Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

The Cairngorm Reindeer Herd is a centre with guided mountainside visits where you can feed and stroke the UK’s only wild reindeer herd. They are located at Glenmore near Aviemore in the Scottish Highlands. These tame and friendly animals are a joy to all who come and see them. There are currently around 150 reindeer in the herd, most of which are in the Cairngorm mountains. They offer both paddock access and hill trips.

Their guided hill trips can be booked 30 days in advance, pre-booking is highly recommended. Conditions from February through to April can be more extreme so during these times there is an age limit of 4 years old.

The walk takes around 30 minutes to get to the herd and you need to drive in your own vehicle along the main road during the tour. The whole trip lasts around 1.5-2 hours, wrap up warm and wellies or hiking boots are essential, as are a waterproof jacket and warm clothing. You can also visit their paddocks after or before the tour.

A small group of reindeer are cared for down at the Reindeer centre. The paddocks are perfect for children and visitors who are unable to go on the Hill Top. They are wheelchair and pushchair accessible and as well as being able to see the reindeer there is lots of information plus quizzes for children. Please note that there is no opportunity to feed these reindeer.

Further Information Cairngorm Reindeer Herd

Is there food and drink available?

There is a cafe serving food and drinks.

What are the main things to do?

Guided trips to see the UK’s only wild herd of reindeer plus paddock visits. There are toilets and a cafe.

What are the ticket prices?

Paddock prices are £4 per adult and £3 per child. Higher-priced – Hill trips cost £20 per adult, children £15 and children aged under 3 are free, although the experience may not be suitable for younger children.
Prices are subject to change and/or discounts online.

Is there parking?

There is free parking.

When are they open?

They are open for most of the year with closures on 25th December and 1st January and for most of January and until mid-February. For up-to-date opening times and dates please visit their website.