2022

SCOTLAND BASKING SHARKS, THE HIGHLANDS, & THE TATTOO 01 – 14 AUG 2022 ● 14 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS

Journey into the unspoiled rugged landscape of Scotland on a unique expedition filled with captivating views, bountiful wildlife, great marine life, and a fascinating blend of history and culture. Swim alongside the prehistoric-looking Basking shark. Travel from the rolling landscape and crystal- clear lochs of the Highlands to the hundreds of islands that make up the Hebrides archipelago on the Northwest coast of Scotland. An unforgettable adventure filled with a wild array of flora and fauna blended with authentic Scottish and Gaelic island life.

The Scottish sea is said to be one of the most biologically productive in the world. It is estimated that the total number of Scottish marine species exceeds 40,000. Each year Basking sharks migrate from the sub-tropics to waters surrounding the Hebrides, making this the best place to see the world’s second-largest fish. Spend a week exploring the Hebrides and snorkel with these gentle giants as they cruise through the plankton-rich waters next to you; watch a playful colony of Grey and Common seals play in the kelp forest and see the curious porpoises and dolphins as they come to join the fun. Keep an eye out for Orcas, Minke and Pilot whales passing by. Watch the seals and otters lazing along the coastline. Enjoy walks to hidden caves and isolated beaches. Visit one of the largest colonies of Puffins in the world and watch the numerous sea birds gliding through the air.

Explore the Scottish Highlands with its famous Scottish cattle grazing lazily on the rolling greenery and the deer roaming freely around you. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and the culturally rich country and history, as you venture through the mountains, traditional villages, past the glistening Lochs and mysterious Glens. Witness the vast array of birdlife as well as the diverse landscape alongside the myths and legends of these mystical lands.

For the ultimate finale head to Scotland’s capital city of Edinburgh. A medieval town mixed with modern elegancy, all positioned in the shadow of the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Enjoy the cultural splendors and history of the city and the surrounding areas. Indulge in an incredible dinner inside Edinburgh’s castle before being escorted by bagpipes to the esplanade of the castle to watch the world-famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo. With the artistic and musical performances of numerous military bands and groups, a mind-blowing experience and an incredible way to finish your Scottish adventure.

PRE-EXTENSION – THE SHETLAND ISLANDS 28 JUL – 02 AUG 2022 ● 5 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS

For the perfect prelude to your Scotland Expedition, join us on our Pre-extension to the Shetland Islands. Situated just 400miles away from the Arctic circle, the landscape and wildlife are unique and varied. From the far north to the most southern of the islands, a bird lovers paradise with extraordinary landscapes, traditions, and nature waiting to be explored.

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HIGHLIGHTS

• Snorkel with the world’s second-largest fish, the Basking shark. • Experience the incredible Edinburgh Tattoo and dine in the World-Famous Edinburgh Castle. • Explore , highlands, lowlands, and islands on this full immersion into the biodiversity of Scotland. • Take a kayak and watch playful Common and Grey seals alongside otters along the coastline. • Explore remote uninhabited islands with dramatic rugged cliffs, caves, sea stacks, green grassy slopes, white sandy bays, and turquoise seas. • Observe Red deer, Scottish highland cattle, Blue hares, badgers and polecats on wildlife walks. • Spot numerous birds of prey including Golden eagles, White-tailed eagles, Sea eagles, and Peregrine falcons. • Get close to a large colony of Puffins, and take bird walks to see Oystercatchers, Common Guillemots, Northern Gannet, fulmars, razorbills, terns, shags, and pine martins. • Visit Historical and poignant landmarks like Culloden Battlefield, Jarlshof and Blair Castle. • Follow in the footsteps of Royalty on the famous Royal Britannia Yacht.

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ITINERARY OVERVIEW

PRE-EXTENSION THE SHETLAND ISLANDS 28 JUL – 02 AUG 2022 ● 5 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS

Day 01 | Jul 28 Depart Home / En Route to Edinburgh Airport, Scotland

Day 02 | Jul 29 Edinburgh / welcome dinner

Day 03 | Jul 30 Fly to Sumburgh / Jalshof / Birdwatching / coastal walk

Day 04 | Jul 31 Yell & Unst / National Nature Reserve

Day 05 | Aug 01 Noss & Bressary / Shetland Museum

Day 06 | Aug 02 St Ninian’s Isle / fly to Edinburgh

SCOTLAND BASKING SHARKS, THE HIGHLANDS, HEBRIDES & THE TATTOO 01 – 14 AUG 2022 ● 14 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS

Day 01 | Aug 01 Depart Home / En Route to Edinburgh Airport, Scotland

Day 02 | Aug 02 Arrive Edinburgh / Welcome dinner

Day 03 | Aug 03 Highlands / Blair Castle / Marshes

Day 04 | Aug 04 National Park

Day 05 | Aug 05 Culloden / Loch Ness

Day 06-11 | Aug 06-11 Spend a week exploring the Hebrides and snorkelling with Basking sharks

Day 12 | Aug 12 Distillery / Edinburgh

Day 13 | Aug 13 Royal Edinburgh / Tattoo

Day 14 | Aug 14 Fly home

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PRE-EXTENSION ITINERARY THE SHETLAND ISLANDS 28 JUL – 02 AUG 2022 ● 5 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS

Day 01. Jul 28, 2022. Arrive in Edinburgh Depart your home and journey to Scotland, arriving at Edinburgh international airport. Edinburgh sometimes referred to as the ‘Athens of the North,’ is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. It has two distinct areas: The Old Town, dominated by a medieval fortress, and the Georgian New Town, dating from the 18th century. The harmonious connection of these two contrasting historic areas, each with many important buildings, is what gives the city its unique character and what saw it be awarded UNESCO World Heritage status in 1995. We can assist you in making a booking for extra hotel nights at the Bruntsfield Hotel, situated within walking distance of the historical city center.

Day 02. Jul 29, 2022. Welcome Dinner The Bruntsfield Hotel is a 4-star townhouse hotel just a short walk from Edinburgh city center. With open views across Bruntsfield links park and the Meadows park, an ideal location to enjoy the landscape and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Edinburgh. Check-in and relax, explore the city, or take a leisurely walk through the tree-lined paths of the parks on your doorstep. Browse the artisan retailers and bespoke goods in the surrounding shops or grab a coffee and a cake in one of the stylish local cafes. In the evening, meet Thomas and the rest of the explorers for a welcome cocktail and special welcome dinner. Overnight: Bruntsfield Hotel – Superior rooms (L, D)

Day 03. Jul 30, 2022. Fly to Sumburgh / Jalshof / Birdwatching / Coastal Walk Take an early flight to the Shetland Islands in the far North of Scotland. Lying on the same latitude as Anchorage, Alaska, and just 400 miles south of the Arctic Circle, a unique and beautiful area of the world. Upon arriving, travel to the nearby Jarlshof prehistoric and Norse settlements, hailed as the most important and inspirational archaeological sites in Scotland. Step back in time at this remarkable archaeological site with human settlers dating from 2500BC up to 17 th century AD, a unique selection of ruins and history including a fortified manor house, and oval houses. Continue to RSPB Reserve for some birdwatching and a breathtaking coastal walk, with excellent views of the seabird colonies, including Gannets, Auks, and Bonxies. Keep an eye to the sea to get a glimpse of passing whales. After an exhilarating day combining history and nature, check-in at the hotel and enjoy a tasty meal, an eclectic mix of modern and traditional Scottish cuisines, as well as the fantastic Shetland seafood, all whilst watching the boats sail by in the harbor. Overnight: Kveldsro Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 04. Jul 31, 2022. Yell & Unst / Hermaness National Nature After breakfast, travel to the far North of the Shetland Isles and take a ferry to the islands of Yell and Unst. Spend the day exploring the islands, including a walk at the Hermaness National Nature Reserve, which is home to one of the largest breeding colonies of Bonxie in the world. It is also a superb and wild spot to gaze out across the sea and see the sensationally placed lighthouse on the island of Muckle Flugga and the tiny rock of Out Stack, the most northerly point of land in the . Overnight: Kveldsro Hotel (B, L, D)

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Day 05. Aug 01, 2022. Noss & Bressary / Shetland Museum The cliffs of Noss and Bressay are a haven for seabirds. Today is the perfect opportunity for photography, as you visit one of the world’s prime locations for birdwatching; the Noss National Nature Reserve is home to 20,000 Gannets, 25,000 Guillemots, 3,000 Kittiwakes, 1,200 Puffins and hundreds of Razorbills, Black Guillemots, Shags, and Skuas. Enjoy a cruise around the spectacular cliffs with the jaw-dropping views. Return to Lerwick and take a tour of the Shetland Museum, before enjoying a special meal and local entertainment for your final evening in the Shetland Isles. Overnight: Kveldsro Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 06. Aug 02, 2022. St Ninian’s Isle / Fly to Edinburgh For our last morning, we make our way south to St Ninian’s Isle. Walk across the sandy isthmus that connects the mainland to St Ninian’s to a tiny island. Enjoy the spectacular sight of the island of Foula, a perfect location to end our time in the Shetland Isles. Before heading back to the airport for our flight to Edinburgh and the start of the main expedition. (B, L)

ITINERARY BASKING SHARKS, THE HIGHLANDS, HEBRIDES & THE TATTOO 01 – 14 AUG 2022 ● 14 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS

Day 01. Aug 01, 2022. Depart Home / En route to Edinburgh, Scotland Depart your home and journey to Scotland, arriving at Edinburgh international airport. We highly recommend arriving at least a day before the expedition departure so that you can acclimatize, are well-rested, and, most importantly, don’t miss the trip. We can assist you in making a booking for extra hotel nights at the Bruntsfield Hotel, with great restaurants, cafes, and original artisan shops within walking distance of the center of the historical city.

Day 02. Aug 02, 2022. Arrive Edinburgh / Welcome dinner The Bruntsfield Hotel is a 4-star townhouse hotel just a short walk from Edinburgh city center. With open views across Bruntsfield links park and Meadows park, an ideal location to enjoy the landscape and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Edinburgh. Check-in and relax, explore the city, or take a leisurely walk through the tree-lined paths of the parks on your doorstep. Browse the artisan retailers and bespoke goods in the surrounding shops or grab a coffee and a cake in one of the stylish local cafes. In the evening, meet your Expedition Leader and CEO of Wild Earth Expeditions Thomas and the rest of the Wild Earth Explorers for a welcome cocktail and special welcome dinner. Overnight: Bruntsfield Hotel – Superior rooms (L, D)

Day 03. Aug 03, 2022. Highlands / Blair Castle / After breakfast, transfer north to the Scottish Highlands. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as the landscape opens up, and lush green mountains and hillsides fill your view. On reaching the highlands, visit the iconic Blair Castle and journey back in time, listen as the history comes alive around you and see the influence of Mary, Queen of Scots, the Jacobite cause, and the disaster of Culloden all within the walls of this impressive castle dating back to 1259. Continue to and

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the Protected bird reserve of Insh Marshes. Considered to be one of the most important wetlands in Europe, we can expect to see Lapwing, Redshank, and Curlew amongst the varied birdlife as we explore the area. Roe deer and other highland mammals can also be founded roaming the marshes around us. After a busy day, check-in at our country house in the heart of the Highlands and enjoy a well-earned dinner of locally sourced ingredients. After your meal take a dusk walk to a local hide to watch for Pine martens and badgers before retiring for the evening. Overnight: Muckrach Lodge (B, L, D)

Day 04. Aug 04, 2022. Cairngorms National Park After breakfast, head deep into the Cairngorm mountains. Accessing the mountains from a high- level car park at 2000 feet, enjoy a leisurely hike into the Northern Corries, where we hope to see Scotland’s only herd of reindeer as well as Red deer, mountain hares, ptarmigan and golden eagles. Enjoy the spectacular scenery as you devour a picnic lunch with breathtaking views, before continuing for a walk through the forest near , looking out for red squirrels and many forest birds, including the elusive Crested Tit. Overnight: Muckrach Lodge (B, L, D)

Day 5. Aug 04, 2022. Culloden / Loch Ness After breakfast, bid farewell to our friends at the Muckrach Lodge and head out for a final morning in the Highlands. A significant event in the Highlander’s history is the battle of Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s Jacobite Rebellion came to a bloody end in 1746. Visit the somber Culloden Battlefield and hear about the dramatic events that unfolded that had such an impact on the Highlanders’ life and history. Continue to the world-renowned Loch Ness and see if you can spy Scotland’s most elusive creature ‘Nessie.’ After lunch, head south to Oban to cross the sea to the island of ready for our Hebridean adventure. The Island of Coll is an unspoiled island with less than 300 permanent residents. Home to fantastic beaches, sand dunes, wild orchids, peat bogs, standing stones, and castles, alongside being a vital breeding ground for the corncrakes. Coll has gained a ‘Dark Sky’ status, meaning there is minimal light pollution, which allows for stunning nightscapes. Overnighting in the award-winning Coll Hotel, a cozy family-run hotel that also is home to the only ‘pub’ on the island and one of the best restaurants, the perfect base for our Hebrides island adventure. Overnight: Coll Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 06-11. Aug 06-11, 2022. Basking Sharks Spend the next 6 full days exploring the wildlife and geological wonders of the Scottish Seas. A hotspot for the Basking sharks, the second largest species of shark in the world, snorkel and observe these gentle giants as well as whales, dolphins, and seals. A locally based team of marine biologists and experts will show you the best of the Hebridean wildlife during these extraordinary days at sea. While the days are primarily focused on Shark interactions, we will also be able to explore the various islands of the Hebrides. Weather and tides permitting we plan to snorkel at a seal colony and kelp forest, exploring Fingal’s Cave on the Isle of , and visiting the Puffin & seabird colony of the Treshnish Isles. Dolphins and whales are commonly spotted in these waters, so, in addition to snorkelling with the magnificent Basking Sharks, you could find yourself surrounded by dolphins or come eye to eye with a passing whale. Hen Harriers, as well as Sea-Eagles and various other birds, can also be seen around the islands. Overnight: Coll Hotel (B, L, D)

Day 12. Aug 12, 2022. Distillery / Edinburgh After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to Coll and head back to the mainland of Scotland. Pass through the picturesque and famous Loch Lomond National Park before stopping at a quaint Whisky distillery, nestled in the Highland foothills, take a tour, and sample a ‘wee dram’ before heading back to Edinburgh. Check-in, freshen up, and relax at the Bruntsfield Hotel before heading to the famous ‘Royal Mile.’ During August, the Royal Mile comes spectacularly alive with outdoor performers of the Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. Spend time soaking up the atmosphere and prepare to be surprised, delighted, amazed, and inspired. Performances range from stand-up comedy, revivals of

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classic plays, one-person monologues to wild avant-garde productions. Enjoy a traditional dinner whilst absorbing the many sights and sounds around you, before retiring for a night. Overnight: Bruntsfield Hotel – Superior rooms (B, L, D)

Day 13. Aug 13, 2022. Royal Edinburgh / Tattoo This morning follow in the footsteps of Royalty for an exclusive, private, pre-opening visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Formerly the Queen’s floating royal residence, it belonged to Her Majesty and the Royal Family for over 40 years, transporting them over 1,000,000 miles around the world. Start the experience quayside as you board via Red carpet on the Royal Brow, a practice previously reserved for members of the Royal Family and visiting dignitaries. Furnished to HM The Queen’s personal taste, each room was filled with photographs of her children, treasured family heirlooms, much-loved personal possessions and gifts from across the globe. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Edinburgh’s Old Town, including the Edinburgh Castle on foot. Step inside the ancient walls and learn of the Royalty who lived and died here, the battles that were fought and the struggles for control of the nation; it is rumored to be the most besieged place in Britain. For the perfect end to our time in Scotland, take dinner in the gatehouse of the castle before being accompanied by bagpipes to the esplanade for the iconic Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. Take your special VIP seats and watch the incredible musical and artistic performances from the British Armed Forces, Commonwealth, and International bands. Overnight: Bruntsfield Hotel – Superior Rooms (B, L, D)

Day 14. Aug 14, 2022. Fly home (B)

PLEASE NOTE

WHAT TO EXPECT All Wild Earth Expeditions are very active, and participants need to be in good general health. For most activities, a moderate to good level of fitness is required. This expedition is very active and will include snorkelling where currents may be present, hiking nature trails on sometimes rough terrain, climbing in and out of boats, and other physical activities. Accommodations we have chosen are lodges and hotels that we believe reflect the Scottish hospitality, charm, and culture, as well as being ideally located for the activities. Detailed Pre-departure information will be sent to you 6 months prior to the expedition. Your expedition will be led by 1 Wild Earth Expedition leader, and the best, most experienced local guides and marine biologists.

ITINERARY Wild Earth Expeditions will make every reasonable effort to operate the expedition as advertised, but alterations may occur, usually due to flight schedule changes, weather, or wildlife sightings. We will discuss our planned itinerary daily with our local expert guides and will always choose the best available option. Accommodations and arranged tours are subject to change or cancellation at any time due to unforeseen circumstances or circumstances beyond Wild Earth Expeditions control. Please note that 2022 flight schedules and airfares will only be released 11 months prior to the end of the expedition.

WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS Although we have reported honestly and accurately about our sightings and experiences, we would like to point out that we are working in the wilderness. Despite all our good intentions and utmost preparation, Mother Nature may not cooperate with us at times. We believe that with good planning and a realistic approach, you will have a successful time witnessing the natural behavior of the wildlife we have set out to see.

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COST & INFO SCOTLAND BASKING SHARKS, THE HIGHLANDS, HEBRIDES & THE TATTOO 01 – 14 AUG 2022 ● 14 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS Double Occupancy: USD $13,980 per person sharing Single Supplement Surcharge: USD $4,660 per person

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PRE-EXTENSION THE SHETLAND ISLANDS 28 JUL – 02 AUG 2022 ● 5 DAYS ● 11 GUESTS Double Occupancy: USD $3790 per person sharing Single Supplement Surcharge: USD $830 per person

INCLUDED All accommodations in twin/double share rooms as outlined in the itinerary; Exclusive daily boat charters for sea activities; All group meals; Welcome and farewell cocktail receptions; Soft drinks, drinking water, tea, and regular filter coffee during lunch and dinner at all hotels; All group transfers and baggage handling; All tours, excursions, snorkelling as outlined in the itinerary; Exclusive services of English speaking professional guides, naturalists and Marine Biologists; Services of 1 Wild Earth Expedition Leader; All gratuities to porters, guides, drivers, boat crew, hotel- and wait staff; Government- Service- and Room taxes; All permits, Harbor fees, Entrance and landing fees Complimentary Photos and videos; Donation to a local conservation project.

NOT INCLUDED All international and domestic airfares (Shetland flight aprox. USD$200 round trip); Any airport arrival and departure taxes; Passport and visa fees; Immunization costs; Meals outside the group travel itinerary; Mandatory Travel insurance (including medical, medical evacuation and accident); Excess baggage charges; Personal items, such as laundry, any alcoholic beverages or bar charges (unless specified above), Wi-Fi, telephone calls; Tips for your Wild Earth Leader and any non-group services; Snorkel/wet suit gear rental. Any sudden increase in price, due to currency fluctuations, a steep hike in fuel cost, change in government tax policy, or for any reason beyond our control, will be adjusted with the final invoice due 6 months prior to the expedition.

SINGLE OCCUPANCY We only have 2 single spaces available on this expedition, and single occupancy rates apply. If you want to share accommodations, a roommate will be assigned to you, and double occupancy rates apply. If we cannot pair you with a roommate, the single supplement surcharge applies.

MINIMUM GUEST NUMBERS Please note that the minimum guest number of running this expedition is 6 guests. If the guest number drops below 8, the trip price will have to increase slightly.

ADD ON As with all our expeditions, we have endeavored to include what we believe are the highlights of this beautiful area and tried to incorporate as much as possible into this two-week adventure. However, if you would like to spend more time delving deeper into the Scottish wildlife and history or take a hiking trip through other areas of the country, there are several options available that can be taken prior to the expedition or afterward. If you have something specific in mind that is not included on this expedition, please let us know, as we can organize a bespoke ‘add on’ for you with the best local guides and experts.

PHOTO CREDIT © Thomas & Natalia Baechtold, Wilderness Scotland, Adobe Stock

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