There's a particular kind of calm that settles in when you're walking a woodland trail with an alpaca at the end of your lead. No rush, no traffic, just the soft crunch of the path and the gentle hum your alpaca makes when it's content. Alpaca trekking has become one of Hampshire's most sought-after outdoor experiences, and at Hensting Alpacas we run ours from Itchen Valley Country Park near Southampton. Here's everything you need to know before you set off.
What is alpaca trekking?
Alpaca trekking means leading a halter-trained alpaca on foot along a countryside route — in our case, the mixed woodland trails, meadows and riverside paths of Itchen Valley Country Park. It's more of a journey than a gentle paddock meet-up: you cover real ground over roughly two hours, learning to walk in step with your alpaca as you go. You hold the rope, choose the pace and become a temporary trekking partner to an animal that's naturally curious, quietly affectionate and endlessly photogenic.
What to expect on the day
When you arrive you'll be introduced to the herd and paired with an alpaca to suit you. Our experienced handlers show you how to hold the halter, how to encourage your alpaca forward and how to read the little signals that tell you it wants to pause and browse. Then you're off onto the trail. Alpacas are herd animals, so they walk happily together, and part of the joy is watching them interact — the head-turns, the soft humming, the occasional gentle tug towards a tempting leaf. A handler stays with your group the whole way, so there's always someone to answer questions and take a photo.
Who is it for?
Trekking suits almost everyone. It's a brilliant first date, a memorable outing for a group of friends, a calming break for anyone who loves the outdoors, and a real treat for families. Children aged 3–12 share a lead with an adult, 12–16 year-olds lead with an adult alongside, and those 16 and over can handle their own alpaca. If a member of your group has additional needs, we run dedicated accessible walks every Wednesday from April to October, with free carer tickets — just get in touch and we'll help you plan.
What to wear and bring
Dress for a country walk. Sturdy trainers, walking shoes or wellies are ideal, because the trails can be soft after rain. Bring layers you can add or remove, a waterproof if the forecast is uncertain, and sun protection in the warmer months. A camera or phone is a must — the woodland light and the meadow backdrops are made for photographs. Leave anything you don't want to carry in the car, as your hands will mostly be busy with a halter rope.
Prices and how to book
Alpaca treks start from £32 per person, with family packages from £92 and an extra walker priced at £18. If you'd rather gift the experience, vouchers are available and make a wonderfully different present. For a little peace of mind, rescheduling insurance is £4.50 in case your plans shift. We're a family-run, BAS-registered farm with 16 years of alpaca experience and a herd of more than 40, based about 15 minutes from Southampton, Winchester and Eastleigh and within easy reach of Portsmouth, Fareham, Romsey, Basingstoke and the New Forest.
Ready for the trail?
An alpaca trek is one of those experiences that stays with you long after your boots have dried out. To book your spot, view the details on our alpaca trekking in Hampshire page, book online, or call us on 0333 050 4012. We'll have an alpaca ready and waiting at the trailhead.