a town called Dull (it’s also twinned with Boring, Oregon USA).

The company has clocked up an incredible 25 years of award-winning history. With a fleet of Land Rover Defenders and a recent addition of the latest high spec Defender. The new Land Rovers certainly provide a deluxe and more comfortable feel when tackling the rugged terrain.

The Scottish Safari

Lead by expert rangers, tours are taken from the valley floor on off-road tracks into the mountains and forests of the Perthshire Highlands.

Our guide was kilt-wearing Donald Riddell, who set up the business with his wife Julie and built it into one of Scotland’s premier five-star tourism destinations. His passion for the land he calls his office is evident from his enthusiasm when he talks about the wild landscape and the wildlife within it.

All safety measures are in place at Highland Safaris and prior to hopping into the Land Rover, hands were washed, face masks were worn and windows wound down whilst in the vehicle.

Aboard we were all supplied with a pair of sanitised binoculars to help spot some of the Scottish Big Five. Yes, Scotland like Africa has its own version with the golden eagle, red deer, red squirrel, otter and harbour seal on the list. Slightly different to the animals we were spotting on our safari in South Africa but nevertheless just as impressive to see.

Winding our way up the mountain into the wilderness, we forged our way through forest tracks, mountain burns (a Scottish term for a large stream or small river) and up rocky terrain, climbing up to 2000 ft.

The landscape is stunning no matter the time of year, but August is the time for Scotland’s legendary flower to bloom. Heather, carpets the moors and forests in glorious pink and purple. The season is fleeting, so we timed the trip right to be able to see it in all its technicolour splendour.

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A short forest walk, lead us to be up close and personal with the Highlands flora. Wandering past ancient trees, bogs and all kinds of weird and wonderful types of fungi.

Constantly keeping an eye out for different animal tracks and trying to identify different bird calls. Donald regaled us with stories and facts about the land, tales of local clans and legends of fairies to the girls’ delight.

Throughout the walk, the rugged, wild scenery surrounded by dramatic moorlands and mountains in the distance was nothing short of spectacular.

After our walk, it was time to make a pitstop at a mountain bothy (basic shelter) usually left unlocked and available for anyone to use free of charge.

This one belongs to Highland Safaris, more cosy than basic with a large table, blankets and electric fire – dreamy for the harsh winter months. We made the most of the sunshine and sat outside with Scottish refreshments of tea, coffee, Kenmore Shortbread and a dram of Dewars Whisky.

Before long it was time to head back to sea level and on our return journey, we were lucky enough to spot some wild red deer, ending our Highland Safari adventure on a real high.

other Activities at Highland Safaris

Back at the base, the experience doesn’t stop. Worth visiting is the Red Deer Centre where visitors can stroke and feed the magnificent, iconic animals with knowledgeable safari rangers. Meet Ossian the barn owl and enjoy a hands-on demonstration delving into the secrets of these nocturnal creatures.

It’s also home to Scotland’s only gold and gem panning centre. Kids will love to pan for gold in the all-weather Gold Panning Flume. They can hunt for real and fool’s gold as well as many beautiful semi-precious gemstones. In fact, it’s quite addictive no matter your age and you can take home whatever you find.

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The Discovery Trail is also worth a look, the fun 500-metre walk takes you through the fascinating geology and history of the area. Meandering through spot the red deer in the deer park and at the highpoint lookout to Glenlyon, Scotland’s longest Glen.

After all the adventure if hunger calls the onsite cafe serves delicious foods produced in Scotland and locally in Perthshire. Enjoy views out to the picturesque  Appin Valley.

How Much is a Highland safari?

A 2.5-hour safari is £45 for an adult, £30 (12-1 year-olds) and a child £25. Highland Safari is a real hidden gem in Perthshire, the tours are a great insight into the history and wildlife of the Scottish Highlands. It’s definitely one for the itinerary when you’re next in Perthshire.

Highland Safaris | Aberfeldy | Perthshire | PH15 2JQ

Have you ever been on a safari? Let me know in the comments box below

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