Alpacas vs Llamas: How I Finally Learned the Difference in Peru
When we began our tour from Cusco in Peru in April 2025, I couldn’t for the life of me tell the difference between an alpaca and a llama. Honestly, I thought locals must have had some secret trick that Aussie travellers like me would never figure out. Even after visiting an alpaca farm in the first few days of my trip, I still found myself second-guessing every time one walked past – is that an alpaca… or a llama?
But after spending time in the Andes, hiking among them and getting up close (sometimes a little too close), I finally started to see the differences. And let me tell you – my opinion of alpacas completely changed along the way.
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The Key Differences Between Alpacas and Llamas
Even though they’re closely related, alpacas and llamas aren’t identical. Here’s how you can start spotting the differences (so you don’t spend days like I did, trying to work it out!).
Size and Build
- Llamas are much larger – standing up to 1.8 metres tall and weighing around 150 -200kg. They were traditionally bred as pack animals, which explains their sturdier build.
- Alpacas are smaller and more delicate, usually only about 80 – 100kg. They were bred mainly for their fibre.
Faces and Ears
- Llamas have long banana-shaped ears and a more elongated face.
- Alpacas have shorter, spear-shaped ears and a softer, more “squashed-in” face that gives them that famously adorable look.
Fibre
- Alpacas produce some of the softest fibre in the world, often compared to cashmere. It’s warmer, lighter and hypoallergenic.
- Llamas have coarser outer wool, more suitable for rugs and ropes than high-end scarves or sweaters.
Temperament
- Llamas are more independent, protective and can be used as guard animals. They’ll often look after alpaca herds.
- Alpacas are gentler but a little more skittish. They’ll happily keep their distance and yes, they will spit if they feel threatened!
My Experience Hiking With Alpacas and Llamas in the Andes
It wasn’t until I set off on my trek through the Andes that I truly began to understand the magic of alpacas. Seeing them roaming against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks and ancient Incan trails was surreal. At first, I was cautious – because one thing you quickly learn in Peru is that alpacas and llamas like their personal space. Step too close and you might get a face full of spit!
But being in their presence day after day changed the way I saw them. Their curious eyes, calm nature and the way they seemed perfectly at home in such rugged terrain was mesmerising. These weren’t just farm animals – they were part of the very spirit of the Andes. I loved calling home using my eSIM to share these gentle beings with my family.
By the time my trek ended, I could confidently tell an alpaca from a llama. More than that, I’d developed a deep appreciation for them. Alpacas, in particular, stole my heart. They’re quirky, beautiful and endlessly fascinating – though I now know to admire them from a respectful distance!
Before my trip to Peru, I couldn’t understand how anyone could possibly tell alpacas and llamas apart. Now, I not only know the difference, but I also have a newfound respect for both. My days in the Andes taught me that travel isn’t just about seeing new places -it’s about slowing down long enough to notice the details, even if it takes a little time (and a few spit warnings) to figure them out.
Erin Parker is a Finnish Lapland specialist, women’s adventure host and founder of Lapland Lowdown & Travel Her Way. She has travelled six continents and brings first-hand experience to every destination she writes about – from the Arctic wilderness of Finnish Lapland to the high Andes of Peru. Based in Melbourne, Australia, Erin helps long-haul travellers plan extraordinary Finnish Lapland adventures and leads small group trips for women who are ready to explore the world boldly.
