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4 Places in Peru where you can see alpacas

Places to see Alpacas

Peru not only bursts in attractions, traditions, and delicious food, but it also offers the chance to see unique flora and fauna, as an example of that, we have alpacas. We’re sure you always wanted to take a picture with one or just pet one of these furry and friendly camelids. 

Like you, we think alpacas are cute, but if you haven’t seen them yet, we can tell you that in our country you’ll find lots of them. In the following lines, let’s see what 4 places in Peru you can find them, however, let’s briefly see some history and types.

Alpaca Types and Cultural Significance

Alpacas holds a special place in Peruvian culture. For centuries, llamas have been key to Andean livelihoods thanks to the fact that they provide wool and meat, and even serve as pack animals. Alpaca fleece is prized for its softness, warmth, and hypoallergenic properties, it's a staple in both traditional and modern Peruvian textiles.

You must first gain an understanding of alpacas before visiting the locations where they can be seen. The Suri and the Huacaya are the two main types of alpacas, the Huacaya has a denser, fluffier coat than the Suri, which has a silkier, smoother fleece. Peru has bred both types for their valuable fibers, which are used to make clothing of the finest quality.

Quimsichata, Puno

At 4,200 metros above sea level in Puno lies the Quimsachata Research Center (CIP). This is the germplasm bank for colored alpacas, which has 20 of the 23 hues recognized by the international alpaca community. By the Saracocha lagoon's edge, the alpacas show off their silken coats; it serves as the area's primary water supply. 

Thanks to that, the alpacas enjoy the unique microclimate that their coats produce. Researchers have preserved the genetic diversity of colored alpacas in the Suri and Huacaya breeds through nutrition research. They also used biotechnologies for production, genetic improvement, and health. 

Awana Kancha, Cusco

Awana Kancha is 23 kilometers from Cusco, on the way to the Sacred Valley in Pisac, it is a living museum that offers the best Peruvian textiles, souvenirs, and camelids. There, you can freely see these native Peruvian creatures; the four camelid species you can see are guanacos, vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas. 

These Andean creatures serve as the Awana Kancha weaving center's main source of raw materials for textile items made from the creatures' wool, which is gathered. Alpacas have thicker wool used in items like carpets, curtains, bags, and shoes. For goods that need to endure more wear and tear, this kind of wool is perfect.

Mundo Alpaca, Arequipa

Mundo Alpaca exhibits textiles from ancient Peruvian cultures, it's also a unique and fascinating museum dedicated to textile machinery, here, you can witness the entire process of turning wool into beautiful souvenirs. Coats, sweaters, gloves, and other products are among them. 

The real fun starts when you can take part, feed, and watch vicunas and llamas. While entry is free, you are welcome to donate, as this venue depends on your support. Mundo Alpaca stands in the heart of the White City, close to the Ovalo de San Lazaro. 

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu, the most popular tourist attraction in Peru it's no exception as you can also find llamas and alpacas. Around five dozen of these fluffy creatures live in the sanctuary, all of which are owned by the Peruvian government.  These cute animals wander the historic buildings, giving guests a unique experience, just make sure you get some funny selfies with them when you visit Machu Picchu.

Peru is the land of llamas and Alpacas, we encourage you to see lots of them when you visit Peru! Viagens Machu Picchu can help you set up your trip in Peruvian lands. We’ll be more than glad if you explore our country with us!

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