Share this tour
Offered languages
- English
Join us on the Puffin Express, brand new for 2026, as we journey from Lerwick, Shetland's capital, to the very south of Mainland in search of Shetland's favourite birds.
Every year, Puffins- or "Tammie Norries" as we call them- come ashore to breed after spending winter at sea. Loved for their black and white plumage, these cheeky birds have become a symbol of Shetland.
Sumburgh Head, where the North Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean, is the best spot in Shetland to catch a glimpse of them up close. Plus, it's home to a 19th century Stevenson lighthouse, clifftop walks and a plethora of wildlife.
When booking, please bear in mind that Puffin sightings can never be guaranteed. They are wild birds and on occasion may be out of view at the time of your visit. Please also note that there is a steep (but paved) walk from the coach park to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse. On arrival, your driver will inform you of the departure time. It is your responsibility to ensure you're back on time.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Layby bus stop opposite The Thule Bar on Lerwick Esplanade
Itinerary
-
1
Every year, thousands of seabirds make home in the cliffs at Sumburgh Head, the southernmost point of the Shetland Mainland. Between April and August, dozens of Puffins make their nests here to hatch their baby "pufflings". Whilst searching for the Puffins, keep your eyes peeled for Guillemots, Razorbills, Kittiwakes, Oyster Catchers, Wrens, Twites and Fulmars too. Looking out to sea, you might even catch a glimpse of a White-sided Dolphin, Harbour Porpoise, Killer Whale, Mink Whale or a Seal. Our Puffin Express guests also enjoy included admission to Sumburgh Head Lighthouse, the oldest in Shetland having been built in 1821. Take a look inside the engine room, tour the information centre and pause for coffee and cake in the café. PLEASE NOTE: The Puffins at Sumburgh are wild and not in captivity- therefore, sightings can never be guaranteed. There is a steep hill from the coach park to the lighthouse on a paved path. Care must be taken when walking close to the cliff edge.
1 hour • Admission ticket included -
(Pass by)
Returning to Lerwick, we'll take a scenic drive through along the west coast, rounding the Loch of Spiggie and Rerwick Beach where you'll often catch a glimpse of seals basking on the sands below.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Continuing north, we'll pass St Ninian's Isle with its impressive tombolo beach. The island has a rich Viking history and is famed for treasure unearthed here in 1958 (now on display at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh). Travel time between Lerwick and Sumburgh Head is approximately 1 hour in each direction.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Not recommended for travelers with limited mobility/ walking difficulties
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Show more
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Your guide to the flawless travel experience
Top Searches
Company
Get our app
