Alpaca trekking sounds like something you might do in Peru but you can now walk with alpacas in the UK and one of the most popular places for alpaca trekking is the lovely coastal town of Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk. What could be nicer than a guided scenic coastal walk accompanied by some of these cute, furry friends?
Alpacas are similar to but smaller than llamas, they’re also known to be more sweet-natured and easier to handle and train. Native to South America, they are quiet, curious and intelligent herd animals who thrive on company. Gentle, friendly and naturally shy, they each have their own unique personalities. Alpaca’s wool is gently sheared once a year in the springtime, an eco-friendly, cruelty-free ethical product, a soft and durable alternative to cashmere. There is more to alpacas than their wool, as you'll discover in Norfolk.
Alpaca Trekking in Norfolk
Alpaca Trekking in Wells-next-the-Sea is run by Ian Curtis who looks after 15 Peruvian and Chilean runt alpacas that were unwanted by breeders. Their names include Alfonso, Eduardo and Pablo.
On arrival, there is a brief talk about the alpacas, their temperament and how to handle them. The alpacas are put on leads like large dogs and then led by out on a walk through the village. Occasionally, the alpacas want to stop to graze on grass or roll around, which can be lovely to witness.
The walk goes at a gentle pace and is suitable for all ages. The walk then follows the coastal path and bridleways of Wells-next-the-Sea and the neighbouring village of Stiffkey, taking in the coastline with wonderful views across the salt marshes to the sea. Along the way, the guide offers interesting facts about both the alpacas and the history of Wells-next-the-Sea.
Alpacas are extremely sensitive since in the wild they are prey animals so they’re naturally cautious and prefer to walk behind their leaders. Once back at the farm, the alpacas go into their pens and the walkers are allowed to feed them chopped apples. There are hand-washing facilities on site and Ian holds an animal welfare license so you can be assured the alpacas are well cared for. The walks can last between one and three and a half hours for groups of a minimum of 3 walkers.
Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
Wells-next-the-Sea is a picturesque harbour town near Blakeney Point, famous for having the largest seal colony in the UK and a unique bird sanctuary. The harbour, sheltered from the open sea by salt marshes, was in Tudor times one of the great ports of eastern England. Today, overlooked by an imposing granary dating from 1904, it is still used for sailing.
Norfolk is the perfect place to go for animal and wildlife enthusiasts. You could easily combine a day of alpaca trekking in Wells-next-the-Sea with another day’s boat trip to spot the seals off nearby Blakeney Point. The salt marshes at Wells-next-the-Sea also provide the perfect habitat for wading birds, marsh harriers, winter geese, avocets and bitterns.
Wells-next-the-Sea is part of the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales with pinewoods and sandy beaches in North Norfolk’s Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A Unique Day Out
Alpaca trekking is a unique and unforgettable experience, a great day out for all the family, and the alpacas. It’s also an educational child-friendly activity and a wonderful way to learn about these gentle animals while exploring the beauty of Norfolk’s coastline. Find out more about alpaca trekking in Norfolk.
