4 Peruvian places where you can find alpacas

Peru offers a unique variety of species that enchant local and international visitors every time. For example, the Peruvian coast is home to the Humboldt Penguin, while the cloud forests of northeastern Peru are home to the yellow-tailed woolly monkey.

The Peruvian Andes are not far behind. This geographical area is home of the alpaca. In Peruvian lands there are two breeds: Suri and Huacaya, of great relevance since their fiber is exported for the manufacture of different garments.

Which areas of Peru are home to this unique animal? Here are the places where you can find them. Some of them even give you the chance to feed them, as well as learn a little more about this species that contributes to the Peruvian economy.

Awana Kancha

This is a theme park located approximately 35 minutes by car from the city of Cusco. Its interpretation center was created with the purpose of showing the breeding process and the types of fiber produced from the alpaca.

Its specimens are distributed in different spaces specially designed for them, so there is the possibility of feeding them -under the supervision of an expert- and even being able to contribute financially for their breeding.

Likewise, another attraction is to show the methodology used for the manufacture of handmade textiles. Don't forget to stop by the store, where you will find ponchos, sweaters, coats, chullos and more, all made from alpaca fiber.

Tourist at the Peruvian camelid lodge Awana Kancha. Credit: Enrique Castro-Mendivil / PromPerú.

Quimsachata

It shines with its own light as it is considered the largest genetic reserve of the colored alpaca in Peru. This place is located more than 4,000 meters above sea level, in the Puno region, it is a research center whose mission is to inseminate and transfer embryos to perfect fiber and meat alpaca.

Among its benefits, it has 20 of the 23 color tones recognized around the world. In addition, it stands out for having a feeding program that seeks to make this camelid increasingly resistant to variations due to climate change.

Here, the alpaca's main source of water is the Saracocha lagoon, which is also visited by students and researchers, who are amazed by the biological richness of this camelid.

Mundo Alpaca

It is an initiative that gives local and foreign tourists the opportunity to live a cultural and educational experience in relation to the alpaca, as well as to admire the different characteristics that surround its wonderful fiber.

It is headquartered in the department of Arequipa. Here, you will be able to interact with this species, as well as learn in detail step by step about the process by which the fibers are classified and manufactured. Also discover the techniques of the weavers, who show all their talent in this area.

Ayacucho

This region is one of the most important alpaca breeding regions in the country. It has more than 230 thousand heads throughout its entire extension.

Although it is required for export and the manufacture of clothing, it also stands out for its contribution to Peruvian nutrition, since the meat of this camelid is rich in protein, iron and contains little fat.

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