Top Western Ireland Nature and Wildlife Tours

Set out on a mountain trail in the countryside of County Clare during this guided horseback riding tour. Explore wooded trails, the hills of Slieve Elva, and the rocky Burren region, riding up to 1,200 feet above the ocean along the Wild Atlantic Way. This small-group tour includes trots and canters for experienced riders. No prior experience is necessary.

Explore the coastline of County Clare with a small-group walking tour. Meet your guide at the starting point in the village of Doolin and set out on a countryside stroll. See several top area landmarks including the Cliffs of Moher and O’Brien’s Tower. Go off-the-beaten-path and find scenic Instagram spots during the walking tour.

There are many activities you can do to get to know the real Ireland, but none quite like this Leenaun Killary Sheep Farm Tour with Sheepdog Demonstration. This tour takes you through the farmland with the farmer himself as you learn about the practices of the farm and watch a sheepdog demonstration. Plus, hear a great deal about the inner workings of a sheep farm, too.

Embark on a thrilling road trip along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way on this full-day tour from Galway. Discover the natural wonders of Galway Bay and Connemara as you leave the tourist trail behind and journey along the coast. Admire views of Rosmuc, Derrygimlagh Bog and the Twelve Bens Mountains; visit the former residence of political leader Padraic Pearse; and stop for morning tea in Roundstone (not included). Finally, look out for wild Connemara ponies as you hike through Connemara National Park or pay a visit to the magnificent 19th-century Kylemore Abbey.

Explore the Burren and the Cliffs of Moher on this County Clare day tour from Galway. Travel along the Wild Atlantic Way to the Burren, focusing on the sights as someone else takes care of driving. Take in top local landmarks, including Dunguaire Castle and Corcomroe Abbey. Pass pretty towns and villages such as Ballyvaughan, Doolin, and Lisdoonvarna on route to the majestic Cliffs of Moher, widely considered among Ireland’s most impressive sights.

Not everyone wants to spend their time at Cliffs of Moher—one of Ireland’s most stunning natural attractions—trailing behind a guide. Then again, renting a car can also be a hassle. Skip the fuss on this transport-only tour, which whisks you from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher and back by direct shuttle bus. Once there, enjoy free time to wander the clifftop trails on your own.

The ride starts at Carrowholly Stables and heads out through the countryside before dropping down onto the open strands of Clew Bay. This is the western edge of County Mayo, where the bay is dotted with islands and Croagh Patrick stands behind you the whole way, the pilgrim mountain that thousands climb barefoot every July. Keep an eye on the water as you ride the shoreline. Seals haul out on Seal Rock most days, and you'll pass Dorinish Island, the small island John Lennon bought in the 1960s and once planned to live on. Beginners are welcome, and most of the people on any given ride have little or no experience. Your guide is local and qualified, and gives full instruction before you set off, so you're comfortable in the saddle before you reach the beach. Riders who can rise to the trot will get more out of the coastal stretch. Confident riders can canter across the open strand. It's a two-hour ride. The pace is yours to set within your group's ability.

Discover the essence of indigenous Irish spirituality at the Celtic Druid Temple, nestled in the serene landscape of North West Roscommon. This dedicated site spans 16.5 acres and serves as a tranquil haven for those seeking spiritual connection and environmental harmony. Engage with nature through guided tours that emphasize sustainable living and renewable energy practices, all while being part of a spirituality dedicated to Natural abundance. Experience a unique blend of spirituality and ecology in a place recognized for its commitment to advancing indigenous traditions in Ireland.

Discover the countryside beyond Galway City with this full-day tour of Connemara. Skip the hassle of navigating and board a comfortable coach for a tour of scenic villages and the Wild Atlantic Way. Explore the historic Kylemore Abbey including its walled Victorian Garden at your leisure. Maximize time in Connemara with a tour that features popular locations including the village of Roundstone, the scenic Sky Road, and landmarks like Clifden Castle.

Experience hands-on oyster farming tour, shucking, and tasting with a local expert on Clew Bay's Atlantic shore. Enjoy authentic, family-friendly fun and discover the journey from sea to table

Discover the best of the Wild Atlantic Way with this full-day tour from Galway. Set out on a combination coach and boat tour to see top landmarks in the west of Ireland including the Cliffs of Moher, the Aran Islands. See the Cliffs of Moher from below during a boat journey, visit the island of Inis Oirr, and back to the mainland.

Be guided by an islander on the smallest of the Aran Islands and learn first hand about her story as a local on this island steeped in traditions and culture. Hear her story of growing up there, leaving, returning and witnessing all the changes and influences of the modern world on the Island while helping to keep all that is good in the traditions and culture alive.

Go horseback riding in the Irish countryside with this small-group tour. Choose between two different tour lengths and set out on horseback to ride along the beach with sweeping views of Clew Bay. Explore the coastline at a leisurely pace and admire views of local landmarks including Croagh Patrick and the Seals Rock near Carrowholly Stables & Trekking Centre.

Explore beyond the city of Galway with a full-day tour to Connemara National Park. Board a coach and set out on a scenic tour into the Irish countryside that includes popular landmarks like Killary Harbor and the charming village of Spiddal. Explore the hiking trails of Connemara National Park independently and at your own pace. Learn about local culture, music, history, and language during the drive.

The UNESCO-listed Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most memorable sights, but many tours only make a short stop. This full-day tour from Galway includes two hours of free time to explore the cliffs, as well as visiting the dramatic landscapes of The Burren, and stopping at Discovery Points along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Go beyond visiting the Cliffs of Moher and explore Ireland’s stunning Aran Islands, just 15 minutes off the coast. With this tour, you’ll arrive to everything taken care of, from lunch reservations to bike rentals and ferry tickets. Skipping the lines, you’ll also get access to a guide plus leisure time to discover the island’s fascinating culture, beautiful nature, and more.

Discover Galway’s dramatic scenery at your own pace on this full-day private guided tour. After meeting your driver-guide at your local hotel, head off for a customized exploration of some of the region’s most popular landmarks. Gaze at the panoramic vistas from the Cliffs of Moher, snap photos in front of the 16th-century Dunguaire Castle, visit a nearby Irish craft chocolate factory, and much more.

'Hello Galway City!' walking tour discovers the hidden gems & secret corners of this small medieval city. With a mixture of heritage, culture & local interest, this is the perfect introduction to The City of The Tribes.

In the early dawn, set out to track the Wild Red Deer with your guide in its natural habitat of scenic mountains, bogs, heaths, grasslands and woodlands in Connemara. You will attempt to catch sighting of this majestic wild animal in its natural habitat. A spectacular way to capture the Connemara landscape on camera too! The most exciting time of year for deer watching is early to mid-October when the red deer start their courting actions, during the short period of time known as the ‘rut’. Hormonally charged males put on an impressive show as they fight to build their harem of females. You might hear them barking or clashing antlers amongst the trees. This experience includes a walk in the Connemara National Park to view the deer there and can also include following your guide by car to drive through this wilderness area tracking the deer. Learn from your professional guide about the unique fauna and flora as well as the history and ecology of the area.

Explore beyond the Irish coastline with this private deserted island boat tour in Connemara. Depart from Roundstone Harbour and set out on a scenic boat journey to the island of Inishlacken. Admire views of Roundstone Bay before arriving at this deserted island, where you can explore the white sand beaches and get up close to pristine nature. Customize the tour by adding in some fishing if you wish.

Explore the Irish countryside by horse during this seasonal small-group tour in County Clare. Meet your guide at Mountain View Horse Riding Centre in Lisdoonvarna and set out for a one-hour trek through woodlands and famine ruins. Admire panoramic views of the Cliffs of Moher, Aran Islands, and the Connemara mountains during the ride.

Discover the unparalleled beauty of Connemara on this expertly guided tour, showcasing the enchanting Kylemore Abbey, its exquisite Victorian walled gardens, and the breathtaking landscapes of one of Europe’s most beautiful national parks. This tour is designed for guests in Ireland on a self-drive tour or travelling in their own car. Set off on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Connemara, one of Ireland’s most breathtaking regions. Upon arriving Kylemore Abbey you’ll meet your expert local guide and begin an extraordinary exploration of the Kylemore Abbey estate. Surrounded by towering mountains, tranquil lakes, and untouched natural beauty, this experience offers a deep dive into the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes that make Connemara truly unique.

Discover the meanings behind the murals of Galway on a walking tour of the city’s walls. You’ll leave the tourist trail to learn about the sights that the guidebooks miss, hearing stories of the “Galway Banksy” and Cardi B, along with tales of the city’s up-and-coming artists and their inspirations. Nice touch: The tour is led by a local guide, who’s passionate about the city and its art.