Science Center Nature Tours

Puffin Executive Director Iain MacLeod (a native Scot) leads a Natural and Cultural History Tour to Scotland each year (in May or June). These are very personal, small-group tours to various parts of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Iain is an experienced group tour leader who has organized and led tours of Scotland more than a dozen times. The hotels are chosen by Iain for their comfort, ambiance, hospitality, and excellent food. Iain personally arranges every detail — flights, meals, transportation, and daily destinations. The group size (maximum 12 people), and unhurried pace fosters new friendships, a relaxed atmosphere, and flexibility in the schedule.
These tours fill very fast:

2020 Outer Hebrides and Skye

FULL

View Itinerary

2021 Shetland and Orkney Islands

FULL

View Itinerary

Email Iain MacLeod at if you are interested in future trips or to be put on a wait list for 2020 and 2021. Iain also leads a very popular tour of New Mexico (in November). Iain is thinking about offering this tour again in 2020. Email Iain if you are interested in that trip.

View Sample New Mexico Itinerary

Shaun Wyndman, 08/18/18
This is a very pricey cross between a zoo and a nature trail. The science center features several exhibits relating to the animals in the area. It also has exhibits relating to conservation etc. They offer animal shows, demonstrating live animals several times a day, and feedings three days a week, so check the schedule to see if your favorite is on display. In addition to the move animal exhibits the center features several walking trails offering an opportunity to see local wildlife and plant life. Most tree species are marked for easy identification of the local foliage. There is also a ninety minute boat tour of squam lake available for an additional fee.
Ariana Hernandez, 10/28/19
I love this place! It's like a zoo. You see different creatures and read little cool facts about New Hampshire's wild life on the way of the paths you walk. But, it's not only just all walking. You could also visit the play ground they have so your kids could have fun and an educational time.
Cailin Nelson, 08/03/18
Very nice place, clean and informative. Different from other places - lots for kids to learn hands on. I was a little apprehensive due to the cost and not many animals but felt like it was worth every penny. I would recommend packing a lunch and taking advantage of the trails - make a full day out of it.
John Cook, 10/19/19
Each and every time we visit the center it never ceases to amaze us. At certain locations there is a need for personal interaction with staff providing more information and answering questions. Static exhibits are boring and uninteresting. The animated prehistoric reptiles were stimulating. An impromptu meeting with staffer handling an injured raptor and the information she provided while standing in the rain was exceptional. Please watch your prices!
Ashley Arnone, 08/03/19
Lots to see, nice trails easy enough for a toddler to walk and explore. There is even a playground for kids. There is a picnic area just inside with plenty of tables and a place to buy snacks if you didn't pack your own.