Not many travellers arrive at Juliaca Airport without heading straight to Lake Titicaca, but this time was to be an exception. We were on our way to another attraction of the Peruvian Altiplano: Hacienda Mallkini, an extensive ranch where Alpacas are raised to produce the most exquisite quality of wool, used to make all manner of different types of garment. Hacienda Mallkini by Lake Titicaca After a journey through the stunning, flat green landscapes that permeate the region, we arrived at the hacienda. The lodge where we were staying was nestled at over 4000 metres above sea level and situated on a slope overlooking the village of Nequeneque. The spot was blessed with was a fantastic view of the plains stretching off into the distance. Alpaca decor Our base for the next two days, we were delighted to find that the lodge was extremely cosy, and, as could be expected, adorned with soft Alpaca wool at every turn. Our rooms were insulated with Alpaca carpets while blankets made from baby Alpaca were at hand to protect us from the cold Andean nights. There was also a wood burning stove in the corner, with a fresh supply of logs from the nearby copse. But we weren't to indulge in the comforts of Mallkini just yet, and after dumping our luggage and a quick lunch we headed out on a tour of the estate. The Hacienda Mallkini Estate Covering 3,000 hectares and populated with more than 2,000 Alpacas, the hacienda is the largest private Alpaca centre in Peru. The mission of Mallkini, our guide Moises explained, is to improve the quality of Alpaca fibre, which is achieved  by selecting the finest Alpacas in the Peruvian Andes and working on breeding techniques, nutrition and reproduction. The Alpacas themselves confidently patrol the raw and brash