ISLE OF MULL

Here is a general itinerary for the photography trip to Isle of Mull (subject to weather conditions and observations the day before arrival):

Day 1:
We will check into our accommodation where we will be staying for the next few days. Additionally, you will receive explanations about the itinerary, the island, and the wildlife.

Day 2:
Today, we will take a boat trip to an island known for its large colony of seabirds (yes, including puffins!). This time of year is extra special as the birds are busy raising their young. The time of year is perfect to capture the birds flying back and forth with their beaks full of sand eels to feed their chicks. For many photographers, capturing these iconic moments is a dream. The duration of the trip and stay on the island is from 11:40 am to 8:00 pm.

Day 3:
The group will embark on a boat trip to observe white-tailed eagles hunting with cliffs in the background (duration of the trip 3 to 4 hours). After this exciting session, the group will be split into 2 to search for and photograph otters. We will work in small groups to avoid disturbing the otters in their natural habitat and to enhance photographic possibilities. In the evening, we can focus on finding and photographing short-eared owls and hen harriers.

Day 4:
In the morning, we will once again search for some of Mull’s otters. Whilst we are out searching, we will look out for different wildlife like: lapwings, oystercatchers, stonechats, red deer, eiders amongst others . The group will be split into 2 to search more efficiently without disturbing the otters. In the evening, we can focus on finding and photographing short-eared owls and hen harriers. We will also pay attention to capturing the beautiful landscapes.

Day 5:
The program for this fifth day is similar to day three. The group will split into 2  again to search for otters and other wildlife. With the knowledge and experience gained over the past two days, you may even spot the otters yourself today. In the afternoon, the groups will switch activities, and we will have the second session with the white-tailed eagles with different light conditions at this time of the day. If there were photos of the fast hunting eagles on day three that you were not entirely satisfied with, today is your chance for a second go.

Days 6:
Today, we will decide as a group what activities to pursue. With 2 guides, we can discuss and accommodate many preferences, but since this is a group trip, we will try our best to consider everyone’s wishes.

Day 7:
Unfortunately we will be parting ways after breakfast, hopefully with hard drives full to the brim with wonderful photos!

Cost

This trip can be booked starting from £2,149 | Launch offer, just £1,649
Single Room Supplement: £200

Room Options:

• 1 Person in a Shared 2-Person Room:
  If you book this room, you will share it with another person of the same gender, with separate beds. If there is no one else of the same gender wanting to share, you will have to pay the single room supplement for this trip.
• 2 Persons in a 2-Person Room:
  This option is ideal for couples or two friends traveling together on a photography trip. Please indicate in the comments field during booking if you prefer a double bed or two single beds.
• 1 Person in a Single Room:
  If you book this room, you will have it to yourself, subject to the single room supplement. It’s also possible to find yourself alone in a 2- or 3-person room. In both cases, the same fee applies for sole occupancy.

What’s Included

• Breakfast and dinner (most lunches are covered by our cook);
• Local transportation on Mull in various vehicles;
• 1 boat trip to Lunga & Staffa
• 2 boat trips to observe white-tailed eagles
• Participant meeting;
• Local wildlife expert;
• Guidance by 2 wildlife photographers.

What’s Not Included

• Lunch and drinks;
• Passenger ferry tickets to and from Mull;
• Tips;
• Personal expenses;
• Travel and cancellation insurance.

Pracitcal Information for Your Photography Trip on Mull

Participants Meeting

Prior to the trip, we organise a participants meeting so you can get to know your travel companions and tour leader and ask questions.

Accommodation

We stay in a beautiful house with 10 bedrooms overlooking the sea/fjord. The sea is a 100/150 meters walk away, and it’s no hardship with this view. Almost all rooms, 6 in total, have private bathrooms. We will assign clients to rooms with private bathrooms, but if there are many single rooms, it might be challenging. The other rooms have a shared shower in the hallway.

Food and Drink

The booking is based on half board where a local chef will serve our delicious Scottish dishes, such as stew, pie, or fish and chips. For lunch, we eat in the field and at some local lunchrooms, some of which are very charming and offer lovely local dishes.

Additionally, our local chef prepared so much food last year that we hardly needed to buy lunch, which we did only twice. She also bakes delicious cakes, pies, provides fruit every day.

Intensity

Most activities involve (short) walks, some uphill, on uneven terrain. Waterproof hiking boots are essential. A reasonable level of fitness is required. We will make the most of the daylight, so early starts and late finishes will be part of the program.

The trip isn’t strenuous, but you will get wet in Scotland. We might experience multiple seasons in one day, although it’s not too extreme during this period. When we go photograph otters, you’ll need a waterproof jacket and trousers, we might lie on the ground or walk along pebbled beaches, sometimes following the otters for up to 1km on foot. The sun rises early and sets late, with near-constant daylight, so please be prepared for some long days.

Outward and Return Journey

The From Craignure it’s 45 minutes driving to our accomodation.

Local Transportation

Transport on-site will be provided by two cars/buses, and boat trips are included in the tour price. While searching for wildlife on Mull, we will extensively explore the island and fjords by car.

Required Equipment and Gear

You will receive a packing list from us.

Climate and Clothing

You will receive a packing list from us.

Testimonials – Isle of Mull Photography Tour

Marieke
In June, I joined the photography trip to the Isle of Mull, Scotland, and it exceeded all my expectations! With a great group of like-minded photographers, led by the highly skilled and helpful guides Marc and Benjamin, we explored the most stunning locations of this part of Scotland. Incredible experiences included photographing the charming puffins on Lunga, visiting Fingal’s Cave on Staffa, and witnessing the majestic white-tailed eagles up close—a truly magnificent experience!

Our otter-spotting adventures were also rewarded; following the so-called “otter protocol” was both effective and amusing—rushing 15 seconds in the otter’s direction when it dived, then crouching in hiding to observe its next move. Eventually, we found ourselves in the perfect spot to watch and photograph these fascinating animals. Along the way, we also captured beautiful landscapes filled with red deer, seals, and numerous bird species. I had an amazing time, learned a lot, and returned home with a collection of stunning photos!

Katinka
In June, I joined the photography tour to the Isle of Mull. Our group of eight was guided by the experienced wildlife photographer Marc Humphrey and tour leader Benjamin Smail. We traveled comfortably in a minibus and car, ensuring everyone had plenty of space.

Besides exploring Mull, we also visited the islands of Staffa and Lunga, where we saw impressive numbers of guillemots and puffins—some coming incredibly close, providing fantastic photo opportunities. We also spotted razorbills and European shags. Another highlight was photographing white-tailed eagles during a dedicated boat tour. The landscapes, enhanced by Highland cattle and sheep, were just as breathtaking. The food and overall organization were outstanding. A truly fantastic week!

Annet
At the end of June, I traveled to the Isle of Mull, Scotland—a long-awaited dream to see and photograph puffins finally came true! Under the expert guidance of Benjamin Smail and Marc Humphrey, we had countless opportunities to enjoy these charming and comical birds.

Beyond the puffins, we also spotted and photographed otters, white-tailed eagles, a variety of bird species, deer, sheep, and, of course, the iconic Highland cattle. The landscapes, waterfalls, and stunning scenery were mesmerizing. The group was fantastic, the food was excellent, and the entire trip was a perfect experience filled with beautiful memories and an abundance of great photos.

Aart Last
In early June, I joined the Nature Talks photography tour to Mull, staying in a beautifully located lodge. This trip was packed with incredible highlights, from deer and white-tailed eagles to puffins, guillemots, dolphins, otters, seals, and various waterbirds.

The expert guidance provided invaluable photography tips, ensuring everyone could capture incredible images. With exceptional weather, a fantastic chef serving delicious meals, and a well-organized itinerary, this trip was an unforgettable experience.

Netty
In June, I joined the first Nature Talks photography trip to the Isle of Mull, Scotland. It was an amazing journey filled with stunning nature and the iconic Scottish landscape. We had plenty of time for photography, capturing white-tailed eagles, puffins, and otters, which I had the chance to observe and photograph in great detail.

The lodge was very comfortable, the guidance exceeded expectations, and the meals prepared by our chef were outstanding. A truly wonderful trip!

Michel de Beer
In June, I traveled with Nature Talks to the Isle of Mull in Scotland, guided by Marc and Benjamin. We also had a local guide who provided fascinating insights into the island’s wildlife and history.

It was a fantastic trip filled with endless photography opportunities. I was able to capture otters, puffins, white-tailed eagles, razorbills, guillemots, and even dolphins! The variety of locations and the flexibility of the itinerary resulted in a great mix of images. Unlike many photography trips, this one didn’t rely on hides—we explored by car and boat, which made for a dynamic and exciting experience.

The organization was excellent, the locations were stunning, and the lodge’s food and accommodation were top-notch. Everything was perfectly arranged!

Annemarieke Olff
Nature Talks truly lived up to its name with this trip to the Isle of Mull, Scotland. What an incredible journey! The island was even more beautiful than expected, and we saw and photographed so much.

Our tour was led by Benjamin Smail and Marc Humphrey—the dream team! They drove us everywhere and provided expert photography guidance. We also had a fantastic local guide who shared the island’s history and even introduced us to the rare Slender Scotch Burnet Moth.

And as the cherry on top, our chef was absolutely amazing—every meal was a treat! With great weather and a wonderful group, we took countless photos, learned a lot, laughed often, and enjoyed every moment.

Ina
In June 2023, I joined the Nature Talks photography trip to the Isle of Mull, Scotland. We experienced incredible flora and fauna, from otters and seals to white-tailed eagles, marsh harriers, red deer, and an abundance of seabirds—including, of course, puffins!

The weather was perfect, with no rain, and the group was fantastic. Thanks to the expert organization and the guidance of Benjamin Smail and Marc Humphrey, everything was perfectly arranged.