FAQ

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FAQ'S

When should I make my reservation?

We are open year-round. If, however, you are planning to visit during our peak season (April through October), the earlier you plan, the better.

What happens after making my reservations?

We will email you a Reservation Confirmation Form which contains the following information about your trek: date, time, place, and directions to the trailhead.

When and how do I pay for my Hike/walk?

Payment in full is required when you make your reservation on our secure online reservation system. Located on Eventbrite.

What if it rains or snows?

We do hike in drizzle or rain and in light snow. If the weather conditions are dangerous or with thunder and lightning, we will cancel the trek.

Can I pet my Alpaca?

Yes! Alpacas are very friendly, and most of them like being hugged, petted, and even kissed. Every Alpaca has a different personality though, and some don’t like having their head or ears petted. Ask your guide if you’re not sure.

Can we bring snacks for the Alpaca ?

Yes! Alpacas love bite-sized treats of apples, berries, broccoli stalks, carrots, pumpkin, raisins, turnips, and other safe-to-eat fruits, vegetables, and plants. Treats must be cut up or shredded to prevent choking in this herbivorous animal, as they only have lower teeth for tearing, not chewing.

Do I have to lead an Alpaca?

No, you do not have to lead a alpaca if you prefer not to. However, our hiking rates are charged per alpaca.

Can we ride the Alpaca?

No, although they are great pack-animals, Alpaca cannot support weight directly on their spines. Pack saddles distribute weight evenly over the Alpaca’s back and sides.

Do the Alpacas spit, kick or bite?

No. Our Alpacas have been thoroughly and properly trained. They are very gentle and do not exhibit aggressive behaviors such as biting, spitting or kicking, toward people. An Alpaca may kick if it is startled, so we caution our guests not to stand where the llamas cannot see them.

What happens if I drop the Alpaca’s lead rope?

The Alpcaca may wander to the side of the trail to nibble on grass or leaves, but it will probably just stand and wait for you to pick it up.

What happens if my Alpaca eats a poisonous plant?

There are only 3 plants that a alpaca should not eat. Your guide will show you pictures of them before you leave and will point them out as you pass them along the trails. If your llama grabs a bad leaf or two, there is no need to panic, a few leaves are harmless.

Where do the Hike/Walk start?

Unexpected Farm NJ 1302 Piney Hollow Rd Newfield NJ 08344

Please look for the signs.

How long does the hike/walk last?

It depends. Larger groups usually take longer than smaller ones. Some people hike quickly; others prefer to meander on the trail. Children are a big variable; sometimes they’re hard to keep up with and other times, they hardly keep up. In the winter, there are no leaves for the Alpacas to nibble on, so winter treks can take less time. Every trek is different. We leave a 2hour window but usually 1.5 hours-2 hours.

What happens if we are late or get lost?

Please give yourself extra travel time if you are not familiar with the area. As a courtesy, we will wait 15 minutes for you to arrive, then we will begin the trek without you. (Waiting any longer would be unfair to our other guests.) Unfortunately, if you are late and we leave without you, you will lose your deposit.

Is there a guide?

Yes, there are one or two guides leading every trek.

Will we be hiking with others?

Small hiking groups are often combined. If others have reserved on the same day, we will all hike together.

Can I carry my baby in a backpack?

Yes

Can children hike without their parents?

Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult and as long as there are other clients on the hike.

Can we bring our dog(s)?

No, while our Alpacas and dogs know and love each other, unfamiliar dog(s) could upset the llamas (or vice versa). We want you to be able to relax and enjoy the scenery and peaceful atmosphere without concern.

What happens if I need to rest during the hike?

We make many frequent stops to rest and drink. If you need to rest longer or more often, please let us know.

What happens if I can’t hike the entire trail?

We do not force hikers to continue if they feel they cannot go on. Hikers may return to the trailhead (on their own) while the rest of the group continues on the trek. If this should happen, unfortunately, you will not receive a refund.

How do we get back?

All our trails are circular loops and end up at the same trailhead where we begin.

Are water or beverages available for the treks?

Please bring water, it’s very important to stay hydrated while hiking.

Do you provide food on any treks?

No.

Can we bring alcohol?

What else can I bring along?

Cameras, video cameras, cell phones (though you may not have cell service on all of the trails), sunglasses, sunscreen, binoculars, bug spray, any medications you may need, EpiPen® if you are concerned about allergic reactions. (We do bring a first aid kit on every hike.)

What should I leave at home?

Please do not bring MP3 players, games, or computers. (We want you to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.) Large purses and/or backpacks should also be left behind. If you feel you must bring extra items, you will have to carry them.

Are there restrooms along the trails?

No.

Will I get wet or muddy on the trail?

Expect some mud on the trails if it has been rainy a few days before your trek.

Will I step in manure?

The Alpacas usually ‘go’ while standing in water. While there may be some Alpaca manure on the trails, you might not even notice it. An Alpaca’s three-chamber digestive system is very efficient, and their manure contains less organic content than that of other livestock.

Can we come to the farm and visit the llamas?

Yes, we offer a one hour “Farm Visit” to learn more about llamas.

No Refunds

The payment is NOT refundable if YOU cancel your trek for ANY reason.This includes changing your mind, having less people than originally thought, deciding that you don't want to walk in the rain, a death in the family, someone was injured, vehicle problems, hotel problems, someone is ill, etc. or any other reason, other than extreme bad weather.The only reason we will cancel a trek is due to extremely bad and/or dangerous weather. If Unxepected Farm Nj cancels your trek due to bad weather, you will receive a full refund of both your deposit (minus any credit card processing fees). We do walk in drizzle rain and in light flurries. f the weather is bad, we will inform you, and first try to re-schedule your trek on a different day. If a different day is not available, you will receive a refund. No-shows will be charged the full price.