A Llama in the Quilotoa
Native Camelids of the Andes Mountains that life in the Quilotoa

The Llamas and Alpacas that live in Quilotoa, specifically in the area surrounding Quilotoa Lagoon, are an important part of the local life and culture of this area of the Andes of South America.
Llama, Vicuña, Alpaca and Guanaco are part of the Camelid family (Camelidae). Camels are the most famous animals of camelids race. In Ecuador they are popularly known as "Llamingos"
These animals play various significant roles for local communities and people that live in the Andean region of Ecuador. Activities where Llamas are part of everyday life:
In highland areas, where the terrain is rugged and difficult, Llamas are used as pack animals. They can transport goods, food and other supplies across the trails.
Llama wool is a raw material highly appreciated for its softness and warmth. It is used to make clothing such as bags, blankets and ponchos.
Currently, the Llamas with their beautiful nature are used as a tourist attraction, giving visitors the opportunity to meet them and interact. These adorable native animals of the moorland (páramo) are also part of traditional festivals and ceremonies.
In trail to La Playita Quilotoa Beach you would have the opportunity to find Llamas and Alpacas.
Llamas and Alpacas in America

Guanaco (Lama guanicoe) is the ancestor of the Llama and a wild animal that inhabited the highlands of the Andes.
Guanacos were domesticated to llamas began about 5,000 to 6,000 years ago, mainly in the areas that nowadays are Perú, Bolivia, and northern Chile and Argentina.
Natives of the Andean region, such as the Incas, domesticated guanacos to use them as pack animals and a source of wool.
Today, these camels live in the highlands of Ecuador and along the Andes mountain range.
José de Acosta (Jesuit), in his book called «The Natural and Moral History of the Indies», tries to explain the origin of camelids in the Americas in a chapter titled: "How is it possible to have animals in the Indies that are not found anywhere else in the world?".
Camelids in the national Seal
🇧🇴 The National Seal of Arms of Bolivia, officially adopted in 1888. The Alpaca is one of the emblematic animals of Bolivia seal and has a very close relationship with the traditions, economy and life of the communities of the
🇵🇪 The National Seal of Arms of Peru was officially adopted in 1825. The Vicuña on Peru's national seal of arms represents the country's rich biodiversity, its indigenous heritage and the connection to the Andes that provides various historical, cultural and natural meanings of Peruvian identity.

🇧🇴 Bolivia has an Alpaca on national arms coat.

🇵🇪 Perú has a Vicuña on national arms coat.