Cuzco: Nature walk with alpacas and llamas.

Imagine wandering through the stunning landscapes of the Sacred Valley in Peru, surrounded by the majesty of the Andes, with a friendly llama or alpaca as your companion. For $55 per person, you get a half-day adventure that’s as much about cultural connection as it is about playful animals. The experience typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, starting from Plaza Mayor de Cuzco, and taking you through native Quechua communities, lush meadows, and forested highlands.

What makes this tour truly special is the chance to walk your own llama or alpaca—a feature that delights travelers of all ages. Plus, the knowledgeable guides make sure you’re not just selfies and smiles but also learning about local customs and the animals’ significance in Andean life. We love how this isn’t a typical tourist attraction; it feels authentic and intimate.

One potential consideration is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, due to the uneven terrain and nature of the hike. It’s best suited for those who are comfortable walking a bit and eager to get a close-up experience with nature and local culture.

If you’re a family, an animal lover, or someone interested in experiencing the everyday life of Andean communities, this tour hits the right notes. It offers a refreshing break from archaeological sites and city sights, giving you a chance to connect with local people and nature in a relaxed setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Walk through native Quechua communities with guided insights.
• Animal Interaction: Enjoy the unique chance to walk your own llama or alpaca.
• Stunning Scenery: Take in breathtaking views of the Andes and picturesque highland meadows.
• Value for Money: For $55, you get transportation, a guide, a picnic, and a memorable experience.
• Family Friendly: Good for all ages, especially animal lovers and those wanting a softer adventure.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 10) ensure personalized attention and fewer crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Location and Accessibility

The tour begins at the Plaza Mayor de Cuzco, the city’s bustling historic heart. From there, the group boards a comfortable van for about 1.5 hours to reach the starting point in the Sacred Valley. This transit time is well spent, giving you a chance to soak in the changing scenery and acclimate to the highland air.

While the experience is designed to be accessible for most, it’s important to note that it’s not suitable for wheelchair users. The hike involves uneven paths and natural terrain typical of rural Andean regions. However, for those able and eager, this setting offers genuine contact with local life.

The Walk and Its Highlights

Once in the native community, the real fun begins. For 2-3 hours, you’ll walk with your own alpaca or llama, which is a remarkable feature of this tour. Unlike many other petting experiences, here you’re in charge of your animal—learning how to guide it, care for it, and perhaps even give it a friendly hug.

Expect to meander through meadows and forests, with plenty of chances for photo opportunities. The views are what travelers often mention as breathtaking—the towering Andes as a backdrop, lush highland fields, and the charming local homes.

The guides are well-versed in explaining the significance of llamas and alpacas to Andean culture, sharing stories about their role in transportation, wool, and symbolism. One reviewer, Karin, described the guides as “lovely,” emphasizing how their knowledge added depth to the experience.

The Cultural Connection

This tour isn’t just about animals; it’s a window into the native Quechua community. Walking through the villages, you’ll see traditional houses, local farmers tending their fields, and perhaps some children playing—an authentic glimpse of everyday life in the highlands.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Picnic Lunch

After the walk, a delicious picnic lunch awaits, a thoughtful touch that allows you to relax and reflect on the morning. The included meal adds value, especially considering the natural, rustic setting.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from past participants is glowing. Karin’s review sums it up: “It was fantastic! The alpacas and llamas were amazing and so much fun to walk. It was a hard hike, but worth it for the beautiful views of the Andes. Our guide was lovely, and the lunch was delicious. I’d recommend this to anyone visiting Peru.”

This highlights the tour’s appeal: friendly guides, stunning scenery, and a fun, animal-centric activity that’s accessible to most.

The Practical Details

What’s Included and What to Bring

For $55, the price covers transportation, a guide, and the picnic lunch. This all-inclusive setup ensures you don’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics, making it a straightforward day out.

To make the most of your experience, pack a camera for capturing those adorable llama selfies, biodegradable sunscreen to protect your skin, cash for tips or souvenirs, and biodegradable insect repellent—the highlands can sometimes have bugs.

Timing and Group Size

Availability varies, so it’s wise to check ahead for starting times. The tour is limited to small groups (up to 10 participants), which means more personalized attention and fewer crowds—ideal for a relaxed pace.

Cancellation and Booking Flexibility

Plans can change, so the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind. You can reserve now and pay later, maintaining flexibility for your travel schedule.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

If you’re seeking an experience that combines nature, culture, and animal fun, this walk with alpacas and llamas fits the bill. It’s especially appealing if you’re traveling with children, animal enthusiasts, or those wanting a break from archeological sites. The guide’s local knowledge enriches the walk, making it more meaningful than just a petting zoo.

The value is clear: for $55, you get transportation, a guided cultural experience, scenic views, and a memorable animal encounter—all in a friendly group setting. The positive reviews underscore the joy and authenticity that this tour offers.

However, keep in mind that the trek involves walking over uneven terrain and is not wheelchair accessible. If you’re concerned about walking distances or terrain, consider your comfort level before booking.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for families, animal lovers, and anyone interested in local Quechua culture. It’s perfect if you want a relaxed, fun activity that offers plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to connect with local highland life. Those looking for a shorter, meaningful excursion without archaeological ruins will find this a refreshing change of pace.

If you’re traveling with people who enjoy nature walks, or you want a child-friendly activity that’s both playful and informative, this tour hits the mark. It also suits travelers who value small-group experiences and personalized attention.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The walk lasts about 2 to 3 hours, with the whole experience including transportation and lunch lasting roughly half a day.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Plaza Mayor de Cuzco, the city’s main square, and ends back there.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation, a guide, and a picnic lunch.

Can I walk my own llama or alpaca?
Yes, the highlight of this tour is that you get to walk your own llama or alpaca during the trek.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience’s playful nature and focus on animals make it a good choice for families. Just consider the terrain and walking distance.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, cash for tips or extras, and insect repellent.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a van takes you from Cuzco to the starting point and back.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

This nature walk with alpacas and llamas in the Sacred Valley offers a rare chance to get close to Peru’s iconic animals in an authentic setting. The small group size, knowledgeable guides, and scenic backdrop make it a worthwhile addition to your Cuzco itinerary. It’s a simple yet meaningful experience that appeals to animal lovers, families, and those eager to connect with local culture.

While it’s not the most physically demanding activity, it does involve walking over uneven terrain, so plan accordingly. The inclusion of a picnic lunch adds a nice touch, making the outing feel complete and relaxed.

If you’re looking for a fun, culturally rich, and visually stunning experience that’s easy to fit into a day, this tour promises a memorable encounter with Peru’s highland life and beloved animals.

In summary, this tour is a delightful option for those wanting a personal, animal-filled experience beyond the typical tourist scenes, at a reasonable price. It’s especially suited for families, animal enthusiasts, and travelers eager for a genuine taste of Andean life. Just bring your camera, a smile, and a sense of adventure—and prepare for a day filled with laughter, stunning views, and adorable llama friends.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby