5 Reasons You Should Give Llama Trekking a Try

Llama trekking, as both a necessity of life and a form of tourism, has been around for some time. So while it's not a novel idea, llama trekking is certainly not as common a vacation idea as plain ol' backpacking. That's a shame. So, as part of our Raise Llama Awareness initiative, Curbed Ski has put together five reasons to add llama trekking to your adventure bucket list.

1. No heavy pack to carry
This is the obvious one, but it's a big consideration. Even if you end up taking a pack for yourself, the llama is doing the real work. No overladen straps cutting into shoulders and hips; all you have to do is lead.

When you've got llamas, you take the Tensleep tent! Family backpacking and fishing trip in the Collegiate Peaks is an annual event for our Colorado reps. Buena Vista, CO #sleepinthedirt @knsreps

A photo posted by Big Agnes (@bigagnes_) on Jul 30, 2015 at 11:22am PDT

2. Bring the luxuries
Better yet, there's no shaving grams on gear when packing for a llama trek. Don't go crazy, of course, but a pound here and there for the bigger tent, that extra camera lens or a special meal isn't going to make much of a difference to a well-conditioned llama.

Wallowa Llamas

3. Explore further than you would otherwise
Not only can you splurge a little on your packing list, you can add a couple nights to the itinerary. Llamas, with their soft feet, can also take you places where hard-hoofed animals like horses are not allowed. With an easy pace and a stout llama, you can be ambitious with your trek.

4. Hiring a guide is an option
If the idea of leasing a llama is daunting, there are outfitters across the country that lead pre-planned, guided trips or will create custom trips. Not only will a guide have more experience handling and taking care of the llamas, but they'll likely also be able to pass along some expert knowledge about the area you're trekking through.

A photo posted by Emily Smith (@smithel2) on Jul 13, 2015 at 9:44am PDT

5. There are outfitters in a lot of beautiful places
Take a llama trek in Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Southwest Colorado, the Sierras or Eastern Oregon. There are more llama outfitters and guides than you might think. Explore some of the most scenic parts of the country and not even have to carry your own tent.

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