Alpaca Trekking

Description

Experience a leisurely stroll along the village pasture in the company of Apollo and Aramis.

On first arrival, you will meet the alpacas and say hello. We will then take them for a gentle stroll through the beautiful pastures of Low Row in Swaledale and then back to their home where you will have an opportunity to feed them and take a selfie.  They are very sociable animals!

Please allow 2 hours for your visit.  Our maximum group size is 6 and children must be accompanied by an adult.  Please wear strong shoes as we encounter some hills and rough ground.

Alpacas

Alpacas are domesticated versions of vicuñas, South American ruminants that live high in the Andes and in the beautiful village of Low Row in the Yorkshire Dales. Alpacas are related to the llama, which is a domesticated version of another wild Andean ruminant, the guanaco. While llamas are used as pack animals, alpacas are raised mainly for their soft wool. There are no wild llamas or alpacas. They graze in herds at heights of between 3,500 m (11,500 ft) to 5,000 m (16,000 ft) in the Andes.

Alpacas make some rather sounds one been a hum like “mmm”, they also shriek when danger is present, and make a sound similar to a “wark” noise when excited and fighting males scream, making a warbling bird-like cry.

What do we keep alpacas for?

Our alpacas get a haircut once a year and we send it too UK Alpaca (ukalpaca.com) where they use it to make clothing. Alpaca fur is very soft and does not retain water. It is also very durable. According to National Geographic, alpaca fur is the second strongest animal fiber, after mohair.

What do our alpacas eat?

In the summer, they graze in the fields around Low Row and in winter, we feed them hay and mineral feed. They have full use of a barn to shelter in from the elements all year round.

Do they spit?

Yes, when they are distressed or feel threatened. They will sometimes spit at each other when they are competing for food or trying to establish dominance so you may get caught in the crossfire.