Interactions with animals provide some core childhood memories for most children. When those animals are cute, friendly, soft and HUGE, it’s bound to be a winner! Llamas aren’t an animal you usually see every day in Brisbane, so walking one is an extra special activity and one we definitely think is worth travelling for. Walk a llama near Brisbane and fill those memory banks!
Llama walks are a fantastic way to expose city kids to these intelligent and social animals and explore some beautiful parts of our country. Llama walks are available in a few locations with Ottaba Llamas, including in the park next to the beach at Bribie Island and in Esk along a country creek. Bookings are essential for any of these locations.
Walk a Llama near Brisbane
Our walk took place in Esk, which is around an hour’s drive to the west of Brisbane. It’s a picturesque country town and the setting was ideal for a unique animal experience. The handlers match walk participants with the personalities of the llamas and the genuine affection of the farmers for their llamas is evident.
The animals were wearing their halters and are prepared for their walk by simply attaching a lead rope. They walk in single file beside the shady, tranquil creek bed alongside a country park. The llamas are very easy to lead and are keen to follow one another on their walk, however they will take the opportunity to graze on any grass nearby if you even think about stopping.
We were told some simple instructions about how to hold the lead ropes and where we could touch the llamas (their long necks) and our whole family enjoyed the experience of interacting with these towering animals.
About Ottaba Llamas
Our 9 year old reviewer thought it was amazing; she loved how easy it was to lead her llama around and felt a real connection with her llama. Our 6 year old reviewer especially loved their soft fur and giving them lots of pats. Both children were asking to walk the llamas again right away and they were both asking about getting our very own pet Llama.
Llamas have a reputation for spitting but only do so when upset or threatened. We didn’t see any spitting amongst these calm and happy animals.
Ottaba Llamas also welcome visitors to their farm about 10 minutes outside of Esk, which also houses alpacas, donkey, chickens, and turkeys as long as you book ahead.
Please contact Ottaba Llamas for enquiries and bookings. 20 minute walks are $20 per llama and children under the age of 8 must have a supervising adult. There are more accessible options available for people with mobility issues. The llamas travel to and from their walk sites by the comfort of the back of an air conditioned van. In addition to Esk, Ottaba Llamas also offer llama walks at Bribie Island.
While you’re in Esk
Esk is a lovely country town with a range of cafes, shops and a playground at nearby Pipeliner park. We timed our visit with the Esk country markets (every Saturday 7am-12 noon at Pipeliner park) and picked up some jams and art made by talented locals.
You could also visit Wivenhoe dam on the way out to Esk or as you travel back to Brisbane. Country bakeries are also a definite attraction and there are plenty of great options for a meal while you’re in the Brisbane Valley.
Llama facts
Llamas are related to camels and alpacas.
Adult llamas can weigh over 150kg and can grow to about 1.8 metres in height.
Llamas are social pack animals.
Llamas are native to South America.
Llamas live for an average of 20 years but have been know to survive until 30 years of age.
Differences and similarities between Llamas and Alpacas
Llamas grow larger and taller than Alpacas
They are both pack animals
Llamas have larger ears and longer faces than alpacas
Alpacas generally have softer and thicker fleece
Both are used as pack animals in their native South America
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