Camel Encounter and Safari Ride. Includes lunch & alcohol tasting

If you’re heading to Cabo San Lucas and looking for something a little different, the Camel Encounter and Safari Ride offers an unusual and memorable adventure. It’s a 2-hour tour that combines a relaxed camel ride along the beach, a tasty taco lunch, and a tequila tasting, all designed to give you a taste of authentic Mexican culture with a splash of fun.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the opportunity to ride a camel on the beach is a one-of-a-kind experience that makes you feel like a desert nomad on vacation. Second, the well-organized lunch and tequila tasting add a flavorful local touch that many beach excursions lack.

However, there are some considerations to keep in mind: the cost can feel a bit steep, especially with additional fees for photos and park entry. Also, some reviews mention that the ride is relatively short and that certain policies—like not allowing personal cameras—can be frustrating.

This tour suits travelers who want a unique picture-taking experience, enjoy scenic beaches, and appreciate Mexican food and spirits. It’s especially valuable for those looking for a less physically demanding activity that still offers plenty of fun, culture, and great views.

Key Points

• Unique beach activity: Camel riding along Cabo’s beautiful coastline
• Includes authentic Mexican lunch: Tacos with soft drinks, plus tequila tasting
• Beautiful scenery: Views of the Pacific Ocean from a different perspective
• Guided experience: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the adventure
• Additional costs: Park entry fee and pricey photos may add to the overall expense
• Limited camera policy: No personal photos during the camel ride; professional photos available for extra

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

When considering the Camel Encounter and Safari Ride, it’s best to know what to expect from start to finish. The tour, offered by Best Cabo Tours, LLC, lasts roughly 2 hours and includes round-trip transportation, which makes it convenient for travelers who want to avoid logistical headaches.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Tour?

You’ll begin with hotel pickup or a designated meeting point, depending on your booking preferences. Once at the site, you’ll be introduced to your guides, who are typically bilingual and knowledgeable about camels, local flora, and fauna.

The first highlight, of course, is the camel ride. Unlike many beach tours that involve long walks or boat rides, here you’ll mount a camel and stroll along the shore, enjoying the stunning views of the Pacific’s crystalline waters and crashing waves. Most reviews indicate the ride lasts about 10-15 minutes, which some may find brief, but enough to savor the experience without feeling exhausted.

During the ride, there’s often a chance to pet and feed the camels, and guides are eager to share stories about these fascinating creatures—their history, personality, and care. Many visitors find this part particularly charming, especially when the baby camel, affectionately called “the kissing camel,” interacts playfully.

Following the ride, guests are encouraged to explore the ecological reserve, which provides a glimpse of local plant life and natural surroundings. The aviary visit then adds a touch of bird-watching and tranquility, rounding out the safari aspects of the tour.

The Food and Drink: Tacos & Tequila

After the outdoor activities, it’s time for lunch—a burrito plate featuring beef, chicken, or pork—served with soft drinks or water. This meal receives generally good reviews, with travelers appreciating the authentic Mexican flavors and the opportunity to refuel after the ride.

The tequila tasting is next. Although some reviewers mention it feels a bit rushed, it’s a fun opportunity to sample local spirits and learn a bit about tequila production. The tour often includes a visit to a nearby tequila museum, where guides explain the nuances of different varieties.

Additional Highlights and Considerations

The tour also offers a nature hike in the ecological reserve and a desert safari ride—though these vary depending on the exact package purchased. Some reviews praise the knowledgeable guides like Fernando and Dario, who make the experience engaging and fun, sharing insights about local flora and fauna.

However, some travelers express disappointment over extra costs—notably a $25 park entry fee payable on the day, and the expensive professional photos (around $20 each). Several reviews mention that personal cameras are not allowed during the camel ride, which can be frustrating for those wanting to capture their own memories.

The tour is limited to 10 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate, but also means booking 15 days in advance is recommended if you want a spot.

The Value for Money

At $95 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a blend of unique experiences—beach scenery, camel riding, Mexican cuisine, and tequila tasting—that many travelers find worth the price. Considering that it includes round-trip transportation, safety equipment, and a guided experience, it provides a relatively hassle-free outing that’s suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers.

Some reviews mention the short duration of the camel ride and the additional fees as drawbacks, which can influence how travelers perceive its value. However, the quality of guides, scenic views, and cultural flavor help justify the expense for many.

The Authenticity and Atmosphere

What truly sets this experience apart is the blend of culture and scenic beauty. Riding a camel along the waves of Cabo’s coastline feels both whimsical and surreal, offering a rare perspective on this popular destination.

While the rigid camera policy and extra photo costs can detract from the experience, guides are often praised for their friendly demeanor and knowledge, making the tour feel personal and informative. The local food and tequila tasting add a genuine taste of Mexico, making this more than just a sightseeing ride.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes—many reviewers suggest tennis shoes over sandals to avoid getting sand in your footwear.
• Bring a hat and sunscreen, as the sun can be intense during the ride.
• If you want to capture your own memories, consider bringing a GoPro or a smartphone with a waterproof case—just check the policy beforehand.
• Be prepared for the $25 park entry fee and plan for additional photo costs if you want professional shots.
• Book in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your spot.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This activity is a great pick for travelers seeking a fun, lighthearted experience with a touch of local flavor. It’s ideal for those who want a scenic, relaxing ride on the beach without the strenuous effort of boat rides or long hikes. Families with children often enjoy the opportunity to pet and feed the camels, while couples appreciate the romantic coastal backdrop.

If you’re an adventure lover looking for adrenaline, this might feel too tame. Conversely, if you prefer longer rides or more physical activity, you might find this tour somewhat brief. But for a balanced, photo-worthy, cultural outing, it’s quite a good value.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation is part of the package, making it convenient to get to and from your hotel or designated meeting point.

How long is the camel ride?
Most reviews suggest the camel ride lasts about 10-15 minutes. While some find it short, many consider it enough to enjoy and take photos.

Can I take pictures during the ride?
No, personal cameras or phones are not allowed during the camel ride for safety reasons. You can purchase professional photos afterward for an extra fee.

What is included in the meal?
You’ll get a beef, chicken, or pork burrito, along with soft drinks or water.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, a $25 park entry fee is payable on the day, plus the option to buy professional photos. Tequila tasting is included but may feel rushed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes—children usually enjoy petting the camels and the scenic beach ride. Just check the weight limit of 600 pounds.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes—preferably tennis shoes—are recommended. Also, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water. Consider a head wrap to shield from the sun.

Final Thoughts

The Camel Encounter and Safari Ride in Cabo offers a charming blend of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a refreshing alternative to typical beach tours, with the chance to ride a camel along the ocean, savor authentic tacos, and sample local tequila—all in a compact, well-organized package.

While some may find the ride duration and extra fees less than ideal, the guides’ friendliness, spectacular views, and authentic Mexican flavors make this a worthwhile experience for those wanting a light, fun, culturally rich outing.

This tour is best suited for families, couples, or solo travelers who seek a memorable, picture-perfect adventure without excessive physical exertion. If you’re after a quirky, scenic, and tasty experience that’s a bit different from the usual, this one might just be your next highlight in Cabo.