Camel Riding Tour at El Tanque, Tenerife

Camel Riding Tour at El Tanque, Tenerife: An Honest Look at a Unique Experience

If you’re considering a camel riding adventure in Tenerife, this tour at El Tanque might catch your eye. It promises a simple, quick ride through farmland with a chance to see local animals, plus the option to enjoy some authentic Canarian tapas and wine. It’s priced quite affordably at around $17.35 per person, which makes it accessible for most travelers.

What we love about this experience is how it offers a peaceful glimpse into Tenerife’s agricultural side—something you might not see from the usual tourist hotspots. The chance to interact with well-cared-for animals and perhaps dress up in fun costumes adds a playful touch. On the downside, the short duration of the ride (about 20 minutes) might leave some feeling it’s a bit underwhelming if you’re after a longer adventure.

This tour is likely best suited for travelers looking for a light, family-friendly activity, or those curious about local farm life. If you’re after a deep dive into Tenerife’s scenery, this might not satisfy your craving for extensive exploration, but if a quick, charming ride coupled with good food appeals, it’s worth a shot.

Key Points

• Short but sweet: Around 20 minutes on a camel, perfect for a laid-back experience.
• Affordable: At $17.35, it’s budget-friendly compared to many other tours.
• Local farm views: See farmland, native flora, and animals in a tranquil setting.
• Flexible options: Upgrade for hotel pickup and enjoy tastings of local wine, cheese, and tapas.
• Animal care: Camels and other animals seem well looked after, according to reviews.
• Limited length: Expect a quick experience, which some may see as a plus or a minus.

The Experience Itself: What to Expect

The Itinerary and Setting

The tour begins at the Camello center in El Tanque, a village known for its agriculture—potatoes, cereals, grapes, and more. The location itself feels authentic, away from the busy tourist spots. You’ll start with a short walk around farmland trails, surrounded by native plants and scenic views of La Rambla de Castro, with palm trees, banana plantations, and historic buildings like La Hacienda de los Castro.

The highlight is, of course, the camel ride—a 20-minute trek where you can choose to wear a costume if you like, which adds a humorous and memorable touch. During the ride, you’ll traverse farmland trails, giving you a taste of the countryside.

Meeting and Ending Point

The activity kicks off at the paseos en camello y restaurante on Carretera General, TF-82. After the ride, you’re returned to the start point, making it straightforward and hassle-free. The tour operates between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, giving you some flexibility to fit it into your plans.

What You’ll See and Do

Most travelers like us find the farmland environment surprisingly peaceful, with native animals like Canarian goats, Pelibuey sheep, donkeys, and ponies all nearby. It’s a family-friendly setting, and some reviews mention how helpful and friendly the staff are—important when you’re dealing with animals and unfamiliar surroundings.

Optional Extras and Tasting

If you opt for the upgrade, you’ll be picked up from select locations such as La Quinta, Turquesa, and Teneguía. The tastings include some local wine, honeyed cheese, sauces, and potatoes, adding a delicious local flavor to your visit. Many reviews praise the quality of the food and wine, describing the experience as very satisfying.

The Animals and Care

Reviewers consistently mention that the camels appear healthy and well-cared-for, which is reassuring, especially when dealing with larger animals. The staff seems attentive to animal welfare, which adds to the overall positive vibe of the tour.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At just over $17, this tour offers a fun, light experience for a low price. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something quick and different, without a hefty price tag. The optional tastings can make this feel like a mini cultural outing—more than just a short ride but a small taste of local life.

However, some travelers find the ride itself to be quite brief, with one review calling it “a ten-minute camel ride” that might not seem worth traveling for. If you want a longer adventure or more scenic routes, you might feel a bit disappointed. Also, the short duration makes it more of a family or beginner activity rather than a serious riding experience.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 20 travelers, it’s generally an intimate enough setting. Children are welcome if they’re accompanied by adults, but those with back problems or over 120 kg might want to reconsider.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking is straightforward, with most travelers reserving about 3 weeks in advance. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before, which provides some peace of mind.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Many reviews are positive, praising the friendly staff, the healthy animals, and the authentic feel of the farm. One reviewer described it as a “great family activity” with enough time to enjoy the experience without it dragging on. Others mention the fun costumes and how engaging the staff are.

On the flip side, a few reviews mention disappointments—like difficulty finding the meeting point or feeling the ride was too short. One reviewer noted that the price at the venue was lower than the pre-booked tickets, so if you’re flexible, buying onsite might be cheaper.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for families with children, curious travelers wanting a quick farm escape, or those interested in trying a camel ride without a big commitment. It’s also good for anyone who enjoys local food and wine tastings and wants a taste of Tenerife’s countryside.

If you’re after a longer, more scenic ride or a detailed introduction to the island’s natural beauty, you might want to look elsewhere. But if a short, fun, and affordable activity with a cultural twist appeals, this tour fits the bill.

The Sum Up

The Camel Riding Tour at El Tanque offers a surprisingly charming snapshot of Tenerife’s rural life. Its short duration and affordable price make it a good option for a quick fun break, especially if you’re traveling with kids or want a lighthearted way to see farmland and farm animals. The inclusion of local tastings elevates the experience and adds a tasty layer to an otherwise simple activity.

While it’s not an extensive or scenic riding tour, the friendly atmosphere, animal care, and local flavors make it worth considering. For travelers who value authenticity and a relaxed pace, this could be a delightful little adventure.

However, if you’re seeking a longer ride or more dramatic scenery, you might find this experience a tad brief. It’s best viewed as a fun, affordable addition to your Tenerife trip—not the main event, but certainly a memorable one.

FAQs

How long is the camel ride?
The ride lasts approximately 20 minutes, making it a quick, manageable experience suitable for most.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are allowed if they are accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that children must be supervised and the activity isn’t recommended for kids with back problems.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book around 22 days ahead, but you can also check if same-day bookings are available. Booking early helps secure your spot.

What is included in the tour?
The main part is the 20-minute camel ride, along with an entrance ticket. Upgrades include hotel pickup and tastings.

Can I enjoy local food and wine?
Yes, if you upgrade, you’ll enjoy a tasting of local wine, honeyed cheese, sauces, and potatoes, which many reviewers have praised.

Does the tour operate in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather to run. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How accessible is the tour?
It’s near public transportation and suitable for most travelers, but those with certain physical conditions should consider their comfort.

Is the experience worth the price?
At around $17.35, it’s quite affordable, especially considering the included tastings and friendly staff. The short ride might not satisfy everyone, but it offers good value overall.

If you’re after a short, lighthearted experience with a taste of Tenerife’s countryside, this camel tour is worth a look. Just remember, it’s a quick snapshot—not a long adventure—so plan accordingly!