In a powerful testament to the resilience of nature and the cultural strength of Indigenous communities, the United Nations is shining a global spotlight on South America’s camelids — llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and guanacos — as “heroes of the high plateau.” As part of the International Year of Camelids (IYC 2024), this initiative, led by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), seeks to elevate the importance of these animals for climate adaptation, rural livelihoods and food security in the face of growing environmental pressures.
Camelids are deeply intertwined with life in the Andes, both culturally and economically. These animals have supported Indigenous communities for centuries, not only as sources of meat, milk, fiber and transport, but also as living symbols of tradition and identity. Breeding knowledge is passed down through generations among Aymara, Quechua, Likan Antay and Colla peoples, making camelids more than livestock, they are a way of life.
Economically, the impact of camelids is substantial. In high-altitude Andean regions of Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Argentina, they contribute 40–80% of household income, despite their modest numbers compared to cattle or sheep. Peru leads alpaca production globally, while Bolivia accounts for over 60% of the region’s llamas. Their fiber, especially from alpacas and vicuñas is highly prized in the global textile market and their droppings serve as valuable fertilizer in high-altitude agriculture.
What makes these animals extraordinary is their ability to thrive in extreme conditions like thin air, cold temperatures and arid lands, where few other livestock can survive. Their padded feet, unlike the hooves of cows and goats, minimize damage to fragile ecosystems, making them natural allies in the fight against land degradation. As climate change intensifies drought and disrupts traditional farming patterns, camelids are increasingly seen as crucial assets for resilience and food security in the Andes.
During a recent UN-backed meeting in Antofagasta, Chile, representatives from five South American countries gathered to celebrate the camelids and discuss stronger management strategies. This gathering reinforced their ecological value and the urgent need to invest in their future. The FAO is calling for expanded research, better veterinary support, improved value chains, and global awareness of camelid products. It’s not just about heritage — it’s about survival.
The broader vision of IYC 2024 aligns with several Sustainable Development Goals, from ending hunger and poverty to promoting sustainable ecosystems and empowering Indigenous women in camelid-related economies. As global demand for sustainable and ethically sourced goods grows, camelid products, especially vicuña wool and alpaca textiles, offer an opportunity for rural communities to thrive in harmony with nature.
In an age of ecological uncertainty, South America’s camelids remind us that sometimes the greatest resilience comes not from new technology, but from honoring the animals and traditions that have sustained civilizations for centuries. The heroes of the high plateau are not just surviving; they’re leading the way forward.
