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.
Molly Prescott, an airport spokesperson, told USA TODAY that the program fits the airport’s personality.
“PDX is known for doing things differently, and the llamas and alpacas – with their gentle nature and quirky personalities – have reached icon status in the airport, beloved by all,” Prescott said.
“There’s nothing quite like the delight and surprise you’ll see on people’s faces when they encounter the llamas and alpacas for the first time.”
The Llama Therapy Program Is More Than Just Fun for Travelers
While the visits bring plenty of smiles, the program serves a deeper purpose. Lori Gregory, owner of Mountain Peaks Therapy Llamas and Alpacas, told USA TODAY that reducing stress and anxiety for travelers is at the heart of every visit.
“The whole purpose of the therapy is to help with anxiety and de-stress, so I’m always watchful,” Gregory said.
She noted that not everyone at the airport is traveling for happy reasons.
“We get quite a few people traveling for not-fun reasons, they’re going to visit their loved one for the last time, or they’re going to a funeral or you know, things that are hard. We always try to watch for those people to give them extra time with the animal and just express our love and care.”
How the Llama Therapy Program at All Started
Gregory’s family was first introduced to llamas through a school program, an experience that changed the course of their lives.
“We decided to join that to learn about these animals and just fell in love,” Gregory told USA TODAY.
Their first llama, Shania — named after Shania Twain — had a sweet personality that inspired the family to pursue therapy work with the animals.
The Llama Program Is Home to a Star Named Rojo
Among the nonprofit’s animals, one stands out in particular. Rojo, a llama purchased in 2002, weighs roughly 350 to 400 pounds and has a temperament Gregory describes as gentle, “doglike” and people-friendly.
“And never grew out of that doglike personality and people-friendly personality,” Gregory said.
Rojo has participated in parades, fairs and public events, drawing strong engagement from crowds and clearly enjoying the attention.
Llamas are one of the oldest domesticated animals, and llama shows are held across the United States, from California to Georgia. But for travelers passing through Portland, the appeal is more personal — a moment of unexpected comfort in the middle of a hectic journey.
The next time you find yourself at PDX, keep an eye out. A llama in a cowboy hat might be just the travel companion you didn’t know you needed.
