Take the slow lane
with a llama
Zurich
© Switzerland Tourism
It starts with the soft clop of hooves beside you and a pair of wide, watchful eyes sizing up the world – and perhaps that tempting meadow snack just off the path. Yet the second you take hold of a llama’s lead, a small, surprising thrill settles in. This is wandering in Switzerland at its most unexpected: slow, personal and lightly whimsical. And because Cosa believes nature is best explored with both feet (and occasionally four), we set off on a countryside llama walk just outside Zurich.
A Herd with a heart
A Herd with a heart
The farmer introduced the herd as if they were a cast of lovable eccentrics; he explained that each had a distinct personality and a clear opinion on personal space. He told us why llamas hum and insisted that they were far more dignified than their reputation suggested – well, most of the time. After he had given us a brief lesson in llama etiquette, we found ourselves holding leads attached to personalities wrapped in fleece. From there, we set out together.
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© Henrik Nielsen
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© Switzerland Tourism
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© Switzerland Tourism
Strike a pose
Strike a pose
The moment you reach for your camera, the llamas begin posing as if they’ve been waiting for their close-up all morning. Wide eyes, windswept fringes, slightly crooked smiles – they’re naturals. And yes, at least one llama will attempt to taste-test your camera lens. Consider it a compliment. Even the outtakes feel magical: a mix of Swiss scenery, fresh air and irresistible, mildly chaotic charm.
Swiss trails with llama tales
Swiss trails with llama tales
Back at the farm, we shared our best llama stories over steaming mugs of coffee and tea. There was a sense of camaraderie as we laughed about their quirks and our own attempts to keep up, feeling like we’d spent the afternoon with old (wooly) friends. What stays is a whimsical mix of Swiss views, good laughs and a bond with the most hilarious creatures you’ll ever meet.
If you’re tempted to meet those four-legged personalities up close, get in touch with us.
