Purmamarca: Llama Walks with Locals & Custom Routes

Summary

Walk alongside llamas in Purmamarca’s quiet hills learning from locals

You’ll walk quietly beside gentle llamas through Purmamarca’s painted hills, guided by a local who shares stories about native plants and family remedies. Expect laughter over awkward Quechua attempts, time for photos (and hugs), plus a route that adapts to your pace. It’s simple but oddly grounding — you might find yourself thinking about those silent moments long after.

What’s the experience like?

“You can hold his lead if you want,” said Martín, handing me the rope. The llama blinked at me, kind of unimpressed, but I swear he knew I was nervous. We’d just met Martín by the dusty plaza in Purmamarca — he waved like he already knew us. There was no big group, just us and a couple from Salta who kept laughing at their llama’s haircut. The air smelled a bit like dry grass and something herbal I couldn’t name. It’s weird how quickly you start talking to a llama like it’s normal.

We didn’t rush. Martín set the pace slow — “llamaterapia,” he called it, which made us all grin. He pointed out some spiky bushes (I forgot the name), explaining how his grandmother used them for headaches. The path twisted through red earth and little stones that crunched under our shoes; sometimes the wind would kick up and you’d get this sudden silence except for hooves on gravel. Our main keyword here is “Purmamarca walk with llamas” but honestly it felt more like wandering with old friends than any tour I’ve done before.

I tried to say thank you in Quechua — not even close — and Martín laughed so hard his llama looked back at him like “again?” We stopped for photos at a bend where the hills looked painted in stripes, and my hands smelled faintly of wool after petting my new four-legged buddy. I still think about that view sometimes when things get loud back home. Anyway, we ended up hugging our llamas for pictures (they tolerated it) and just hung around until we were ready to head back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Walk with friendly llamas and photography

• Meet friendly llamas
• Enjoy personalized walking route
• Visit photographic viewpoints
• Learn about geology and history
• Discover native plants and medicinal uses
• Take close-up photos with llamas

Top questions

How long does the Purmamarca walk with llamas last?

The walk usually lasts around two hours but can be adjusted based on your needs.

Are children allowed on the llama walk?

Yes, children under 9 share a llama with an adult during the activity.

Is this Purmamarca llama tour private or group-based?

The experience is private and personalized for each booking.

What’s included in the Purmamarca walk with llamas?

Each paying participant gets their own llama; service animals are allowed.

Is pickup included for this activity?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transport options are nearby.

Are there health restrictions for joining?

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

Can I take close-up photos with the llamas?

Yes, friendly llamas allow close-up photos and even hugs if you want.

Will we learn about local culture or nature?

Your guide explains geology, history, and native medicinal plants along the way.

What’s included

Your day includes a private walk through Purmamarca’s hills led by a local guide, one friendly llama per paying participant (kids under 9 share), stops for photos and stories about native plants — all at your own pace before returning whenever you feel ready.