Highland Wildlife Park

The Highland Wildlife Park offers a unique dual experience. The drive-through reserve allows you to remain in your vehicle and observe larger herds of animals such as European bison, red deer, and wild horses roaming in expansive enclosures. It's a more safari-like experience. The walk-around areas feature a wider variety of species, including polar bears, Amur tigers, snow leopards, and wolverines, in more traditional zoo-style enclosures that you explore on foot. Both areas offer distinct perspectives on the park's diverse wildlife.

To fully experience both the drive-through reserve and the extensive walk-around areas, we recommend allocating at least 4 to 5 hours for your visit. Many families find they can easily spend a full day, especially if attending animal talks, enjoying the play areas, or having lunch within the park.

Yes, the park is generally pushchair and wheelchair friendly in most of its walk-around areas. There are accessible toilets and facilities available. However, please be aware that some paths can be extensive and hilly, so comfortable footwear is advised for those pushing prams, and some assistance might be needed on steeper sections for wheelchair users. The drive-through section is fully accessible as you remain in your vehicle.

While the park doesn't feature traditional 'hiking trails' in the wilderness sense, the walk-around areas are designed with clear pathways that guide you through various animal enclosures. You can follow the main routes to see all the animals, or choose to spend more time in specific sections. The terrain can be extensive and hilly, so planning your route based on your energy levels and interests is a good idea. Maps are provided upon entry to help you navigate.

While a car is recommended for the most flexibility, especially for the drive-through section, Highland Wildlife Park can be accessed by public transport. You can take a train or bus to Aviemore or Kingussie, and then a local bus service or taxi to the park. It's advisable to check local bus timetables in advance, as services can be less frequent, particularly outside of peak season.

Absolutely! Highland Wildlife Park is very family-friendly. Young children will love the polar bear-themed play area with slides and interactive elements. The park also offers educational talks, interactive exhibits, and daily animal feeding sessions that are engaging for all ages. For a more immersive experience, children can participate in special programs like "Junior Highland Keeper" or "Mini Keeper Experience" (check availability and booking requirements).

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted within Highland Wildlife Park, with the exception of assistance dogs. This policy is in place to ensure the safety and welfare of the park's animals and visitors. Please make alternative arrangements for your pets before visiting.

The park has facilities offering food and drink, including cafes where you can purchase meals, snacks, and beverages. There are also picnic areas available throughout the park, so you are welcome to bring your own food and enjoy a packed lunch amidst the stunning surroundings of the Cairngorms National Park.

Yes, being located within the Cairngorms National Park, there are numerous family-friendly accommodation options nearby. The towns of Kingussie and Aviemore, just a short drive away, offer a range of hotels, guesthouses, self-catering cottages, and holiday parks that cater to families. It's a great base for exploring the wider Highlands region.

While the park is open year-round and offers unique experiences in every season, animal activity often peaks during cooler months. Spring brings new births and active young animals, while autumn and winter can see species like polar bears and snow leopards particularly energetic in their naturalistic, cold-climate habitats. Summer offers longer daylight hours and generally milder weather, making it popular for families.

Given its location in the Scottish Highlands, it's always best to be prepared for varied weather. In autumn, we recommend wearing layers of warm clothing, including a waterproof and windproof jacket, as conditions can change quickly. Comfortable, sturdy, and waterproof footwear is essential, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking on potentially damp or uneven terrain. A hat and gloves can also be beneficial.