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Skye Munros Isle of Skye








    Skye Cuillin Munro’s

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    Smaller group sizes

    Putting local communities first

    Your safety is our number one focus

    Sustainable travel

    Amazing experiences at affordable prices

    The Mountains

    The Skye Munros are unlike any other group of mountains in the UK.

    They are not simply summits to be reached, but a chain of complex, rugged peaks rising sharply from the sea, forming the iconic Cuillin Ridge. For many, the draw is clear: to stand on each of these eleven Munros and experience one of the most dramatic mountain environments in Britain.

    At the southern end of the range, Sgurr nan Eag marks the beginning of the main ridge, immediately setting the tone with steep, broken ground and a sense that this is not straightforward hillwalking. Nearby, Sgurr Dubh Mor stands slightly apart from the crest, but as a Munro in its own right, it demands to be climbed and earns its place through its position and character.

    Further north, the ridge rises to Sgurr Alasdair, the highest of all the Skye Munros. Its summit is a defining point in the range, reached via steep and often loose terrain that requires care, confidence and good judgement. Close by, Sgurr Mhic Choinnich carries both technical interest and historical significance, named after John Morton MacKenzie, widely regarded as Britain’s first professional mountain guide.

    Dominating the skyline is the Inaccessible Pinnacle, the most distinctive of all the Skye Munros. This narrow blade of basalt is the only Munro that requires a rock climb to reach its summit, making it a unique and often committing objective.

    Beyond this, the ridge continues with a series of peaks that demand sustained effort and attention. Sgurr na Banachdich offers a slightly more straightforward line to its summit, but still sits firmly within the character of the Cuillin. Sgurr a’Ghreadaidh and Sgurr a’Mhadaidh provide intricate scrambling and route-finding around the An Dorus col, where movement through the terrain becomes as important as the summits themselves.

    To the north, Bruach na Frithe stands apart as the only Skye Munro with a trig point, offering a brief sense of familiarity before the ridge sharpens again. Am Basteir follows as another striking peak, its narrow form echoing the character of the Inaccessible Pinnacle, before the range culminates in Sgurr nan Gillean, the most northerly Munro on Skye and one of the most recognisable mountains in Scotland.

    Together, these eleven Munros form a journey that is as much about movement, decision-making and conditions as it is about reaching the summits.

    Climbing the Skye Munros is not about ticking off a list. It is about understanding the terrain, linking the mountains together, and moving well through one of the most complex mountain environments in the UK.

    Who’s This For?

    The Skye Munros are not typical hillwalking days.

    While each summit qualifies as a Munro, the terrain between them is often complex, exposed and requires confident movement over rock. This is not a case of following a path from bottom to top.

    This experience is best suited to those who already have a good level of hill fitness, are comfortable on steep and uneven ground, and are willing to use their hands to move over rocky terrain. Previous scrambling experience is helpful, but not essential.

    On some of the Skye Munros, short sections of rope work may be used to manage exposure and increase safety. For many people, this may be their first experience of moving on a rope in the mountains.

    When this is required, we keep things simple and supportive. We’ll explain what’s happening, manage the rope systems, and guide you through each section so you can move confidently and safely.

    You don’t need prior climbing experience, but you do need to be open to learning and comfortable operating in an exposed mountain environment.

    Many people join us having completed other UK mountain days and are looking to take the next step into more technical terrain, or to complete the Skye Munros with the confidence that comes from having an experienced guide.

    If you’re unsure whether this is the right level, we’re always happy to advise.

    Best Time to Go

    The Skye Munros can be climbed at any time of year, but the experience varies significantly depending on conditions.

    For most people, the best time to climb the Cuillin Munros is between May and September, when longer daylight hours and generally drier conditions provide the best opportunity to move efficiently through the range.

    That said, even in summer, the Cuillin are rarely straightforward. Weather on Skye is highly changeable, and periods of strong wind, heavy rain or low cloud can quickly turn a straightforward day into something far more serious. Good visibility and dry rock make a significant difference here, particularly on sections of exposed scrambling and technical ground.

    Early summer often offers a good balance of conditions, with firmer ground and quieter hills, while late summer can bring more stable weather patterns—though never guaranteed. Flexibility is key, and successful ascents are often built around waiting for the right window rather than forcing a plan.

    Outside of these months, the character of the Cuillin changes completely. In winter, the Skye Munros become a serious mountaineering objective, requiring winter skills, equipment, and experience. Snow and ice transform the terrain, increasing both commitment and consequence.

    Whenever you choose to go, understanding the conditions and adapting your plans accordingly is essential. On Skye, timing is not just about the season—it’s about making the most of the conditions you have.

    Why Climb the Skye Munros with Monkey Mountaineering

    The Skye Munros are not just a series of summits to be reached. They are a chain of complex, exposed mountains where route choice, timing and decision-making matter as much as fitness.

    That’s where our approach is different.

    We work with small teams, allowing us to move efficiently, adapt to conditions and make considered decisions throughout the day. On Skye, plans often need to change. Being able to adjust the objective, the line of ascent or the pace of movement is what keeps things both safe and successful.

    Our focus is not simply on getting to the top, but on how you move through the terrain. Where the ground becomes more technical or exposed, we use simple rope systems where appropriate to manage risk and support confident movement. For many, this is their first experience of roped scrambling, and we guide you through it in a calm and controlled way.

    With over 30 years of experience in the mountains, including extensive time on Skye, we understand how the Cuillin behaves in different conditions. That experience informs everything we do, from selecting the right objectives to knowing when to push on and when to turn back.

    We don’t approach the Skye Munros as a checklist. We treat them as a mountain environment that rewards patience, good judgement and the ability to move well.

    The result is a more considered, more enjoyable and ultimately more successful experience in the Cuillin.

    Our Skye Munros programme is typically delivered over four days between May and September, when longer daylight hours and generally drier conditions offer the best opportunity to move efficiently through the Cuillin.

    That said, the nature of the terrain and the variability of Skye weather mean that no two trips are ever the same.

    Rather than following a fixed itinerary, we take a flexible, conditions-led approach. This allows us to adapt objectives throughout the week to make the most of weather windows, manage fatigue, and maximise what can be achieved safely. Our aim is always to complete as many of the Skye Munros as possible within the time available, but this is balanced against making sound decisions in the mountains.

    For those who have already climbed some of the Munros, or who are working towards completing the full set over multiple visits, we are happy to tailor the programme to focus on specific objectives. Single-day bookings are also available, allowing you to target particular summits or build your progression over time.

    A typical four-day structure might begin in the southern Cuillin, approaching via Coire Ghrunnda to take in Sgurr nan Eag, Sgurr Dubh Mor and Sgurr Alasdair, the highest of the Skye Munros. This is a demanding start to the week, with sustained ascent, complex terrain and sections of scrambling, before descending via the Great Stone Chute.

    From there, attention often shifts to the central ridge. Starting in Coire Lagan, the day may include Sgurr Mhic Choinnich before continuing to the Inaccessible Pinnacle. Climbing the In Pinn is a defining moment for many, involving a short but exposed rock climb followed by an abseil descent. The day can then continue along the ridge to Sgurr na Banachdich, finishing with a descent through Coire a’ Ghreadaidh.

    A shorter but still rewarding day can be spent around An Dorus, approaching from Glenbrittle to climb Sgurr a’ Ghreadaidh and Sgurr a’ Mhadaidh. These peaks offer sustained scrambling and careful route-finding in the heart of the Cuillin.

    The final objectives are typically found in the northern Cuillin. Starting from Sligachan, the route into Coire a’ Bhasteir leads to Sgurr nan Gillean, one of the most recognisable mountains in Scotland. From there, the narrow and characterful Am Basteir provides a contrasting challenge, before finishing on Bruach na Frithe, the only Skye Munro with a trig point.

    This structure is an example rather than a fixed plan. On Skye, success comes from working with the conditions rather than against them. We will adjust the order of days, objectives and pace throughout the week to make the most of the weather and ensure the best possible outcomes.

    For many, completing all eleven Skye Munros becomes a long-term goal rather than a single trip. Whether you are aiming to climb them all in one visit or build towards completion over time, the approach remains the same: move well, make good decisions, and take the opportunities the mountains allow.

    Our Skye Munros programme runs on dates to suit you between May and September, when longer days and more settled conditions offer the best opportunity to move through the Cuillin.

    The full four-day programme is priced at £1,200 for up to two people. This allows us to take a flexible, conditions-led approach across the week, adapting plans as needed to make the most of the weather and maximise what can be achieved safely.

    For many, the Skye Munros are not something to be rushed. Some prefer to complete them over multiple visits, returning to the Cuillin to pick off specific summits or sections of the ridge.

    Single days are therefore available at £325 for up to two people. This option works well if you are working towards completing all eleven Munros, have specific objectives in mind, or simply want to focus on a particular part of the range.

    We can also accommodate larger groups where required. If you’re looking to join as a group of more than two, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to provide a tailored quote.

    However you choose to approach it, the aim remains the same: to move well through the terrain, make sound decisions, and make the most of the time you have in the mountains.

    If you’re unsure how best to structure your time on Skye, we’re always happy to advise.

     

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    Included in the price of this trip

    • Professional guiding with fully qualified and experienced guides.
    • Maximum guiding ratio of 1:2 to ensure safety and increase chances of success.
    • All technical equipment including ropes.

    Not included

    • Travel to Skye and/or whilst taking part in the course.
    • Your accommodation before, during and after the course.
    • Meals and drinks before, during and after the course.
    • Personal travel insurance (to cover you for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects etc).
    • Personal equipment (please see our clothing and equipment section).

    Essential Clothing & Equipment

    • Boots

      A good pair of light-weight GoreTex lined walking boots which provide ankle support and are well broken-in. Boots are essential - Please do not bring trail shoes.

    • Buff

      Essential for helping to keep the sun off your neck at lower altitudes, protecting from dust and wind and as neck/face protection higher up.

    • Climbing Harness - Standard

      These are available to hire for a small fee – please enquire.

    • Climbing Helmet

      You only have one head - best to look after it. Make sure you can wear a beanie/woolly hat under your climbing helmet

    • Compass

      A silva compass for navigating with

    • Dry Bags

      A selection of rucksack liners and dry bags as required to keep your clothing, sleeping bag and equipment dry and organised.

    • Fleece or Soft Shell Layer

      This can be a fleece jumper or fleece jacket or a soft shell jacket.

    • Gilet

      This is an optional item but a good choice as an extra layer to keep your core warm. Any gilet you choose should be low volume (not bulky) down, primaloft or fleece.

    • Gloves

      A lightweight windproof pair of gloves for wearing on a daily basis as required.

    • Head Torch

      With spare batteries or the means to recharge.

    • Hiking Socks

      We recommend a good pair of proper hiking/trekking socks. A minimum of three pairs but ideally you should have a pair for each day.

    • HMS Karabiners

      These should be locking Karabiners – you will need a minimum of 2.

    • Insulated Jacket

      Can be down or synthetic.

    • Lightweight Walking Trousers

      To wear on a daily basis if not wearing shorts and for evening wear. Jeans or tracksuit bottoms are not suitable.

    • Long-Sleeved Thermal Top

      Essential base layer for colder days and nights. Pack at least 2 of these.

    • Map

      OS or BMC/Harveys map of the Cuillin Ridge. Harvey maps produce the best map for Skye. Please make sure it is in a clear weatherproof map case or weatherproofed.

    • Mid-Layer

      Lightweight microfleece or something similar is ideal as a mid-layer. You should bring two mid-layer tops – tops with zips allow ventilation and are often better than round neck tops.

    • Personal First Aid Kit

      This should include suncream, lip balm, blister plasters (compeed), plasters, painkillers and any prescription medicines, insect repellant etc.

    • Rucksack 30lt

      A small rucksack, around 30lt will be ideal.

    • Sling 120cm

      1 x 120cm sling.

    • Soft-Shell Jacket

      Make sure it is insulated and, importantly, windproof (not all soft-shell jackets are windproof).

    • Sun Hat

      To keep the sun off your head!

    • Sunglasses

      For general eye protection, wearing whilst trekking or on glaciers if applicable to your trip – for wearing on glaciers sunglasses need to be Category 4 and be close fitting or have side protection.

    • Water Bladder

      It is essential that you have the means to carry at least 2 litres of drinking water. The best solution is a bladder type water carrier such as a camelbak as this then allows you to drink whilst walking with no need to stop to get out a water bottle.

    • Water Bottle

      At higher altitudes your Camelbak may freeze and so it is a good idea to have a 1 litre Nalgene type bottle. Also great for events like the Cuillin ridge Traverse.

    • Waterproof Jacket

      Hard shell jacket ideally this will be waterproof and breathable (GoreTex or equivalent) and it will have a hood.

    • Waterproof Trousers

      Ideally they should be windproof and breathable (Gore Tex or equivalent) and with full or ¾ length side zips.

    • Whistle

      For attracting attention if you become separated.

    • Woolly hat

      To keep your head warm - Ideally a hat that will cover your ears too and fit under a climbing helmet.

    Optional Clothing & Equipment

    • Belay Device

      A tube type Belay device is best - Our guide will provide this if required

    • Mobile Phone

      You may want to use you phone as a camera. On our overseas trips signal is often limited or non-existent so making calls or sending texts may not be possible - see FAQs for trip specific info.

    • Small Stainless Steel Flask

      Useful for hot drinks during the day/night

    • Walking poles

      Not essential but extremely useful when carrying a load, descending and for any river crossings.

    • Watch

      For keeping track of time

    Paperwork

    • Booking Confirmation

      This will be sent to you aproximately 10 days before departure

    Carbon Footprint

    We are yet to determine the average CO2 emissions per person for our Skye Cuillin Munros course.

    What are we doing about it

    As a responsible adventure company, we’re committed to understanding and reducing the environmental impact of our treks. We favour local supply chains, low-impact accommodation, and foot-powered travel wherever possible. In addition, we encourage all our trekkers to offset their emissions through certified schemes and consider more sustainable travel options where available.

    By trekking mindfully, supporting local communities, and respecting the fragile mountain environment, we can ensure that these incredible landscapes remain unspoiled for generations to come.

    FAQs

    No, unfortunately we don’t currently provide equipment for hire but can recommend Expedition Kit Hire.

    Yes, taking photos is an absolute must! We do however advise you only to take a small camera as the extra weight of large SLR type cameras and accessories can all add up. Any extra weight will contribute to a more difficult day and possibly affect your balance on any tricky/technical sections.

    Using a fully qualified guide is not mandatory and we would encourage experienced hillwalkers, climbers, and mountain users to explore and have their own adventures. Employing a guide does, however, bring some benefits which include making the most of your available time to achieve more than you though possible and learning new skills as well as getting a greater insight into the Cuillin.

    No. We will provide all the technical equipment, all you need to bring is normal hill-walking clothing and basic equipment, see our kit list tab for more information

    A deposit of 25% of the total cost of the trip/course is payable at the time of booking and the balance is due 8 weeks before the departure date. If the booking takes place less than 8 weeks before departure, then the full amount is due at the time of booking. If you would like to discuss payment options, then please get in touch.

    A comprehensive list of clothing and equipment required for your trip can be found by visiting the ‘Kit List” tab on the relevant experience.

    Have you ever dreamed of scaling awesome Himalayan peaks and trekking through rugged mountain landscapes?  Well, Monkey Mountaineering is your gateway to adventure, connecting fearless adventurers with unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most stunning locations.  But what exactly is Monkey Mountaineering, and what makes it unique?

    A Passion for Adventure

    At its core, Monkey Mountaineering is about creating life-changing journeys for explorers who want more than just a typical holiday.  Founded by British Army veteran Sam Marshall, Monkey Mountaineering brings a legacy of discipline, resilience, and expertise to every expedition.  Specialising in small group, mountain-based adventure travel, we offer expertly crafted itineraries combining the thrill of outdoor activities with cultural immersion and respect for the environment.  Whether it’s mountaineering or trekking, our trips are designed to challenge and inspire.

    Our Mission

    Our mission is simple:  to provide safe, sustainable, and unforgettable adventure experiences that promote a deep connection with nature and local communities.  Every expedition is designed around three key principles:

    • Safety First: The safety of our customers is our top priority.  Our guides are highly trained, and every trip is planned with comprehensive risk assessments and emergency procedures.
    • Sustainability: We are committed to leaving no trace.  We are in the process of aligning our operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and we are actively working to reduce our carbon footprint.
    • Community Connection: Adventure isn’t just about the landscapes; it’s about the people.  We use local guides and support agencies, source local produce, and strive to ensure that our trips contribute positively to the regions we visit.

    What We Offer

    Monkey Mountaineering offers a variety of trips tailored to different skill levels, interests, and destinations.  Here’s a peek at what you can expect:

    • Mountaineering Adventures: Scale iconic peaks with our expert-led climbing expeditions.
    • Trekking Journeys: Explore remote trails, from lush mountain forests to rugged alpine deserts, and witness the beauty of the great outdoors.
    • Custom and Private Trips: Looking for something unique? We’ll work with you to design a personalized adventure that meets your goals and interests.
    • UK Adventures and Skills Training: Want to learn the skills to have your own adventures?  We offer all levels of mountain-based skills training for beginners and seasoned adventurers as well as UK based guiding.

    Why Choose Monkey Mountaineering?

    We’re not just another adventure travel company.  Here’s what sets us apart:

    • Veteran Expertise: Founded by a British Army Veteran, we bring unparalleled leadership, problem-solving, and operational excellence to every expedition.
    • Commitment to Standards: We strive to achieve the highest industry standards, complying with the Package Travel Regulations and aligning to British Standard 8848, ensuring that your trip is safe, ethical, and well-organised.
    • Focus on Sustainability: From eco-friendly practices to supporting local economies, we make responsible travel a priority.
    • Personalized Service: From your first inquiry to post-trip follow-ups, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

    Join Us on an Adventure

    Monkey Mountaineering isn’t just about reaching summits; it’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the stories you take home.  Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a first-time adventurer, we invite you to explore the world with us.  Unleash your inner explorer and let’s make your adventure dreams a reality.

    Ready to take the leap? Contact us today to find your next great adventure!

    Please refer to our Booking Conditions which can be found here. Alternatively, please feel free to contact a member of the team.

    Who’s Behind Monkey Mountaineering?

    Meet Sam Marshall: The Veteran Mountaineer Behind Monkey Mountaineering

    Every great adventure company has a story and a purpose — and for Monkey Mountaineering, it all starts with Sam Marshall, a seasoned mountaineer, passionate explorer, and proud British Army veteran. If you’re curious about our mission, you can also read What is Monkey Mountaineering?.

    After nearly three decades of service in the Army, including 22 years as an aircraft engineer and senior leader in high-pressure environments, Sam swapped helicopters and hangars for high peaks and remote trails. His mission? To share the life-changing power of the mountains with everyone, from first-time trekkers to seasoned climbers.

    A Life of Service and Adventure

    Sam’s love for the mountains was forged long before Monkey Mountaineering began. During his Army years, he thrived in extreme conditions, mastering leadership, teamwork, and meticulous planning in some of the world’s toughest environments.

    Sam Marshall guiding a climber through the Window on Sgurr nan Gillean, Isle of Skye

    Sam Marshall — founder of Monkey Mountaineering — guiding through the iconic Window on Sgurr nan Gillean.

    These skills laid the foundations for leading safe, inspiring mountaineering expeditions today.

    Leaving military life didn’t dampen his appetite for challenge — it fuelled a new purpose: helping others discover what’s possible when you push beyond your comfort zone. That vision is alive in every Monkey Mountaineering trip.

    The Monkey Mountaineering Difference

    Monkey Mountaineering isn’t just another adventure company. Under Sam’s watchful eye, every expedition is planned with military-level care and the robust safety standards of British Standard 8848. But adventure, for Sam, goes beyond risk management — it’s about growth, connection, and perspective. He believes time in the mountains has the power to build resilience, spark confidence, and reconnect people with the wild and with each other.

    More Than Mountains: A Legacy of Respect

    Sustainability and community matter too. Sam ensures Monkey Mountaineering operates responsibly, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, employing local guides, and championing the Leave No Trace ethos. It’s adventure done right — for you and for the places you explore.

    Unleash Your Inner Explorer

    When you choose Monkey Mountaineering, you’re not just booking a trip — you’re joining a mission led by someone who knows that the real summit is within you. Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro, trekking to Everest Base Camp, or tackling a UK classic, Sam’s no-nonsense approach, warmth, and experience mean you’re in safe hands every step of the way.

    Ready to find out what you’re capable of?
    Learn more about who we are or join Sam Marshall and the Monkey Mountaineering team — and unleash your inner explorer.

    Venturing into the mountains or taking part in rock, ice or mixed climbing brings with it a certain amount of risk. To minimise these risks, we often deploy ropes to keep each other safe – you will need a harness to attach yourself safely to the rope. The mountain and crag environment is littered with loose rock so we always advise on a helmet to help protect your head from any falling objects.

    Monkey Mountaineering is a family-run, veteran-owned business built on many years of professional mountaineering and guiding experience. We work with fully qualified instructors and guides and place safety, professionalism and good judgement at the centre of everything we do.

    Whether you are joining one of our UK mountaineering courses and guided climbs or taking part in one of our international trekking and expedition experiences, we operate with small group sizes and low guide-to-client ratios. This allows us to provide a safer, more personal experience and ensures that each trip can be tailored around the ability, experience and goals of the people taking part.

    On our overseas expeditions, such as the Everest Base Camp Trek or our Mera Peak expedition, we focus on careful planning, sensible acclimatisation schedules and strong local partnerships. This approach improves both safety and success while supporting the communities that make these adventures possible.

    We are also committed to responsible mountain travel. Our trips follow Leave No Trace principles, and we actively encourage practices that minimise environmental impact while maximising positive benefits for local communities.

    Our aim is simple: to deliver well-managed mountain experiences that are safe, rewarding and responsibly run.

    Walking poles are not mandatory, but many people do use them to help reduce the pressure on knees or help with balance. If you regularly use walking poles then please feel free to bring them with you.

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    Bespoke experiences

    Can’t see what you are looking for? All our trips can be customised to meet your needs so, if you need bespoke dates, want to add extra days, or modify the itinerary then please just let us know – we will be happy to help.

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