Llamas are the ideal pack animal. Their feet have a leathery pad, instead of a hoof, so they don't tear up the trails like horses or mules. They can carry up to 30% of their body weight and as soon as their packing gear is loaded on their backs, they will work for many hours without complaint. In addition, they are generally calm and patient, which makes them well-suited for working around children and vulnerable adults. Most people find llamas to be very approachable and easy to lead. They inject a unique dimension of fun to the hiking trip. Campers enjoy feeding and brushing their llama buddy.

Llamas are native to the high mountain of South America, but there are many llama farms in the US now, with more than 100,000 llamas. Like other herbivores (plant-eaters) they are group oriented and have a strong social structure. Llamas belong to their herd in a profound manner. If they are away from their herd, they become very upset. They communicate mostly through ear position and body language. When on the trail, the lead llama and the others will communicate by humming, which helps them keep up with one another when out of sight. The humans who are on the trek quickly become incorporated as part of the herd and the llamas will act protectively toward them, as they do for one another.

Each llama in a herd has a defined role and responsibility. The herd leader keeps watch for danger and moves into a protective stance if a strange dog or similar animal approaches. The trail leader is the llama that the others trust to lead them on the trail, navigating around obstacles or crossing streams. If the trail leader is not in the front, they usually will not go forward. Other roles are the "scientist" (the one who investigates new or strange things in the environment), the "spiritual leader" (the one who makes sure llamas behave in a dignified llama-like manner), the "jokester" (the one who plays jokes on humans and other llamas), the "wise uncle" (who mentors younger llamas), and the "best boy" who looks out for the others when they are sick or just need a friend to be around.

The llama herd provides an excellent metaphor or example which can be used to teach the campers about teamwork and the need for everyone carrying out their responsibilities. Llamas seem to know when to lead and when to follow, a good lesson for life.

Find our more about How Llamas Make a Living
Read stories and Letters about Llamas and Kids
Llama bios and photos