How to advance towards sustainable camelid livestock farming in Chile?

Llamas in the wetlands (bofedales). ©FAO

This manual combines traditional knowledge with scientific advancements to protect High Andean wetlands, preserve genetic diversity, and address the most common diseases affecting domesticated Andean camelids. It also provides recommendations for improved reproductive management.

Regarding the reproduction of K’ara and Thampulli llama breeds, key characteristics to consider include size, coloration, soft-touch fleece, long curved ears, and tail length. For alpacas, both the Huacaya and the smaller Suri breeds produce fiber and are known for their softness, with long, dense, curly fleece. Unlike other camelids, alpacas have wool-covered faces and a uniform body color without markings.

In the International Year of Camelids, declared by the United Nations for 2024, developing technical and practical tools for the conservation and sustainable management of camelid livestock and wildlife in the Andean Altiplano has been particularly significant. This region is home to both wild species, such as the vicuña and guanaco, and domesticated ones, like the llama and alpaca. 

Andean camelids, as in other parts of the world, play a crucial role in food security, nutrition, and economic growth, and they hold great cultural significance for many communities. That is why, throughout 2025, global and regional activities will continue as part of the legacy of the International Year of Camelids, ensuring its impact and key messages endure over time. 

This guide was developed in collaboration with the Corporación Norte Grande (CNG), the SIPAN High Andean and Northern Precordillera Territory team, the Ministry of Agriculture of Chile (Minagri), and FAO, with special support from livestock farming communities, particularly the Aymara people, in the regions of Arica y Parinacota and Tarapacá.