Few things soften a busy week quite like a baby alpaca. Those oversized eyes, the fluffy topknot, the springy little hops known as pronking — it is impossible not to smile. Our baby alpaca walks at Itchen Valley Country Park near Southampton were created for exactly that feeling: a gentle, unhurried couple of hours in the company of Hampshire's youngest alpacas. Here is what to expect and how to make the most of your visit.
What happens on a baby alpaca walk
You will be paired with an experienced handler who introduces you to the herd and, of course, the nursery group of mums and crias. Where our standard sessions have you leading a grown, halter-trained alpaca along the wooded trails, the baby walks keep things calmer and closer to the young ones. You will learn to read their body language, hear the soft humming they use to stay in touch with mum, and get plenty of time simply watching them explore. Crias are famously curious, so do not be surprised if one wanders over to investigate your shoelaces. The whole experience runs to around two hours.
Who baby alpaca walks are best for
This is our most relaxed session, which makes it ideal for families with little ones, older visitors, and anyone who would rather amble than march. Children between three and twelve share a lead with an accompanying adult, so younger members of the family can take part safely; twelve to sixteen-year-olds can lead with an adult present, and over-sixteens are welcome to go it alone. It is also a thoughtful gift for a nature-loving friend or a peaceful birthday treat.
The best time of year to visit
Alpaca crias generally arrive from late spring into the summer months, so if seeing very young babies is your priority, aim for late spring through early autumn. That said, our nursery group means there is usually a youngster or two to meet across much of the year, and each season brings its own charm — from bright summer paddocks to crisp, golden autumn walks through the trees.
What to wear and bring
Hampshire weather likes to keep you guessing, so dress in layers, add a light waterproof, and choose footwear you do not mind getting muddy. A camera or phone is a must — you will want photos of these little characters. There is no need to bring food for the alpacas; our handlers manage feeding, and we will show you the right way to offer a gentle stroke.
Getting here
We are based at Itchen Valley Country Park, Allington Lane, West End, Southampton, SO30 3HQ — roughly fifteen minutes from Southampton, Winchester and Eastleigh, and an easy drive from Portsmouth, Fareham, Romsey, Basingstoke and the New Forest. There is parking at the country park and the paddock is a short, flat walk from there.
Prices and how to book
Baby alpaca walks start from £54, with standard guided walks from £32 per person, family packages from £92 and an extra walker from £18. Rescheduling insurance is £4.50, and gift vouchers make a lovely surprise. To see available dates and reserve your place, visit our Baby Alpaca Walks in Hampshire page, or call the farm on 0333 050 4012. We are a family-run, BAS-registered business that has been raising happy, healthy alpacas for sixteen years, and there is nothing we enjoy more than sharing the newest arrivals with visitors.