ENJOY UNIQUE CAMEL RIDE in Puerto Morelos with Transportation

If you’re considering adding a bit of adventure to your Riviera Maya trip, the Camel Ride in Puerto Morelos might catch your eye. This tour promises a unique chance to saddle up and explore the jungle, sand dunes, and beaches on the back of a gentle camel. We’ve reviewed the details, the pros, and the cons so you can decide if this experience fits your travel style.

What we like most about this adventure is the scenic combination of jungle and beach views — it’s not every day you get to ride a camel on the sands of Mexico. Plus, the included round-trip transportation makes the whole process simple and stress-free, especially if you’re staying at a hotel away from the activity site.

However, a noteworthy consideration is the price — at $165 per person, it’s not exactly a bargain, especially when some reviewers mention pricey photo packages and long waits. While it’s a fun, unique activity, it’s probably best suited for those who really want to try something different and are okay with the small inconveniences that might come along.

This tour is a good pick for travelers looking for a memorable, Instagram-worthy experience that combines cultural charm with the natural beauty of the coast. If you’re traveling with family or friends who love animals or are seeking a fun photo op, it could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Unique experience riding camels along the beach and through jungle scenery
• All-inclusive transport from select hotels simplifies logistics
• Professional photography available, but at an extra cost
• Guided tour with safety gear and helpful commentary
• Duration is around 2.5 hours, with the actual ride lasting about 45 minutes
• Age restrictions apply, with minimums for participation and handling testing

A Closer Look at the Tour

The experience kicks off with pickup from your hotel or a meeting point in Cancun, using sanitized vans — a small but appreciated detail in today’s travel climate. The ride to El Dorado Maroma, the exclusive beach club, takes roughly an hour, but the anticipation of what’s to come helps pass the time.

Once you arrive, check-in is straightforward, and you’re introduced to the camel guides. They perform a quick safety briefing, which is crucial because riding a camel is a bit different from other common excursions. They also provide safety helmets, which is reassuring, especially for first-timers.

The Camel Caravan

The 45-minute guided camel ride is the main event. As you start, you’ll notice the camels are gentle and well cared for, according to many reviews. They can reach over 6 feet tall, offering an impressive vantage point over the surrounding rainforest and beach. The guides will lead you through a scenic route, allowing you to take in the sights of lush greenery and sparkling ocean waves.

During the ride, you’ll get a chance to feed the camels, which many guests find charming. This hands-on element really helps you connect with these towering animals, making the experience more personal.

The Beach Stop & Photos

Arriving at the beach, the scenery transforms into a picture-perfect backdrop — shimmering sand and blue water. Here, professional photographers are on hand to capture the moment, which many reviewers say is a highlight. But be forewarned, the photos aren’t cheap — typically around $50 per picture or more for full packages. Some travelers find this quite pricey, especially if they’re not interested in souvenirs.

Additional Activities & Facilities

Once the ride concludes, you’re given access to the beach club facilities, including snacks, bottled water, and the opportunity to relax or explore on your own. There’s a small restaurant where you might find some simple snacks and drinks, but notable is the lack of free or included food and drinks beyond what’s offered during the tour.

What’s Not Included

The tour covers transportation, safety gear, and the ride itself, but extras like food, additional photos, lockers, and tips are paid separately. Some guests have expressed frustration about the cost of photos and the lack of transparency beforehand, so keep that in mind if you’re budgeting.

How Do Travelers Feel About It?

Based on reviews, opinions vary. Many folks absolutely loved the experience — the guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, and the scenery is praised as stunning. For instance, one traveler said, “The guides were very friendly and the camels were very well taken care of,” while others highlighted the unique opportunity to ride camels on the beach.

There are some less enthusiastic reviews, mainly about the long wait times (up to an hour in some cases), and the pricey photo packages. One reviewer mentioned waiting an hour with no one showing up — a frustrating experience that highlights the importance of confirming your arrangements beforehand.

A few travelers felt the tour duration was a bit short for the price, with some describing it as more of a 45-minute ride rather than the full 2.5 hours advertised, since the actual camel riding is about 45 minutes, with some additional instructions and waiting times.

Family & Safety Considerations

The tour requires participants to be at least 8 years old and able to handle the camel independently (minimum age 16 for riding solo after a handling test). Given the safety gear and supervision, it’s generally suitable for kids in that age range, but it’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with recent surgeries or back issues.

The Practical Details

The cost of $165 per person can seem steep at first glance, but when you include the transportation, the guided experience, and the facility access, it’s arguably reasonable for a half-day adventure. The round-trip transfers are a major plus, removing the hassle of figuring out how to reach the site yourself.

The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, but keep in mind that the actual camel ride is about 45 minutes — the rest of the time is for transportation, briefing, and photo stops. It’s important to set expectations accordingly.

Timing & Booking

Since this activity is popular, it’s best to book about a month in advance, especially if you’re traveling in peak season. Confirm your pickup details beforehand, as some users have experienced delays or miscommunications about where to meet.

What About the Weather?

The tour is weather-dependent, with poor weather potentially leading to cancellations or rescheduling. If the weather turns bad, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, which is reassuring.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This camel tour offers a rare chance to combine animal interaction, scenic views, and a bit of adventure — all conveniently organized with transportation and guides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a memorable photo experience or simply to try something different from the usual beach or city tour.

However, the costs can add up with extras like photos, and some guests report long waits or logistical hiccups. If you’re on a tight budget or expecting a long, immersive experience, you might find it a bit overpriced. But if you’re after a fun, unique adventure and don’t mind paying a premium for convenience and photos, it’s likely to be a highlight.

This tour suits adventurous travelers who enjoy animals, scenic rides, and don’t mind spending a little extra for the added touches of professionalism and photo opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers are part of the package. Your pickup is arranged from select hotels, making it easy to get there without extra hassle.

How long is the camel ride?
The actual guided camel caravan lasts about 45 minutes, with the total activity around 2.5 hours including transportation, briefing, and photo stops.

What’s the minimum age to participate?
Children must be at least 8 years old to ride on their own. Minors aged 6-15 can participate but must do so on a shared basis with a paying adult.

Are the camels well cared for?
Based on reviews, the camels are described as gentle and well cared for. Guides and staff seem attentive to animal welfare.

Can I take my own photos?
Using phones or devices during the ride isn’t allowed, but professional photographers are available to take pictures. These can be pricey, so decide if you want the convenience or prefer to skip the extras.

What about the weather?
The activity requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Is it suitable for large groups or families?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 3 travelers, making it a more intimate experience. It’s suitable for families with older children, provided they meet the age and safety requirements.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and closed-toe shoes are recommended. A safety helmet is provided, but bring sun protection and perhaps a hat for the beach segment.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

In the end, this tour offers a fun, photogenic experience in a stunning setting, with a handful of logistical quirks. It’s likely to be a memorable part of your trip — just set your expectations for the cost and the time involved. Happy riding!