In the quiet countryside of northern Serbia, a new café is turning an ordinary coffee break into an encounter with fluffy, long-necked companions. The Alpaca Cafe, located at the Tiganjica Ethno-Village resort near the village of Stajićevo, about 60 kilometres north of Belgrade, has become a draw for locals and travellers alike.
The café is home to six alpacas, each with a distinct character. Among them are Ljubica, described by staff as the resident grump, and Mona, the largest of the group. Visitors can observe their quirks up close while sipping espresso or a cold drink on the terrace.
For a fee of roughly €10, guests receive a beverage and the chance to interact with the animals. The price also includes a serving of café-approved snacks—carrots, lettuce, and apple slices—that visitors can offer to the alpacas under staff supervision.
Rules for a happy herd
To ensure the alpacas remain calm and content, the café has established a few simple guidelines. Guests are asked not to approach the animals from behind, as sudden movements can startle them. Feeding is allowed only with the provided treats, and visitors are encouraged to let the alpacas set the pace of interaction.
The animals are not just a gimmick; they are part of the resort's broader effort to create a family-friendly atmosphere that blends rural charm with modern leisure. Tiganjica Ethno-Village already offers traditional accommodation and local cuisine, and the alpaca enclosure adds a playful element that appeals to children and adults alike.
Serbia's tourism sector has been slowly diversifying in recent years, with agritourism and niche experiences gaining traction. The Alpaca Cafe fits into this trend, offering a low-key, nature-oriented outing that stands out from conventional city breaks. Similar animal-themed cafés have appeared in other parts of Europe, but this one is among the first in the Balkans to feature alpacas.
For those planning a visit, the café is open during daylight hours, and it is advisable to check ahead for peak times, as the enclosure has limited capacity. The resort is easily reachable by car from Belgrade, making it a feasible day trip for urbanites seeking a brief escape.
While the alpacas are the main attraction, the café also serves as a reminder of the growing interest in animal welfare and ethical tourism. Staff emphasise that the animals are well cared for, with regular veterinary check-ups and a diet tailored to their nutritional needs.
As the sun sets over the Vojvodina plains, the alpacas often gather near the fence, seemingly curious about the guests. For many visitors, the experience is less about the coffee and more about the quiet, unhurried connection with these gentle creatures—a moment of calm in a fast-paced world.
