Prairie Patch Farm is a private, 50-acre nature preserve and wildlife refuge near Cedar Rapids that is dedicated to preserving Iowa’s Natural Heritage. This is not your traditional farmland – it is home to 10 llamas, an alpaca, pigs and goats and one-of-a-kind experiences (like llama hikes!)
Owners Kahle Atherton-Boutte and Andy Boutte had two llamas as pets and enjoyed walking the creatures on their property. They knew they wanted to have the community experience and, in 2019, they officially started Prairie Patch Farm and have since grown their herd. Kahle has a love for llamas and wanted to educate others on these fascinating animals; thus, Prairie Patch was born.
Guests can experience the farm while having a unique llama experience with friends and family. Farm experiences include llama hikes, llama-grams, llama-zooms, therapeutic and educational visits, and llama yoga. There are also seasonal experiences that you can enjoy, such as picnic and llama farm visits, Easter Llama and his Peeps, Llamaween and Llama Santa. These experiences are by reservation only and can be booked directly on Prairie Patch’s website.
The llama hike at Prairie Patch Farm is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that includes one-on-one time with a llama. The hike can accommodate up to eight people and is approximately a 1.3-mile hike roundtrip. The scenery is picturesque and peaceful. Kahle leads the hike and is full of knowledge of her favorite animals, which she shares during the venture. There is plenty of time for pictures with the llamas and a snack break, when the llamas have a moment to rest and munch on the grass.
Booking an experience at Prairie Patch Farm is perfect for a date, time with friends and family, or perfect for team bonding with your coworkers. The land is peaceful and private and takes you away from the hustle and bustle of your busy life. Be sure to get to your experience a little early, so you can say hello to the goats, pigs and cats who also live on the farm, or pick up some merchandise to have the perfect memory from your llama experience.
If you are wanting an even more integrated experience at Prairie Patch Farm, check out its Airbnb farmhouse, available for rent. This is great for out-of-town guests or a staycation with your significant other, family or a weekend with friends. Don’t be surprised if you wake up to llamas grazing in the backyard.
Prairie Patch Farm is open from the beginning of April through mid-December, but closed August through mid-September, due to heat. To book a llama experience or learn more about Prairie Patch Farm, visit prairiepatchfarm.com.