Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Save time researching the best things to see in Donegal, and let a driver-guide show you the area's key landmarks as well as local secrets that you might otherwise miss. Named as the coolest place in the world by National Geographic, enjoy a day tour of coastal and inland attractions incorporating those breathtaking views of this idyllic North West county. This day tour is suitable for visitors staying or located in or around the general South Donegal region of Donegal Town, Killybegs, Kilcar, Glencolmcille, Ardara or Glenties.
➡️ This chauffeured private day tour is delivered by a Fáilte Ireland accredited driver guide.
➡️ This day tour is flexible and tailored for clients on the day to stop, go and explore.
➡️ Tours commence at 9am and finish at 5pm. Times are approximate and may be subject to change.
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
We can customise the day to suit any needs and a wheel chair accessible vehicle is available on request.
What To Expect
Donegal Town
Setting off in the morning you will visit both the Abbey and Donegal Castle, homestead of the O'Donnell Clan and their most famous leader Red Hugh O Donnell. On the site of a Viking fort, it was built by the famous Donegal Chieftain dynasty in the 15th century and has undergone restoration works in recent years.
Killybegs
Next we visit the seaside town of Killybegs, Ireland's largest fishing port. We recount it’s maritime history through the ages including how the “La Girona” set sail from these shores for the last time. From here we travel along the Wild Atlantic Way towards the Muckross Coast.
Options
DAY TOUR: Highlights Of South Donegal
Pickup included
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
20 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
History, Humor, and Stunning Scenery — Chieftain Tours Delivers It All
seemesha,May 30, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked a whole day tour with Chieftain Tours and our guide Joe made a sightseeing day into something truly special. Joe's knowledge of Donegal's history and geography is impressive, and he delivers it naturally and engagingly — not like a rehearsed script. Whether passing ancient ruins or dramatic coastal scenery, he always had the perfect story or historical context to bring it all to life. Joe effortlessly blended humor, history, and heart into every stretch of road. We left with a much deeper appreciation for Donegal than we ever would have on our own. Highest recommendation for Chieftain Tours and Joe!!
It was a private daylong...
Mary B,Apr 30, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a private daylong tour through county donegal with stops at donegal castle and slieve league (the famed cliffs of donegal bay). The guide was very knowledgeable of the history of the area.
A Wonderful Day!
Regina P,Aug 11, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We thoroughly enjoyed our "Highlights osf South Donegal"with our guide Joe. Joe took his time and we had ample time to enjoy every stop. This was the highlight of our 23 days in Ireland. My husband was able to enjoy the views without the stress of driving. I recommended this tour if you want a totally relaxing and immersive experience!
Wonderful Day Exploring the Coast of South Donegal
X5049CQmarkm,Oct 25, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a wonderful day with Joe on the South Donegal Tour as our driver/guide/friend; full of history, folklore, amazing scenery, seascapes and landscapes and craic. He shared his knowledge and many stories, making stops along the way to share the beautiful county of Donegal with us. We visited Donegal Abbey, Killeybegs Harbour, the Slieve League Cliffs, where we saw a rainbow (we actually saw 5 that day) and the Glencolmcille Folk Village Museum. All were very interesting and Joe's knowledge and stories brought them to life. It was nice being able to drive right to the top of the Slieve League Cliffs as it is a long walk up and it was a blustery day up there! We are so happy that Joe was available to spend the day with us, we now have a new friend in Ireland! Thanks so much Joe, until we meet again!
If Ever You Go to Donegal Town
Patrick C,Sep 25, 2024
- Review from Viator
5.00Excellent , amiable, informed and personalized tour geared to our requests. We recommend this tour to anyone interested in scenery and the history of Donegal.
Tour of a Lifetime
ConnDavid14,Sep 9, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We couldn't have asked for a better guide to kick off our experience in Donegal. This was our second trip to Ireland, but first to Donegal, and Joe made the experience so fun and very rich in Irish history. No matter where we went (Donegal Abbey, Donegal Castle, Glencolmcille Folk Village, Slieve League Cliffs, Joe knew everything (and everyone) and has made me dig further into my Irish roots since we came back (the O'Connell Dynasty, The Plantations, The Annals of Ireland.) We wanted the real version of Donegal and all the Irish history we could absorb and we got it so thank you Joe, you are awesome. We would highly recommend Chieftain Tours and will look to engage them again, when we return.
Experience Authentic Ireland!
MimMinnesota,Sep 3, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This experience is a five star WOW! As we toured the beautiful countryside, Joe took us on a memorable journey of Ireland's history, traditions and folklore. We learned plenty of facts and figures, but even more, we loved the stories that made the past come alive. The day was filled with adventures exploring the ruins of the abbey in Donegal and the breathtaking cliffs of Slieve League, visiting a local weaver’s artisan studio, a secluded windswept beach, a quaint folk village, and so much more. We ended the day with a deeper appreciation for the Irish people, their music, language and culture. Thank you, Joe!
We picked the right tour company!
176travelgirl,Aug 13, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had such a great time experiencing the beauty of Donegal. Joe was a knowledgeable and excellent tour guide. Highly recommend!!
Tour of South Dongeal
Onita18,May 23, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had Joe as our tour guide for South Dongeal. Joe was very knowledgeable, he knew the history of Ireland and you saw his passion about Ireland as it showed in all the places we visited. He also spoke to the native language of Gaeilge which was a plus as we got to experience his interactions with the locals! The tour was “NOT scripted” as Joe related personally to everything he told us. Joe was very adaptable as we started late due to travels and he also made time in the schedule to take us to the prettiest beach in Ireland. Additionally, we loved our experience at Slieve League (Europe’s highest Sea Cliffs). We thought the Slieve League Cliffs are so much better than the Cliffs of Moher! We would definitely hire Joe again!
Best way to enjoy some of Donegal County!
debbied552,Jun 16, 2023
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an incredible day traveling around Donegal with Joe! He provided such a great balance of sharing the history and the natural beauty of Donegal. He is clearly passionate about Donegal and his love for the place shined through during the tour. He also adapted the tour to include things we hoped to do and see. The day with Joe was one we won't forget! Kudos!!
Related Experiences
Operated by Chieftain Tours