🦙 Alpaca Walking FAQ

Our alpaca walking experiences cost:

• 1 person with 1 alpaca: £28
• 2 people sharing 1 alpaca: £41 (special price)
• Family ticket: £76 (2 adults + 2 children with 2 alpacas)
• Baby alpaca walks: £48 (1 person) or £53 (2 people sharing)
• Optional rescheduling insurance: £4.50 for peace of mind

Plus parking: £3.30 short stay or £5.30 full day at Itchen Valley Country Park

See current availability and book online →

Booking is simple and secure!

• Online booking: View our live calendar and book instantly
• Call us: 0333 050 4012 during business hours
• Email us: info@alpacas-hampshire.co.uk

Secure payment: All payments processed safely through Stripe. You'll receive e-tickets by email.

Essential booking required - spaces fill up fast, especially weekends and school holidays!

Only with our optional rescheduling insurance (£4.50):

• With insurance: Change your booking up to 2 hours before for illness or emergencies
• Without insurance: No refunds or rescheduling available - bookings are valid only for the date booked
• Weather cancellations: If we cancel due to severe weather, you can rebook within 3 months
• No-shows: Late arrivals treated as no-shows with no refund

Tip: Add insurance for £4.50 when booking for complete peace of mind!

Punctuality is essential - gates close at start times!

• Morning walks: Arrive by 9:55 AM (gates close at 9:55 AM)
• Afternoon walks: Arrive by 1:25 PM (gates close at 1:25 PM)
• Late arrivals: Treated as no-shows with no refund or reschedule
• Finding us: Look for the Hensting Alpacas feather flag in the first car park

What3Words: ///shady.goes.down for exact parking location

Book as early as possible - we often sell out!

• Weekends: Book several weeks ahead
• School holidays: Book 4-6 weeks in advance
• Midweek: Often more availability
• Special events: Baby alpaca walks (Feb-July) book up fast
• Last minute: Always worth checking our live calendar

Our calendar updates in real-time so you'll see exactly what's available!

Walk duration depends on the session:

• Morning walks: 120 minutes (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)
• Afternoon walks: 90 minutes (1:30 PM - 3:00 PM)
• Accessible walks: 90 minutes (Wednesdays 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM)
• Llama Keeper experience: 3+ hours (9:00 AM - 12:15 PM)

Note: Afternoon walks only run Fridays & Saturdays during school holidays (March-August)

Time includes meeting your alpacas, safety briefing, the walk itself, and plenty of photo opportunities!

Your alpaca adventure includes:

1. Meet the Team: Our expert guides welcome you and introduce the experience
2. Safety Briefing: Learn how to safely handle and walk your alpaca companion
3. Meet Your Alpaca: Get matched with a friendly alpaca (each has their own personality!)
4. The Walk: Gentle trek through beautiful Itchen Valley Country Park trails
5. Wildlife Spotting: Look for deer, herons, kingfishers, and squirrels along the way
6. Photo Opportunities: Capture memories with your alpaca friend
7. Educational Chat: Learn fascinating facts about alpacas and their care
8. Optional Shop Visit: Browse our alpaca gift shop before leaving

It's a magical, peaceful experience perfect for all ages (8+)!

You'll lead your alpaca using a halter and lead rope!

• You're in control: Hold the lead rope and guide your alpaca along the trails
• Gentle walkers: Alpacas prefer a calm, steady pace - no rushing or pulling
• Occasionally stubborn: They might stop for a snack - it's all part of the charm!
• Expert support: Our team is always nearby to help if needed
• Natural curiosity: Your alpaca will often walk alongside you like a friend

Think of it like walking a very fluffy, calm, and curious companion who loves to explore!

Yes! Our baby alpaca (cria) walks are incredibly popular:

• When available: February to July during morning walks
• Special pricing: £48 for 1 person or £53 for 2 people sharing
• Extra cute: Baby alpacas are playful and absolutely adorable
• Training walks: Help us train the next generation of walking alpacas
• Adoption opportunity: You can adopt your favorite cria after the walk!

Book early - cria walks are our most popular experience and sell out quickly!

Absolutely! Our alpacas are gentle, well-trained, and love meeting people:

• Naturally calm: Alpacas are peaceful animals with gentle temperaments
• Well-socialized: Our herd is used to people and enjoys human company
• Safe interactions: They enjoy gentle petting on neck and sides
• Child-friendly: Particularly gentle with children (8+ years)
• Individual personalities: Some are outgoing, others are shy - we'll match you perfectly
• Curious creatures: They love investigating pockets and making new friends!

Our experienced team will show you exactly how to interact with your alpaca companion.

Minimum age is 8 years old for all alpaca walks:

• Ages 8-12: Must share an alpaca with an adult
• Ages 12-16: Can lead their own alpaca but must be accompanied by an adult
• Ages 18+: Can walk independently
• Under 8s: Can enjoy our alpaca picnic experiences (minimum age 3)
• Everyone needs a ticket: Including children - no free child places

Safety first: Adults must be able to take control if children become uncomfortable or unable to lead.

Dress for the outdoors and Hampshire weather:

• Footwear: Sturdy shoes, walking boots, or wellies (NO flip-flops or heels)
• Weather-appropriate clothing: Layers work best
• Waterproofs: Essential in wet weather (wellington boots available to hire)
• Avoid: Loose, flowing clothing that might catch or startle alpacas
• Sun protection: Hat and sunscreen in summer
• Warm clothes: Gloves and coat in winter

Remember: You'll be outdoors for 90-120 minutes walking on countryside paths!

We operate in ALL weather conditions!

• Light rain: Walks continue as normal - alpacas love all weather!
• Heavy rain: Still enjoyable with proper waterproofs
• Severe weather only: Walks cancelled for safety (you'll be notified by 7:30 AM)
• Bring gear: Waterproofs and wellies (hire available on site)
• Magical experiences: Some of our best walks happen in different weather!

Alpacas don't mind getting wet, and there's something special about walking with them in the rain!

Yes! Parking is available on-site with various options:

• Short stay: £3.30 (perfect for alpaca walks)
• Full day: £5.30 (if you're exploring the park too)
• Blue Badge holders: Free parking available
• Coach parking: Available for large groups
• Electric charging: Some EV charging points available

Finding us: Look for our feather flag in the first car park on the left. What3Words: ///shady.goes.down

No, dogs cannot join alpaca walks. Here's why:

• Alpaca stress: Alpacas are naturally nervous around dogs
• Safety first: Keeps the experience calm for all animals
• Insurance policy: Our coverage doesn't allow pets on walks
• Other visitors: Some people may be uncomfortable around dogs

Alternative: Itchen Valley Country Park has excellent dog-walking trails where your pet can enjoy a walk while you're with the alpacas!

Yes! Full facilities available at Itchen Valley Country Park:

• Clean toilets: Located near the car park and visitor center
• Accessible facilities: Wheelchair-accessible toilets available
• Baby changing: Facilities for families with young children
• Café: Food and drinks available in the park
• Gift shop: Our alpaca gift shop with unique souvenirs

Perfect for making a full day out with other park activities too!

Yes! Our gift vouchers are incredibly popular for:

• Birthdays: Unique gift for animal lovers of all ages
• Christmas: Perfect present that creates memories
• Mother's/Father's Day: Relaxing, special experience
• Anniversaries: Romantic and unforgettable
• Corporate gifts: Team building or client entertainment
• Last-minute gifts: Instant email delivery available

Voucher prices: £28 (1 person), £41 (2 people), £76 (family) - same as walk prices

Order vouchers online with instant delivery →

Vouchers purchased from May 15, 2025 onwards are valid for 12 months!

• Flexible use: Can be used any time within 12 months
• All seasons: Perfect for any time of year
• Easy redemption: Simple online booking with voucher code
• Transferable: Can be gifted to someone else if plans change
• All walks: Valid for morning, afternoon, baby alpaca, and accessible walks

Plenty of time to find the perfect day for this special experience!

Instant delivery by email - perfect for last-minute gifts!

• Email delivery: Vouchers sent instantly to your inbox
• Print or show: Can be printed or shown on your phone
• Gift-ready: Beautiful design perfect for gifting
• Easy redemption: Clear instructions included
• Multiple designs: Choose from various voucher designs

The recipient just needs to select a date on our calendar and enter their voucher code!

Yes! Vouchers work for all our experiences:

• Regular alpaca walks: Morning and afternoon sessions
• Baby alpaca walks: £48 (1 person) or £53 (2 people) vouchers
• Accessible walks: Wednesday morning sessions
• Llama Keeper experience: Special vouchers available
• Family experiences: £76 family vouchers for 2 adults + 2 children

Note: Some special event pricing (like Valentine's Day) may not be available with vouchers.

Yes! We have dedicated accessible walks every Wednesday:

• When: Every Wednesday, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
• Designed for: Visitors with mobility needs, autism, visual impairments, or other requirements
• Smaller groups: Fewer people for a calmer, more supportive environment
• Expert support: Our team has experience with various accessibility needs
• Free carer tickets: Essential carers attend free with verification

Perfect for: Wheelchair users, learning disabilities, sensory needs, or anyone who prefers a gentler pace.

Free carer tickets are available for essential support:

• Who qualifies: One free carer per disabled guest
• Verification needed: Carer's Allowance letter, care agency ID, or PIP documentation
• How to apply: Upload proof via our online form before booking
• Booking code: We'll send a special code after verification
• Additional support: Extra carers can attend at regular ticket prices

Apply for carer verification →

Yes! Itchen Valley Country Park has excellent accessibility:

• Wheelchair paths: Over 5km of surfaced, accessible pathways
• Level routes: We can adapt walks to avoid steep sections
• Wide trails: Plenty of room for wheelchairs and mobility scooters
• Regular rest spots: Benches and break areas throughout
• Accessible parking: Blue Badge holders park free
• Accessible facilities: Wheelchair-accessible toilets available

Please mention any specific mobility needs when booking so we can plan the perfect route!

Absolutely! Alpacas are wonderful therapeutic animals:

• Calming presence: Naturally peaceful and soothing to be around
• Sensory experience: Soft fleece is therapeutic to touch
• Confidence building: Successfully walking an alpaca is very rewarding
• Social opportunities: Great for group activities and communication skills
• Patient approach: Our team takes time to explain everything clearly
• Routine-friendly: Structured experience with clear expectations

We regularly work with special needs groups and schools - the results are always magical!

Absolutely! Alpaca experiences make fantastic team building:

• Stress relief: Being with alpacas is incredibly relaxing and therapeutic
• Team bonding: Shared unique experience creates lasting memories
• Communication skills: Learning to work with alpacas builds patience
• Inclusive activity: Suitable for all fitness levels and abilities
• Memorable: Your team will talk about it for months!
• Professional setting: Beautiful location away from the office

Perfect for companies across Hampshire, London, Surrey, Brighton and the South!

Yes! We welcome groups and offer various options:

• Standard groups: Up to 12 people per regular session
• Large groups: We can accommodate bigger groups with advance booking
• Private sessions: Exclusive experiences available for special occasions
• Multiple bookings: Very large groups can split across time slots
• Custom experiences: We can tailor sessions to your group's needs

Contact us to discuss group requirements and pricing - we're very flexible!

Yes! We love hosting educational groups:

• Curriculum links: Animal care, geography, life cycles, farming
• Age appropriate: Minimum age 8 for walks, 3+ for picnic experiences
• Risk assessments: Full documentation provided for schools
• Educational content: Learn about alpaca origins, farming, animal welfare
• Supervision ratios: Adults must be able to assist children with alpacas
• Group management: No children's parties - alpacas need calm environments

Perfect for schools across Hampshire, Surrey, and South England. Contact us for educational pricing!

Yes! Private sessions available for special occasions:

• Romantic experiences: Perfect for proposals or anniversaries
• Birthday celebrations: Special milestone birthdays
• Photography sessions: Professional photo shoots with alpacas
• Small groups: When you want exclusive access
• Special requirements: Tailored for specific accessibility needs
• Corporate exclusives: Private team building sessions

Subject to availability and additional charges. Contact us early to discuss your requirements!

Very rarely! Our alpacas are well-trained and gentle:

• Mostly at each other: Alpacas mainly spit at other alpacas over food disputes
• Warning signs: Ears back and facial expressions before spitting
• Well-socialized: Our herd is used to humans and rarely spits at people
• Usually accidental: If it happens, they were probably aiming at another alpaca
• Not harmful: Mostly grass and saliva - just a bit smelly!

In over 10 years of alpaca walks, it's incredibly rare for visitors to be spat at!

We're home to over 40 alpacas! Our diverse herd includes:

• Mixed ages: From baby crias to mature adults
• Both breeds: Huacaya (dense fleece) and Suri (silky fleece)
• Various colors: White, brown, grey, black, and beautiful mixed colors
• Male and female: Including prize-winning stud males and gentle females
• Unique personalities: Each alpaca has their own character and quirks

You'll meet several of our friendly alpacas during your visit and learn about their individual personalities!

Alpacas are from the high Andes Mountains of South America:

• Original habitat: Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador, and Northern Chile
• Ancient domestication: Domesticated by the Incas over 6,000 years ago
• High altitude: Originally lived 3,500-5,000 meters above sea level
• UK arrival: First imported to Britain in the 1980s
• Climate adaptation: They love Hampshire's gentler weather compared to the harsh Andes!

During your walk, we'll share more fascinating facts about these amazing animals and their journey to Hampshire!

Yes! We occasionally have alpacas for sale:

• Quality breeding: Well-cared for, socialized animals
• Various options: From young alpacas to proven breeding stock
• Beginner-friendly: We can recommend calm, easy-to-handle alpacas
• Full support: Ongoing advice and guidance included
• Investment range: £500-£2000+ per alpaca depending on quality
• Setup requirements: You'll need proper fencing, shelter, and equipment

Check our alpacas for sale page or contact us. An alpaca walk is a great way to see if ownership is right for you!

Alpacas are herbivores with specific dietary needs:

• Main diet: Fresh grass and high-quality hay
• Supplements: Specialized alpaca pellets for extra nutrition
• Natural grazers: They'll happily munch grass during your walk!
• Fresh water: Always available in their paddocks
• No treats please: We don't allow feeding treats as it can make them pushy and upset their stomachs
• Efficient digestion: Three stomachs help them process food efficiently

Don't worry - they get plenty to eat! You might see them stop for a quick grass snack during your walk.

We're located at the beautiful Itchen Valley Country Park:

• Full address: Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton SO30 3HQ
• What3Words: ///shady.goes.down
• Near Southampton: Just 15 minutes from Southampton city center
• Award-winning park: 440 acres with 16 Green Flag Awards
• Beautiful setting: Ancient woodlands, meadows, and River Itchen

Look for our feather flag in the first car park on the left after entering!

We're easily accessible from across the South:

• From London: 1.5 hours via M3 Junction 5, then A27 to West End
• From Brighton: 1 hour via A27 and M27
• From Portsmouth: 30 minutes via M27
• From Reading: 45 minutes via M4 and M3
• From Winchester: 15 minutes via A34
• From Bournemouth: 1 hour via M27

Perfect for a day out from anywhere in the South of England!

Limited but possible public transport options:

• Train: Southampton Central or Eastleigh Station (3 miles away)
• From Southampton: 10-minute train to Eastleigh, then taxi
• Taxi from Eastleigh: Approximately £8
• Local buses: Services to West End village, then short taxi ride
• Recommended: Car travel is easiest if you have access

Contact us for detailed public transport directions - we're happy to help plan your journey!

Make a full day of your visit! The park offers:

• Go Ape: High ropes courses, zip lines, and axe throwing in the treetops
• Play areas: 6 nature-inspired play areas for all ages
• Walking trails: Over 5km of accessible paths through ancient woodlands
• Wildlife watching: Spot deer, herons, kingfishers, and otters
• River Itchen: Beautiful riverside walks and wildlife
• Café: Freshly prepared food with eco-friendly options
• Parkrun: Every Saturday morning

Many families arrive early for alpaca walks, then spend the afternoon exploring the park!

Hampshire offers fantastic attractions within easy reach:

• New Forest: 20 minutes - wild ponies, walking, cycling, charming villages
• Winchester: 15 minutes - historic cathedral city with shopping and dining
• Marwell Zoo: 20 minutes - perfect family attraction
• The Watercress Line: Heritage steam railway nearby
• Southampton: Historic maritime city with excellent shopping
• Paultons Park: Home of Peppa Pig World (30 minutes)

Perfect for combining your alpaca experience with other Hampshire highlights!