Camel Safari through the Dunes of Maspalomas

If you’re dreaming of an authentic, memorable experience on Gran Canaria, a camel safari through the Maspalomas dunes might just be the highlight you’re looking for. This 30-minute ride offers a chance to explore the iconic sand dunes from a whole new perspective — on the back of a gentle, trained camel. With a moderate price point and a tour led by official Saharawi guides, it’s a unique activity that promises both scenic views and a touch of adventure.

What we love about this tour is how it combines a scenic ride with insightful commentary about the region, making it more than just a fun activity — it’s an educational experience too. That said, it’s not without its quirks, such as the potential for long wait times or concerns over the comfort of the camels. Still, for those seeking a taste of desert life and a photo-worthy moment, this safari offers real value.

This experience suits families, couples, and anyone curious about Gran Canaria’s iconic landscape. If you’re after a relaxing ride with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to learn about the local environment, it’s worth considering. Just be prepared for some waiting if you go during peak times, and remember that your comfort on the camel might be limited if you weigh over 100 kg.

Key Points

• Authentic Desert Experience: A chance to see the famous Maspalomas dunes from a different angle.
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with a relaxed pace and scenic views.
• Guided by Experts: Led by official Saharawi guides who provide insight into the region’s history and ecology.
• Moderate Duration & Price: 30-minute ride at around $21.34, offering good value for a memorable experience.
• Limited Comfort for Heavier Riders: Passengers over 100 kg may not be able to participate for the comfort of the camels.
• Best Time to Go: Arriving early, between 9 am and 11 am, helps avoid long queues.

An In-Depth Look at the Camel Safari Experience

The Setting: Maspalomas Dunes

The Maspalomas dunes are among Gran Canaria’s most recognizable natural landmarks, with sweeping, golden sands stretching across the landscape. This tour starts at the Camel Safari dromedary station, conveniently located at C. Oceanía in Las Palmas. The dunes themselves are a striking contrast to the lush greenery of much of the island, giving visitors a chance to see a different side of Gran Canaria — a vast, sandy desert that feels worlds apart from the coastal resorts.

What to Expect at the Meeting Point

The activity kicks off early in the morning, with most travelers arriving between 9 am and 11 am to avoid crowds and long waits. Tour operators recommend arriving at this time to maximize your experience. The meeting point is close to public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers. Expect to see a lineup of camels patiently waiting, each with their own personality, as noted by reviewers who fondly named their camels — one called Daniel, for example.

The Camel Ride: What’s It Like?

Once your turn comes, you’ll climb onto a specially-made, comfortable seat mounted on the camel. The ride itself lasts about 30 minutes, with each camel accommodating two riders comfortably. The pace is slow and steady, perfect for taking in the scenery and snapping photos.

According to reviews, the camels are well cared for, with many travelers commenting on how “the camels were in good condition,” and guides taking pride in animal welfare. Some reviewers, however, expressed concern about the harnesses — handmade rope and metal muzzles — which may look a bit rough compared to those used in horseback riding, and could be uncomfortable for the animals. The guides are generally trained and knowledgeable, ready to answer questions about the desert landscape and the camels themselves.

The Scenic Highlights

During the ride, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the dunes, a landscape characterized by rolling sand hills and sparse vegetation. Reviewers have described the experience as “peaceful,” with some mentioning how “the sand dunes were beautiful” and “the silence and vastness made it truly special.” Many guests appreciated the chance to see “a totally different side of Gran Canaria,” away from the crowded beaches and tourist hotspots.

Learning & Guides

Guided by official Saharawi guides, the tour offers more than just sightseeing. These guides share stories about the region’s history and the importance of camels to local culture. Several reviewers highlighted how the guides were “friendly and helpful,” providing useful insights, which added depth to the experience — especially for those unfamiliar with desert life.

Photo Opportunities

A small additional highlight is the option to purchase photos of your ride, often for about €5, which many visitors found worthwhile. As one reviewer put it, “Our camel was called Daniel, and we got a lovely photo for only 5 euros.” These snapshots serve as a nice souvenir of a distinctive experience.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Cost & Value

At approximately $21.34 per person, the price for this tour is quite reasonable given the scenic value and the opportunity to do something different. The ticket includes the admission fee, insurance, and the ride itself. When considering the cost, think of it as an affordable way to experience a major natural attraction with a bit of fun thrown in.

Duration & Group Size

The ride lasts around 30 minutes — a length that feels just right for most people, providing a good balance between enjoying the scenery and avoiding fatigue or boredom. The maximum group size is about 90 travelers, which means it’s a fairly well-organized activity, but during peak times, expect some waiting.

Timing & Tips

Booking online in advance is recommended to secure your spot and avoid wasting time in queues. Arriving early, between 9 am and 11 am, is advised because wait times can extend up to an hour or more, based on reviews. Also, keep in mind that passengers over 100 kg are not allowed to ride for the sake of the camels’ comfort.

Weather & Comfort

Since the activity runs from May to July, and possibly into early September, be prepared for the heat — many reviewers mentioned how hot it can get, with some suggesting bringing sunscreen. A hat, sunglasses, and water are good ideas, especially since the ride is in the open dunes with little shade.

Accessibility & Considerations

The activity is suitable for most people, but if you have mobility issues or are traveling with very young children, check with the provider beforehand. The ride involves mounting a camel, which might not be suitable for everyone.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

Many visitors are delighted with the scenic views and the friendly guides. One reviewer called the experience “amazing” and appreciated how well the camels were cared for, describing it as “a lovely time.” Others, however, voiced frustrations about long wait times — sometimes up to 1.5 hours — and the guide who “spent the entire time on his phone,” which dampened the experience for some.

Notably, concerns about animal welfare were raised by a few visitors who observed the harnesses and markings on the camels’ legs. While most reviews praise the animals’ condition, it’s worth being mindful of these comments and perhaps doing a little extra research if animal welfare is a priority.

Family & Kid Friendly

This tour is ideal for families with children, especially since it offers a gentle ride and the chance for kids to learn about camels and desert terrain. Several reviewers mentioned how the experience was “super fun” for children, with some even learning the names of the camels.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a unique, scenic adventure that combines gentle riding with cultural and natural insights, the Maspalomas camel safari offers a worthwhile experience. It’s especially well-suited for those who enjoy relaxed outdoor activities, photography, and learning about local landscapes. While there are some points to consider — including potential wait times and the comfort of the animals — overall, it provides a memorable glimpse into Gran Canaria’s iconic desert environment.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable activity that fits into a morning or early afternoon schedule, this tour hits the right notes. It’s a great way to add a different dimension to your island trip, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to slow down and enjoy the silence of the dunes.

FAQs

Is the camel ride suitable for children?
Yes, the ride is generally suitable for all ages, making it a great activity for families. Just note that the ride lasts about 30 minutes, which is manageable for most children.

How long does the ride last?
The actual camel ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, giving you enough time to enjoy the scenery without it feeling overly long.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs around $21.34 per person, which includes all fees, taxes, and insurance — a fair price for a scenic activity with cultural insights.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and water, especially if you’re visiting during warmer months, as the activity is outdoors in open dunes.

Can I buy photos of my ride?
Yes, photos are available for purchase, typically about 5 euros, and many guests find this makes a good memento.

What time should I arrive?
Arrive between 9 am and 11 am to avoid long queues. Early booking online is highly recommended.

Are the camels well cared for?
Most reviews say yes — the camels appear to be in good condition, though some visitors have raised concerns about the harnesses.

What if I weigh more than 100 kg?
Passengers over 100 kg are not able to ride for the comfort and safety of the camel.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
The data provided does not specify accessibility options, so check with the provider in advance if needed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour runs from May to July and into early September, but if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

The Maspalomas camel safari offers a charming, scenic, and affordable way to see one of Gran Canaria’s most iconic landscapes. Whether you’re a couple looking for a romantic photo op or a family searching for a fun outdoor activity, it delivers a genuinely different perspective of the island’s natural beauty.