Why the humble pack animal remains a vital logistical force across the globe

Gardening · Published 3 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: From the high-altitude trails of the Himalayas to the arid expanses of the desert, pack animals have served humanity for millennia. While modern infrastructure often renders them obsolete, these beasts of burden remain essential in rugged terrain where wheels fail, proving that biology still outpaces technology in the most challenging environments.

A pack animal, or beast of burden, is any domesticated creature tasked with transporting goods on its back. The donkey holds the title of the oldest-known pack animal, with usage dating back to approximately 3500 BC. These animals are typically chosen for their regional suitability: camels dominate desert landscapes, horses and mules navigate mountain passes, and water buffalo thrive in marshy environments. By the sixteenth century, the use of packhorses—a staple of the Middle Ages—began to decline as wheeled wagons pulled by oxen and horses became more common.

The capacity of these animals varies significantly based on species, geography, and local regulations. A camel can carry roughly 300 kilograms, while a llama is generally limited to about a quarter of its body weight, or 50 kilograms for a 200-kilogram adult. Yaks demonstrate remarkable endurance, with some carrying up to 390 kilograms for short periods at high altitudes. Equid load limits are subject to debate; while the US Army suggests a 91-kilogram limit for mules in mountainous terrain, historical texts from 1867 cited capacities as high as 360 kilograms.

Though traditional nomadic reliance on these animals is waning, they have found new purpose in the 21st century. They remain a valid method for exploring national parks and are increasingly popular in the tourist expedition industry, such as in Morocco's High Atlas mountains. Furthermore, modern military forces continue to receive guidance on utilizing horses, mules, llamas, camels, dogs, and elephants for logistical support, proving that even in an era of advanced technology, the pack animal remains a reliable, low-tech solution for moving supplies through difficult terrain.

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