6 Day Up Helly Aa Viking Fire Festival Shetland
Shetland is a place of striking landscapes, deep history, and strong traditions, but nothing captures the spirit of the islands quite like Up Helly Aa, the world-famous Viking fire festival that forms the heart of this unforgettable journey. Over four immersive days, you’ll explore Shetland’s wild beauty by day and experience one of Europe’s most dramatic winter celebrations by night, where ancient Norse heritage is brought vividly to life.
Up Helly Aa is the undisputed highlight of the tour. As darkness falls, Lerwick is transformed by the glow of hundreds of flaming torches carried by costumed Vikings known as Guizers. Led by the Guizer Jarl, the torchlit procession moves through the streets in a powerful display of pageantry, music, and tradition. Before the main event, you’ll witness the junior Jarl Squad in action, a proud symbol of how this centuries-old celebration is passed from one generation to the next. The festival reaches its breathtaking climax with the ceremonial burning of a full-size Viking longship, as flames roar into the night sky amid cheers and shared celebration. With your knowledgeable guide ensuring the best viewpoints and explaining the customs and symbolism, you’ll be able to fully absorb every moment of this extraordinary spectacle.
Beyond the festival, you’ll explore Shetland’s remarkable landscapes and history, including the dramatic cliffs of Eshaness, the ancient settlement of Jarlshof, and the lighthouse views at Sumburgh Head. Visits to Scalloway, St Ninian’s Isle, and time in Lerwick offer insight into island life, wartime history, and local culture. Together, these experiences create a journey where Up Helly Aa takes centre stage, supported by the raw beauty and rich stories of Shetland.
