Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes

Planning a trip to Gran Canaria and considering a camel ride through the famous Maspalomas Dunes? This tour, offered by Tour2b, promises a brief but memorable escape into the desert-like landscape of the island’s southern coast. While it’s not a lengthy adventure, it’s a charming way to see the dunes from a new perspective and enjoy some lighthearted fun.

What we like about this experience is its straightforward nature—a quick, scenic ride that doesn’t require a big time commitment—and the fact that it’s generally praised for friendly guides and good value for money. On the flip side, some travelers mention issues with finding the meeting point or long wait times, so it’s worth planning accordingly. This tour seems best suited for those wanting a relaxed, family-friendly activity or a fun photo op while exploring Gran Canaria’s famous landscape.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Short but scenic: 30-minute tour perfect for a quick experience.
• Affordable price point: Around $20.64 per person, offering decent value.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides help enhance the ride.
• Accessibility considerations: Not suitable for weights over 100kg/220lbs or those with certain health concerns.
• Location challenge: Finding the meeting point can be tricky without clear signage.
• Mixed reviews on animal welfare: Some praise well-cared-for camels, others express concern about neglect.

What to Expect on the Camel Ride in Maspalomas

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a half-hour jaunt into the dunes on the back of a camel—an activity that’s been a part of Gran Canaria’s tourism scene for quite some time. The ride departs from Maspalomas Dunes, a well-known natural park, and takes you into the surrounding countryside, offering a different view of the landscape.

You’ll meet your guides at the designated spot—C. Oceanía, 13, San Bartolomé de Tirajana—and wait for your turn every 20 minutes between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. The group size tends to be moderate, with a maximum of 70 travelers, but individual wait times can vary significantly depending on when you arrive and how busy the day is.

The Camel Experience

The camels are described as gentle giants, and most reviews confirm that riding them is accessible and surprisingly comfortable. Instead of riding on the hump, you’ll sit in two-seater saddles set along the camel’s side. This setup makes the ride more manageable and less intimidating, especially if you’re not accustomed to animals or riding.

Your guide will accompany you, sharing interesting tidbits about the dunes and the animals, which adds a layer of context and makes the experience more engaging. Many reviewers, like Jacqueline, have highlighted how friendly and professional the guides are, which really helps if you’re a little nervous or new to camel riding.

Scenic Views and Photo Opportunities

One of the main perks of this ride is the scenery. As you glide softly through the dunes, you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas over the rocky ridges and rolling sand formations that define Gran Canaria. Some reviews mention the opportunity to capture memorable photos—be sure to take advantage of this, as the landscape is quite photogenic.

Practical Details

The tour lasts about 30 minutes, which is enough time to feel like you’ve had a genuine experience without it becoming tiresome. The ride is suitable for most travelers, but keep in mind that those over 100kg/220lbs cannot participate, as the horseshoes are designed for lighter weight.

What’s included? You get insurance and a professional guide, making the ride relatively safe and informative. However, extras like food, drinks, or hotel pickup are not included, so plan to arrange your transportation to the meeting point.

Is It Worth the Price?

At roughly $20.64 per person, this experience offers a reasonable cost for a unique activity. Several reviewers feel it’s good value, especially considering the scenic environment and the chance to try something quirky and memorable. For families or groups wanting a light, fun activity, it’s generally considered a fair deal.

However, some reviews point out that the experience is quite brief, so if you’re looking for a longer or more immersive adventure, this may not satisfy. Besides, the activity is quite straightforward: a scenic ride with friendly guides, and don’t expect more than a snapshot of the dunes from this ride.

The Downside: Finding and Timing Your Ride

One challenge some travelers mention is the difficulty of locating the meeting point. Signs are minimal, and the busy surroundings might make it hard to find the exact spot. Arriving early is recommended, especially since wait times can be long if you’re late or arrive during peak times.

Plus, the scheduling is fixed—rides depart every 20 minutes, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM—so you can’t pick your preferred time, which may be inconvenient for some. And if you’re coming from a cruise or nearby hotel, be prepared for some planning, as transportation isn’t included.

Certain reviews also mention long waits—up to an hour or more—and in some cases, overbooking or cancellations on the day. It’s worth contacting the provider in advance or arriving early to avoid disappointment.

The Animal Welfare Question

This is a tricky topic. While most reviews appreciate how well the camels are treated and how friendly they are, a few reviews raise concerns about their wellbeing. Some mention injuries and poor conditions, which is a reminder that animal experiences can vary widely depending on the operator.

As a traveler, it’s worthwhile to consider whether the provider appears to prioritize the animals’ health and comfort. If animal welfare is a priority for you, research further or choose well-reviewed operators with transparent practices.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This camel ride is ideal for travelers looking for a quick, picturesque experience without a big commitment of time. It’s especially suitable for families, couples, or individuals who want a fun story to tell and photos to take away. But keep in mind the weight restrictions and the importance of arriving early.

If you’re interested in a relaxed activity that combines scenic beauty with a bit of local tradition, you’ll enjoy this tour. However, if you’re seeking a longer adventure, or are particularly concerned about animal treatment, you might want to explore alternative options or do some additional research.

Final Thoughts

This camel ride in Maspalomas offers a neat snapshot of Gran Canaria’s iconic dunes. Its affordability, guided nature, and scenic views make it appealing, especially if you’re short on time or traveling with kids. Just be prepared for the logistical quirks—finding the meeting point, waiting around, and adhering to weight limits.

While the experience may not satisfy those craving a prolonged or deeply immersive activity, it’s a fun, lighthearted way to add a touch of adventure to your trip. If you go early, arrive prepared, and keep your expectations realistic, you’ll likely find it well worth the few euros.

For those who love animals, enjoy scenic rides, or want a memorable photo in the desert landscape, this tour is a good pick. But if you’re wary of animal welfare issues, do some extra homework or consider other options. Either way, it’s a charming slice of Gran Canaria that won’t disappoint if you’re looking for something quick and enjoyable.

FAQ

Q: How long does the camel ride last?
A: The ride is approximately 30 minutes long, giving you a brief but enjoyable taste of the dunes.

Q: Is there a chance I might not get a ride if I arrive late?
A: Yes, since rides depart every 20 minutes between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM, arriving late could mean long wait times or missing your slot.

Q: Can children ride the camels?
A: Most travelers can participate, but children younger than 3 can ride for free with their parents. Kids will sit in the same saddle as adults, so consider their comfort.

Q: Are there any restrictions on weight?
A: Yes, passengers over 100kg/220lbs cannot ride due to safety and comfort reasons.

Q: How do I find the meeting point?
A: The meeting point is at C. Oceanía, 13 in San Bartolomé de Tirajana. Signs may be minimal, so arriving early and asking locals or the guides for directions can help.

Q: Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
A: The tour involves sitting in a saddle on a camel, so it might not be suitable for those with certain mobility challenges, but the guides are friendly and helpful.

In the end, this camel ride is a simple, charming way to see the famous Maspalomas Dunes. It’s not perfect, but for the price and experience, it can be a fun addition to your Gran Canaria trip—especially if you’re after a picture-perfect moment and a taste of local tradition.