Welcome to Hensting Alpacas

What is the difference between an alpaca and a llama?
Alpacas are smaller (about the same height as you!), gentler, and bred specifically for their incredibly soft fleece. Llamas are taller and historically used for carrying loads. Our alpacas are calm, well-behaved, and perfect for walking experiences.

Do I need experience to walk an alpaca?
Absolutely not! Our expert team provides full training and guidance before your walk begins. You'll learn exactly how to handle and walk your alpaca companion safely and confidently.

Age Policy:
Ages 8–12: Must share an alpaca with an adult.
Ages 12–16: Must be accompanied by an adult but can walk their own alpaca.
18+: Can walk alone.

How long does the alpaca walking experience last?
The full experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including the educational introduction, meeting your alpaca, the scenic walk through Itchen Valley, feeding stops, and close encounters with the herd.

Can I choose to walk adult alpacas or babies?
We offer both options! You can walk with our gentle adult alpacas or, if available, our adorable baby crias. Each has a unique personality and walking style – the babies are particularly cute and playful!

Are alpacas good pets for home ownership?
Alpacas are wonderful animals but require specific care. They're herd animals and need at least 3 companions to thrive. We offer starter packages, expert guidance, and ongoing support for new alpaca owners throughout the UK.

Where do you sell alpacas and what's included?
We sell BAS-registered alpacas throughout the UK and Europe, including Hampshire, Dorset, Surrey, Berkshire, and recently Italy. All alpacas come sheared, wormed, vaccinated, and with trimmed feet, plus ongoing support.

Is parking available and what are the costs?
Yes! Ample parking is available at Itchen Valley Country Park. Daily charges range from £1.30 for 1 hour to £4.30 for 4+ hours. Blue Badge holders receive free parking after validation.

How do I interact with alpacas safely?
Safety is our top priority! Our expert team provides comprehensive safety training before your walk. Key safety guidelines include: approach alpacas calmly and from the side, never from behind; let them see and smell your hand first; keep movements slow and gentle; never grab their heads or necks; stay relaxed as alpacas sense your energy. Our well-trained alpacas are gentle and used to human interaction, making them perfect for families and first-time visitors.

What guided animal tours and unique outdoor animal experiences do you offer near me?
We offer unique animal experiences near you including guided alpaca tours through ancient woodlands, hands-on alpaca encounters with feeding opportunities, educational talks about alpaca behavior and care, photo opportunities with our friendly herd, and meet-and-greet sessions with baby crias when available. Our guided animal tours are perfect engaging weekend activities in Hampshire and ideal outdoor activities for kids. Located at Itchen Valley Country Park, we're easily accessible from Southampton, Winchester, Eastleigh, and throughout Hampshire for these animal friendly activities for families.

What do I need to know about adopting an alpaca?
Our adoption program lets you support an alpaca's care while receiving a personalized adoption kit, photos, and certificates. For actual alpaca ownership, key considerations include: alpacas need at least 3 companions as herd animals; require secure fencing and proper shelter; need annual vaccinations, worming, and foot trimming; require quality hay, grass, and specialized feed; need registration with DEFRA and BAS (British Alpaca Society). We provide comprehensive starter packages and ongoing support for new owners throughout the UK.

How do I buy an alpaca in the UK?
Purchasing alpacas involves several steps: research reputable breeders (we're BAS registered with elite bloodlines); visit farms to meet alpacas in person; consider your goals (breeding, fiber, pets); budget for purchase price plus ongoing care costs; arrange suitable land and shelter; complete DEFRA registration within 30 days; obtain movement licenses for transport. We provide all paperwork, health records, and transport can be arranged throughout the UK and Europe. Our alpacas come fully vaccinated, wormed, and with trimmed feet.

Are alpacas safe animals for children and families?
Absolutely! Alpacas are naturally gentle, calm animals perfect for family experiences. Unlike some farm animals, alpacas rarely kick or bite and are much smaller than horses or cattle. Our alpacas are extensively handled and socialized, making them ideal for children aged 8 and above. We maintain strict safety protocols and provide full supervision throughout your visit. Many families return yearly as alpacas create such positive, memorable experiences for children.

What to know before buying an alpaca?
Before purchasing alpacas, essential considerations include: planning for a minimum of 3 alpacas as they're herd animals; budgeting £500-£2000+ per alpaca plus setup costs; ensuring you have at least 1000m² of land with secure fencing; arranging proper shelter and daily access to fresh water; understanding ongoing costs including feed (£200-400 annually per alpaca), annual vaccinations, worming, and foot trimming; completing DEFRA registration within 30 days of purchase; and obtaining movement licenses for transport. We provide comprehensive guidance and ongoing support for new alpaca owners throughout the UK.

Can I bring my dog to the alpaca experience?
Unfortunately, no dogs are permitted during alpaca walking experiences as alpacas are naturally nervous animals. However, dogs are welcome in other areas of Itchen Valley Country Park on designated trails.