While not the fastest mount, the Llama in Minecraft offers something no other mob can: a built-in convoy system for hauling huge amounts of resources across the map. Introduced back in the Exploration Update, this quirky mob is one of the most practical, yet often overlooked, companions for any large-scale building project or nomadic playthrough.
The Ultimate Hauling Crew
The Llama's true power isn't in riding, but in leading. Once you tame a Llama by repeatedly riding it until it shows hearts, you can equip it with a chest. The storage capacity varies from 3 to 15 slots, which is a game of chance but always useful. The real magic happens when you use a lead on one tamed Llama. Up to nine other nearby Llamas will automatically form a caravan, following the lead Llama in a single file line. This allows you to move potentially 135 extra stacks of items in a single trip, making them indispensable for migrating your base or conducting long-distance mining expeditions.
As a bonus, they'll defend themselves by spitting at hostile mobs (or players who attack them), providing a bit of mobile security for your precious cargo. Just be careful not to get caught in the crossfire.
How do you equip a Llama?
Taming a Llama is just the first step. To make it useful, you need to equip it. Here’s how:
- Chests: Once tamed, simply hold a chest and right-click on the Llama to equip it for storage. The slot count (3, 6, 9, 12, or 15) is randomly assigned.
- Carpets: For a bit of flair, you can place any color of carpet on a tamed Llama. This adds a decorative saddle blanket, with unique patterns for each color. Trader Llamas even have their own special blue rug.
Finding Your Herd
Llamas aren't found just anywhere. You'll need to venture into specific biomes to start your herd. They typically spawn in groups of four in savanna plateau and windswept hills biomes. You can also find them accompanying Wandering Traders, though these are already leashed and can't be separated from their master until the trader is gone.
For players who love building massive structures far from their storage system or enjoy a nomadic lifestyle, the Llama is a must-have. They turn the tedious task of moving thousands of blocks from a chore into a simple, organized trek across the overworld.