An alpaca experience where the animals choose to come to you
Spend a peaceful hour sitting with our famously friendly alpacas on the edge of Dartmoor. Many will wander over to greet you, settle beside you and enjoy being gently stroked.
All ages • £30 per adult • £20 per child • Free for under 3yrs
*Plus small booking fee
⭐ 5-star rated alpaca encounter on Dartmoor
Loved by hundreds of guests
“ It was very important to us to visit Alpacas that were treated well and not feeling like visiting a zoo. They are very happy, curious and welcoming. Helen's knowledge of and passion for alpacas is second to none - she is the Alpaca Whisperer. We will visit again, these guys are awesome!”
Sebastian B, UK
***** Rated 5 star on TripAdvisor and Google
“What an exceptional experience! I’ve always been a bit shy around bigger animals but Helen made it completely natural to just give them a few cuddles. You couldn’t ask for a better host-a truly sunshine filled lady!”
Victoria B, UK
“I highly recommend visiting for a wonderful encounter, full of cuddles, treats and laughter - you will fall in love with every single one!”
Jennifer M, UK
“What's particularly great is that your group have the alpacas all to yourselves. An excellent choice for those who love animals and to bring their blood pressure down!”
TripAdvisor 916leen, UK
“Had a lovely time meeting possibly the cutest, cuddliest and chilled-out bunch of alpacas ever. They are all absolutely gorgeous, with great personalities and some cheeky characters among them.”
MenstonMum, UK
What makes this experience special?
Alpacas are known for being gentle animals, but they’re usually quite reserved. Many alpacas don’t seek out close contact with people.
Here, things are a little different.
Our encounters are designed so the alpacas can approach guests if they choose to. Nothing is forced and the animals are always free to wander off — but for seven years now they’ve done the opposite.
Most will wander over to greet you, settle beside you and enjoy being gently stroked. Some relax so completely that they fall asleep while guests sit with them.
This calm, voluntary interaction is what makes the experience so memorable. Visitors often say they never expected alpacas to be so relaxed and affectionate.
Every alpaca has their own personality, but their relaxed and curious nature means each encounter unfolds naturally.
Private and relaxed just for you
Your own small group session — calm, personal, and completely private.
Stroke and cuddle the alpacas
Most guests are amazed how gentle and cuddly the boys are.
Gentle and easy experience
Relaxed, friendly and accessible for all ages and abilities.
Perfect for families & couples
Whether you're visiting with children, friends or just the two of you.
Peaceful Dartmoor setting
Enjoy a tranquil alpaca experience on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.
Yes — you really can cuddle them.
There are a few other characters too
It may be called an Alpaca Encounter, but many guests also fall in love with Snowball — our famously friendly “dog sheep” who is usually waiting at the gate to greet visitors.
Snowball absolutely adores people. If you sit down there’s a very good chance he’ll sit with you too, usually on your feet so you can’t escape the cuddles.
His story is a sweet one. Snowball didn’t get on with the other sheep boys, so he moved in with the alpacas instead — a decision that suited him perfectly.
To make sure he still had his own kind around, we later introduced him to Queenie, who became his companion almost immediately. The two have been inseparable ever since.
Everything you might want to know
We want you to feel relaxed and prepared before you arrive.
What is an Alpaca Encounter?
An Alpaca Encounter is a relaxed, hands-on experience where you get to meet, stroke, feed and spend time with my alpaca boys and sheep in a calm, friendly environment. There’s no trekking involved — it’s all about slowing down, connecting with the animals and enjoying their company at your own pace. The Alpaca Encounter takes place on my Dartmoor farm near Lydford Gorge.
Is there a minimum number of people required for the experience?
Yes. To run a private, exclusive Alpaca Encounter I require a minimum of two paid tickets per session. If you are a solo traveller (18+) and would like to attend, you’re very welcome to book by purchasing two tickets. Simply choose the most affordable combination, such as one adult and one child ticket.
How long does an Alpaca Encounter last?
A standard Alpaca Encounter lasts one hour, which gives you plenty of time to interact with the animals, feed treats and enjoy the experience without feeling rushed. If you feel that one hour just won’t be enough (which happens a lot!), you can add an extra 30 minutes for £25 per group, regardless of group size, when booking.
Is the Alpaca Encounter suitable for children?
Yes, Alpaca Encounters are suitable for all ages, including young children, as long as safety guidance is followed. A full safety briefing is given before the session and I supervise closely throughout. As alpacas are large animals and can sometimes be a little clumsy, children must be supervised at all times. Very young children must remain in direct contact with an adult for the duration of the experience, and sudden movements such as running, jumping or waving arms should be avoided as this can startle the alpacas. For safety, I allow a maximum ratio of two children per adult.
Is the Alpaca Encounter accessible?
Yes. The Alpaca Encounter is designed to be accessible and inclusive, and is suitable for wheelchair users, people with limited mobility, and those who are unable to walk far. There is no long-distance walking involved and the experience takes place in a safe, contained area. If you have specific accessibility needs, please feel free to get in touch before booking and I’ll be very happy to help.
Is the Alpaca Encounter suitable if I can’t walk far?
Absolutely. Unlike alpaca trekking, the Alpaca Encounter does not require walking any distance. It’s a gentle, stationary experience focused on interaction rather than movement.
What should I wear for an Alpaca Encounter?
Comfort is key. You’ll be getting up close with some very furry (and sometimes slightly soggy!) alpacas and sheep, so it’s best to wear clothes you wouldn’t mind getting a bit mucky. Dress for the countryside and the weather on the day. Dartmoor weather can be unpredictable, so a light raincoat is always a good idea just in case. Please avoid umbrellas, as these can frighten the alpacas, and try not to wear anything very woolly or fleecy as hay tends to stick to it.
Where does the Alpaca Encounter take place?
The Alpaca Encounter takes place at my Dartmoor farm, directly opposite the National Trust entrance for Lydford Gorge and Whitelady Waterfall. You’ll receive a detailed pre-arrival email 24 hours before your experience with full directions, parking information and everything you need to know to plan your visit.
How big can my group be?
Online booking is available for groups of up to 10 people. If your group is larger than this, please contact me before booking. I may be able to accommodate you depending on circumstances.
Do we get hands-on time with the alpacas?
Yes — absolutely. The Alpaca Encounter is very interactive. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stroke the alpacas, feed them their favourite treats and spend quality time with them. This is a calm, unhurried experience designed to let you truly connect with the animals.
Can we take photos during the Alpaca Encounter?
Yes! You’re very welcome to take photos and videos during your visit. I’m also happy to help you get some lovely shots with the alpacas. If you do share your photos on social media, please tag us — the boys love a bit of fame.
Is the Alpaca Encounter weather dependent?
The Alpaca Encounter runs in most weather conditions and is a great option if the forecast isn’t ideal for walking-based activities. If weather conditions ever become unsafe or genuinely unsuitable, I’ll always be in touch to discuss options. Your comfort and safety (and the alpacas’) always come first.
Still unsure? I’m always happy to help — just get in touch.