Best Puffin Watching in Scotland 2026
Scotland is one of the world's premier destinations for puffin watching, with 3 top spots offering this experience. Guided tours to puffin colonies nesting on sea cliffs and coastal islands, where these comical and charismatic birds gather in their millions each summer. Orkney, Shetland, and Iceland host millions of Atlantic puffins each summer, with boat tours bringing visitors within metres of nesting birds who show remarkable indifference to human observers. The best light for puffin photography comes in the evening when birds return from sea with beaks full of sand eels. In Scotland, the activity is typically best experienced during May to August — when conditions align perfectly with the country's unique polar landscape.
Top 3 Spots for Puffin Watching in Scotland
Shetland earns a solid aurora score of 5/10 and is particularly noted for: Wildlife lovers and culture seekers wanting Britain's most dramatic northern lights experience combined with Norse heritage. An excellent base for puffin watching with well-established local operators.
Orkney earns a solid aurora score of 4/10 and is particularly noted for: History lovers and photographers wanting aurora as a bonus over extraordinary Neolithic landscapes. An excellent base for puffin watching with well-established local operators.
Caithness earns a solid aurora score of 3/10 and is particularly noted for: Scotland road-trippers wanting mainland Britain's best northern lights chance combined with dramatic coastal scenery. An excellent base for puffin watching with well-established local operators.
Practical Tips for Puffin Watching in Scotland
- 1Book puffin watching tours at least 4–8 weeks ahead during peak season — popular operators sell out fast.
- 2Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a mid-layer fleece, and a wind/waterproof outer shell. Temperature extremes are common in Scotland.
- 3Most reputable operators include transport from the nearest town. Confirm pickup arrangements when booking.
- 4Travel insurance that covers outdoor activities and extreme weather cancellations is strongly recommended.
- 5Shoulder-season visits (start/end of May to August) often offer the best combination of conditions and availability.