Visitors to the Tiganjica Ethno-Village resort in northern Serbia are finding unusual company during their coffee breaks. Located near Stajicevo, north of Belgrade, the resort has introduced an Alpaca Cafe that allows guests to interact with six South American alpacas of varying sizes and colors as they roam freely among the tables.
The owner of the Tiganjica resort, Zoran Ostojin, was inspired to open the cafe after visiting a similar establishment in Slovakia with his wife. According to Ostojin, the couple was fascinated by the experience and wanted to bring that same opportunity to their own country so that people could get to know the animals and feel their energy. He describes the presence of the alpacas as having an almost healing ability, noting that he has long appreciated the emotion the animals display.
The resort operates as a family estate that includes a restaurant, a garden, and a small zoo. Ostojin’s history with animal care dates back to his childhood, when he and his brother would bring home injured animals to care for with his brother. The first alpaca arrived at the resort eight years ago as a gift from the Belgrade Zoo.
For guests wishing to visit, appointments must be prearranged. The experience costs approximately 10 euros, or $11.35, which includes a drink and a small bucket containing carrots, lettuce, and apples for feeding the animals. To ensure the safety and comfort of the herd, house rules are displayed on a board, instructing visitors not to approach the animals from behind or feed them any outside food.
Simona Frangi, the carer for the alpacas, notes that each of the six animals possesses a distinct personality. She describes a black alpaca named Ljubica as being grumpy, while Snezana holds the role of herd leader despite being the smallest of the group.
