I've seen people on multi-day hikes with a llama, and the llama seems docile and easily led. It seems too good to be true. I would never go out with a mule or a horse on my own. If my husband and I went on a short (two or three day) trip with a llama handler would we learn enough to go on a longer trip on our own? (We really don't want to go with a group.)
-
1I suppose this may depend on how muh the handler chooses to teach you, one trip may not be enough.– AravonaCommented Aug 1, 2015 at 16:35
-
@Aravona I think you are right. The only thing to do is to contact llama packers (if that is what they are called) in the area(s) I am interested in, and see what they offer.– ab2Commented Aug 3, 2015 at 13:41
-
1Where do you plan on getting your own llama? I don't imagine many people would be willing to trust you with their animals on your own.– ShemSegerCommented Aug 3, 2015 at 16:08
-
1What do you call the person who loads a llama? An al-packer.– DJClayworthCommented Dec 9, 2016 at 19:25
-
1The things people say when you're not around to hear them...– llamaCommented Sep 20, 2019 at 19:50
|
Show 2 more comments
1 Answer
Yes.
Lots of farms rent llamas. Most require at minimum a 1/2 day "orientation" course in how to handle a llama. This includes things like the care and feeding of the animal, as well as how to pack the animal properly to keep the load manageable and balanced. An overnight with a handler would be more than sufficient to give you the skills you need.
Llamas are more suited for 'novice' packers than a horse. Mostly, if a llama does get a wild hair and freak out, it won't kill you (but it still might run off with your tent.)
IS llama packing "too good to be true"?
Pros:
- less weight on your back
- another "fun" dynamic on the trip (llamas can be quite personable)
- low impact (compared to horses as pack animals): toes diffuse the weight rather than dig into the soil like horseshoes. Llamas are browsers, nibbling lots of plants rather than eating one patch down to the ground. Llama pellets tend to be less offensive to hikers than horse apples.
Cons:
- You have something else to take care of during your trip (hassle)
- Llamas can be stubborn, and just sit in the middle of the trail far from your destination (kushing) - good luck getting them up again (a lot of this depends on the training they've received)
- They can go many places, but can't go everywhere, limiting your route options
- Many horses freak out if they meet a llama, and can cause wreaks in heavy horse-use areas where llamas are unfamiliar
- Transporting the llama requires a trailer or an additional fee from the renter
