Highland Cows, Walk Alpacas & Visit a Scottish Wildlife Centre

Exploring Scotland’s Wildlife and Countryside: A Review of the Highland Cows, Alpacas & Wildlife Centre Tour

If you’re dreaming of a day that mixes adorable farm animals, wild Scottish wildlife, and stunning countryside views, then this private tour from Glasgow might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful design suggest it offers a genuine, family-friendly introduction to some of Scotland’s most charming and intriguing creatures.

What we love most is how this tour combines the novelty of walking an alpaca in the woods—an experience that’s both fun and slightly surreal—with the chance to get up close to iconic Highland Cows. Plus, the visit to the Scottish Wildlife Centre offers a look at some of the country’s lesser-seen animals, like wolves, bears, and the elusive Scottish Wildcat. A possible downside? The full day runs nearly 9 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a long, active day on the road.

This tour is ideal for families, animal lovers, or anyone curious about Scottish rural life beyond the castles and cities. It’s a great way to see a different side of Scotland—more natural and personal—without the hassle of planning multiple stops.

Key Points

• Personalized Private Experience: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored, relaxed day.
• Authentic Animal Encounters: Walk an alpaca in the forest and see Highland Cows, deer, wolves, and more.
• Scenic Scottish Countryside: Enjoy picturesque views as you travel between locations.
• Family-friendly & Accessible: Suitable for most travelers, though strollers are not recommended for the forest walk.
• Good Value for a Full Day: Price includes private transport, an alpaca walk, and multiple wildlife stops.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable and friendly guides make the experience engaging.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off early from Glasgow, with a 90-minute drive to John Muir Alpacas. Once there, you’ll have the opportunity for a one-hour forest walk with an alpaca on a leash, which is included in the price. Expect to be in all weather—so sturdy footwear is a must. This part of the experience is particularly praised; one reviewer mentioned that their guide Fiona was “super friendly, attentive, and even took amazing pictures & videos” during the alpaca walk, enhancing the personal touch.

Next, the journey continues to Craigie’s Farm—a working farm famous for its Highland Cows. The drive here is about 45 minutes, giving you a scenic taste of rural Scotland. The farm itself is free to enter, and you’ll likely spend about an hour exploring. Here, you get the chance to see the iconic Highland Cows close up, which many find irresistibly adorable—definitely a highlight for kids and adults alike. The farm’s shop and cafe add a cozy spot for lunch, with vegetarian and gluten-free options, catering well to diverse dietary needs.

The final stop is the Scottish Deer Centre, another 45-minute drive away. This is the largest wildlife park on the tour, home to 12 species of deer, as well as wolves, bears, lynx, falcons, owls, and the famously shy Scottish Wildcat. You’ll spend about two hours here, and while admission is free, donations are encouraged. Travelers often praise the center for providing a good overview of Scotland’s native and introduced wildlife in a natural setting.

Throughout the day, transportation is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, exclusive to your group, which enhances the feeling of a personalized experience rather than a crowded bus tour. Bottled water is provided, keeping everyone well-hydrated amid the Scottish countryside.

What Makes This Tour Special?

The real value lies not just in the stops, but in the combination of experiences. Walking an alpaca in the woods is a surprisingly peaceful and memorable activity—an up-close encounter that many travelers find enchanting. It’s a unique chance to connect with farm animals in their natural environment, rather than simply observing them behind fences.

The wildlife center offers a fascinating look at Scotland’s native animals and larger predators, with knowledgeable guides often sharing interesting facts. For example, visitors can marvel at the diversity of the deer species, or get a glimpse of the elusive Scottish Wildcat—rare and shy, but important to Scottish biodiversity.

The tour’s pacing is balanced, with enough time at each site to enjoy the animals and scenery without feeling rushed. The inclusion of lunch at a farm shop & cafe is a thoughtful touch, making this a convenient, all-in-one day out.

Analyzing the Cost and Experience

At around $930 for a group of four, this tour might seem steep at first glance. However, when you consider the private transportation, the guided alpaca walk, and multiple significant animal encounters, it starts to look like good value, especially if privacy and comfort matter to you. The reviews reveal the tour’s worth: “We had a great time with Fiona,” said one, emphasizing the guide’s friendliness and attentiveness, which can elevate the experience considerably.

This isn’t a cheap, rushed sightseeing bus; it’s an intimate, well-organized day designed to give your family or small group plenty of personal interaction with the animals and the countryside. Plus, booking on average 50 days in advance suggests it’s a popular choice, likely due to its quality and exclusivity.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear sensible footwear for the forest walk, as weather can be unpredictable and terrain uneven.
• Be prepared for a long day—bring snacks, and make sure everyone is comfortable with the drive and outdoor activities.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, but strollers are not recommended for the alpaca walk because of the forest terrain.
• If traveling with larger groups or adults, note that UK cars are smaller than American models, so pack accordingly.
• Since lunch isn’t included, budget for a meal at Craigies Farm’s cafe—vegetarian and gluten-free options are available.
• Confirm your pickup details in advance, as the tour offers pickup from Glasgow accommodations.

Authenticity and Authentic Experiences

What sets this tour apart is its focus on genuine animal encounters rather than just viewing animals from a distance. Walking an alpaca is not only adorable but also personal—it allows you to get a sense of what farm life is like and see these gentle creatures in a natural setting.

The Scottish Wildlife Centre visit offers an educational component, giving insight into native species’ conservation and habitat. Visitors consistently praise the friendly guides and the scenic beauty of the countryside, making it clear that this tour is about creating memorable, authentic moments rather than just ticking boxes.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re traveling with children or simply love animals, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed day away from city sights, craving authentic farm and wildlife experiences. Nature lovers will appreciate the scenic drives and outdoor activities, while families will enjoy the up-close animal interactions.

It’s best suited for travelers who don’t mind a full day’s commitment and are open to outdoor activities in varying weather conditions. If you’re looking for a more intensive wildlife expedition or a historical sightseeing tour, this might not fit; but for a peaceful, animal-filled day that’s about genuine connection and scenic beauty, it’s an excellent choice.

The Sum Up

This private tour from Glasgow offers a wonderful mix of friendly animal encounters, scenic Scottish landscapes, and a touch of wildlife education. The alpaca walk in the woods is a particularly charming highlight, and the chance to see Highland Cows up close makes for memorable photos. The tour’s relaxed pace, knowledgeable guides, and personalized experience create a genuine, authentic taste of rural Scotland.

While the price may seem high for some, the inclusivity of private transport, the variety of animal interactions, and the overall quality of experience make it a solid value—especially for families or small groups seeking a meaningful outdoor adventure.

If you’re eager to meet farm animals, explore wildlife in natural settings, and enjoy Scotland’s countryside away from the crowds, this tour delivers in spades. It’s a day designed to delight animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a peaceful yet fascinating escape into Scottish rural life.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and includes fun activities like walking alpacas and seeing Highland Cows, making it ideal for kids who enjoy animals.

How long is the total tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time, animal encounters, and meals.

Is the alpaca walk included in the price?
Yes, the one-hour forest walk with an alpaca is included, and no extra charge applies.

Can I bring a stroller?
Strollers are not recommended for the forest walk because of uneven terrain, though the rest of the tour is accessible.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, sensible footwear is recommended since part of the experience takes place outdoors on forest paths.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but there is a farm shop and cafe at Craigies Farm with vegetarian and gluten-free options.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour; cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are non-refundable.

This tour offers a memorable glimpse into Scotland’s animals and countryside, perfect for those wanting a personal and authentic day out in the Scottish nature.