Questions and Answers

Llama Trekking Frequently asked Questions

DO LLAMAS SPIT AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY?!

When trek trained (as ours are!), spitting at a human is a rare thing. Llamas are social herd animals, however, they do sometimes spit at each other as a way of disciplining lower-ranked llamas. A llama's social rank in a herd is never static. They can always move up or down in the social ladder by picking small fights. Their fights can be visually dramatic.

If you really annoy one, I mean really annoy one, it will give you plenty of warning; First he’ll give you the Paddington stare and his ears go back. First spit is an “I don’t like you” saliva spray. Second spit is a “you are really annoying me, go away and never talk to me again” throaty hawk. Third one is a “don’t say I didn’t warn you”. At which point you need to throw away the clothes you are wearing, shave your hair and don’t go near anybody for at least 3 days. You were warned twice and you didn’t listen, so reap the consequences. You won’t get your money back either as you would have brought dishonour to my family!

Llamas are trained wild animals, an adult can weigh up to 180kgs so you will be briefed before you go. You will always be accompanied.

What is a Llama Trek?

You don't ride llamas but they will carry your pack whilst you enjoy a trek through some beautiful countryside using bridleways, farm tracks and country lanes. You will be with a group of like-minded people, maximum of 2 people per llama.

Is it difficult?

No, it must be one of the easiest, low risk leisure activities ever. After just a few minutes instruction, you are ready to lead your llama out on a trek. However, you must be fit enough to walk for several kilometres.

How far is it?

A two hour trek covers around 4 or 5 kilometres. There are no steep hills to climb, just gently undulating countryside. The picnic trek is a maximum 10 kilometres and includes a home prepared picnic and all refreshments, all from local produce.

When can I do it?

We trek any day of the week all year round. Contact us when you have a date in mind.

What about the weather?

It shouldn't stop us trekking, but summers in Central France can get very hot and uncomfortable for both man and beast so usually take place in the mornings. Rain doesn't affect llamas either!

What should I wear?

Dress according to the weather but comfortable, strong footwear is advisable.

Do llamas make any noise?

Yes, llamas hum to each other constantly and it is quite soothing.

Can I feed the llama?

Not usually, they get fed at the farm although we might bribe them now and again with a carrot, otherwise we request you do not feed them without our consent.

Age/height limit for walks?

For safety reasons we have an age limit of 10 years or 1.2m (5’ in old money) with discretion to walk the llamas but children may accompany. Maximum age limit is set at 100 years, again with discretion!

Will llamas drag me off into the sunset?

No, a llama will like to stay with other llamas so it won’t run off but the age/height limit is set in case they get spooked.

Pushchairs and wheel chairs?

Not advisable due to the terrain covered, however, we will make every effort to accommodate disabled people.