Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes - Practical Tips for Your Camel Ride Adventure

Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes

Discover the charm of Maspalomas dunes on a 30-minute camel ride, offering panoramic views, friendly guides, and a fun, authentic experience in Gran Canaria.

If you’re looking for a way to experience the iconic Maspalomas dunes beyond just strolling along the sandy landscape, a camel ride might just be the ticket. This 30-minute adventure in Gran Canaria offers a chance to explore the desert-like scenery on the back of a gentle camel, guided by friendly locals. With a modest price tag of around $20.64, it promises an accessible, family-friendly excursion that combines scenic views with a touch of adventure.

What we really love about this tour is the opportunity to see the dunes from a different perspective, riding slowly through the sweeping sand formations while enjoying the company of these calm, surprisingly well-behaved animals. The guides also seem genuinely knowledgeable and attentive, making the experience feel safe and warm. However, some travelers have raised concerns about finding the meeting point and animal welfare, which are worth considering before booking.

This experience is best suited for those who want a straightforward, scenic activity that’s easy to add to a day of exploring Gran Canaria. If you’re traveling with children, history or adrenaline aren’t the focus here — instead, think of it as a relaxing, picture-perfect moment in the desert with a friendly animal.

Key Points

Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes - Key Points

  • Authentic Sand Dune Experience: Ride through the iconic Maspalomas dunes on a calm, friendly camel.
  • Guided Tour: Knowledgeable guides ensure safety and enrich the experience with local insights.
  • Value for Money: At around $20, it’s an affordable way to turn a scenic walk into a memorable adventure.
  • Short and Sweet: Approximate 30-minute ride, ideal for those wanting a quick but immersive experience.
  • Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for riders over 100kg/220lbs or young children under 3.
  • Variable Reviews on Animal Welfare: Some reports highlight concerns about the treatment of camels, so travelers should consider their comfort level with that.

Exploring the Maspalomas Camel Ride Experience

Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes - Exploring the Maspalomas Camel Ride Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, you get insurance and a professional guide, which keeps things straightforward. You won’t need to worry about extra costs once there. However, note that hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, which some reviews mention as a minor hassle, especially since the site isn’t near public transit.

Meeting Points and Timing

The meeting point is at C. Oceanía, 13, in San Bartolomé de Tirajana, a spot that can be a little tricky to find without directions. Many visitors suggest arriving early or even trying to get there before your scheduled ride to avoid long waits, as slots fill every 20 minutes starting from 9:00 AM.

Open daily from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the tours are ideal for morning explorers. If you’re staying nearby, you’ll appreciate the flexibility, but if you’re coming from a cruise port or further out, plan accordingly.

The Ride Itself: What to Expect

The actual ride lasts about 30 minutes and takes place in the vast, deserted landscapes of the dunes, offering panoramic views that are truly picture-worthy. You’ll be seated comfortably in a two-seater saddle on a calm camel, but you won’t be riding directly on the hump, which is a thoughtful touch for comfort.

Most guides, like Jamie and others praised in reviews, take care to make the experience accessible and enjoyable, helping first-timers feel at ease. One reviewer mentioned that the guides are not only friendly but also very attentive, especially when helping nervous riders or children.

The Landscape and Views

As you pad softly through the dunes, you’ll get sweeping vistas of rocky ridges and rugged terrain, perfect for snapping those memorable photos. The dunes stretch wide, and the scenery is as iconic as it gets — golden sands, blue sky, and distant rock formations. Several reviewers have expressed how peaceful and awe-inspiring the landscape feels from this vantage point.

Authenticity and Animal Welfare Concerns

While many travelers like Jacqueline and Hannah enjoyed the experience, some have voiced concerns about the treatment of the camels. Specific reviews mention injuries and neglect, with one person describing seeing a camel with an open wound and flies, which is upsetting to note. On the other hand, others, like Ellen, appreciated the gentle nature and well-behaved camels, as well as the staff’s care.

If animal welfare is a priority for you, it’s worth doing some research or asking the guides about their care practices before booking.

Practical Tips for Your Camel Ride Adventure

Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes - Practical Tips for Your Camel Ride Adventure

  • Book in advance: The tours are popular, often booked 11 days ahead, and slots fill quickly.
  • Arrive early: To avoid long waits, try to get at the site before your scheduled time.
  • Wear comfortable clothes: The area can get hot, so lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat are essential.
  • Bring water: Hydration is key, especially in the warm sun.
  • Consider your weight: Passengers over 100kg/220lbs will not be able to ride, so plan accordingly.
  • Plan your transportation: Since there’s no included hotel pickup, arrange your own way there, perhaps with a rental car or local taxi.
  • Prepare for the scenery: Bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views.
  • Be respectful of the animals and staff**: They do their best, but keep a mindful attitude—especially given some reviews about animal conditions.

Authenticity and Value

Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes - Authenticity and Value

At a cost of just $20.64 per person, this tour offers a surprisingly immersive experience. Several reviewers have described it as “worth every penny,” especially if you’re after a quick, scenic activity rather than a full-day excursion.

The short duration (around 30 minutes) means it’s perfect for those with limited time or looking to add a unique activity in between beach days or sightseeing. The guided aspect provides a layer of safety and local flavor, making it more than just a ride — it’s a chance to connect with the landscape and learn a little about the local environment.

It’s also a great photo opportunity and a chance for families, especially children over 3, to enjoy a gentle adventure. For those worried about the logistics, reviews suggest that the signs could be better, but once you’re there, the friendly staff make the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The Sum Up: Is the Maspalomas Camel Ride Worth It?

This camel ride activity is ideally suited for travelers seeking an authentic, scenic experience in Gran Canaria’s famous dunes. Its affordable price, combined with the friendly guides and picturesque landscape, makes it a compelling choice for a light adventure.

It’s particularly good for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a relaxed, memorable activity that’s easy to add into a busy itinerary. The short duration allows for a quick escape into nature without committing to a full-day trip, making it perfect for those on a tight schedule.

However, if you are sensitive to animal welfare concerns, or if you’re traveling with someone over the weight limit, it’s worth considering these factors beforehand. The site’s accessibility and signage could also be improved, so plan accordingly.

This tour offers a fun and scenic break in the dunes, with plenty of opportunities for great photos and relaxed enjoyment. Just be sure to arrive early, bring water, and keep a respectful attitude towards the animals — and you’ll leave with a memorable story and some fantastic views.

FAQ

Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes - FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What is the best time to go?
The tours run daily from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Morning rides may be cooler and less crowded, and arriving early helps avoid long waits.

How long does the ride last?
The camel ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, offering enough time to enjoy the scenery without it feeling rushed.

Are children allowed?
Children younger than 3 can ride for free with their parents, but most riders should be at least 3 years old. Keep in mind, the guide’s discretion is important.

Can I ride if I weigh more than 100kg/220lbs?
No, passengers over that weight limit will not be able to participate due to comfort and safety reasons.

Is this activity suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the ride itself is gentle, the physical setup may pose challenges for some mobility-impaired travelers. It’s best to check with the guides directly.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, breathable clothes, a hat, and sunscreen. Bring water to stay hydrated in the warm sun.

Are the camels well looked after?
Reviews are mixed; some mention well-behaved animals, while others note injuries and neglect. If animal welfare is important to you, consider this before booking.

To sum it up, the Maspalomas camel ride offers a scenic, affordable, and family-friendly way to experience Gran Canaria’s famous dunes. With friendly guides and stunning views, it’s a memorable activity—just keep an eye on transportation, arrive early, and be mindful of the animals’ welfare.