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FARM TOURS AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT BOOK A TOUR FARM STORE OPEN BY APPOINTMENT

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you want to know

We get a lot of questions about alpacas, visits, and whether they actually spit. (They do. But probably not at you.)
Ready to meet the herd? Tours are by appointment — small groups, big impressions.

Visiting the Farm

Do I need to book in advance to visit?

Yes — all visits are by appointment. We're a real, fully operating farm with equipment, animals, and approximately one million moving parts, so we want to make sure your visit is safe and you actually get quality time with the alpacas rather than waiting around while we herd livestock. You can book your tour here.

Do you offer private or group bookings?
Yes — we welcome school groups, birthday parties, family reunions, and other groups. If you have something specific in mind, get in touch and we'll put a tour together that works for your group. Turns out a farm full of alpacas is a pretty hard thing to be disappointed by.
What is included in a farm visit or tour?
You'll get a guided walk through two of our pastures to meet the alpacas — and our friendly llama, who very much considers himself an alpaca. There's plenty of time to pet some of them, learn about their fleece, and hear about how shearing works. We wrap up in the Fibre Studio and Gift Shop, where you can get hands-on with the fibre and see what we make from it. It's a proper behind-the-scenes look at how everything works.
How long does a visit last?
Most tours run about 45–60 minutes. Long enough to actually connect with the animals and see the farm properly, short enough that the kids stay engaged. (Usually. Alpacas help with that part.)
Can I pet the alpacas?
Absolutely. Several of our alpacas are genuinely enthusiastic about meeting new people. We'll guide you on how to approach them safely, and you'll get a chance to feel just how soft that fleece actually is — it tends to surprise people.
Can I bring my dog or pets to the farm?
We love pets, but for the safety of our alpacas and visitors, we ask that you leave furry friends at home. Pets shouldn’t be left in vehicles either, as that can stress our guardian dogs and the alpacas.
Can I bring food or treats for the alpacas?
Kind thought, but please don't. Alpacas have sensitive digestive systems and we only let them eat the grain and feed we provide during tours.
What if it rains? Do tours go ahead in bad weather?
We're a farm in Northern Ontario — if we cancelled every time the weather got interesting, we'd never have visitors. Most tours go ahead rain or shine, so dress for it. In the case of severe weather, we'll be in touch to reschedule. Another good reason to make sure your contact info is right when you book.
What should I wear when I visit?
Closed-toe shoes or boots are a must — this is a working farm, not a patio. Dress in layers for the weather, and bring sun or rain protection as needed. Most of the tour takes place outside, so comfort is the goal. Think barn chic.
Is the farm accessible for strollers or wheelchairs?
Most areas of the farm are accessible, though some spots have gravel, grass, or uneven terrain — it's a farm, after all. We're happy to help, so just let us know ahead of time and we'll make sure your visit works for everyone in your group.
Can I take photos with the alpacas?
Please do. Alpacas are natural photo-bombers who have clearly never been told they aren't the main character. Tag us on social media — we genuinely love seeing the pictures, and so does the herd (we think).
Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
We keep our tours small and intentional — public tours are capped at around 20 people. It's better for the animals and honestly more fun for you. If you're planning a larger group, reach out ahead of time and we'll figure out the best way to make it work.
Are children welcome? Is there an age minimum?
Absolutely — kids are some of our favourite visitors, and the alpacas seem to agree. There's no strict age minimum, but little ones should be comfortable around large animals and able to follow simple instructions. A curious kid will have the time of their life here.
Is there parking on site?
Yes, there's parking available right at the farm. No need to worry about that part.

Farm Store & Products

Do you have a farm store?

Yes — we have an on-site store open during tours, and an online shop stocked with yarn, socks, hats, scarves, blankets, and gifts. You can also find us every Saturday at the Soo Market (73 Brock Street, Sault Ste. Marie, 9am–2pm), and at various local events throughout the year.

What kinds of products do you sell?
Warm socks, mitts, shawls, hats, blankets, fibre goods, alpaca plush toys, wool dryer balls, bird nesting cages, and other farm-made things we're genuinely proud of. It's a solid lineup for gifting or for treating yourself — both are valid.
Is the fibre from your own alpacas?
Most of it, yes. Many of our products are made from fibre sheared right here on the farm. We also carry a small selection of ethically sourced Peruvian products — but if it came from Meadowview, it came from an alpaca we could probably point to by name.
How do I book a visit or shop online?

Tours can be booked directly through our website — just hit the "Book a tour" button and pick a time that works for you. For products, our online shop is open anytime. No appointment required for that part.

Do you ship products?
Yes — our online shop ships across Canada. If you're outside Canada and have your eye on something, reach out and we'll see what we can do.
How do I care for alpaca fibre products?
Gently. Most alpaca items do best with a cool hand wash and laying flat to dry — no wringing, no dryer, no hot water. Treat it well and it'll last for years. Specific care instructions are included with your purchase.

About Alpacas

What is an alpaca, and where do they come from?

Alpacas are gentle, domesticated members of the camelid family — relatives of camels and llamas, originally from the Andes mountains of Peru, Bolivia, and Chile. They've been raised for their soft, luxurious fleece for thousands of years, and they've gotten very good at it.

How are alpacas different from llamas?

Size and purpose, mostly. Alpacas are smaller with finer, softer fleece — that's what they're raised for. Llamas are larger, with longer faces and distinctive banana-shaped ears, and are traditionally used as pack animals. Our resident llama, Lulu, currently uses her size to supervise.

Are alpacas friendly?

Yes — curious and gentle by nature. As prey animals they do prefer calm, unhurried movements over sudden ones, so we'll give you a quick intro before you head into the pasture. Every alpaca has its own personality, and you'll probably have a favourite by the end of the tour.

Do alpacas spit at people?
Mostly they spit at each other — it's how they settle herd disagreements, and it's between them. They rarely direct it at people unless they feel genuinely threatened or get caught in the crossfire of a squabble. In practice, you're more likely to leave with alpaca fleece on your jacket than anything else.
Do alpacas bite or kick? Are they dangerous?
They're not built for it, honestly. Alpacas only have bottom front teeth, so biting isn't really in their toolkit. They can kick if startled, but overall they're gentle, calm animals. Visitors of all ages interact with them safely every visit.
What do alpacas eat?
Mostly grass and hay, with a mineral supplement on the side. They're efficient animals — their digestion is well-adapted to lean grazing, which means they need considerably less food than other livestock their size.
Can I feed the alpacas during my visit?
Yes — we provide treats and grain during the tour for exactly this reason. Please don't bring outside food though; their digestive systems are sensitive and we keep a close eye on what they're eating.
Why do people raise alpacas?
Primarily for their fibre, which can be turned into yarn, clothing, and home goods that are noticeably softer and warmer than most alternatives. Many farms also host educational visits and farm experiences — which is how you ended up here, so it seems to be working.
What is alpaca fibre like?
Soft, warm, lightweight, and hypoallergenic — which means many people who can't tolerate sheep's wool wear alpaca with no issue at all. Once you feel it in the Fibre Studio, it's hard to go back to regular socks. Consider yourself warned.
Are there different types of alpacas?
Two main breeds: Huacaya, with fluffy, crimpy fleece that gives them that classic cloud-like look (most of our herd), and Suri, with silky, dreadlock-style fleece that drapes differently and has a distinct sheen.
I'm allergic to wool — can I still wear alpaca?
Quite possibly, yes. Alpaca fibre doesn't contain lanolin, which is what triggers most wool allergies. Many people who've never been able to wear traditional wool find alpaca completely comfortable. We'd still suggest trying before committing to a full wardrobe overhaul, but it's a common and happy discovery.
Is alpaca farming sustainable?
By most measures, yes. Alpacas are light on the land — their padded feet don't tear up pasture the way hooves do, they graze without pulling roots, and they produce a natural fibre that's biodegradable and requires no synthetic processing. It's not a perfect picture, but as far as fibre farming goes, alpacas are a pretty responsible choice.

Alpaca Care & Behaviour

How long do alpacas live?
With good nutrition, shelter, and regular veterinary care, alpacas typically live 15–20 years. They're a long-term commitment — which we think is part of what makes the relationships between farmers and their herds so meaningful.
Can an alpaca live alone?
No — they're herd animals through and through. A lone alpaca is a stressed alpaca. They need at least two or three companions to feel secure, and honestly they thrive with more. Isolation isn't something they handle well.
How much land do you need for alpacas?
It depends on your climate and pasture quality, but many small herds do well on just a few acres with good rotation and proper shelter. They're not especially land-intensive compared to larger livestock — one of their more practical qualities.
How often are alpacas sheared?
Once a year, typically in spring. It's not optional — skipping shearing can cause an alpaca to overheat dangerously in warmer months. The shearing shed stop on our tour is where we show you exactly how that process works.
What is a baby alpaca called?
A cria — and yes, they are exactly as adorable as you're imagining. Alpacas gestate for 11–12 months, and most births happen during daylight hours, which is thought to be an instinct for safer conditions in the wild.
Do alpacas make noise?
Yes — a soft, constant hum is their version of small talk. They also cluck, snort, and occasionally let out a sharp alarm call if something catches them off guard. You'll hear plenty of it on your visit.
Can alpacas live with other animals?
They often coexist well with sheep or goats, though introductions should always be done gradually. Dogs need to be kept under control around alpacas — as prey animals, even a friendly dog can cause real stress to the herd.

Buying Alpacas

Do you sell alpacas?

Yes — from time to time we have animals available. If you're interested, start by filling out our buyer questionnaire. It helps us understand your setup and make sure it's a good fit for both you and the animals. Once we've had a chance to review it, we're happy to connect and answer any questions you have.

What do I need in place before buying alpacas?

A few things worth having sorted before you bring anyone home: adequate fencing, a shelter from the elements, access to good hay and fresh water, and a large-animal vet in your area who's familiar with alpaca care. You'll also want a plan for annual shearing and somewhere for manure to go (it makes excellent garden fertilizer, for what it's worth). Our buyer questionnaire walks through most of this — it's a good way to take stock of where you're at. You can find it at more information about having alpacas here.

Can I buy just one alpaca?

We'd strongly advise against it. Alpacas are herd animals and genuinely struggle in isolation — a lone alpaca is an anxious, unhappy alpaca. The minimum is two, and ideally three or more. If you're still figuring out what you're looking for, fill out our buyer questionnaire at and we can talk through your options from there.

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