Planning a trip to Scotland and wondering whether to join a small-group tour or book something private? You’re not alone—it’s a common question we hear from travellers.

Scotland is packed with rugged beauty, hidden history, and winding roads that are best explored with someone who knows the way. Whether you're dreaming of walking beneath the Old Man of Storr, spotting red deer in Glencoe, or sipping whisky by a loch, a guided tour can take the stress out of your trip and help you see more than you could on your own.

But not all tours are the same.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key differences between small-group and private tours, who each option is best for, and what to expect from both. Whether you’re travelling solo, as a couple, or bringing the whole family, this should help you figure out the best way to explore Scotland—your way.

Let’s dive in.

What Are Small-Group Tours?

Small-group tours are exactly what they sound like—guided trips with a limited number of travellers, usually no more than 8 people. At Experience Scotland’s Wild, that’s our sweet spot. We keep it small on purpose, so you’re not just another face in the crowd.
These tours follow a carefully planned route, hitting some of Scotland’s best-known spots along with a few hidden gems. You’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle with an experienced guide who knows the land, the stories, and where to find the best coffee stop or wildlife sighting along the way.
Because the group is small, there’s plenty of flexibility—you won’t feel rushed, and there’s time to ask questions, take extra photos, or just soak up the view.

They’re a great fit for solo travellers, couples, or friends who want a shared experience without the logistics of planning everything themselves. Plus, you might just make a few new travel pals along the way.

It’s a bit like a road trip with a knowledgeable local and a few new friends.

What Are Private Tours?

Private tours are all about you. Whether you’re travelling as a couple, a family, or a small group of friends, a private tour gives you the freedom to shape your trip exactly how you want it—with the bonus of a local guide to bring it all to life.
Rather than following a set itinerary, you’ll have a tour built around your interests, pace, and schedule. Want to spend more time exploring castles? Skip the whisky distilleries? Add in a hike or a visit to a family heritage site? No problem—it’s your tour.
At Experience Scotland’s Wild, our private tours are tailored from the ground up. You’ll get the same thoughtful guiding, scenic routes, and hidden spots we include in our small-group trips, but with total flexibility and a personal touch.

They’re a great option for special occasions, multigenerational families, or travellers who just prefer to go at their own pace without sharing the experience with strangers. If you value privacy, personalisation, and a relaxed atmosphere, a private tour could be exactly what you're after.

Think of it like having a knowledgeable friend showing you around Scotland—except they’re also a professional guide who knows the best routes, viewpoints, and stories along the way.

Pros & Cons: Small-Group vs Private Tours

Small-Group Tours (Max 8 People)

Pros:

More affordable than private tours
Meet like-minded travellers and share the experience
Fixed itinerary makes planning easy
Led by a local guide with stories and insights
Intimate group size (not a big bus tour!)

Cons:

Set schedule with less flexibility
Pacing needs to suit the whole group
Limited personalisation (though still relaxed and friendly)

Private Tours

Pros:

Fully customised to your interests and pace
One-on-one time with your guide
Perfect for families, couples, or small groups
Great for special occasions or travellers wanting more privacy
Freedom to change plans on the go

Cons:

Higher cost (though better value for groups)
Requires a bit more input to help plan the itinerary (we’ll guide you through it!)

Who Should Choose a Small-Group Tour?

A small-group tour is ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed, sociable way to explore Scotland without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s perfect for:
**Solo travellers** who want to meet others along the way
**Couples or friends** who enjoy shared experiences
**First-time visitors** looking to cover the highlights with a knowledgeable guide
**People who want structure** but still like a bit of flexibility
**Anyone who doesn’t want to drive** narrow country roads or worry about bookings
You’ll still get a personal experience—our groups are capped at 8 people, so it never feels rushed or crowded. It’s also a great value option if you want to see a lot without arranging everything yourself.
Think of it as the best of both worlds: the ease of a tour, with the feel of travelling with a small bunch of new mates.

Who Should Choose a Private Tour?

Private tours are perfect for travellers who want a completely tailored experience and the freedom to explore Scotland at their own pace. You might want to consider a private tour if:
**You’re travelling with family or a group of friends** and want the trip to be just for you
**You’re celebrating something special**—like a honeymoon, birthday, or anniversary
**You have specific interests** (like ancestry, hiking, whisky, photography) and want to build a trip around them

You prefer more flexibility—whether that’s taking your time at a castle or making a spontaneous detour

You want more privacy and space to connect with your travel companions without anyone else around

Private tours also work well for those who may need a slightly gentler pace, such as older travellers or families with younger children. You’ll still get an expert local guide, stunning scenery, and unique experiences—just with full control over your itinerary.

It’s your trip, your way—and we’ll make sure it’s unforgettable.

Why Travel With Experience Scotland’s Wild?

At Experience Scotland’s Wild, we don’t just take you from place to place—we help you feel the spirit of Scotland. Whether you choose one of our small-group tours or a custom private trip, we make sure every journey feels personal, immersive, and full of moments you’ll actually remember.

Here’s what makes us different:

Small Groups Only: No crowded coaches—our tours are capped at just 8 guests, so you can enjoy a relaxed pace and real connection with your guide.
Experienced Local Guides: You’ll be led by someone who knows the land, the stories, and the hidden gems that don’t show up in most guidebooks.
Flexible, Thoughtful Itineraries: Our tours are crafted to show you the best of Scotland—iconic sights, wild landscapes, and lesser-known treasures.
Genuine, Down-to-Earth Experience: We’re not about ticking boxes. We’re about helping you slow down, look around, and fall in love with the real Scotland.
Top Reviews from Happy Travellers: Don’t just take our word for it—our guests consistently rave about their time with us.

Whether you’re chasing misty mountains, ancient history, island magic or all three—we’re here to help you see Scotland in a way that feels both effortless and unforgettable.