It is the only place in the United Kingdom where visitors can view polar bears in a large, naturalistic enclosure.
The park houses the 'Saving Wildcats' project, a conservation initiative aimed at preventing the extinction of the Scottish wildcat.
The drive-through reserve allows visitors to view herds of red deer, European bison, and Przewalski’s horses from their own vehicles.
The facility is home to Mishka, the first polar bear cub born in the United Kingdom in 25 years, who arrived at the park in 2017.
The park maintains a dedicated breeding facility for the capercaillie, one of the rarest birds in the UK.
The site uses a 'natural enclosure' philosophy, providing animals with vast, rugged spaces rather than small, high-density cages.
Highland Wildlife Park is situated within a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its unique montane habitat.
Highland Wildlife Park is a 105-hectare safari-style wildlife reserve located within the Cairngorms National Park. It specializes in housing Scottish native species alongside cold-climate animals from mountainous and tundra regions across the globe. The park is divided into two distinct sections: a drive-through reserve and a pedestrian-friendly walk-around area. It plays a critical role in the conservation of species such as the Scottish wildcat and the capercaillie. Visitors can view animals like polar bears, snow leopards, Amur tigers, and European bison in large enclosures designed to mimic their natural habitats. The site is operated by the Royal Zoological Society of Scotland. As of mid-2026, the park continues its focus on reintroduction programs for endangered native fauna. The landscape is characterized by sloping terrain and forest cover typical of the Scottish Highlands.
The elevated viewing boardwalk overlooking the polar bear habitat provides an unobstructed vantage point.
Bring binoculars, as the expansive nature of the enclosures means animals are often viewed from a distance.
Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, as Highland weather can shift rapidly regardless of the season.
Prioritize the keeper talks, which provide detailed insights into the specific conservation status of the species housed there.
Do not attempt to feed any animals in the park, as this interferes with their strictly monitored dietary requirements.
Open daily throughout the year except for Christmas Day; weather conditions may occasionally force the closure of the drive-through section.
Maintain a quiet volume near animal enclosures to avoid distressing the wildlife; stay strictly on marked paths.
