Andean Waraka (Huaraca) — Hand-Spun Alpaca Andean  Sling

I wanted to introduce the Waraka (Huaraca), also known as Honda, a traditional Andean sling that we make here in Bolivia from hand-spun alpaca fiber.

Why alpaca?

Alpaca might seem like an unusual material for a sling, but its naturally long, smooth fibers help reduce pilling and fraying under repeated tension. It is also naturally water resistant and contains no lanolin.

More importantly, alpaca has a long history as a practical, load-bearing fiber in the Andes. It was traditionally used for ropes and cordage for securing cargo, lashing loads, and other everyday work. Alpaca has also been used to make slings in the Andes for millennia, so its use is part of a much older tradition of working with alpaca fiber for practical purposes.

How we make them

We start with raw 100% alpaca fiber and spin the yarn ourselves, allowing us to control the twist and thickness for different parts of the sling.

The pouch and cords are then braided entirely by hand using an eight-sided braiding technique. From raw fiber to finished sling, each one takes roughly a full day of work.

The result is a remarkably lightweight sling, typically under 50 grams, while remaining durable and resilient enough for practical use.

A living tradition

What we find particularly interesting is that the Waraka has not simply survived as a historical artifact. Alpaca slings are still known and used in the Andes today for herding and, in some contexts, hunting.

We've even seen Waracas appearing in news coverage from Bolivia this year, where they were used by Indigenous communities during recent protests against our current government. Whatever the context, it is a reminder that Andean slings remain part of living material culture and traditional knowledge.

Available Models

For those interested in our handmade alpaca slings, we currently have over 12 models available through our Etsy shop:

https://www.etsy.com/shop/palosantobolivia?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=...

We offer traditional Warakas in large and medium sizes and various colors, along with specialized versions including cracker slings and a silent version for quieter practice.

US buyers: our alpaca slings qualify for a tariff exemption, so there are no additional US tariff costs.

Huaraca Sling in Blacka and Ivory

Huaraca Sling in Ivory and Brown

Huaraca Sling in Spanish Grey and Ivory

Medium Huaraca Sling in Black and Ivory

Medium Huaraca Sling in Brown and Ivory

Huaraca Sling with Cracker in Black and Ivory

Chord, Fingerloop and Cracker Detail