Animal Rescue Centre Visit and Alpaca Experience Cusco

The wildlife rescue centre in Taray

The centre sits in the Taray district, on the road between Cusco and the Sacred Valley, around 30 minutes from the city. It cares for native animals that could not survive in the wild, many of them rescued from illegal wildlife trafficking or from situations in which they were kept as pets. Its mission is environmental education, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation, and where possible animals are prepared for release.

Because it is a rescue centre rather than a show, the focus is on the stories of the animals and on what visitors can do to protect wildlife. If you are wondering whether an animal rescue centre visit in Cusco is ethical, the aim here is education, not performance, and interaction is supervised by staff. Your visit supports the work of the centre.

The animals you may meet

Species vary through the year, but the centre houses animals from the highlands, the rainforest and the coast of Peru. These may include Andean bears, pumas, Andean condors, macaws, parrots, monkeys and deer, as well as llamas and alpacas. Each has its own story, from injured wild animals to birds confiscated from illegal trade.

A guide who specialises in fauna walks with you through the animal houses, explains the natural habitat and the threats that each species faces, and answers questions. The visit is a chance to see animals like the Andean condor and the spectacled bear close up, which are hard to see in the wild. Animal food is included for supervised feeding under the guide's direction.

Llamas, alpacas and Andean culture

Llamas and alpacas are the best-known animals of the Andes. Llamas have long been used to carry loads, while alpacas are raised for their soft, warm fibre, one of the finest natural wools. Visitors can interact with selected animals under staff supervision, taking photographs and learning to tell the two animals apart: the llama is larger with longer ears, and the alpaca is smaller with a fluffy face.

After the guided tour there is free time for photos and to visit a handicraft area, where local products made from alpaca wool are shown. This is a good way to understand how these animals shape Andean life. Follow staff instructions, keep a calm voice and do not chase or grab the animals.

Planning your visit from Cusco

In the default option hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco are included, and you should send your hotel address when you book. The drive to the centre takes about 30 minutes. The guided visit lasts around 50 to 60 minutes, followed by 25 to 30 minutes of free time, and the return transfer takes about 30 minutes. The total is about two and a half hours.

Departures are usually at 08:30, 11:00 and 15:00. Wear comfortable shoes and layers, and bring sun protection. Drones and pets are not allowed, and there is no smoking indoors. Tips and gifts are not included. A visit to the rescue centre works well as a short outing on an acclimatisation day in Cusco, because it is calm and low in effort.