I know it's better to see the Ring of Kerry by car but I don't drive. I'm looking for a tour bus out of Killarney that gets back before 17:00. The last bus to my next stop, Dingle (via Tralee) leaves at 17:05, apparently. It seems like all the tour buses leave around 10:30 and get back at 5. I can't risk the bus getting back in time for me to catch that bus to Tralee. Wondering if maybe there's a tour that leaves a little earlier and gets back earlier. Anyone know of one? If not, I guess I'll have to stay an extra night in Killarney and lose a night in Dingle.
Posted by
Vermont USA
359 posts
There are the big tour buses but there are also many small private van tours with local drivers where you can either go alone or part of a small group. These are far more flexible and can accommodate your time constraints. These drivers make you feel instantly welcome....provide incredible local history and knowledge and can cater the tour to what you like. Prior to going on one my wife and I felt awkward about just us going on a tour with a stranger. That apprehension was gone within about 5 minutes and by days end we had a real friend.
Others can give you specific current names to consider though a Google search for private tours or drivers in Killarney should do the trick. These, in our view, are massively better then the big tour buses which for us was like being on the wrong end of a cattle drive. Anyway a good option to consider.
Have a great time.
Posted by
Atlanta, Ga, USA
2023 posts
We used a tour with Deros and started in Killarney---maybe most start there. Anyway it was great to let them do the driving so we could enjoy the scenery. The tour made lots of stops: a sheep herding event, a folk village, crafts shopping, etc and a nice place for lunch.
Posted by
OP
San Francisco, California, USA
162 posts
Thanks for the replies. I doubt I could afford a private tour. The Deros tour gets a lot of good reviews but like all of them returns at "approximately 5 PM".
Posted by
Vermont USA
359 posts
Don't know what your budget is but ....for example South Kerry Taxi offers a customized 4 hour and up tour....in a van......with guide.......on your schedule....for $60....and they get 5 star reviews. You could EASILY see a ton and get back in tons of time for your bus. There are other companies with options like that ....that aren't that expensive and are totally customizable. One of the incredibly great things about Ireland is how laid back it is.....how they will bend over backwards to accommodate...and do so happily. It isn't the US....by any means. Write a few of these companies...give them your honest time and money parameters and they will either do it for you or direct you to competition who will. Happens all the time there.
Posted by
OP
San Francisco, California, USA
162 posts
I can afford $60. Thanks for the tip. South Kerry Taxi seems to be based out of Kenmare (I'm looking for something out of Killarney) but I'll check with them anyway) . Thanks again.
Posted by
Vermont USA
359 posts
Their reviews said the are willing to pick up in Killarney. A Google search should net you a number of options in Killarney though. Best of luck !