Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and drinks

Exploring the Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and Drinks: An Authentic Canary Island Experience

This tour offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation in one of Gran Canaria’s most breathtaking landscapes. It combines a camel ride through the lush, palm-filled Fataga Valley with a taste of local cuisine, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a mix of nature and cultural flavor. With a solid 4.5-star rating from 20 reviews, the experience seems well-loved but still has room for small improvements.

What we particularly like about this trip is how it allows you to get up close and personal with the scenery — especially during the camel trek, where you’ll traverse the impressive Valley of the One Thousand Palms. The highlight for many is the knowledgeable guides who make the ride both informative and fun. However, a possible consideration is that the experience is not lengthy — around 4 hours — which might feel a bit short for travelers longing for an all-day adventure.

This tour suits travelers looking for a lighthearted, family-friendly activity that combines scenic views, animal encounters, and tasty local food. It’s also great for those who want a taste of authentic Gran Canaria away from the crowded beaches, with the added bonus of a fun camel-driving license for all participants.

Key Points

• Authentic camel riding experience through the stunning Fataga Valley
• Delicious Canarian tapas lunch included, with drinks
• Beautiful scenery of palm groves and tropical gardens
• Knowledgeable guides enhance storytelling and safety
• Family-friendly activity with options for children, including free entry under 4
• Good value for the price, considering the scenic ride, food, and guided tour

A Deep Dive into the Camel Ride in Fataga Experience

The Setting: Fataga Nature Reserve and the Valley of the One Thousand Palms

Starting at the Camel Safari Park near Fataga, you’re immediately immersed in some of the most striking natural landscapes Gran Canaria has to offer. The Fataga Nature Reserve is famous for its dramatic mountains and lush green palm groves that have stood for over 300 years. The valley’s tropical gardens are filled with fruit trees—papayas, mangoes, guavas—and are home to a variety of farm animals, creating a peaceful, almost oasis-like atmosphere.

Travelers like Ronald B. mentioned that the scenery is “not to be missed,” emphasizing the sheer visual impact of the landscape. The park’s setting—surrounded by rugged mountains and expansive palms—is a reminder of the island’s diverse geography, far from the typical beach scene.

The Camel Ride: What to Expect and Why It’s Special

The core of the tour is a one-hour camel ride that transports you through this lush valley. One of the standout features is that all clients are given a license to drive camels and dromedaries, which adds a fun, interactive element. Whether you’re a first-timer or somewhat experienced with animals, guides like “Don Gustavo” ensure the ride is smooth and enjoyable. According to reviews, guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and bilingual, making it accessible for international visitors.

Guests have described the ride as “expertly guided” and “not just a touristy thing” — it is genuinely scenic and offers fantastic photo opportunities. The ride takes you through a massive canyon, with views of Pico de Nieve (the highest peak on the island), and some reviewers like Jon H. appreciated the local guides’ ability to point out caves and interesting features along the way.

While camel rides are often considered tourist clichés, this tour elevates the experience with the stunning backdrop of the valley and the chance to approach the camels up close. You can even feed them, which is a favorite for kids and animal lovers alike.

The Guide and Animal Encounters: Personal Touches Matter

Reviews frequently mention the friendly and accommodating guides, who go beyond just safety instructions. For instance, a reviewer praised Anita, who went “above and beyond,” even making a birthday cake for a friend. Such personal touches create a memorable atmosphere, making the experience more than just a ride.

You’ll also meet “Don Gustavo,” the “kissing camel,” who affectionately shows his love—adding a humorous and heartwarming moment to your outing. The park’s animal care standards seem good, with visitors noting that other animals, such as donkeys, peacocks, and parrots, are well looked after.

Tropical Gardens & Animal Show: More Than Just a Ride

After the camel ride, guests can explore the tropical gardens on a guided walk. These gardens, covering around 10,000 square meters, are filled with fruit trees and various farm animals. While some reviews suggest that certain parts, like the botanical aspect, might be less extensive than expected, the overall experience is relaxed and picturesque.

There’s also a camel show where you see the animals in action, adding entertainment and educational value.

The Lunch: Authentic Canarian Tapas and Drinks

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the lunch. The restaurant within the park is decorated with old Canarian farm implements, creating a cozy, rustic atmosphere. The Canarian tapas are described as “fantastic,” and reviewers consistently highlight the quality and flavor of the food.

Included in the price, the tapas platter typically features local specialties, paired with drinks—often a refreshing beer, wine, or soft drink. Several reviewers, like Joanna H., appreciated the staff’s attentiveness, with one even mentioning a surprise birthday cake and party hats, showing the friendly, personal approach.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At $56.97 per person, when you factor in the scenic camel ride, guided tour, animal encounters, and a hearty tapas lunch, the experience is quite good value. It’s a shorter excursion—about 4 hours total—but full of memorable moments. The reviews indicate that most guests feel they get their money’s worth, especially considering the unique opportunity to drive camels and the quality of the food.

However, some might find the experience a bit limited in duration, or feel that certain parts, like the botanical walk, are not as expansive as they might wish. Still, the overall package offers a well-rounded taste of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and culture.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour departs at 11:00 am from the Camel Safari Park, near Fataga. It’s suitable for most travelers, with a maximum weight limit of 120 kg and recommended for those without back problems. Children under 4 can join for free, making it family-friendly.

Since it’s near public transportation (bus number 18 stops nearby), it’s accessible for those not renting a car. The tour has a small group size limit of 15, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for families, animal lovers, and those curious about local culture. If you want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of fun animal interaction, this is a solid choice. It also appeals to travelers who value authentic food experiences and don’t mind a shorter, more relaxed outing rather than a full-day adventure.

It’s ideal for those who appreciate guided tours with friendly, bilingual staff that enhance the experience with local insights. Also, if you’re looking for something different from the usual beach or city activities, this tour offers a peaceful retreat into Gran Canaria’s natural environments.

Final Thoughts

The Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and Drinks offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Gran Canaria. The scenic ride, friendly guides, and delicious local cuisine combine to create a memorable outing at a reasonable price. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a gentle adventure with cultural and natural highlights, combined with the chance to feed and drive camels.

While it might not satisfy those craving an all-day or adrenaline-packed experience, it makes up for that with its laid-back charm and beautiful scenery. The reviews consistently praise the value and personal touches—like the birthday cake and attentive staff—that turn a simple ride into a special memory.

If you’re after a relaxing, family-friendly activity that highlights the island’s natural beauty and local flavors, this tour is a lovely choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, specifically the Camel Safari Park on the road to Fataga at km 12.

Can children participate?
Yes, children under 4 are free, but all children must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with back problems should consider their suitability.

How long is the camel ride?
The ride lasts approximately 1 hour, giving enough time to enjoy the scenery and interact with the camels without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
You get the camel ride, a guided tour of the tropical garden, a camel show, and a traditional Canarian tapas lunch with drinks.

Is the experience suitable for people with weight limits?
Yes, the maximum weight per rider is 120 kg, making it accessible for most.

Are the animals well cared for?
Based on reviews, the camels and other animals are well looked after, and the staff are friendly and attentive.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera are recommended. Some reviews mention that the tour can be quite relaxing, so bring a good mood and enjoy the scenery.

To sum it up, this tour offers a delightful mix of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty at a fair price. Whether you’re a family seeking a memorable outing or a solo traveler eager to see a different side of Gran Canaria, it’s worth considering for a relaxed, engaging day out.