Are alpaca farm visits ethical? What visitors should know

Ethical animal tourism is about more than just good intentions — it’s about how animals are treated, respected, and cared for every day, not just when visitors are present.

An ethical alpaca farm visit prioritises animal welfare first. This means alpacas are not forced to interact, are handled gently, and always have the choice to step away. Ethical operators design experiences around the animals’ natural behaviours, not visitor demands.

Key signs of an ethical alpaca experience include:

• Small group sizes

• Calm, low-noise environments

• No riding, chasing, or forced posing

• Staff trained in animal behaviour

• Clear welfare policies

It’s also important that alpacas are pets, not production animals being used for entertainment. Ethical farms invest time in building trust with their animals, allowing interactions to be relaxed and mutual.

At Iris Lodge Alpacas, ethical tourism means slowing down. Visitors are invited to observe, connect, and learn — never rush or dominate the experience. This approach benefits both alpacas and guests, creating meaningful, respectful encounters that feel genuine.

When choosing an alpaca farm, ask how animals are cared for when visitors aren’t there. Ethical tourism is consistent — not performative.