Top Llama Producing Countries

Llamas (Lama glama) are native to the Andean highlands of South America and have been domesticated for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence suggesting their use by indigenous peoples as early as 4,000–5,000 years ago. The domestication of llamas likely began with the ancient cultures of what is now Peru and Bolivia, where they were bred from wild guanacos for their meat, wool, and as pack animals in the harsh mountain terrain. Today, the top countries raising llamas remain Peru, Bolivia, and Chile, where they are integral to rural livelihoods and traditional Andean culture. In recent decades, llamas have also been introduced to countries such as the United States, Canada, and several European nations, primarily for fiber production, as pets, and for use in eco-friendly trekking. However, the vast majority of the world’s llama population still resides in South America, particularly in Peru and Bolivia, which together account for the largest herds and the richest traditions of llama husbandry.

Data from United Nations FAO Stat