Frequently Asked Questions
...and useful things to know
Do you open to the public?
We love to welcome people of all ages to visit the alpacas and the farm, however you must have a booking for an Alpaca Walk or Tour. We are not an open or petting farm with regular opening hours.
Please visit our Alpaca Experiences page if you would like to book a visit or get in touch if you would like to arrange an appointment to come and have a look in the shop. We are happy to open the shop at a time to suit you!
What ages are suitable to come and visit?
We welcome all ages here to Little Orchard Alpacas!
Ages five and over are welcome on our Alpaca Walks.
All ages are welcome on our Meet the Alpacas Experience & Farm Open Sessions.
Ages 14+ can be booked onto our Alpaca Keeper Experiences.
How many animals do you have?
We have a herd of 21 alpacas, with nine Alpaca Walking boys, with other boys, females and young. We also have two Vietnamese Pot Bellied pigs, five chickens and Tilly the dog who loves to welcome you!
Can I come and volunteer or work?
We do not currently have any opportunities for volunteer placements or paid employment.
Follow our Social Media for any changes or updates in this area!
What group sizes do you take?
For our mixed group walks we always keep group sizes small and have a maximum of 8 people (however we usually keep this to 6).
For larger group bookings (all one party) we have a maximum of 16 people. We have between 8-10 alpacas to walk at any one time so larger groups will be sharing alpacas, or we can run two shorter walks. We offer a discount for groups over 8.
For groups with children (parties e.t.c) our maximum groups size may vary depending on the number of adults present, so please get in touch.
Can we bring our dog/s?
Unfortunately we are unable to allow dogs on the farm (as much as we love them), they pose a risk and stress to the alpacas and we don't condone leaving them in the car whilst you are on your experience.
Animal Welfare and Food Hygiene
We hold an Animal Welfare License for working with the public and a five star Food Hygiene Certificate, both from East Devon County Council.
Can children come on their own?
All children under 18 must be accompanied by a booked adult on all of our Alpaca Walks and Experiences.
What should I wear for my Alpaca Walk or Experience?
When you book you will be given advice specific to your experience. You will usually need to wear long trousers and closed shoes. Boot or wellies are best if it has been wet and definitely needed in the winter when it can be muddy in places. Dress for the weather and bring waterproofs, sunhats, suncream e.t.c if required.
Will my Alpaca Experience go ahead in rain or bad weather?
Weather Policy: Whilst our experiences can go ahead on most rainy days, if the weather forecast is for heavy rain, very high temperatures, storms and/or high winds we may need to postpone for safety reasons; the well-being of the alpacas and for the enjoyment of the experience itself.
If we do need to postpone we will get in touch via your e-mail the day before your booking and either arrange a new date or, if you are unable to attend on a different date, we will offer a refund.
Do you offer any discounts?
We offer three types of discount:
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A returning customer discount of 10%
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A locals discount (Postcodes EX13, EX14, EX24) - 10%
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We also offer a carers discount of 50% with proof (PIP or DLA or Blue Badge). we may also offer a private experience, at no additional cost for those who would need extra assistance.
Please get in touch at hello@littleorchardalpacas.com with proof of postcode, the date of your last visit or proof of being a carer, to receive the codes for these discounts!
Discounts cannot be applied or refunded once a booking has been made.
What is accessibility like on the farm?
Whilst we are always working on improving our accessibility as much as possible, not all areas can be accessed by wheelchair, pushchair or for those with mobility difficulty due to the nature of the farm. Therefore our group Alpaca Walks and Tours may not be be suitable for all.
We can however offer group or private tours that we can tailor to your needs.
Unfortunately our shop has a small step and is not currently wheelchair accessible.
Our toilet is fully accessible and wheelchair friendly. It also has baby changing facilities.
We are dedicated to welcoming everyone to meet the alpacas so please do get in touch if you would like to arrange a Private Experience and to discuss how we can make a visit work for you or your group.
Can I use a walking aid or stick?
For your safety we cannot allow sticks or walking aids to be used whilst leading an alpaca on a walk. As our Alpaca Walks are slow and gentle, you are welcome to accompany the walk and use a stick if you are able to keep up with the group, however please be aware that the ground is uneven.
Do you have a café?
What seating or picnic areas do you have?
Can you cater for dietary requirements?
At the end of every Alpaca Experience we serve hot or cold drinks and cake which is always included.
We don't have a cafe as such, but if you have any dietary requirements if you let us know in advance and we can arrange a delicious alternative for you.
If you have chosen the 'Cake and Drinks Only' option, whilst you wait for your group we have a small indoor shop and lounge area that you can sit in if it is chilly out.
We also have undercover outdoor seating with heaters for the winter and a choice of picnic areas where you can watch the alpacas, for when the weather is nice.
If you are coming to an Open Day you are welcome to bring your own drinks and snacks and we usually have a selection of cake to choose from!
How do I find you? Can I have directions?
We give full directions on booking an Alpaca Experience with us. We are also pinned on Google Maps. If you are coming to visit we recommend checking our exact location as our postcode is not reliable!
Can I take photos?
You are welcome to take as many photos as you like! If you are on our walks we can help with some tips to get some great alpaca selfies and group alpaca pics!