Investing in Alpacas – Start Your Own Alpaca Farm in the UK
Explore the benefits, costs, and rewards of alpaca farming with Hensting Alpacas. From starter herds to breeding programmes, we help you build your alpaca business the right way.
Investing in Alpacas – Start Your Own Alpaca Farm in the UK
Many people are surprised to learn how accessible alpaca farming really is. You can launch a small herd with an initial investment starting from just £8,000 — covering two alpacas of breeding age and access to a support network of breeders and mentors.
This figure does not include land, but alpacas are incredibly efficient grazers. You can keep up to 10 alpacas per acre, making them ideal for smallholdings or hobby farms.
Return on Investment
Alpaca farming is one of the few livestock enterprises where breeders regularly report a 25–60% ROI after four years. With alpacas living up to 25–30 years and breeding until around age 17, females can be productive for over half their lives.
As the alpaca fibre market continues to grow, so does the income potential. You can sell fleece directly or partner with a fibre co-op for guaranteed sales. Many co-ops also help raise awareness about the growing global demand for alpaca fibre in the fashion industry.
Why Alpacas Are a Smart Investment
- Insurable Assets: Alpacas are covered by livestock insurance — a safety net for your herd
- Fibre Demand: Sought after by designers for its softness, warmth, and durability
- Space Efficient: Keep 8–10 alpacas per acre with low land impact
- Family Friendly: A great lifestyle business for children or retirement
- Multi-Use: Breed, show, protect, walk, adopt, or sell fleece & products
Alpaca farming is more than a business — it's a fulfilling, family-friendly lifestyle with long-term returns and daily rewards.
Types of Alpacas Available
- Young female alpacas
- Pregnant females with top genetic lines
- Starter herd packages (non-breeding or breeding)
- Stud males and junior studs
- Field work males and lawn mowers
- Herd guards for sheep and poultry
- Adopt an alpaca – ideal for beginners or children
- Alpaca shop – clothing, knitwear, wool, and fleece products
Why Buy from Hensting Alpacas?
- Over 40 alpacas to choose from, including rare colours
- Lifetime advice and support
- Multiple-purchase discounts
- 24-hour telephone backup service
- Live cria guarantee on breeding purchases
- 20% off future stud services with every alpaca purchase
If you’re ready to start your journey in alpaca ownership, contact us today for a friendly chat and tailored advice.