If you’re getting off at Großhelfendorf from the S7, it will take you less than a quarter of an hour to get to know the exotic side of Upper Bavaria. In a region where the fields are overwhelmingly filled with grazing cows or sheep, the llamas from Lamaland Loher naturally stand out. Thousands of kilometres from their South American homeland, but still at home nevertheless.

Seeing Isolde and Hans with their llamas is still an unusual sight though. Since 2011 they have been offering tours with llama companions – for children and adults, families and groups of friends, as birthday surprises, or just because. Since llamas can also be used in animal-based therapy, they are now also known as “the dolphins of the field”.

The walking tours begin with a short information session all about llamas, followed by the chance to sniff each other out. And then you’re off over fields, meadows and hills, through valleys and forests; walking side-by-side with a companion that will, at most, be slightly stubborn when you pull them away from grazing. And indeed, even if the animals are anything but common in these parts, they help you to switch off and guide you step-by-step away from your daily routine.

Interested?
Not only can you take the llamas on hiking trips, but also longer, guided trekking trips as well. One route leads through the Mangfalltal valley up to the Mangfall mountain pasture where there is coffee and delicious cake. For whole-day tours along the Mangfall river for example, or to the Seehamer See lake, the animals also wear a saddle – albeit, not for riding. Llamas are too delicate for riding; instead they transport baggage and supplies, just as their relatives in South America do. This takes a huge load off you, and serves to boost motivation – not just for children.

News, prices and opening hours are available here.