Highland Wildlife Park: Guide for Families

Looking for an unforgettable family day out in the Scottish Highlands? The Highland Wildlife Park near Aviemore is a must-visit destination for animal lovers of all ages. Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes of the Cairngorms National Park, this unique attraction offers a blend of drive-through safari experiences and walk-through enclosures, where you can meet over 250 animals from around the globe. From majestic tigers to playful snow monkeys, this park combines fun with education, making it a perfect day trip for families exploring the Highlands.

Operated by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS), the Highland Wildlife Park isn’t just about entertainment—it’s also a hub for conservation. The park plays a key role in protecting endangered species, including the native Scottish wildcat, making your visit both meaningful and memorable. Whether you’re staying in nearby Aviemore, exploring the Cairngorms National Park, or planning a Highland family getaway, this guide covers everything you need to know for a seamless visit.

Why Visit Highland Wildlife Park?

The Highland Wildlife Park offers a truly immersive experience that sets it apart from traditional zoos. Located about seven miles south of Aviemore, the park spans acres of rugged Scottish countryside. It’s a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, featuring a drive-through safari where animals roam freely and walk-through habitats designed to mimic natural environments. For families, this combination of up-close animal encounters, wide-open spaces, and educational activities ensures an engaging day out.

One of the park’s standout features is its focus on conservation. By visiting, you’ll support vital projects to protect species like snow leopards, polar bears, and Scottish wildcats. The park’s knowledgeable Discovery Rangers also lead tours and talks, helping visitors understand the challenges these animals face in the wild. Whether you’re watching polar bears swim in their icy pool or spotting elusive lynxes in their woodland habitat, each encounter is a chance to learn and be inspired.

Top Things to See and Do

Drive-Through Safari

The drive-through reserve is a highlight of any visit, offering a safari-style experience without leaving your car. As you wind through the park, you’ll have the chance to see animals such as European bison, Przewalski’s horses, red deer, and even the rare Bukhara deer. Keep your eyes peeled for the towering Eurasian elk and graceful European forest reindeer, which roam freely within the reserve. Families can drive through multiple times, ensuring you don’t miss any of the action.

Polar Bears and Big Cats

No trip to the Highland Wildlife Park is complete without visiting the polar bear enclosures. These incredible animals are a firm favourite among visitors, with their icy habitat providing plenty of opportunities to observe their playful antics. Don’t miss the Amur tigers and snow leopards either—these apex predators are as beautiful as they are fascinating. Daily feeding times and keeper talks provide deeper insights into their behaviour and conservation status.

Wolf Wood

One of the park’s most atmospheric areas, Wolf Wood, is home to a pack of European grey wolves. As you wander through the forested enclosure, you’ll have opportunities to spot these magnificent creatures prowling among the trees. Their habitats are designed to replicate their natural environment, offering a glimpse of life in the wild. This area is particularly popular with children, who love the idea of spotting wolves in the woods.

Snow Monkeys and Scottish Wildcats

The walk-through habitats also feature snow monkeys, whose lively personalities and acrobatic skills delight visitors of all ages. Nearby, the Scottish wildcat enclosure highlights the park’s commitment to saving this critically endangered native species. Learn about the park’s breeding programme and the efforts being made to reintroduce these elusive cats into the wild.

Getting There

Reaching the Highland Wildlife Park is easy whether you’re travelling by car or public transport. Located just off the B9152 near Kincraig, it’s a short 15-minute drive from Aviemore or five minutes from Kingussie. From Inverness, it’s approximately a 50-minute drive via the A9. Ample parking is available on-site.

If you’re relying on public transport, Stagecoach buses run between Aviemore and Kingussie, with stops near the park entrance. Alternatively, you can take a train to Kingussie or Aviemore and complete the journey by taxi or bus. For those exploring the Highlands without a car, this makes the park a convenient addition to your itinerary.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options near the park range from cosy self-catering cottages to family-friendly hotels. For a luxurious stay, consider The Rowan Tree Country Hotel in Aviemore, with rooms starting around £120 per night. Families may prefer Macdonald Aviemore Resort, which offers spacious lodges and kid-friendly amenities from £150 per night. Budget travellers can check out Kingussie’s Silverfjord Hotel, where doubles start at around £70.

Where to Eat and Drink

The on-site café at Highland Wildlife Park serves hot meals, sandwiches, and snacks, ideal for a quick lunch between activities. Nearby, The Old Post Office Café Gallery in Kincraig offers hearty soups and homemade cakes with a cosy, welcoming atmosphere. For dinner, head to The Cross in Kingussie, a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving exquisite Scottish cuisine in a riverside setting.

Practical Tips and When to Visit

The park is open year-round, with seasonal variations in opening hours. Summer is the best time for families, thanks to extended hours and warmer weather, but winter visits have their own charm—imagine seeing snow leopards in a frosty landscape! To avoid crowds, plan your visit early in the day or during off-peak months like May or September.

Bring comfortable walking shoes, as the walk-through areas can involve uneven terrain. Don’t forget binoculars for spotting animals in the drive-through reserve and a camera to capture your favourite moments. Dressing in layers is advisable, as Highland weather can change quickly.

Find out more about Highland Wildlife Park for booking details and visitor information. For more on the wider region, see our Highland wildlife guide. For curated multi-day routes, explore our Highland itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What animals can you see at Highland Wildlife Park?

Highland Wildlife Park is home to over 250 animals, including polar bears, Amur tigers, snow leopards, Arctic foxes, Scottish wildcats, and European grey wolves. Other highlights include Przewalski’s horses, vicuña, Bukhara deer, European bison, and snow monkeys. The park offers a mix of drive-through and walk-through enclosures, providing plenty of opportunities to see these incredible species up close.

Is Highland Wildlife Park worth the money?

Absolutely! The park offers a unique combination of safari and zoo experiences, allowing families to see rare and endangered animals in spacious, naturalistic habitats. With its focus on conservation and education, the Highland Wildlife Park provides value far beyond its admission price, making it a worthwhile destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

How far is Highland Wildlife Park from Aviemore?

The Highland Wildlife Park is just seven miles south of Aviemore, making it a convenient day trip for visitors staying in the area. The drive takes approximately 15 minutes, while public transport options, including buses and taxis, make it accessible even for those without a car.

Is there a zoo near Aviemore?

Yes, the Highland Wildlife Park is the closest zoo-like attraction to Aviemore. However, it offers much more than a traditional zoo, combining a drive-through safari with walk-through enclosures in a stunning Highland setting. It’s an ideal destination for families exploring the area or enjoying a family-friendly Highlands getaway.