Camel Expedition and Beach Club In Riviera Maya

Travelers looking to add something truly unique to their Riviera Maya trip might find the Camel Expedition and Beach Club tour a delightful choice. This experience combines the fun of a camel ride with scenic views of the jungle and dunes, plus some relaxing beach time afterward. It’s designed to be family-friendly, accessible to those with little or no riding experience, and offers a chance to see a different side of the Mexican coast—albeit with a few considerations worth noting.

What we love about this tour are its personalized group size—capped at just six riders—which makes for a more intimate experience, and the presence of knowledgeable guides who really seem to care about both the animals and ensuring guests have fun. The included round-trip transfers from Cancun and Riviera Maya hotels make logistics easy, and the scenic route through jungle and white-sand dunes promises plenty of photo opportunities.

One possible drawback is the cost of photos and beverages, which some travelers found overpriced, and the limited beach time immediately after the tour. If you’re a photographer or seeking a longer beach experience, you might find the package a bit restrictive. Still, for those wanting a memorable, engaging adventure that combines animals, nature, and a quick beach stop, this tour hits the right notes.

Ideal for families, first-time riders, or anyone curious about camels, this experience offers a safe and fun way to explore Riviera Maya’s natural beauty with a few comforts thrown in.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: The 45-minute ride is a manageable, well-paced introduction to camel riding.
• All ages welcome: Suitable for participants aged 8 and up, with no riding experience needed.
• Small group intimacy: Limited to six riders, fostering a more personal, less rushed experience.
• Inclusive transportation: Round-trip hotel transfers simplify logistics, especially for those staying in Cancun or Riviera Maya.
• Scenic route: Expect lush jungle, white sand dunes, and photo opportunities at the beach.
• Additional costs****: Be mindful of pricey photo packages and drinks if you want to capture memories or enjoy a beverage on-site.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Booking Experience and Pricing

At $144 per person, this tour offers a competitive price point considering the included transfers, guided experience, and access to Maroma Beach. When you think about the cost of a private taxi or other excursions, it’s quite reasonable. Many reviewers mention that the guides and staff deliver excellent value for the price, especially given the personal touch of small groups and expert guidance.

However, some reviews highlight frustrations over additional costs for photos, with one reviewer noting that photos can be expensive—up to $50 per picture, which might seem steep if you’re hoping to capture the moment yourself. The tour provides a professional photographer, Hugo, who takes these images, but if you prefer snapping your own shots, you’ll need to weigh that expense.

The Itinerary and Experience

Your adventure begins with hotel pickup around 3:00 pm—a convenient time that leaves your day open for other activities. Once on site, a quick safety briefing prepares you for the ride, emphasizing that no prior experience is needed. The **small group size means guides can give personalized attention, answer questions, and ensure everyone feels comfortable.

The ride itself lasts approximately 45 minutes, during which you’ll traverse lush jungle trails and white-sand dunes. Many reviews praise the calm demeanor of the camels, describing them as friendly and well-cared-for, which is reassuring for first-time riders. One reviewer even mentions that “the camels are so sweet,” reflecting the gentle nature of these animals.

Throughout the trek, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the natural surroundings, perfect for photos. The guides provide live commentary in both English and Spanish, adding educational value and helping you connect with the environment.

The Beach and Snacks

After the ride, the tour offers a short time at Maroma Beach, where you can relax, take more pictures, or just enjoy the scenery. While many rave about the access to a beautiful beach, some mention that the immediate beach access feels a bit rushed—about 10 to 20 minutes before heading back—so it’s more of a quick glance than a relaxed lounge.

You’ll also enjoy snacks—tortilla chips, re-fried beans, hot sauce—and non-alcoholic drinks like bottled water and soft drinks. These snacks are appreciated by many as a simple, tasty touch to the experience. Still, some reviewers note the cost of drinks and photos can be pricey, which might be a consideration if you’re traveling on a budget.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The included shared transportation from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya makes logistics easier, especially for visitors unfamiliar with local transport. Reviews mention that the pickups are generally smooth, though a few experienced some delays or miscommunications, often due to the transportation company. One reviewer recounted a frustrating pickup experience involving miscommunication, which highlights the importance of confirming details in advance.

The tour allows a maximum of 2 travelers per booking, making it a more intimate experience, perfect for couples or small groups. Larger groups can sometimes be accommodated, but modifications may be necessary, so it’s best to check with the provider if traveling with a bigger party.

Guides and Animal Care

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Joseph, Bernard, and Joe, who make the experience informative and fun. The guides also seem genuinely invested in the well-being of the camels, which is reassuring for animal lovers.

Guests frequently mention the calm, gentle nature of the camels, emphasizing that they are well-maintained and treated kindly. This respect for the animals adds an extra layer of satisfaction, knowing that your ride doesn’t come at their expense.

Overall Value and Authenticity

This tour offers a unique experience that combines wildlife, scenic landscapes, and beach relaxation. The price includes transportation, guided riding, and beach access, which many find to be good value. The small group size enhances the experience, making it less commercial and more personal.

However, the additional costs for photos and drinks can add up quickly, so budget-conscious travelers should plan accordingly. While some feel the photo packages are overpriced, others appreciate the professional quality and the fact that these images can serve as lasting memories.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a family-friendly adventure with minimal physical effort, this tour is perfect. It suits first-time riders, animal enthusiasts, and those wanting to see more of Riviera Maya’s natural environment. It’s also great for couples or small groups who want a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for a long beach day or want to snap your own photos freely without extra costs. Also, if you have mobility issues or are pregnant, it’s recommended to consider other activities, as some restrictions apply.

Our Final Take

This camel ride tour in Riviera Maya strikes a fine balance between adventure, scenic beauty, and comfort. The small group size and friendly guides ensure you feel cared for, and the combination of jungle, dunes, and beach offers a variety of photo opportunities. The price point is reasonable considering the inclusions, though be prepared for additional costs if you want professional photos or drinks.

The experience with the camels appears authentic and respectful, with many reviewers remarking on how calm and well-treated the animals are. The scenic ride through lush landscapes and the brief beach stop** make it a well-rounded activity—short enough to fit into a busy itinerary, but memorable enough to leave a lasting impression.

This tour would best suit families with children aged 8 and above, couples, or small groups eager for a light adventure that mixes nature, animals, and a scenic coastal backdrop. For those who value personalized service, a well-organized itinerary, and a chance to try something out of the ordinary—like riding a camel—you’ll probably find this tour a worthwhile addition to your Riviera Maya trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip shared transportation from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Riviera Maya hotels is included, making it easy to reach the attraction without extra hassle.

How long is the camel ride?
The ride lasts approximately 45 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and get a good feel for riding a camel without it becoming tiring.

What is the group size?
Group sizes are limited to just six riders, which ensures a more relaxed, personalized experience.

Can children participate?
Yes, children aged 8 and older can ride the camels. An adult must accompany children on their own camel and sign a responsibility waiver.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, pregnant women, people with mobility issues, back problems, recent surgeries, or health concerns are advised to consider other activities. The maximum weight per person is 220 lbs (100 kg).

What about photos and drinks?
Photos are taken professionally and can be purchased at an additional cost, which some find expensive. Non-alcoholic beverages are included with snacks, but alcohol is not. The beach access is brief, so plan your time accordingly.

Whether you’re drawn by the charm of riding a camel, want scenic photos, or simply seek an authentic adventure, this Riviera Maya tour offers a memorable, well-organized experience. Just remember to budget for extras, confirm pickup details, and bring your sense of adventure.