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    486 reviews

    Hiking Tours Ireland

    Our hiking tours will take you off the beaten track to Ireland’s wild corners and secret, local spots. From the Wild Atlantic Way to the Causeway Coast and the Ancient East, hike in amazing places like Dingle, the Ring of Kerry, West Cork, Connemara, Donegal, Northern Ireland, Wicklow, and the islands of Ireland.

    Browse our trips to find the perfect match.

    Expert Guides
    Small Group Travel
    Handpicked Accommodation

    Your Next Hiking Trip to Ireland Awaits

    With over 10 years of experience delivering hiking tours in Ireland’s most beautiful regions, we go far beyond simply handling logistics. From the stunning coastlines of the Wild Atlantic Way to the evocative wilderness of Connemara, our expert team know Ireland’s iconic landscapes better than anyone and is passionate about delivering a range of world-class hiking adventures to suit every ability.

    Our team will organise your walking adventure in its entirety, so you don’t need to worry about the planning. Crafted to showcase both Ireland’s most iconic destinations and its less-travelled hidden gems, our tours are built on years of deep personal experience and enhanced by our passionate guides. Our range of walking tours (which you can explore below) offers a variety of locations, experiences, comfort, and grading levels. Looking for luxury? Some of our tours offer deluxe upgrades. Looking to travel with like-minded women? Our women-only departures might be the perfect fit.

    Whether you’re a first-time visitor to our rugged coasts or a returning traveller, we are delighted to welcome you to Ireland and help tick every box on your hiking trip wishlist. Still have questions? Contact our friendly team by phone, email, or Livechat to chat through trip options and find your ideal adventure.

    Quality Assured Read More

    At Wilderness Ireland, we want you to love every minute of your holiday. In order to ensure exceptional comfort and friendly service on our small group hiking trips, we handpick each accommodation you stay in. Most of our trips are Classic standard, meaning your accommodation is 3 to 4 star – usually family-run hotels, charming guesthouses, quaint BnBs or even the odd historical manor! We do offer a Deluxe standard, which includes 4 to 5 star accommodations. We do offer a Make it Private option on all of our group trips, with the option to upgrade hotels.

    Our tours will include your guide, transport, transfers, ferries, as well as most meals and entrance fees or activities stated in the itinerary. Each day, you’ll partake in a guided hike through some of Ireland’s most stunning landscapes and coastlines. No need to worry about your luggage – carry only a daypack with what you need for the day.

    Group tours are perfect for single and solo travellers as you get the chance to join like-minded people, as well as for couples, groups of friends or families. However, groups can also choose our Make it Private option, meaning you can book a private version of our trips that includes only your group of friends, family or colleagues.

    Our Locations Read More

    While you can visit any part of the Emerald Isle on a tailor made trip, if you choose to travel on one of our small group tours, browse the tours in the following locations:

    Trip Grading Explained Read More
    Green Graded: Difficulty 1-3

    Green graded hiking trips are suitable for active travellers who are reasonably fit and enjoy gentle to moderate hikes. We walk at a comfortable pace and you can expect to be out for 5-6 hours a day. The terrain will be mostly good paths and hill trails but these can still be muddy and rough in places. Some hikes may involve an ascent up to a max of approx 1,500 feet / 450m. Distances will be typically 8-10km (4-6 miles). Daily hike details are available in the itinerary.

    Blue Graded: Difficulty 4-6

    Blue graded hiking trips are suitable for fit and experienced hikers. We walk at a good pace and you can expect to be out for 6-8 hours a day. You will not always be on a path and the terrain underfoot can be rough and boggy, including boulder fields and mountain tops. Some of the daily walks will involve a mountain ascent of over 3,000ft / 900m high. Daily distances will be typically up to 16km (10 miles) but may be longer occasionally. Daily hike details are available in the itinerary.

    Red Graded: Difficulty 7-9

    Red graded hiking trips are suitable for fit and experienced hikers used to challenging routes and rough terrain. The terrain will be varied but include rough hill tracks, boggy ground, boulder fields and mountain tops. There may be ridge walks or short non-technical scrambling so a good head for heights is useful. Daily distances will be 15 – 20km a day and often include an ascent of a major peak up to 3,000ft / 900m high. Daily hikes are available in the itinerary.

    Our Hiking Holidays

    12 Hiking Trips

    Load More Departures

    First Time Visitors

    We love welcoming new travellers to Ireland and sharing our passion for its wild landscapes. Ask any one of us about our favourite trip or region, and you’ll get as many different answers as there are members of our team. From north to south, our beautiful, rainbow-capped, emerald island offers incredible places perfect for exploring on foot, and we can’t wait to share them with you.

    As a first-time visitor, you’ll likely have a few questions about our adventures and Ireland in general. Luckily, our friendly office team is always on hand to chat through any queries you may have, and we are happy to provide local insight and solid advice about anything from arrival airports to average temperatures, breakfast options, and bird life.

    Plus, once you arrive in Ireland, our guides will take care of every aspect of your trip, so there is no need to worry about accommodation, meals, trail choice or transfers. Whether it’s enjoying a traditional music session at one of our favourite little pubs or exploring a cliff-top trail that only the locals know about, – our aim is to make your journey with us as seamless, beautiful, and memorable as possible.

    Pre-Trip Planning and Customer Support

    Ok, I’m All Booked, But What Do I Pack? Read More

    Not sure what to pack? Not to worry – we have created a handy and comprehensive kit list for each type of trip – find the hiking kit list here. This list includes essential items, as well as recommended ones, that will ensure you have everything you need for an amazing hiking trip in Ireland. Ideally, if you can pack into a soft duffle bag, it makes life easier packing up our vans.

    Where will your luggage be stored during your trip? While you’re in Ireland with us, your luggage will be kept safe at your accommodation or securely stored in the van during transfers. The only thing you need to bring with you each day is a small day bag large enough for your water, snacks, extra layers, camera and phone, and packed lunch.

    In Ireland, there is a saying that we can get all four seasons in one day. Due to our location in Ireland, the weather is lovely, cool, and fresh, but it can also be changeable. It’s best to be prepared with a variety of layers and include raingear, sunglasses, and, yes, sunscreen. Temperatures are generally mild, ranging from 7° to 21° Celcius (and 45° to 70° F). As Alfred Wainwright famously said, ‘There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.’

    How Do I Get to Ireland? Read More

    Ireland has three major international points of entry: Dublin Airport on the east coast, Shannon Airport on the west coast, and Belfast Airport in Northern Ireland. Additionally, smaller airports like Kerry, Knock, Derry, Cork, and a second Belfast airport offer flights to destinations in the UK and Europe.

    For those travelling by sea, ferry services connect Ireland to the UK and Europe, with routes serving Dublin, Belfast, Larne, Rosslare, and Cork. If your journey involves Belfast Airport, transiting through London, or travelling within Northern Ireland (which is part of the UK), an ETA will be required – find more details on our FAQ page.

    Read more about travel to and within Ireland on our comprehensive travel page.

    The Start of Your Trip – Where Do I Meet My Hiking Guide? 
 Read More

    Ireland’s public transport connections make getting around the country relatively easy. All our guided group hiking trips begin and end at a train station or in a city centre, which makes the start and end of any adventure relaxed and stress-free.

    Exactly where and when to meet your Wilderness guide is stated on your chosen hiking trip page under the “Trip Details” section and reiterated in correspondence with your travel consultant before your adventure begins.

    Before and After Your Trip – Stay, See Guides Read More

    Our friendly sales team, who are always on hand to answer any queries, will happily provide you with Stay, See guides for various destinations across Ireland. These guides highlight our recommended accommodations and must-see attractions, ensuring you experience the very best each location has to offer.

    These documents, impeccably researched and designed to make your journey that much smoother, are perfect for making the most of your time before and after your adventure with us.

    Destination Experts

    The ancient, wild nature of Ireland can be felt in the land, sea, and sky. The Emerald Isle’s enduring and irresistible appeal is anchored in its diverse natural wonders. On a hiking tour in Ireland, our travellers are immersed in elemental landscapes rich in history and infused with myth.

    Not sure which region of Ireland you would most like to visit? With so many wonderful places to explore, deciding where to go can be tricky. From scree-sloped summits to wave-washed beaches, Ireland offers a wealth of landscapes that are ideal hiking tour terrain. Find out more about some of our best-loved destinations below, and remember, our Adventure Consultants are always pleased to provide advice or inspiration via email, phone, or live chat.

    Sustainability and Responsible Travel

    If our reviews are anything to go by, how we operate our vacations proves that it is possible to travel responsibly without compromising the traveller’s experience. Our hiking itineraries are designed to minimise our carbon footprint, support local communities, and protect the wild places we visit so they can be enjoyed by future generations.

    What Do We Mean By Responsible Travel?

    Travel allows us to visit beautiful, wild places and connect with different cultures around the world. As travellers, we can travel more sustainably by making well-informed choices. We accept that flying to a destination may be the best available option, but once we’ve arrived, we think about staying longer, choosing back-to-back tours, and making our journeys count once we arrive. By choosing Wilderness Scotland, Wilderness Ireland, or Wilderness England, you’re choosing a world-leading travel company fully committed to sustainable travel.

    Our Sustainability Goals

    Our vision for 21st-century travel decisively aims for a more sustainable future. We have taken an industry-leading position on climate change and are one of only a handful of companies committed to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the first global science-based standard with the aim of achieving true net zero.

    Iconic Sites and Hidden Gems

    Customer Experience

    With our unparalleled knowledge of Ireland’s wild places, we specialise in hiking tours which are as authentic as they are breathtaking. Each detail of our hiking trips is carefully considered, from handpicked, characterful accommodations to zesty meals that celebrate Ireland’s finest local ingredients.

    Our small group sizes ensure a more personal experience, allowing our expert guides to share their in-depth knowledge of the landscapes, history, and hidden gems along the way. You’ll walk through peaceful and dramatic landscapes, knowing that your journey directly supports the local communities you visit.

    We are also dedicated to minimising our environmental footprint and keeping as many aspects of our trips as local as possible. This ensures that your adventure not only enriches your experience but also contributes to the protection of Ireland’s natural beauty for future generations.

    Local Connections Read More

    One of the greatest joys of travel is experiencing a country through the eyes of the people who call it home. The conversations you have and the connections you make with locals can turn a simple visit into a truly meaningful experience. Since our beginning, Wilderness Ireland has cherished local connections, working with an incredible network of businesses, conservationists, and experts across the country.

    This means that on our hiking tours as well as all of our small group tours, you’ll discover Ireland from a local perspective and enjoy an immersive adventure that allows you to form a deeper connection with the land, its wildlife, and the communities that help protect it. On many of our hiking adventures, you’ll also meet passionate experts, from storytellers and craftspeople to those committed to conserving and caring for Ireland’s landscapes.

    Expert and Passionate Guides Read More

    Our guides are not only experts in Ireland’s landscapes but also deeply knowledgeable about its history, culture, geology, ecosystems, wildlife, and more. With years of experience, our guides bring enthusiasm and insight to every trip, from sharing their favourite local pub to helping you spot rare birds or recounting a local story or legend.

    Along with being warm, engaging, and highly knowledgeable, all our guides are professionals who prioritise the safety and well-being of every traveller. With 24/7 support from our office team, who ensures each detail is taken care of, you are free to listen to the crash of waves, taste the freshest of dishes, and uncover the historical sights that make Ireland magical. Their ability to bring Ireland’s natural world to life ensures every trip is filled with unforgettable experiences.

    Storytelling Brings Ireland to Life Read More

    Ireland’s rich tapestry of history and culture is made vivid through the captivating storytelling and local knowledge of our guides. Whether recounting tales of ancient chieftains or sharing myths of selkies and fairy forts, our guides enhance your understanding and connection to Ireland in an engaging and memorable way.

    Route Planning and Adjustments Read More

    Our guides are experts at adapting plans in the interest of boosting the group’s experience. Should the weather shift or a rare wildlife sighting present itself, your guide can seamlessly adjust the day’s itinerary to ensure your adventure remains both exciting and enjoyable. This flexibility ensures that every day of your wildlife journey is maximised, allowing for spontaneity without compromising the quality of the experience.

    Your Personal Concierge Read More

    Our guides are both outdoor experts and your Irish hosts. Their goal is to ensure you get the absolute most out of your experience, ensuring you feel informed, relaxed, and happy throughout your adventure. From arranging meals to managing transport and accommodation, every logistical detail is expertly handled so you can fully immerse yourself in the experience. Their meticulous approach ensures that every element of your hiking tour runs smoothly, allowing you to focus entirely on enjoying your trip.

    Peace of Mind Read More

    With a professional guide leading the way, you have the time, space, and opportunity to immerse yourself fully in one of our guided hiking trips. From route planning to ensuring safety and comfort, your guide takes the stress out of decision-making. They know the most promising places to spot puffins and whales, the perfect wet-weather alternatives, the most scenic viewpoints, the cosiest cafés, the best secret beaches, and where to find the perfect hand-made Irish craft to bring home. Our guides provide peace of mind, allowing you to enjoy your time in Ireland as much as possible while getting the most out of your hiking trip.

    Flexibility Read More

    Our hiking itineraries are designed with adaptability and flexibility in mind, allowing us to cater to special interests and passions. Whether you’re an avid photographer wanting to capture Ireland’s dramatic landscapes or a history enthusiast keen on delving deeper into the island’s past, we can adjust the schedule to accommodate your specific goals. This flexibility ensures that no two hiking tours are the same and that your experience aligns perfectly with your interests.

    Small Group Size Benefits Read More

    One of the defining features of our hiking trips is the small group size. Small groups allow for greater flexibility and create a more personal, rewarding experience. With fewer participants, our guides can dedicate more time to each guest, ensuring everyone feels supported and engaged. Whether climbing the hills of Connemara, wandering amongst the puffins on Skellig Michael, or joining in a lively traditional music session in a pub, small groups offer a more intimate and enriching Irish experience.

    From a safety perspective, small groups allow guides to easily monitor conditions and swiftly respond to any changes or needs. Transfers and logistics are smoother, allowing for seamless transitions between locations. We often find that guests keep in touch after their journey and sometimes return together for another adventure the following year!

    Our holidays reviewed in your own words...

    Every client receives a feedback survey when they return from their guided, self guided or tailor made holiday with us. Once completed the review is published on our website just as soon as our database updates. The little touches and details are important to us and where issues are raised we make positive changes to our trips to improve your experience.

    That’s why we read each of our client’s reviews and although we don’t respond to all of them, if it’s glowing feedback then we get the satisfaction of helping to make your holidays truly memorable.

    PD

    Pierre DuPont

    Hiking - The Causeway Coastal Route & Donegal

    Age: 60 - 70
    Country: United States
    Trip Date: 12/04/2025
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    LB

    Lorraine Borland

    Hiking & Island Hopping - Cork & Kerry

    Age: 70 - 80
    Country: New Zealand
    Trip Date: 31/08/2024
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    Great! I look forward to my next hiking trip with Wilderness ireland.

    DL

    Dawn Laine

    Hiking - Kerry & Clare

    Age: 50 - 60
    Trip Date: 07/09/2024
    Trips Taken: 1

    The Bottom Line

    The Bottom Line

    Oh my gosh! I hardly know where to begin. Everything about the County Clare & County Kerry trip was amazing. Our guide, Declan, was awesome. His knowledge of the area was brilliant, and his enthusiasm was contagious. Each place we visited was magical in it's own way. The hikes were perfect. The lodgings were great. The food was delicious & so fresh. I really didn't want the trip to end. Thank you for this beautiful experience. I'm looking forward to more!

    As Recommended By...

    You'll be in good company on a Wilderness Ireland Trip. Some of the biggest and best known names in the business have recommended us.

    Los Angeles Times
    National Geographic Adventure
    Vogue
    Men's Health
    USA Today
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