Alpaca walking may perhaps not be the very first thing that comes to mind when you think of your thoughts of the Great British countryside but it is being offered in an UK town close to you! Popular with children and adults alike This activity has people who love animals join alpacas who are fluffy and friendly to go for a walk. It’s certainly a great day, but do you think it’s worthy of the hype? Check out the article to learn more about my personal alpaca trekking experience, and discover how to organize your own!
Alpaca Walking Experience – The World’s Best Gift?
As Christmas was looming over me I was debating what I was planning to get my sister. A myriad of thoughts ran through my head, each of them less than the one before I came up with a lightbulb idea.
When I purchase presents, I try to think about what my recipient would love. This is what you’re supposed to think about. What you’re not supposed to do is allow the thought to be pulled away by a more selfish one. “But what do I want to enjoy having already mentally committed myself to the event I had decided to give to someone else, I rushily reserved my tickets and then ordered the gift card for her.
You probably know that from my blog in the past I am a huge fan of the experience of being with animals (except for any interactions with monkeys, which is why I like to keep my hair in my hair) and was incredibly eager for the opportunity to experience alpaca trekking. I’d never seen one before (this was before the time of my South America travels) and the thought of being able to go close to one was enough to make my face hurt from smiling. (I do not smile that often since my face is often swollen with anxiety.)
What’s the distinction in an alpaca from an the llama?
There is a distinct difference between an alpaca and a llama. Contrary to popular belief the former is smaller, weighing approximately half the size of an adult llama. This makes hiking with them an enjoyable day out for all the family members, since children are typically sturdy enough to lead them on their own.
Like other camelids alpaca’s wool makes them stand out. It is among the most soft and natural fibers on the planet and is frequently utilized to create a assortment of products, like blankets, gloves, and jumpers. The most frequent locations to purchase alpaca items available for purchase are Andean countries, such as Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador.
Alpaca Walking
A misty trip to one of Norfolk’s most picturesque coastal towns, we arrived in Wells-next-the-Sea which was a highly unlikely place to keep fifteen alpacas. The truth is that alpacas aren’t native to Norfolk in any way (who would have thought?) They usually reside in South America. I was a bit puzzled as to why people wanted alpacas so much and apprehensions were quickly solved when our tour guide introduced us our new furry pals.
All the alpacas are adorned with colorful South American names, with the ones we have getting christened Yaku, Alfonso, Diego and Fernando. The alpacas in Wells are mostly rescues that have been saved from the slums of being in isolation. Instead of being left to mourn at the center, Wells lets them enjoy their time being fed by a crowd of enthusiastic visitors, and then walk off. What a wonderful life! If reincarnation is real I’d love to end in this place I’d like to be here, please.
What are you supposed to be aware of regarding Alpaca Trekking?
Is walking with alpacas ethical?
As opposed to camels, alpacas can’t be ridden due to their nervous nature and weak backs. It’s not clear if walking alpacas is morally acceptable, though.
I scoured the internet for any information related to the subject before my trip, but there was nothing. It will being a matter of individual opinion along with common sense. According to me, there is nothing illegal about walking an alpaca, as long as the animal is properly looked after, is given breaks and is not abused. It is your discretion to determine if this is the situation.
If you are in a location that you think they’re not treating animals in a fair way, you should contact both the RSPCA as well as the local council of the area.
Do alpacas trek in groups?
Similar to similar to Kardashians Alpacas can be found doing everything in their family. If one of them goes for a hike and the entire family is taken along with them. In the Wells station, 15 alpacas are separated into four groups to ensure they are able to keep them content, but can be walked in small groups.
This is the primary reason that alpacas were saved. It’s not uncommon for people to purchase an alpaca, then abandon the animal in a field on it’s own since they aren’t sure how to take care of it in a proper manner. Alpacas are social animals, and if you force them to live a life of isolation, they’ll experience a lot of anxiety and stress.
What do alpacas look like?
The thing that awed me most about alpacas was how incredibly sensitive they are. They are prey animals and always looking for dangers to their security. While on the trail they would prefer to follow you. In the event there is an attack, you’ll be first rescued. It’s always wise to have a backup plan at all times!
Alpacas have eyes that are on their sides and become extremely anxious when they experience an unexpected event (a much like me). Because of this, they aren’t a fan of touching their heads.
It is natural for them to feel the most at ease when they sense danger So be alert when something starts to creep up on your alpaca They will get scared.
One thing that irritates alpacas is the presence dogs. We were involved in a fight with a dog on the way and it led to Alfonso being so terrified that he sprayed the back of the group with spew so large that it rivalled that of the Jet d’Eau!
You can choose which alpaca to walk with?
The majority of alpaca farms typically rotate their animals to ensure that all members of the group walk frequently, but not too often. This could mean that there is a walking schedule but it’s never hurts to ask the farm owner whether you would prefer a particular.
Like humans alpacas also have their own personalities therefore, if you have the option of choosing your alpaca keep this in your mind! The alpaca I had, Fernando certainly was the most beautiful of our group, and was also the most influential (albeit somewhat reluctantly).
My sister’s alpaca was a bit more dapper than the other ones always dropping onto the floor to lie in the dirt. Her boyfriend was the calmest of the bunch, preferring to be in the middle of the group, whereas Tim was thrown into the unruly rebel (they say that like is like attracts like) who would constantly try to drag him into the moving traffic.
Have you got any advice to walk alpacas?
Given their nervous nature and their aloof nature, alpacas are incredibly independent beings. When you travel with them you need to be clear that you’re the boss or they’ll walk through your path (metaphorically and not in literal sense). Alpacas are omnivorous eaters, and eat almost every the less, and so you’ll find yourself in a hurry to stop to take a breath will send you heading to an alpaca for a light refreshments.
If your alpaca is terrified while out on the trail it will exhibit the same reaction as human beings in the face anxiety (definitely for me at least) and will just sit there in a trance, waiting for the frightening incident to pass. If your alpaca isn’t willing to move, you may be waiting for them to move. Try to be patient and be aware that it can be exhausting to be so connected. I’m sure you be able to tell you.
Is making eye contact dangerous?
It’s not so dangerous in the sense that your alpaca won’t attack you and devour your food, however, making eye contact with them is an act of aggression and can be perceived as a threat. Eye contact can cause them to be less responsive to your commands, and you may even receive an earful of the gooey kind… Alpacas are very docile creatures, so do them and yourself an favor and allow them to enjoy the company of.
Are you able to give alpacas food?
The majority of alpaca trekking excursions allow you to spend time with the animals. Alpacas are incredibly hungry and extremely excited when you decide for feeding them. Their most loved snacks include apples chopped up and bread slices.
Be aware that when you hold foods in the hands of your children,, you will be the center of attention. The alpacas will attempt to distract you, so they could sneak in your bag of food. It was not my first thought, alpacas are the only animals with bottom teeth, so if they do get lost, you’re likely to fall and lose your hand. A good thing all around.
What are you wearing for alpaca walking?
While these types of hikes are not difficult but it is definitely recommended to wear outdoor clothing. Boots for hiking are highly recommended since the terrain is damp and squishy if rainy (it it is in this is the UK at the end of the day) and, for the same reason, it’s ideal to wear rain jackets. In the summer suncream and a hat is recommended.
When is the best time to go alpaca trek?
Generally speaking, alpaca walking can be enjoyed all year round no matter the weather! If your adventure must be canceled it is likely to be because of flooding or something other of a more extreme nature.
Alpaca Walking The Verdict!
After meeting the alpacas I felt as if I had an intense connection with them. We shared a lot in many ways, including our constant need to fill our faces with food, our sly nature and our need to protect those who are more courageous than us. In the end, I was awed by how soft the alpacas were as well as how happy they looked.
It’s not as a major attraction at a national level but I can confidently say I enjoyed more having fun with Fernando and his gang than I’ve had at the majority of tourist destinations in the country. Alpaca walking is generally moderately priced, family-friendly, and a fantastic way to get out and explore your way through the Great British countryside. If the alpacas remain happy and jolly, this is an attraction that will only gain popularity.