Alpacas in Bolivia – The Heart of Our Work
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When you think of Bolivia, you might picture the majestic Andes, vibrant textiles, and proud alpacas grazing high in the mountains.
For us at TINKU, these animals are much more than the source of our wool — they represent our roots, our culture, and the bridge we’re building between the Andes and Europe.
The Home of the Alpacas
Alpacas live in the high Andes of South America, at altitudes above 4,000 meters, where the air is thin and the climate harsh.
In Bolivia, they roam mainly across the Altiplano, the vast high plateau around Oruro, Potosí, and La Paz.
For centuries, alpacas have been part of the daily life of indigenous communities — loyal companions, a vital source of wool, and an important part of cultural identity.
Two Species – One Treasure of the Andes
There are two types of alpacas:
- Huacaya Alpaca – known for its soft, crimpy fleece that resembles sheep’s wool.
- Suri Alpaca – recognized by its long, silky fibers that shine and flow like silk.
Both produce exceptionally fine, warm, and durable fibers, making alpaca wool one of the most luxurious natural materials in the world.
Traditional Craftsmanship – Passed Down Through Generations
In Bolivia, the art of working with alpaca wool has been passed down for generations.
Many of our artisans live in small, rural communities and handcraft each piece with patience, skill, and love.
Every scarf, shawl, and accessory tells a story — a story of tradition, community, and pride.
Sustainability from the Andes
Our wool comes exclusively from mulesing-free, animal-friendly farms.
Alpacas are shorn only once a year — a process essential for their health and comfort — and their fleece naturally grows back with the seasons.
Alpacas are also gentle on their environment:
They have soft, padded feet that don’t damage the grasslands and nibble grass instead of pulling it out by the roots — helping preserve the fragile Andean ecosystem.
From the Andes to You – The Meaning of TINKU
The word TINKU comes from Quechua, the indigenous language of the Andes, and means “encounter.”
That’s exactly what we want to create — an encounter between Bolivia and Europe, between tradition and modern design, between the people who make our pieces and those who wear them.
When you wear a TINKU piece, you don’t just wear alpaca wool —
you wear a part of the Andes, of our culture, and of our story.
Fun Fact
Did you know alpacas are among the oldest domesticated animals in the world?
Over 6,000 years ago, the Incas revered them for their fine wool — known as “the fiber of the gods.”
Discover the story of alpacas in Bolivia — from the high Andes to your hands. Learn about the culture, sustainability, and craftsmanship behind TINKU’s handmade alpaca wool creations.