Highland Cows, Walk Alpacas & Visit a Scottish Wildlife Centre

Explore Scottish Countryside and Wildlife with a Private Guide

This full-day private tour in Glasgow offers an engaging experience with some of Scotland’s most beloved animals. For $930.63 per group of up to four people, visitors enjoy approximately 9 hours of wildlife encounters, farm visits, and scenic countryside. The tour is ideal for families, animal lovers, and anyone curious about Scottish rural life. A notable highlight is the personal alpaca walk included in the price, giving each participant a chance to leash and stroll with an alpaca in a forested setting. With pickup offered and mobile tickets available, this tour combines comfort with memorable animal interactions, although it requires some walking and is not suited for strollers.

While the tour’s pace is leisurely with stops at farms and wildlife centers, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate walking and outdoor weather. The admission fees are included for the alpaca walk, but lunch is not covered, with a farm shop and café offering vegetarian and gluten-free options. This private experience provides a personal, well-rounded look at Scottish farm life and wildlife, making it a rewarding choice for small groups eager to see animals up close.

Key Points

• Private tour with up to four participants for personalized attention.
• Visits to John Muir Alpacas, Craigie’s Farm, and the Scottish Deer Centre.
• Includes a one-hour alpaca walk, with all costs covered.
• Approximately 9 hours long, starting early in the morning from Glasgow.
• Transport is private and air-conditioned, with bottled water included.
• Lunch is not included, but farm shop and café options are available for purchase.

Starting the Day at John Muir Alpacas in the Scottish Forest

The tour begins at 8:00am in Glasgow, with a 90-minute drive (traffic permitting) to John Muir Alpacas. Here, the highlight is the one-hour forest walk with an alpaca on a leash, starting at 10:00am. Participants should wear sensible footwear because the walk takes place outdoors in all weather conditions, making sturdy shoes a smart choice. The alpaca walk is a complimentary inclusion that allows each person to experience the fun of guiding a gentle, furry animal through scenic woodland.

This stop is perfect for animal lovers and families, offering a relaxed, interactive experience. The admission ticket for the alpaca walk is included in the tour price, and the setting provides a peaceful backdrop for those who enjoy nature and farm animals. The guide leads the group through the forest, sharing insights about alpacas and their care, making for a memorable start to the day.

Visiting Highland Cows at Craigie’s Farm Near Glasgow

After the alpaca experience, the group heads to Craigie’s Farm, a working farm located about 45 minutes away. Entry to the farm is free, and it offers the chance to see Highland Cows up close. Visitors can walk among these iconic Scottish animals, known for their long horns and shaggy coats, making for excellent photo opportunities.

The farm features a farm shop and café, where guests can enjoy lunch with options catering to vegetarians and those requiring gluten-free meals. The stay at Craigie’s Farm typically lasts around one hour, providing enough time to explore, take pictures, and purchase local produce or souvenirs. The farm’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly animals make it an ideal stop for families and animal enthusiasts alike.

Discover Scotland’s Wildlife at the Scottish Deer Centre

The tour continues with a 45-minute drive to the Scottish Deer Centre, home to 12 species of deer as well as wolves, bears, wildcats, lynx, falcons, and owls. This wildlife sanctuary is also the habitat of the elusive Scottish Wildcat and the famously shy Haggis. Visitors spend two hours exploring the enclosures, observing animals in naturalistic settings, and learning about their conservation.

Entry to the centre is free, but donations are encouraged via a donation box. The centre offers an engaging experience for those interested in Scottish wildlife and larger predators, with opportunities for close-up viewing and photos. The guide provides insights on each species, and the walking pace allows ample time for viewing and photos.

Personal Alpaca Walks: An Interactive Experience

A major highlight of this tour is the personal alpaca walk, included in the overall price. Each participant can leash and walk an alpaca through the forest, providing a unique chance to interact directly with these gentle animals. The one-hour walk takes place outdoors in all weather, so appropriate clothing and footwear are recommended.

This hands-on activity stands out as a memorable feature, especially for families or animal lovers seeking an active, engaging experience. The opportunity to guide and bond with an alpaca offers a different perspective on farm animals compared to merely observing from a distance.

Lunch Break at Craigie’s Farm Café and Farm Shop

The tour includes a rest period at Craigie’s Farm where guests can enjoy a lunch break. The farm’s café and shop are well-equipped for families, offering vegetarian and gluten-free options, catering to various dietary needs. While lunch is not included in the tour price, the reasonably priced café makes it easy to purchase a quick meal or snack.

Guests appreciate the farm shop’s local produce and souvenirs, making this stop both relaxing and practical. The farm’s rural setting and friendly atmosphere add a cozy, authentic touch to the day’s activities.

Encountering Scotland’s Wild Predators at the Scottish Wildcat Centre

The final main stop is the Scottish Wildcat Centre, dedicated to conservation and education about Scotland’s most endangered feline species. Visitors observe and learn about the Scottish Wildcat, often called the “Highland Tiger,” and other native species like lynx and falcons.

The centre’s focus on conservation efforts, alongside the presence of other predators like wolves and bears, makes it a compelling stop for wildlife enthusiasts. The two-hour visit offers plenty of time for viewing, taking photos, and listening to informative talks from the guide.

Return to Glasgow in the Evening

After a full day of animal encounters and countryside scenery, the tour returns to Glasgow in the evening. The private transportation ensures a comfortable journey, with the vehicle being air-conditioned and bottled water provided throughout the day. The drop-off point is typically the same as the pick-up location, making logistics straightforward.

This flexible, private approach ensures a tailored experience, avoiding large group crowds and allowing you to enjoy the day at your own pace.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This private Scottish wildlife tour suits small groups or families looking for an interactive day outdoors. It’s perfect for those interested in farm animals, wildlife conservation, and scenic countryside. The inclusion of personal alpaca walks offers a special opportunity for animal interaction, making it especially appealing to children. The tour’s pace is manageable for most travelers, but participants should be prepared for some outdoor walking and variable weather conditions.

This tour balances animal encounters, scenic drives, and educational experiences, making it a well-rounded choice for anyone keen to explore Scotland’s rural charm and wildlife in a relaxed, private setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is included, with pickup offered from Glasgow.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours.

What is included in the tour price?
The alpaca walk, transport, bottled water, and admission tickets for the alpaca farm are included.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but options are available at Craigie’s Farm café and shop.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves outdoor walking, including forest walks with the alpacas, so mobility considerations should be taken into account.

What animals will I see at the Scottish Wildcat Centre?
You’ll see Scottish Wildcats, lynx, falcons, owls, wolves, and bears.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, especially for families, as children enjoy walking the alpacas and seeing the animals.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sensible footwear are recommended for forest walks and outdoor activities.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is generally booked about 50 days in advance, so early reservation is advised to secure your preferred date.