As a team, our purpose is simple:
To inspire, encourage, and teach those we have the privilege of leading into the mountains.
From the first steps on a trail to the final moves across alpine rock or glacial ice, every journey tells a story.
At Highland Climbing Company, we offer adventures for every ability — from beginners finding their footing to climbers refining their skills in the technical ground of the Cuillin Ridge, icy Scottish rock, African rock and more.
But this is more than just mountain guiding. It’s shared experience, earned achievement, and the kind of clarity that settles our minds.
Guiding people and sharing our passion for the outdoors to inspire others — that’s why we do what we do, both for work and for play.
— Jack & Ella
Meet Jack & Ella — Founders of HCC
Hello! We’re Jack and Ella, the founders of HCC. Although we officially launched HCC in 2022, we each bring nearly 15 years of experience working within the outdoor industry.
Our love for the outdoors has been a part of us since we were ‘wee’ kids—Ella growing up amidst the wild beauty of Kenya, and Jack exploring the landscapes of the UK. That shared passion is what brought us together, and it’s the foundation of everything we do at HCC.
Through our enthusiasm, expertise, and commitment, we are dedicated to creating memorable outdoor experiences for you. Whether it’s climbing the rugged peaks of the Scottish Highlands or exploring the breathtaking terrain of Kenya, we’re here to guide, inspire, and share our love of adventure with you.
Join us as we explore these incredible places and make unforgettable memories together.
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A Spark Ignited by Family
As a youth, I was greatly influenced by my uncle, who first sparked my enthusiasm for the outdoors. That early spark grew into a lifelong passion for exploration and adventure. Today, I find myself guiding, instructing, and introducing people to new and exciting environments—helping others connect with the mountains and wilderness in meaningful ways.
Climbing has brought me immense joy over the years, and one of the greatest rewards is being part of someone’s journey as they progress towards becoming confident, independent mountaineers and climbers. There’s nothing quite like watching that transformation unfold.
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From Africa to the Scottish Highlands: My Journey into the Mountains
Growing up in Africa, adventure wasn’t just a hobby — it was a way of life. From a young age, I was drawn to the outdoors, embracing every opportunity to explore wild places. By the time I was 17, I had already discovered my passion for mountaineering at altitude, a calling that would shape much of my life to come.
My journey took me on incredible expeditions across the globe, where I honed my leadership skills by meticulously planning, executing, and reviewing mountain bike and high-altitude adventures. Alongside that, I gained valuable experience navigating the rivers of Kenya and Uganda through rafting and kayaking, adding new dimensions to my understanding of outdoor challenges.
In 2016, driven by a desire to deepen my skills and credentials, I made the life-changing decision to move to Scotland. Here, I focused on earning British mountain qualifications, which have helped me refine my craft as both a summer and winter mountain leader. Today, I am proud to be a qualified Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor, a Winter Mountain Leader, and a Level 2 Mountain Bike Instructor. I’m also certified as a Gold Velotech bike mechanic.
Every journey has taught me something new — about the mountains, about adventure, and most importantly, about people. My goal is to share that knowledge and passion with others, helping them find their own path in the mountains, whether that’s climbing, biking, or simply experiencing the thrill of the wild.
I’m excited to guide you through your own adventures and help you build the skills and confidence to explore safely and passionately.