Las Vegas: Desert Camel Ride

Las Vegas: Desert Camel Ride – An Honest Look at a Unique Outing

Traveling to Las Vegas usually means bright lights, bustling casinos, and endless entertainment. But if you’re craving a break from the neon glow and want a more laid-back adventure, the Desert Camel Ride at the Camel Safari Zoo might be just the thing. We haven’t tried it ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a genuinely charming way to spend a couple of hours outside the city.

What really appeals to us about this experience is how it combines animal interaction with scenic desert views—it’s the kind of activity that offers a refreshing change of pace. Plus, the fact that it includes not just a camel ride but also a safari tram and encounters with exotic animals makes it more than just a quick trek across the dunes.

One consideration to keep in mind is the location—it’s about an hour north of Las Vegas, so it’s not right in the city. If you’re expecting a hassle-free, all-in-one experience without extra planning or transportation, this might require some prior arrangements. However, for those who want a quieter, more nature-oriented outing, it’s worth the trip. It’s particularly suited for families, animal lovers, or anyone curious about desert wildlife and landscapes.

If you’re after a memorable, educational experience that’s different from the usual Vegas day trips, this tour could fit perfectly into your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Unique setting: Located just outside Las Vegas, offering a peaceful escape from the Strip’s hustle.
• Animal interactions: Besides riding camels, you can feed llamas and alpacas, and meet exotic animals.
• Scenic views: Traverse sandy trails with the Virgin Mountains in the background.
• All-in-one experience: Includes a camel ride, tram safari, and zoo tour, making it a well-rounded outing.
• Group size: Limited to 6 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Cost: Around $149 per person, which offers good value considering the variety of activities.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The tour kicks off at the Camel Safari Zoo, which is about an hour’s drive from Las Vegas. The drive alone can be a nice little prelude, giving you a chance to enjoy Nevada’s desert scenery before arriving at this surprisingly expansive 176-acre property. Once there, the highlight is definitely the camel ride—a leisurely trek across sandy trails. You’ll be guided by experienced handlers who make sure you’re comfortable and safe, and they’re usually quite friendly and knowledgeable, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

During the ride, you’ll get sweeping views of the Virgin Mountains—a backdrop that makes the whole experience feel more authentic and rugged than most Vegas excursions. The ride typically lasts long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, and you might find yourself surprised at how peaceful it is to be atop a camel, moving slowly through the desert landscape.

What’s great about the tour is that it’s more than just riding animals. Once off the camels, you can hop onto a safari tram for a ride around the property, giving you a broader look at the zoo and its exotic inhabitants. The zoo tour offers opportunities for animal photo-ops, and you can feed llamas and alpacas, which is always a hit—especially if you’re traveling with animal lovers or kids.

A noteworthy aspect is the opportunity to meet exotic animals guided by a zookeeper. This hands-on approach makes the experience educational as well as fun. The friendly staff and guides add a layer of authenticity and help ensure everyone, from first-timers to seasoned animal enthusiasts, feels engaged.

The Practical Side

The tour is designed to be about 2 hours long, often scheduled in the morning, which fits well into most trip plans. The small group limit of six people means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd and more likely to get personalized attention. The cost of $149 per person is fair considering the diverse activities involved—especially since it includes multiple attractions (camel ride, tram, zoo, animal encounters).

However, note that transfers from Las Vegas are not included, so you’ll want to plan your transportation. The meeting point is straightforward: just follow Exit 112 towards Bunkerville, then head west on Foster Lane, which is a gravel/dirt road. The signs can be a bit tricky if windy or if the sign has blown down, so it’s a good idea to arrive a little early or have GPS ready.

What’s It Like for Different Travelers?

If you’re someone who loves animals and scenic outdoor activities, this tour hits the right notes. The reviews reflect that, with one happy visitor noting, “My 20-year-old grandson and I really enjoyed our day. We left quite surprised by how much fun it was. If you love animals, it’s definitely worth the trip.” That kind of genuine enthusiasm suggests you’re in for a relaxed, engaging time.

It’s also a solid choice for those seeking a family-friendly activity, especially since there’s no age restriction for older kids, though it’s not suitable for very young children under five or pregnant women. The limited group size and guided nature make it more manageable for different ages and comfort levels.

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Final Thoughts

The Las Vegas Desert Camel Ride offers a chance to step outside the bright city lights and discover a quieter side of Nevada’s desert environment. The combination of animal interaction, scenic trail riding, and zoo encounters makes it a well-rounded outing that caters to animal lovers and curious travelers alike.

Given the positive reviews and the clear focus on safety, education, and enjoyment, this experience is quite a good deal for the price. It’s especially appealing if you’re after something different from the usual Vegas activities—something more relaxed, more natural, and with a chance for real animal contact.

While the drive and logistics require some planning, the overall experience seems worth it for those wanting a memorable desert adventure. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views are likely to leave a lasting impression, particularly for travelers wanting to combine a bit of wildlife with scenic vistas.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 5 years old, but older kids will probably enjoy the animal encounters and scenic ride. Always check with the provider for specific age recommendations.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 2 hours, typically in the morning, making it easy to slot into a full day of exploring or relaxing in Vegas.

Are transfers from Las Vegas included?
No, transportation is not included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to the meeting point outside Bunkerville.

What should I wear?
Dress in clothes that can get dirty, and bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes. Sandals, flip-flops, or high heels are not allowed for safety reasons.

Is the camel ride safe?
Yes, guided by experienced handlers, the camel ride is designed to be safe for participants, with weight limits (250 lbs per camel) to ensure comfort and safety.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

If you’re looking for a different, more relaxed adventure during your Vegas trip—something that combines wildlife, scenic views, and a touch of adventure—this camel ride at Camel Safari might be a neat choice. It’s a chance to see Nevada’s landscape from a new perspective and enjoy some animal encounters that aren’t typical in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: