Llama Leasing

LLAMA LEASING

••Paragon Guides recommends that all interested parties have some experience and a basic knowledge of backpacking. Our Llama Lease program is not a guided trip. We can assist you with area information but cannot be held accountable for lack of knowledge or decision-making. The Llamas offer much smaller backpacks for everyone, even a few camp luxuries, but do not make up for personal knowledge or camping experience. Even as seasoned “Llama Wranglers” our guides know that the Llamas will add another dimension to the adventure.

Mandatory Training Session
First time Llama handlers are required to attend a 4 hour training to familiarize themselves with the skills needed to safely and effectively move through the backcountry with Llamas.

llama-leasingWe recommend that at least two members of the group attend the training. We also recommend scheduling the session at least two days prior to your trip. This gives you ample time to organize and sort out all of the gear that will be carried by the Llamas. The training will cover saddling, loading and balancing panniers, knots, picketing, area impact, feed and browsing, and navigating obstacles. Cost for the training session is $175. For return clients and those people with Llama experience we highly recommend a shorter “brush-up” course for $100.00.

 

How many Llamas do I need?
We have found through much personal experience that many people think that using Llamas allows for a completely different approach to backpacking and very often too much food and gear is taken. We recommend that many of the basic backpacking concepts still be followed. It becomes far too easy to find yourself only dealing with gear and Llamas if too much “stuff” is taken. For most trips we require a minimum of 2 Llamas. Each Llama can carry 60-80 pounds (including top load articles) depending on the type of load, trail difficulty (steep, rocky, streams) and distances traveled. Most everyone in the group should be expected to carry a small to medium pack. A general “rule of thumb” is one Llama for two people. If a hut is being used it is most likely that fewer Llamas would be required because a full kitchen is available at the hut

Cost includes

  • Llamas – Two minimum
  • Tack (saddles, panniers and rain covers, lead ropes, pickets, grain)
  • USFS fees / Company insurance / wrangler wages / administration cost
  • Trailhead assistance with packing panniers and loading Llamas
  • Each lease is custom designed.  Contact us with your trip plan.

Rate Summary

  • Llama Lease Costs:
    • $110 per day/per llama – Two llama minimum
  • Transportation Costs:
    • Highway, improved roads, and Permitted Forest Service Trailheads.
    • $2.00 a mile Pickup Truck with stock rack. (2 llamas)
    • $3.00 a mile enclosed stock trailer. (3+ llamas)
  • Deposit: 50% due at time of booking this includes a non-refundable cancellation fee of $100.
    • 50% remaining balance due 2 weeks prior to trip.
  • Cancellation Policy: If you cancel more then 2 weeks prior to trip you will receive a refund minus $100 administration fee. If you cancel within 2 weeks if your scheduled trip you are responsible for the FULL amount.
  • Leasor is responsible for the care of llamas and responsible for any loss or injury