If you’ve ever felt the stress of navigating a busy airport terminal, imagine turning a corner and finding a six-foot-tall llama dressed as a pirate waiting to greet you.
That scene is a regular reality at Portland International Airport, where therapy llamas and alpacas visit about once a month as part of an animal-assisted therapy program that launched in 2023. The animals come from Mountain Peaks Therapy Llamas and Alpacas, a nonprofit based in Ridgefield, Washington, and their mission is simple: help travelers relax.
A One-of-a-Kind Welcome From Llamas at Portland International Airport
During each visit, which lasts about 1.5 hours, handlers accompany the animals through the terminal and entrance areas, giving passengers a chance to pet, hug and interact with the gentle creatures. Some visitors opt for a “carrot kiss,” feeding a carrot to one of the animals by hand or mouth. Each animal even comes with a collectible trading card.
The llamas and alpacas — collectively known as camelids — can stand up to about six feet tall and weigh up to roughly 450 pounds. They often arrive dressed in themed costumes, from pirates to cowboys, adding to the whimsy.
The Llama Therapy Program Is More Than Just Fun
While the program’s playful aesthetic draws attention, its purpose is rooted in science. Studies show that interacting with animals can reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and improve mood. For travelers facing long flights, security lines, or the chaos of
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