Gran Canaria: Camel Ride Safari w/ Optional Food & Transport

Planning a trip to Gran Canaria and looking for a unique experience that combines scenic views, friendly animals, and a touch of local culture? The Camel Safari Park in La Baranda offers just that—a half-day adventure into the island’s natural beauty, centered around a one-hour camel ride through the Oasis of the 1,000 Palms. With a solid 4.2-star rating based on over a thousand reviews, this tour is praised for its friendly guides, stunning scenery, and great value, though it’s worth noting that the area can feel quite touristy and is exposed to the sun.

What we really love about this experience is how it mixes fun with authenticity. You get to interact with the camels, explore lush tropical gardens, and see farm animals in a peaceful setting—plus, the option to enjoy freshly made tapas. On the flip side, some might find the ride a bit short or the environment a tad commercialized. Overall, it’s ideal for families, animal lovers, or anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic escape from the more crowded tourist spots.

Key Points

• Authentic Scenic Experience: Ride through a 300-year-old oasis surrounded by palms and lush gardens.
• Family-Friendly: Great for kids and adults alike, with animal interactions and scenic views.
• Good Value: The combination of camel riding, garden exploration, and optional food is reasonably priced at $48.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Reviewers highlight friendly staff who share interesting facts.
• Optional Extras: You can include a tapas meal and hotel transportation for added convenience.
• Tour Duration & Flexibility: Approximate 3-4 hours with flexible start times and a cancellation policy allowing full refund if booked in advance.

Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour starts with your pickup from your hotel in Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Meloneras, San Agustín, or Bahia Feliz—if you opt for the transport option. This shared transfer is well-reviewed, with Javier, the driver, earning praise for his friendliness and punctuality, making the morning or afternoon seamless. The drive over the mountains offers some beautiful views of Gran Canaria’s varied landscape, setting a relaxed tone for the day.

At the Camel Safari Park in La Baranda, the real highlight begins. The guides—who speak multiple languages including Spanish, English, and German—lead you on a guided tour of the grounds, explaining the history of the oasis and the care of the animals. This walk through the tropical gardens is more than just pretty scenery; it’s an opportunity to learn about local fruit trees like papaya, mango, and guava, which are cultivated on-site.

The Camel Ride

The centerpiece is a 60-minute camel ride through the lush oasis, which was built over 300 years ago. You’ll find yourself riding a gentle, well-cared-for camel while taking in views of palms and natural beauty. Reviewers like Toni and Geraldine emphasize how the camels are well looked after and respond calmly to guides, making the experience pleasurable even for first-timers.

Some reviews, such as Marta’s, point out that the ride duration is just right—”even giving us more time to observe animals and chat.” The ride is relatively short, but it offers a genuine chance to connect with these gentle animals and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Animal Interactions & Gardens

Beyond riding, you’ll get to visit and feed farm animals—including donkeys, goats, and even some baby camels. The setting, covering about 10,000 square meters, is described as peaceful and well-maintained. Visitors love the chance to feed and interact with animals like parrots, donkeys, and chickens, which adds a fun, hands-on element. One reviewer even mentions the “funny parrot that meows,” highlighting the friendly, relaxed atmosphere.

The tropical gardens are full of fruit trees and colorful flowers, providing a scenic backdrop for photos and quiet moments. The guides often share insights about the local flora, adding a layer of educational value to the experience.

The Optional Tapas & Museum Visit

If you choose the food option, the tour concludes with a delicious tapas lunch in a museum-like setting, featuring displays of antique farm tools. The food, sourced locally, receives glowing reviews—many travelers say it’s a light, tasty meal perfect for the warm weather. Dishes typically include chicken paella, cheeses, olives, and potatoes, complemented by drinks. Reviewers like Karolina and Tegan mention how the food surpasses expectations and offers great value.

The museum setting adds an atmospheric touch, giving you a glimpse into traditional Canary Islands farming life and customs.

Practical Info & Considerations

• The tour lasts around 3 hours if you go without the food option, or longer if you add the meal.
• The cost is $48 per person, which many reviewers agree is reasonable for the experience delivered.
• The tour can be booked with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers.
• Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking in gardens and on uneven terrain.
• The environment is quite exposed to the sun, so wear light clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or travelers over 275 lbs, to ensure safety and animal welfare.

What We Loved & Noticed from Reviews

Many guests praise the knowledgeable guides, especially for their friendly attitude and ability to share interesting facts in multiple languages. The scenery is consistently described as stunning, with some reviews mentioning the “beautiful and peaceful” atmosphere.

Foodies and families alike have enjoyed the local, homemade-style tapas, which many describe as fresh and tasty—highlighting the ingredients sourced from the same reserve. The value for money is a recurrent theme, with travelers feeling they got a lot of engaging, scenic, and tasty experiences for the price.

However, a few reviews mention that the area can feel quite touristy, and there’s some pressure to buy extra food or souvenirs. Also, the ride, while fun, is relatively short, so don’t expect a lengthy trek—more of a scenic, relaxed ride.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families with children, animal lovers, or anyone seeking a gentle, scenic outdoor activity. If you’re after a quick cultural escape with a dash of adventure, this offers good value and a pleasant atmosphere. It’s also suited for travelers who appreciate local food, as the tapas are homemade and sourced locally.

If you’re looking for a full-day or more adventurous experience, this might be a bit light. But if you value relaxation, excellent guides, and stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQs

Is the camel ride suitable for children?
Yes, most reviewers say children enjoy the ride, especially since the camels are gentle and well cared for. Always check the specific age restrictions with the tour provider.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and light clothing in summer or warmer clothes in winter. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you select the option, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included. The drivers are praised for their friendliness and punctuality.

How long does the entire tour last?
Typically about 3 hours, but it can extend if you add the tapas meal and extra time exploring the gardens and animals.

Can I buy photos or videos during the tour?
Photos and videos are not included in the standard package. Some reviews mention that the prices for photos are reasonable, though many guests prefer to bring their own cameras.

Is the environment touristy?
Some reviews note that the area can feel quite tourist-focused, with some pressure to buy souvenirs or extra products, but the experience itself remains authentic and enjoyable.

Are the animals well cared for?
Yes, multiple reviews highlight that the animals, including camels, are well looked after and relaxed.

Can I feed the animals?
Yes, feeding is available and is part of the experience, though some reviews mention there is a charge for feeding camels and donkeys.

Final Word

This Camel Safari experience in Gran Canaria offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, animal interaction, and local culture—all at a reasonable price. The guides’ friendly demeanor, the lush gardens, and the chance to ride a camel through a historic oasis make it a memorable outing. The optional tapas adds a delicious, authentic touch, perfect for those looking to enjoy local flavors in a relaxed environment.

While the experience is on the touristy side and the ride itself isn’t overly lengthy, it provides an authentic taste of Canary Islands life and landscape in a way that feels genuine and welcoming. It’s ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a laid-back, scenic, and educational activity that captures the essence of the island’s rural charm.

If you’re after a light, scenic day with friendly guides and tasty local food, this tour hits the right notes. Just be prepared for the sun and a bit of a touristy vibe, and you’ll likely leave with plenty of memorable moments and some great photos.