Intro to Wild Camping and Sea Kayaking Expedition in Lochcarron

Enjoy a long weekend sea kayaking through the scenic lochs and islands of the North West Highlands. This beginner-friendly wild camping expedition is designed to ease you into the essentials of kayaking, build your confidence on the water, and give you a taste of expedition life with an overnight camp on a remote beach. Choose from self-catered or fully inclusive options to suit your style and budget.

Key Details

• Duration: 3 days, 2 nights (Saturday–Monday)
• Experience level: Beginners and early intermediates welcome
• Instructor ratio: 1:6
• Options: Self-catered, food provided, or fully inclusive with accommodation

Key Skills

• Paddle control and boat handling
• Expedition planning and packing
• Camp setup and safety
• Understanding weather and tidal conditions
• Navigation basics for sea kayaking

What to Expect

Day one begins with a comprehensive introduction to sea kayaking. You’ll start on calm, sheltered waters, learning basic paddle strokes, edging, and how to handle your kayak confidently. The afternoon is dedicated to building on those skills with short paddling journeys, allowing plenty of time to practice while enjoying views of the surrounding coastline. There's also a session on planning and preparation for the expedition phase, including what kit to take, safety considerations, and how to pack effectively.

On day two, you'll head out on the expedition, usually exploring the Kishorn Islands or the sandy inlets around Plockton and the Strome Narrows. These areas are well-suited for beginners but still feel remote and wild, offering sightings of seals and seabirds along the way. After a night camping by the sea, you'll paddle back on day three, rounding off the trip with time to reflect and relax on the return leg. The fully inclusive option includes hearty homemade meals and comfortable guesthouse accommodation before and after the expedition. For those on the self-catered plans, local campsite or hostel accommodation can be arranged independently.

Location

This trip is based out of Lochcarron in the heart of the North West Highlands. The kayak base is easily accessible from the village and sits at the edge of a tidal sea loch, surrounded by dramatic peaks and island-strewn waters. The sheltered nature of Lochcarron, along with nearby Loch Kishorn and Loch Torridon, means paddling is possible in a wide range of weather conditions.

The surrounding area offers excellent local services including the Lochcarron Bistro, Spar shop, cafés, and quality accommodation options. Nearby villages like Applecross and Shieldaig provide additional choices if you prefer staying outside Lochcarron, but please factor in driving times to the kayak base. Trains to Strathcarron and airport transfers to Inverness are available if you’re travelling without a car.

Accommodation

The fully inclusive option includes three nights in a local guesthouse with all meals except your arrival evening. Meals on the expedition are freshly prepared and homemade, including our well-loved cake recipes. For trip-only guests, there are several B&Bs, self-catering cottages, and campsites nearby. 

Options include Castle Cottage, the Hartfield Lodge Hostel, and campsites in Shieldaig or Applecross. All are within easy reach of Lochcarron’s shops and eateries.

Prerequisites

No prior kayaking experience is required, though you should be reasonably fit and comfortable being outdoors for extended periods. The trip is suitable for complete beginners and those who have paddled a little before but want to gain confidence and learn essential skills for expedition paddling.

Participants will need to be able to carry their own kit during loading and unloading, and must be willing to camp overnight in a remote coastal location with minimal facilities.

Why Choose Us

The guides on this trip are full-time locals, living and working in the Highlands year-round. Their local knowledge of weather, tides, wildlife and culture ensures every expedition is safe, informative and personal. You'll gain more than just paddling skills—expect to come away with a real sense of connection to the area.

By offering both Fully Inclusive and Trip Only options, the experience remains flexible and accessible. Guests are treated to freshly prepared meals with locally inspired dishes and homemade cakes, adding a comforting touch to the expedition. With sheltered sea conditions and free transfers from Strathcarron rail station, it’s easy to reach and ideal for maximising your time on the water.