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07 Sept 2025

Seven things: Wildlife sanctuaries around the county

Donegal is home to a diverse landscape which hosts ten nature reserves displaying a significantly varied range of wildlife and natural habitat such as woodlands and wetlands

Wild Alpaca Way
The Wild Alpaca Way is among a few places to see alpacas in Donegal. However, The Wild Alpaca Way boasts both landscape and the alpaca, some would say it’s the full al-package. It is the premier alpaca location and it is a family-run business owned by John McGonagle and located near the five-finger strand at Malin Head. They have 40 alpacas, who are curious, inquisitive and friendly creatures. Some of their names include Badger, Chestnut, Mojo, Salt, Pepper, Adolfo and Ted. 

There are currently three scheduled alpaca guided walks daily on offer. Visitors get to take an alpaca for a walk along Ireland’s most northerly point. 


Two of the Alpacas ready to escort their next visitor around the scenic Malin Head, Photo: Wild Alpaca Way

Along the walk, there are views from Malin Head to Glashedy Rock to the Isle of Doagh and beyond. The Wild Alpaca Way is very fitting as it is situated within the breathtaking surroundings of the famous coastal route, the Wild Atlantic Way. 

Not only that, you can also book an alpaca to be brought to you for an event such as weddings or birthdays, there is also an option of an alpaca meet and greet for those who are unable to complete the trek. The Wild Alpaca Way caters to everyone who may want to experience some time with an alpaca and it is open all year round. 

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