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Our Story

At the heart of Aye Tours Scotland

are John-MacGillivray and Teri-Zara Coleman — two people from very different backgrounds, brought together by a shared love of the Scottish Highlands and a passion for creating meaningful travel experiences.

John is a true Highlander, with deep roots in the Far North of Caithness, which he proudly calls home. A highly regarded tour guide in Inverness, John brings years of experience, genuine local knowledge and a lifelong passion for Highland history and heritage to every journey. Before becoming a tour guide, he spent many years working at Culloden, where his fascination with the past grew into a particular passion for battles, swords, Highland heritage, tartans and kilts. His humour, stories and personal knowledge bring the Highlands to life in a way that goes far beyond the pages of a guidebook.

Teri brings an international perspective, shaped by growing up overseas, experiencing life across different cultures and countries, and building a career with international companies. Her lifelong love of travel and photography eventually brought her to the Scottish Highlands, where she fell in love with its dramatic landscapes, rich history, people and stories.

Inspired by that connection, she created Aye Tours Scotland from the ground up and continues to shape the company behind the scenes. She brings together her creativity, organisational skills and broad experience to build a company that reflects what she loves most about the Highlands — its landscapes, heritage, character and the stories that bring them to life.

Together, John and Teri created Aye Tours Scotland to share the Highlands as they know and love it — through their eyes, their stories and the places that have captured their hearts.

Not simply a destination to visit, but a land to feel, discover and remember — where ancient landscapes, whispered legends, untold stories, Highland history and a little local banter come together to create personal connections that stay with you long after the journey ends.

Come and discover YOUR connection to the Highlands.

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THE AYE TOURS SCOTLAND DIFFERENCE

More Than Just a Tour

Based in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, Aye Tours Scotland is passionate about helping you experience the Scottish Highlands at its best — with relaxed, personal tours shaped by local knowledge and genuine hospitality.

Our private day tours are carefully planned to give you a relaxed, hassle-free experience, while still allowing the flexibility to enjoy at your own pace. From world-famous locations to quieter corners and authentic local experiences, we want you to experience more than simply seeing the sights.​

Made for the moments that matter

Whether you're planning a surprise gift, a marriage proposal, honeymoon, photography trip, research visit, tracing your Scottish heritage or simply ticking something unforgettable off your bucket list, we'll help make your time in the Scottish Highlands personal, meaningful and memorable.

Your Highlands. Your way. Your story to take home.

your pace • your interests • no rush
your group • your comfort • your experience
native Highlander • genuine connection
stories • viewpoints • hidden gems
moments • experiences • stories to take home

LOCAL EXPERTISE

The Highlands are home to us. As a small, locally owned company, we love sharing the stories, viewpoints and special places that make this part of Scotland so special — including those you might not find beyond the usual sights.

EXCLUSIVE

Your private tour is exclusively for you and your group — no strangers, no rushing, just a relaxed, personalised experience designed around you. Take your time, ask questions and enjoy the freedom to experience the Highlands your way.

ROAD SAFETY

We take care of the driving, navigation and route, so you can relax and enjoy you tour. With extensive knowledge of the Highland Code, roads, weather and changing conditions, we know how to adapt the day, choose the best routes and keep your journey comfortable and safe.

AUTHENTIC

Experience the Highlands through the eyes of an authentic Highlander in full traditional Highland attire. Fancy trying the Highland look yourself? We have kilts ready for you to wear — although we’ll leave the question of what’s worn underneath entirely in your hands.

YOUR PACE

There’s no set pace to follow. Take your time where it matters to you, stop for photos, linger over the scenery or simply enjoy the moment. You decide how the day unfolds, at a pace that suits you. Your day. Your way.

UNFORGETTABLE

Take home more than photographs — take home stories, lasting moments and memories to cherish for years to come. It’s the little moments, unexpected discoveries and stories along the way that make a Highland experience truly memorable.

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10/10 Highlands Experience

10/10 would recommend doing a tour with Aye Tours Scotland on your trip to Caledonia. If you want an authentic Scottish experience with a true Highlander, then John is your guy. He brings the perfect blend of hospitality, humor, and fun education that makes for an unforgettable adventure of a day. Highly recommend wearing a kilt for the tour to truly be one with the Highlands. Thank you again John for a once in a lifetime experience that my wife and I will cherish and laugh about forever.

Alan McGillivray

June 2026

FOR YOUR GUIDANCE

Please take a moment to familiarise yourself with our booking terms, cancellation policy and tour information before booking.

 

We ask all our guests to read and agree to our tour guidelines and expectations. They're there to help keep everyone safe, comfortable and happy throughout the day.  Your safety, comfort and enjoyment are always at the heart of what we do

 

Once that's taken care of, all that's left to do is relax, enjoy the journey and let us show you the Scottish Highlands.

CANCELLATION & REFUND POLICY

​​We understand that unforeseen circumstances can sometimes arise. If you need to make changes to your booking, please let us know as soon as possible and we'll do our best to assist.

Cancellations & Refunds

  • Cancellations made at least 48 hours before your scheduled tour are eligible for a refund.

  • Cancellations made less than 48 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

  • All refunds are subject to a 3.5% payment processing fee.

  • No-shows are non-refundable.

  • If you choose to leave the tour early, we are unable to offer a refund for the unused portion of the tour.

  • Should we have to cancel your tour, we'll offer you a refund or the option to reschedule within the tour season, subject to availability.

Illness & Guest Safety

​Your safety and the wellbeing of our guests are our priority.

 

If anyone in your group is unwell, recovering from an illness or experiencing symptoms that may be contagious, we kindly ask that you do not proceed with the tour.

 

For the safety and comfort of everyone, we reserve the right to decline or discontinue service if a guest is displaying symptoms of illness. In these circumstances, the booking will normally be non-refundable.

Where possible, we may be able to offer an alternative tour date within the same tour season, subject to availability.

 

Let's Keep Everyone Safe

​We appreciate your understanding and consideration of your fellow travellers, our guides and the communities we visit. A little communication goes a long way in helping us provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

ROUTES, PRICING & GROUP SIZE

  • Our full-day private tours start in Inverness. Guests travelling from Edinburgh, Glasgow or elsewhere outside the Highlands are welcome to make their way to Inverness by train, car or bus before joining us.

  • Our tours require a minimum booking price for up to 2 guests, with a maximum group size of 7 guests.

  • Groups of 3 – 7 pay less per person as a benefit of booking as a larger group.

  • Booking directly with us guarantees best price and personal customer service.

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TOUR PREPARATION 

  • Walking and hiking levels vary from easy to challenging, depending on your chosen tour and itinerary.

  • We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy, waterproof footwear suitable for Scottish weather. Waterproof jackets and warm layers are highly recommended.

  • Feel free to bring snacks, food and drinks, particularly if your itinerary may fall outside normal restaurant or café opening times or includes longer stretches between stops.

  • If you are prone to insect bites, consider bringing insect repellent. If you experience motion sickness, please remember any medication you normally use.

  • If you take prescribed medication, please make sure you have it with you for the day.

  • If you have any medical conditions, mobility concerns or other circumstances that may affect your ability to participate safely, please let us know before booking so we can discuss whether the tour is suitable and make reasonable adjustments where possible.

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TOUR LIMITATIONS & SAFETY

The safety, comfort and wellbeing of our guests is our priority. Some tours may not be suitable for everyone due to the nature of the vehicle, walking routes, terrain, duration or remote locations.

Depending on the tour and itinerary, we may be unable to accommodate:

  • Infants, where the vehicle, itinerary or safety requirements make this unsuitable.

  • Guests requiring wheelchair or significant mobility assistance, where the vehicle, terrain or attractions cannot safely accommodate these needs.

  • Anyone who is unwell or experiencing potentially contagious symptoms, such as a significant cough, heavy sneezing, fever or other symptoms that could put others at risk.

  • Certain high-risk medical conditions or pregnancy, depending on the tour, walking requirements and itinerary.

Children, older guests and anyone requiring additional assistance must be accompanied by a responsible adult or appropriate companion. If you're unsure whether a particular tour is suitable for you or someone in your group, please contact us before booking. We're always happy to discuss your requirements and help you choose the right experience.

 

We kindly ask all our guests to be considerate of the places we visit. Please respect local communities, the environment, wildlife and public spaces, and follow any local guidelines or instructions. We also encourage everyone to be mindful of their environmental impact and help us leave Scotland as beautiful as we found it.

 

And now for the important bit...

Let's go on an epic Highland adventure and make those travel dreams come true!

  • Your Local Highland Guide

Travel with one of Inverness's experienced and highly regarded tour guides. A native Highlander with roots in the Far North of Caithness, his local knowledge, unique sense of humour and entertaining storytelling style will bring Scotland's landscapes, history and folklore to life — creating an experience you'll remember long after your tour.

  • Relaxed & Safe Journey

We take care of the driving, with your safety and comfort always in mind. With our extensive knowledge of The Highland Code, roads, routes and driving conditions, you can relax and enjoy the journey without having to navigate unfamiliar roads or adjust to driving on the left.

  • Admissions to selected  Attraction

Your tour fee includes admission to selected featured attractions that require advance booking, so you can enjoy the highlights of your itinerary without having to arrange these separately.

  • Immersive Highland Experience

We carry a selection of authentic Highland attire and accessories — including kilts, arisaid, sporrans, replica swords and targe — for you to wear, explore and enjoy along the way. Whether you fancy striking a Highland pose, stepping into a little history, or simply embracing the moment, it’s a wonderfully memorable way to experience Scotland — and capture a few photographs to treasure.

  • Private Transportation, Fuel and Parking Fees

  • Complimentary Pick-Up & Drop-Off

Enjoy complimentary pick-up and drop-off from any suitable location within Inverness or along your tour route. Look out for our ginger Peugeot Traveller luxury van, complete with the distinctive Aye Tours Scotland logo.

Please note: Out-of-the-way pick-ups are strongly discouraged as they can affect the tour itinerary and duration and may incur an additional charge. We'll always do our best to find the most convenient suitable m

Luggage

Backpacks and carry-on bags are welcome. With limited luggage capacity, our vehicle is designed for comfortable touring rather than carrying large amounts of luggage. We can accommodate up to 5 standard-sized pieces; large suitcases and bulky luggage are discouraged.

Onboard Comfort & Essentials

Our vehicle is meticulously maintained and thoroughly sanitised before every tour, ensuring a clean, comfortable environment for every journey. It is equipped with a range of features and essentials to make your journey as comfortable as possible:

  • Heated Front Seats with Massage Function

  • USB and 3-Prong Charging Ports

  • Fold-Down Tray Tables

  • ISOFIX Child-Seat Mounting Points

  • One Booster Seat

  • Tour Brochures

  • Umbrellas

  • Hand Sanitiser

  • Motion-Sickness Bags

  • First-Aid Kit

  • Onboard Bin

  • Bottled Drinking Water

  • Occasional Local Snacks

  • AA roadside assistance

 

Your Tour, Your Way

​We want your day in Scotland to be your perfect trip. If you'd like to adjust your itinerary within the tour route and duration, please feel free to get in touch.​ We'll be happy to discuss your ideas and help you create a day that's personal, relaxed and memorable.

The following are not included in your tour fee and are available at your discretion:

  • Lunch, food & drinks

  • Whisky tastings at distilleries

  • Selected attraction admissions
    Some attractions do not require advance booking. Tickets are readily available upon arrival should you wish to purchase them.

A Little Flexibility Along the Way

Scotland has a way of keeping us on our toes!

While we carefully plan every itinerary, weather conditions, road diversions, local events, attraction availability or changes to visitor-centre operating hours may occasionally require us to adjust the route or timing. If changes are necessary, we'll always do our best to keep your experience enjoyable while making sensible adjustments to the itinerary.

Your adventure may not always go exactly to plan — and sometimes that's where the best memories begin. 

OUR TOURS INCLUDE

OUR TOURS DO NOT INCLUDE

RIGHTS RESERVED

Aye Tours Scotland Ltd. reserves all Rights to the Tours and Services along with the following Conditions

To help us provide a safe, enjoyable and reliable experience for everyone, Aye Tours Scotland reserves the right to:

  • Decline bookings that we are unable to safely or reasonably accommodate.

  • Cancel a tour when unforeseen circumstances make it necessary or unsafe to operate, including exceptional weather conditions, travel restrictions, road closures or serious health or safety emergencies. Where we cancel a tour, we will provide a refund in accordance with our Cancellation & Refund Policy.

  • Review and update our tour prices when necessary to reflect changes in operating costs, attraction fees, fuel prices or other circumstances affecting the cost of providing our tours. The price confirmed at the time of your booking will apply to that booking, unless otherwise agreed.

  • Make reasonable changes to the itinerary when necessary due to weather, road conditions, local events, attraction availability, timing or other circumstances. Your guide will use their professional judgement to help keep the tour safe, enjoyable and within the agreed duration.

  • Decline participation where a guest is displaying significant contagious symptoms, such as fever or significant coughing or sneezing, where proceeding could pose a risk to the guest, guide or other participants. Please refer to our Cancellation & Refund Policy for the applicable terms.

  • Refuse or discontinue service where there are outstanding fees, materially misleading information provided at the time of booking, or behaviour that is unsafe, threatening, abusive or otherwise presents a risk to the Guide or Others.

  • We take reasonable steps to protect guests and their belongings, but we cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage to personal property, or for missed onward travel, appointments or other arrangements resulting from circumstances outside our reasonable control.

  • Decline refunds where the applicable booking terms or policies have not been followed, including circumstances specifically identified as non-refundable.

  • Use photographs or videos taken during your tour for promotional purposes, where appropriate, unless you have asked us not to use identifiable images of you or members of your group.

We love sharing Scotland — but our content is ours. 

All content on this website, including our photographs, images, text, graphics, logos, branding, tour information, pricing details belongs to Aye Tours Scotland Ltd or is used with permission.

Our content is protected by copyright, trademark and other intellectual property laws and may not be copied, reproduced, modified, distributed or used commercially without our prior written permission.

We reserve the right to take appropriate action where our intellectual property is used without permission. By using this website, you agree to respect our intellectual property and comply with our website terms and policies.

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©2026 Aye Tours Scotland.  All Rights Reserved.

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