Highland Wildlife Park Review: History & Visitor Guide

I’ve only visited two wildlife parks previously (Port Lympne Safari Park and Wildwood Kent) and loved them both – I also loved my visit to Highland Wildlife Park too.

The park is set up so you can get up close to the animals. I loved seeing the polar bears, tigers and the self drive safari. It’s one of my highlights of my NC500 trip along with Hermit’s Castle and Dunrobin Castle.

I definitely recommend visiting if you’re driving to the NC500 route and it also acts as a nice break before reaching Inverness. We also visited An Lochan Uaine nearby (a supposed “green” lake), but I’m not sure it was worth the one hour walk (my wife thinks it was worth it however).

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My Photos of Highland Wildlife Park

These photos are free to use, all I ask is you link back to this page as credit.

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History of Highland Wildlife Park

Highland Wildlife Park was established in 1972 near Kingussie, within the Cairngorms National Park, and has been managed by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) since 1986. Originally focused on native Scottish species, the park underwent a major transformation in 2007, expanding its remit to include endangered animals from cold and mountainous regions worldwide.

This shift allowed the park to align more closely with its sister site, Edinburgh Zoo, and to support global conservation efforts. Today, Highland Wildlife Park is a leading centre for research, breeding, and education, showcasing both native wildlife and rare species in expansive, naturalistic enclosures.

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10 Interesting Facts About Highland Wildlife Park

1. It’s the only place in the UK where you can see polar bears, including breeding female Victoria.
2. The park spans 260 acres, offering both drive-through and walk-around experiences.
3. It’s home to the Saving Wildcats project, aiming to reintroduce the critically endangered Scottish wildcat.
4. The park houses over 250 animals across 60+ species, many of which are endangered.
5. The drive-through reserve lets visitors view animals like elk, bison, and deer from their own vehicles.
6. The park welcomed Felicity the Puma in 1980 — a local legend now preserved in Inverness Museum.
7. It features innovative enclosures, including a £400,000 habitat for Amur tigers.
8. The park has successfully bred snow leopards, musk oxen, and red pandas, among others.
9. It’s a member of BIAZA and EAZA, supporting international zoo collaboration.
10. The park offers seasonal trails and events, including wildlife-themed activities for children.

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Things to See and Do at Highland Wildlife Park

• Drive Through the Main Reserve
  Spot roaming elk, Bukhara deer, Przewalski’s horses, and European bison from the comfort of your car.
• Explore the Walk-Around Area
  Visit enclosures for polar bears, Amur tigers, snow leopards, Arctic foxes, and red pandas.
• Visit Wolf Wood
  See European grey wolves and forest reindeer in a forested setting.
• Watch Daily Animal Feeds and Talks
  Learn about conservation and animal behaviour from expert rangers.
• Discover the Saving Wildcats Centre
  View the breeding facility for Scottish wildcats from a nearby hilltop.
• Enjoy the Antlers Coffee Shop
  Relax with hot meals, snacks, and drinks overlooking the Cairngorms.
• Browse the Wildthings Gift Shop
  Pick up books, toys, and wildlife-themed gifts.
• Join Seasonal Trails and Activities
  Families can enjoy interactive trails like the Very Hungry Caterpillar walk.
• Attend Photography Workshops
  Capture wildlife with expert guidance in stunning Highland settings.
• Support Conservation Projects
  Learn how your visit helps protect species from Scotland to Uganda.

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Practical Information for Visiting Highland Wildlife Park

• Location: Kincraig, Kingussie, Inverness-shire, PH21 1NL
• Opening Times (2025):
  • Daily: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (last entry 4:00 pm)
  • Closed: Christmas Day
• Entry Fees:
  • Adults: £20.00
  • Children (3–15): £15.00
  • Under 3s: Free
  • Family (2 adults + 2 children): £65.00
  • Concessions available
• Recommended Visit Duration: 2–4 hours
  (Allow extra time for drive-through and walk-around zones)
• Tickets:
  • Advance booking recommended during holidays
  • Highland Wildlife Park – Official Site
• Parking:
  • Free on-site; accessible bays available
• Accessibility:
  • Most walk-around areas wheelchair accessible
  • Drive-through suitable for all vehicles
• Dogs:
  • Assistance dogs only; pets not permitted
• Food & Drink:
  • Antlers Coffee Shop; picnic areas available
• Toilets:
  • Accessible and baby-changing facilities on site
• Transport:
  • Car: Off B9152 near Kincraig
  • Train: Kingussie Station (3 mi)
  • Bus: Local services to Kincraig village
• Nearby: Ruthven Barracks, Highland Folk Museum, Loch Insh, Cairngorms National Park

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