Wild Red Deer viewing safari with expert guide. Connemara, Galway

Clifden , Ireland

Wild Red Deer viewing safari with expert guide. Connemara, Galway

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About this experience

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.

Available options

Wild Red Deer viewing safari with expert guide. Connemara, Galway

What's included

Professional guide, Tea/Coffee/Hot Chocolate, Use of binoculars

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Walk in the Connemara National park in search of Irish red deer and well as option to drive srrounding areas in search of the deer

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Pls note this experience meet point is a 90 minute drive from Galway city. Own transport required.

Meeting point

Meet at the main car park, up the hill from the main entrance to the Connemara National Park

Important notes

Meet time: one hour before dawn on the activity date.
Expected completion time: 09h00am.
Meet point: : Main car park: Connemara National Park Letterfrack, County Galway, H91 K2Y1
Contact number: of the guide John +353 85 113 0969
Direction from Galway: Take the N59 north from Galway city. Pass through the villages of Moycullen, Oughterard, Maam Cross and Recess. Approximately 1 km passed Recess take a right turn down Inagh valley towards Kylemore/Letterfrack. At T-junction with the N59 take a left turn towards Kylemore Abbey. Drive passed the Abbey and through the village of Letterfrack. Approximately 300m passed the village of Letterfrack find entrance to Connemara on your left and car park up the hill. Travel duration from Galway approximately one and half to two hours.
Directions from Clifden: Take the N59 heading towards Westport/Letterfrack. Continue along this road until you pass Rosleague Hotel on your left. the entrance to Connemara National Park is approximately 1 kilometre further on the right before the village of Letterfrack – car park is up the hill. Travel duration from Clifden is approximately 25 minutes.
Package includes:
· Services of local professional guide
· Transport by 4x4 vehicle
· Tea/Coffee/Hot Chocolate and biscuits
· Use of binoculars
What to bring: Warm clothes and a snack.
What to wear: Appropriate warm attire and foot wear. If the weather is wet a change of clothing and towel are recommended for afterwards.
Safety: Please keep all parts of your body within the vehicle at all times.
Medical conditions: Please advise guide of any and all medical conditions prior to departing on the days activities.

About Clifden

Clifden, known as the Capital of Connemara, is a picturesque town in Western Ireland. It's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and as the gateway to the rugged and breathtaking Connemara National Park. The town offers a unique blend of outdoor adventures, traditional Irish music, and warm hospitality.

Top Attractions

Connemara National Park

A stunning national park with rugged landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.

Nature Half to full day Free entry

Sky Road

A breathtaking coastal drive with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding landscapes.

Scenic Drive 1-2 hours Free

Clifden Castle

The ruins of a 19th-century castle that offers a glimpse into the area's history and stunning views.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Irish Stew

A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked for a rich flavor.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian with substitutions.

Seafood Chowder

A creamy soup filled with fresh local seafood like fish, mussels, and prawns.

Dinner Contains dairy and seafood.

Soda Bread

A traditional Irish bread made with buttermilk, known for its dense texture and slightly sour taste.

Snack Contains gluten.

Popular Activities

Hiking in Connemara National Park Horseback riding Beach day at Renvyle Beach Spa day in local hotels Visiting Kylemore Abbey Attending traditional music sessions in pubs Swimming and sunbathing at local beaches Cozy pub visits with live music

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest and most popular time to visit, with long daylight hours and a variety of festivals and outdoor activities.

12°C to 18°C 54°F to 64°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Irish (Gaelic)
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT (UTC+0) or GMT+1 during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Clifden is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure.
• Be cautious when driving on narrow roads.
• Respect local customs and laws.

Getting there

By air

Galway Airport • 80 km (50 miles)
Shannon Airport • 120 km (75 miles)

By bus

Clifden Bus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Buses connect Clifden to nearby towns and villages, with schedules tailored to local needs.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Local taxi services, no major apps

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Clifden Town Center Sky Road Area

Day trips

Kylemore Abbey

20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A beautiful abbey with a rich history, surrounded by stunning gardens and a Victorian walled garden.

Renvyle Beach

30 km (19 miles) • Half day

A beautiful sandy beach with clear waters, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Festivals

Clifden Arts Week • September Clifden Community Festival • July

Pro tips

Visit Connemara National Park early in the morning for the best wildlife sightings and fewer crowds.
Try the local seafood, especially oysters and salmon, for an authentic taste of the region.
Attend a traditional music session in a local pub for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Drive the Sky Road for breathtaking views, but be cautious of narrow and winding roads.
Book accommodations and popular tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.