Not your everyday coffee in a Serbia cafe: Enjoy it in the company of alpacas

A unique cafe in northern Serbia has introduced an unconventional experience for visitors: the opportunity to enjoy coffee in the company of six alpacas. Located at the Tiganjica Ethno-Village resort near Stajicevo, north of Belgrade, this establishment allows these South American animals to roam freely among the tables. Since opening just one week ago, the Alpaca Cafe has become a rare and highly sought-after attraction in Europe, drawing curious tourists eager to interact with the gentle creatures in a relaxed, pastoral setting.

Resort owner Zoran Ostojin, who was inspired by a similar concept in Slovakia, emphasizes the therapeutic energy of the animals. The experience is structured to ensure animal welfare, with strict house rules posted for visitors. Guests are prohibited from approaching the alpacas from behind or feeding them outside food. Instead, they are provided with small buckets containing carrots, lettuce, and apples. The cost of the experience is approximately 10 euros ($11.35), which covers both a beverage and the specialized feed for the animals.

Alpacas are known for their mild temperament, soft fleece, and unique humming communication, making them ideal companions for this type of hospitality venture. The herd at Tiganjica is diverse in character, as noted by caretaker Simona Frangi. For instance, a black alpaca named Ljubica is described as having a grumpy personality, while Snezana, despite being the smallest, acts as the herd leader. These animals are highly sensitive to human intentions, often retreating if they sense hostility but approaching readily when offered kindness and food.

This initiative is part of a broader commitment to animal care at the Tiganjica resort, which also features a small zoo and a restaurant. Ostojin’s passion for animals dates back to his childhood, when he and his brother rescued injured wildlife. The first alpaca arrived at the estate eight years ago as a gift from the Belgrade Zoo. Ostojin describes the animals as having a near-healing ability, noting that the emotional connection they foster is a primary reason for integrating them into the resort's daily operations.

Looking ahead, the success of the Alpaca Cafe suggests a growing trend in animal-assisted tourism within the Balkan region. As visitors increasingly seek authentic, nature-based experiences, the model established by Ostojin could serve as a blueprint for other eco-tourism ventures. Experts suggest that as long as the animals' welfare remains the priority, such interactions can provide significant mental health benefits for guests while promoting conservation awareness and a deeper appreciation for exotic species in non-native environments.