If you’re craving a unique outdoor activity that’s more than just a walk in the park, the Alpaca and Llama Trek at Lilymoore Farm might be just what you’re looking for. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and details paint a pretty inviting picture of what to expect. It’s a chance to spend quality time with adorable, friendly animals in a beautiful setting, all for just $48 per person.
What really catches my eye about this experience are two things: first, how much people seem to love the guides and staff for their kindness and knowledge, making the trek not only fun but educational. Second, the farm’s picturesque vibe offers a relaxed, farm-to-Instagram feed that’s perfect for snapping memorable photos of your new fuzzy friends.
That said, it’s worth mentioning that punctuality is important here—arriving 15 minutes early is a must because the group leaves right on time. There’s no flexibility for late arrivals, which could be a bummer if you’re running behind. This experience feels best suited for animal lovers, casual outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a break from city life with a fun twist.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Each participant walks their own alpaca or llama, making it more engaging than just watching from afar.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for ages 9 and up, so it’s accessible for families but may not be ideal for very young kids.
- Photo Opportunities: The farm animals love to pose, so bring your camera to capture those adorable moments.
- Guided Tour: Friendly staff guide the group, providing info and making sure everyone has a good time.
- Time & Size: The trek lasts about an hour with a small group of up to 10 people, ensuring a more intimate experience.
- Weather Dependent: It’s a good idea to check the forecast, as bad weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling.
What You Can Expect from This Trek
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Starting Point at Lilymoore Farm
The adventure begins at 21 Moore Rd, Pleasant Valley, NY, where you’ll meet your guides and get introduced to your furry trekking companions. The farm is described as beautiful and well-kept, setting a peaceful tone right from the start. Be sure to arrive 15 minutes early—the group departs promptly and usually lasts around 1 hour.
The Group Walk
Once everyone is ready, you’ll assign yourself a llama or alpaca—each with its own quirky personality—and head out into the fields and wooded paths. The guides are there to keep things organized, sharing tidbits about the animals and farm life along the way. The group walk is gentle and relaxed, perfect for a slow stroll while soaking in nature and snapping photos.
Encounters and Photo Breaks
Throughout the trek, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to pause, admire these charming creatures, and get some great shots. The animals are used to people and love to show off—so don’t be shy about asking your guide to snap some photos or to learn more about each animal. Several reviews highlight how much visitors appreciated the animals’ adorable faces and playful antics.
The Animals’ Quirky Personalities
One of the most common praises from past visitors is how much fun it is to get to know your llama or alpaca. They’re described as sweet and funny, with a few reviews mentioning specific personalities—like Digby, who was missed after the tour. The animals love treats, which are provided, adding an interactive element that many find delightful.
The End of the Trek
After about an hour, the group will return to the starting point. If you’re lucky, you’ll leave with some fun stories, plenty of photos, and a few new furry friends. The farm’s relaxed vibe leaves many visitors saying they’d love to visit again, especially since the farm is close enough to home for some.
Value for Money and Practical Considerations
At $48 per person, this trek offers a pretty fair deal for a personalized animal encounter in a scenic farm setting. Unlike some larger zoo or theme park visits, you’re actually walking your own animal, which makes the experience more interactive and memorable. Plus, the farm’s friendly guides add a layer of authenticity and knowledge that elevates the visit beyond just cute pictures.
The fact that they provide alpaca treats and halters included in the price means there’s no hidden cost or extra fee to enjoy the full experience. However, note that no snacks or alcohol are allowed, and the farm is a working farm environment—so dressing comfortably and appropriately for outdoor walking is a good idea.
Group Size and Duration
With only up to 10 travelers, the tour keeps it intimate, ensuring you get plenty of attention and time with the animals. The 1-hour duration is just enough to experience the farm without feeling rushed, making it suitable for those with busy schedules or looking for a light, enjoyable outing.
Punctuality and Weather
Arriving early is key—since the group leaves on time, late arrivals might miss out altogether. The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions aren’t suitable, you’ll either be rescheduled or refunded, which shows a responsible approach to outdoor activities.
Authentic Voices: What Past Visitors Say
One reviewer described it as an “Unforgettable experience,” emphasizing how much they loved the farm’s beauty and the staff’s kindness. They highlighted how wonderful it was to walk with the animals and learn about their personalities, especially if you’re doing it with family.
Another pointed out a less favorable aspect—an owner who was “rude,” which suggests that, like many small farms, individual experiences can vary depending on staff interactions. But most reviews are glowing, with comments about how adorable the animals are and how informative the guides are. Several mention how great it was to take photos and enjoy a relaxing day out.
A common theme among reviews is how much visitors appreciate the photo opportunities—the animals are natural show-offs and love to pose, which is a bonus for those who enjoy social media-worthy moments.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
If you’re after a laid-back, interactive experience with animals that combines nature, humor, and photo ops, this alpaca and llama trek is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, or families with kids over 9. The guided walk makes it easy for everyone to enjoy, and the small group size keeps things cozy and personal.
While the experience is quite straightforward and not overly elaborate, the genuine friendliness of the staff and the adorable animals make it a memorable outing. It’s a chance to connect with these quirky creatures, learn a bit about farm life, and escape the city’s hustle temporarily.
The only real consideration is the importance of punctuality and weather, but overall, this tour strikes a good balance of fun, value, and authenticity. For anyone looking for a charming farm adventure that’s more than just a photo op, Lilymoore Farm’s trek offers just enough for a delightful day out.
Alpaca and Llama Trek in Pleasant Valley
“You have to do this at least once in your life! The farm is so beautiful and the staff is so kind and knowledgeable. The experience of walking with…”
FAQ
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 11 days ahead on average, which helps ensure you get a spot in this popular experience.
How long does the trek last?
The walk itself lasts about 1 hour, providing plenty of time to enjoy the animals and scenery without it feeling rushed.
Can I walk my own llama or alpaca?
Yes, each person gets their own animal to walk, making it more engaging than just observing.
Is this experience suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 9 and up, making it a fun family outing if your kids meet the age requirement.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for outdoor walking—layers are a good idea, especially if the weather varies.
Are there any extras included?
The tour includes halter/lead line use and alpaca treats, but no additional food or drinks are provided or allowed on the farm.
What happens if it rains?
Since it’s weather-dependent, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled in case of poor weather, with a full refund offered.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted, but pets or other animals are not allowed on the farm.
If you’re looking for a relaxed, adorable farm experience with plenty of photo moments and friendly guides, this trek seems like a pretty good bet. Just don’t forget to arrive on time, bring your camera, and wear comfortable clothes—you’re in for a memorable little adventure.