An alpaca walk should be something anyone can enjoy, whatever their mobility or support needs. That belief shaped our accessible Wednesday sessions at Itchen Valley Country Park, and this guide walks you through exactly what to expect so you can plan a relaxed, worry-free visit.
Who our accessible walks are for
These sessions suit wheelchair and mobility-scooter users, visitors who walk with a frame or stick, people who tire easily, and anyone who finds busy, fast-paced attractions overwhelming — including guests with sensory or additional support needs. Because alpacas are quiet and slow-moving by nature, they are a gentle introduction to being around animals for people who might find dogs or horses too boisterous.
The terrain and what makes it manageable
We deliberately run the accessible groups on the country park's flat, surfaced main paths rather than the rougher woodland tracks. There are no steep gradients and no stiles to negotiate. Parking is level and close to the meeting point, access from car park to gathering spot is step-free, and there are accessible toilets on site. If the full loop is too much on the day, your handler will simply turn the group back sooner — nobody has to finish the whole route.
Free carer tickets
Carers and personal assistants come free of charge. That means the person you support can have you right alongside them the entire time without paying for a second place. It is one less thing to think about and it keeps the focus where it should be — on the alpaca ambling beside you.
What happens during the two hours
After a gentle welcome and a short safety briefing, you will be introduced to your alpaca and shown how to hold the lead. An experienced handler stays with your group throughout, ready to guide the animal, steady the lead or step in whenever needed. Wheelchair users can comfortably hold a lead from a seated position while the handler helps direct the alpaca. The pace is slow, with frequent natural pauses to rest, take photos and simply enjoy the calm. Afterwards there is time to feed the herd and meet the younger alpacas.
What to wear and bring
Sturdy, comfortable footwear or good wheelchair tyres work well, and layered clothing suits the changeable Hampshire weather. Bring any medication or comfort items you might need, and don't forget a camera or phone — the photo opportunities with a fluffy companion are hard to resist. Let us know beforehand about any specific needs, such as a preference for a particularly placid alpaca or a quieter start.
Prices and how to book
Accessible walks start from £32 per person, with the accompanying carer free of charge, and family packages from £92 if others want to join. Gift vouchers are available too if you would like to treat someone. Sessions run every Wednesday from April to October, and places are limited so the groups stay small and calm. You can reserve your spot on our accessible alpaca walks page, or call us first on 0333 050 4012 to talk through your requirements — we are always happy to plan the visit around you.
Set just fifteen minutes from Southampton, Winchester and Eastleigh and within easy reach of Portsmouth, Fareham, Romsey, Basingstoke and the New Forest, our accessible walks are among the most inclusive days out in Hampshire — a chance for absolutely everyone to share a quiet, memorable moment with an alpaca.