Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and drinks

If you’re thinking about adding a bit of adventure and local flavor to your trip to Gran Canaria, the Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and Drinks is worth considering. We’ve seen this tour praised for its scenic views, friendly staff, and tasty food — perfect for travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience.

What really draws people in are two standout aspects: the stunning landscape of Fataga’s palm groves, and the opportunity to get close to and even drive camels — a fun twist not often offered at similar excursions. On the flip side, some mention that the experience doesn’t quite hit four hours, and parts of the park feel a bit commercialized, with extra costs for some activities.

This tour feels best suited for those who want a mix of nature, a bit of adventure, and some good Canarian cuisine. If you’re traveling with family or simply love unique photo opportunities, you’ll find plenty here to enjoy. It’s not a hardcore adventure, but it’s a charming way to spend a few hours exploring the island’s lesser-known side.

Key Points

• Stunning views of the Fataga Nature Reserve and palm groves make this a photo-friendly outing.
• The camel ride is immersive and delivers a fun, memorable experience.
• You’ll get to drive camels — a highlight for many travelers.
• The tapas lunch is authentic and well-loved, adding value to the tour.
• Small group sizes (max 15 people) ensure a personalized feel.
• It’s a relaxed, family-friendly outing, though some reviews suggest the overall duration may feel shorter than advertised.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from This Tour

This experience kicks off at the Camel Safari Park near Fataga at 11 a.m., giving you the chance to start your day with fresh and scenic surroundings. The park itself isn’t just about camels; it’s a lively spot with a tropical garden and farm animals, creating a laid-back, farmyard atmosphere.

The highlight, of course, is the camel ride through the Valley of the One Thousand Palms. Imagine walking or riding through a landscape that feels like you’ve slipped into a different world — tall palms, lush greenery, and impressive views of the surrounding mountains. The ride lasts approximately an hour, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and snap photos.

What’s special here is that everyone receives a license to drive camels and dromedaries, making this more than just a guided walk — it’s an interactive experience. As several reviews mention, the guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and bilingual, which helps make the experience accessible and enjoyable.

The Landscape of Fataga: Why It’s Worth the Trip

Gran Canaria’s Fataga Nature Reserve is famous for its dramatic mountain scenery and lush palm groves. During the ride, you’ll get a good sense of this landscape — a stark contrast to the island’s beaches and urban areas.

Travelers have shared that the views of Pico de Nieve and the surrounding valleys are breathtaking. We loved the way the landscape looks almost untouched, with the palms over 300 years old standing as silent witnesses to history. As one reviewer said, it’s a “trip into a place full of charm and richness”, and you’ll definitely feel like you’re in a different world.

The ride through the valley offers a different perspective on Gran Canaria’s geography. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy the quiet, and really soak in the scenery with minimal crowding. The guides often point out caves and other natural features, enriching the experience with local knowledge.

The Animal Encounters and Park Highlights

Beyond the camels, the park has a variety of farm animals you can approach and feed, adding to the family-friendly, relaxed vibe. You might meet “Don Gustavo,” the kissing camel, who’s well known for showing affection — a fun, memorable moment for kids and adults alike.

The park also hosts a camel show, which is quite entertaining and adds an extra layer of interaction. Visitors have appreciated how well the animals are looked after, and the park’s overall atmosphere is one of gentle care and natural charm.

Several reviews praise the staff for their friendliness and willingness to go above and beyond. One helpful tip from a recent visitor was that the park is easy to reach from Maspalomas via bus (bus number 18), so transportation logistics are straightforward.

The Tapas and Lunch Experience

After the camel ride, you’ll settle into the park’s restaurant, decorated authentically with old Canarian farm tools. The food here is a real highlight — local tapas served with drinks, offering a taste of the island’s culinary traditions.

Many guests describe the tapas as “fantastic”, “delicious”, and a perfect way to relax after the ride. The included drinks complement the meal nicely, and reviews mention that the staff is attentive and friendly. One guest even shared that the staff went out of their way to celebrate a birthday with cake and party hats — small gestures that make the experience feel personal.

While some reviews note that the experience duration feels shorter than four hours, the actual time spent on the park, ride, and lunch adds up to a satisfying outing. It’s more about the quality of the experience rather than ticking off a long itinerary.

The Value for Money

At around $57 per person, the tour offers a decent deal when you consider the inclusion of an hour-long camel ride, a guided tour, a camel show, and a traditional lunch. Reviewers frequently mention that they felt the experience was good value for what you get.

It’s not a cheap thrill, but it’s certainly more affordable than many other Gran Canaria excursions that focus solely on beaches or nightlife. For those interested in nature, animals, and local food, this tour provides a well-rounded taste of the island’s charm.

Practicalities and Tips

• Booking is straightforward, and you get a mobile ticket, which saves hassle.
• The tour starts promptly at 11 a.m., so plan to arrive a little earlier.
• Children under 4 are free, but all kids must be accompanied by an adult.
• The maximum weight for riders is 120 kg — keep that in mind if you or your travel companions are on the heavier side.
• The activity isn’t recommended for people with back problems.
• The tour is limited to about 15 travelers, which means a friendly, engaged group experience.
• Weather can impact the tour; it’s canceled in poor conditions, but you’ll get a full refund or a chance to reschedule.

What Some Travelers Say

The reviews paint a consistent picture: friendly, accommodating staff, beautiful scenery, and delicious food. Many mention the guides’ language skills, which helps non-Spanish speakers feel comfortable.

Some minor comments mention the experience feeling shorter than expected, and a few reviews note that some parts of the park, like the botanical garden, may be less impressive than they sound — but overall, the feedback is very positive.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits those who want a relaxed, scenic outing with a dash of adventure. It’s perfect if you enjoy animals, nature, and local food, and aren’t looking for a high-energy, adrenaline-packed activity. Families with children will find it particularly friendly, especially since feeding the animals and driving the camels add extra fun.

If you’re after a quick, authentic taste of Gran Canaria’s countryside with easy logistics, this tour hits many marks. It’s also a good choice for first-timers or those who want a break from beach days without sacrificing scenery or a sense of discovery.

The Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and Drinks offers a memorable slice of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and rural life. The combination of scenic views, animal encounters, and tasty local food creates a well-rounded experience that feels both genuine and enjoyable.

Though it’s not a full-day adventure, it packs enough highlights to satisfy most travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic outing. The small group size, friendly guides, and the chance to drive camels make it stand out among other day trips.

If you’re someone who appreciates good value, gorgeous landscapes, and a touch of fun with animals, this tour could be just what your vacation needs.

FAQs

How long does the entire tour last?
The experience lasts about four hours, including the camel ride, guided walk, and lunch. However, some reviews suggest it might feel a bit shorter, around 2.5 to 3 hours of actual activity.

What is included in the tour?
You get a 1-hour camel ride, a guided tour through the park’s tropical garden, a camel show, and a Canarian tapas lunch with drinks.

Is there a minimum age for children?
Children under 4 can enter for free, but all children need to be accompanied by an adult. The experience is generally suitable for families.

Can I drive the camels myself?
Yes, all clients are given a license to drive camels and dromedaries, making it more interactive than just riding.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Camel Safari Park near Fataga, easily reachable from Maspalomas via bus number 18, which stops nearby.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for warm weather are best. The tour involves walking and some outdoor exposure, so dress accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for people with back problems?
No, it’s not recommended for participants with back issues due to the nature of camel riding.

What’s the best time of day to join?
The tour begins at 11 a.m., so arriving a little earlier is advised. Morning is generally cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re after a relaxed yet engaging way to explore Gran Canaria’s natural beauty, with the added charm of animals and local food, this camel ride and tapas experience could be just what you’re looking for.