Camel Riding in Maspalomas Dunes

Exploring the captivating Maspalomas Dunes in Gran Canaria, Spain, by camel is a truly one-of-a-kind adventure. Travelers can enjoy the mesmerizing landscape, soaking in the unique perspectives from the back of these hardy creatures. Experienced guides lead the way, ensuring participants make the most of their 30-minute tour. While this activity offers an exhilarating experience, it’s crucial to consider the ethical implications surrounding camel welfare. As with any adventure, it’s essential to approach this opportunity with an open and informed mindset, ready to discover the remarkable wonders that await.

Key Points

• The Maspalomas Dunes in Gran Canaria, Spain offer a 30-minute camel riding tour that provides a unique perspective of the region’s dramatic landscapes.
• The tours accommodate up to 70 travelers per session and operate daily from 9 AM to 2:20 PM with rides every 20 minutes.
• The tour includes insurance, professional guides, and hotel pickup/drop-off, but it is not wheelchair accessible and has weight restrictions for passengers.
• Reviewers highlight the stunning scenery and appreciate the distinctive perspective of the Gran Canarian countryside, though some express concerns about camel welfare.
• Visitors are advised to arrive early, wear comfortable clothing, and be prepared for the desert environment to enhance their camel riding experience.

Overview of the Activity

The camel riding experience in the Maspalomas Dunes of Gran Canaria, Spain, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rolling sand landscapes from the comfort of a camel’s back.

This 30-minute tour allows travelers to take in the rugged vistas of rocky ridges and sweeping dunes as they ride through the Gran Canarian countryside.

Led by experienced guides, the camel rides accommodate up to 70 travelers at a time, providing an intimate and immersive way to discover this stunning natural wonder.

Whether you’re seeking a thrill or simply want to appreciate the serene desert atmosphere, the Maspalomas camel ride promises an unforgettable adventure.

Location and Duration

Gran Canaria’s Maspalomas Dunes play host to the camel riding experience, situated just 400 meters from the nearby beach. The tour lasts for a duration of 30 minutes, allowing visitors to enjoy the dramatic sand-sculpted landscapes of this coastal region.

Location	Duration	Departure
Gran Canaria, Spain	30 minutes	Daily from 9 AM – 2:20 PM
Maspalomas Dunes	–	Last tour at 2:20 PM
400 meters from beach	–	Camel rides every 20 minutes

The camel riding activity provides a unique perspective of the Gran Canarian countryside, with the opportunity to explore the region’s rugged ridges and rolling dunes from the comfort of a camel’s back.

Meeting Point and Hours

Travelers meet at the Maspalomas Dunes dromedary, located at C. Oceanía, 13, 35100 San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Las Palmas, Spain, approximately 400 meters from the beach.

The meeting point is easy to find, situated right in the heart of the stunning Maspalomas Dunes.

Camel riding tours operate daily from 9:00 AM to 2:20 PM, with the last tour departing at 2:20 PM.

Tour times are flexible, with camel rides starting every 20 minutes – there’s no set schedule. Guests can book their spot in advance, though availability may be limited, especially during peak seasons.

Included and Restricted

The camel riding tours in Maspalomas Dunes include insurance, a professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as food and drinks.

However, the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers and service animals are allowed.

Plus, children under 3 ride free with their parents, but passengers over 100kg (220lbs) can’t be accommodated on the camels.

While the tour offers a unique and scenic perspective of the Gran Canarian countryside, there are some restrictions in place to ensure the safety and comfort of the participants.

Guests are advised to consider these factors when booking their camel riding adventure in the Maspalomas Dunes.

Unique Perspectives

Riding through the rolling sand dunes and rugged landscapes of the Maspalomas Dunes on camelback offers travelers a unique perspective of the Gran Canarian countryside. The towering dunes and rocky ridges provide a breathtaking backdrop as you gently sway atop the camel, taking in the views from a different vantage point.

This experience allows you to:

1. Observe the intricate patterns and textures of the sand dunes up close.

2. Gain a deeper appreciation for the resilient plants and wildlife that thrive in this arid environment.

3. Enjoy a slower, more immersive pace that allows you to connect with the natural surroundings.

4. Capture stunning photographs that showcase the dramatic beauty of the Maspalomas landscape.

Reviews and Feedback

According to reviews, many visitors have thoroughly enjoyed the unique camel riding experience in Maspalomas, praising the friendly staff and well-organized tours.

Travelers often highlight the stunning scenery, with views across the rolling sand dunes and rugged landscapes. The experience provides a distinctive perspective of the Gran Canarian countryside.

However, some visitors have expressed concerns about the treatment of the camels and the occasionally chaotic organization, with long wait times reported.

To make the most of the tour, reviewers recommend arriving early and wearing comfortable clothing.

Preparing for the Tour

To make the most of the camel riding experience in Maspalomas, visitors should arrive early to secure their spots on the tours, which depart every 20 minutes.

Wearing comfortable clothing and bringing sunscreen are also recommended, as the tours take place in the sunny and exposed dune environment.

When preparing for the camel ride, keep the following in mind:

1. Arrive early to avoid long wait times and secure a spot on the tour.

2. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing that allows for easy movement.

3. Bring sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and SPF, to shield from the intense sun.

4. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on sand.

Ethical Concerns

While many travelers thoroughly enjoy the camel riding experience in Maspalomas, some have expressed ethical concerns about the treatment and welfare of the animals.

Some reviews mention observing what they perceived as poor living conditions for the camels, such as small enclosures and lack of shade.

There are also worries that the animals may be overworked during the high volume of tours.

Though the tour operator claims to prioritize animal welfare, a few customers have questioned whether the camels are truly well-cared for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Camel Ride?

The maximum group size for the camel ride is 70 travelers. This information is provided in the Experience Details section, which states that the tour has a maximum of 70 travelers per tour.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Camel Ride?

Children under 3 can ride for free with their parents, but there’s a weight limit of 100kg (220lbs) per passenger. The camel ride tour is open to all ages, though certain restrictions may apply.

Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Ride?

Riders can generally bring their own camera equipment on the camel ride. However, it’s important to check with the tour operator beforehand, as they may have specific restrictions or guidelines to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

Do I Need to Have Prior Experience With Camels to Join the Tour?

No, you don’t need prior experience with camels to join the tour. The guides provide instructions and assist riders throughout the experience, making it suitable for first-time camel riders. As long as you’re able-bodied, you can enjoy the camel ride.

Are There Any Health or Physical Requirements to Participate?

There are some physical requirements to participate. Riders must be able to climb onto the camel and maintain their balance during the ride. There’s a weight limit of 220 lbs, and children under 3 ride free with parents.

Recap

Camel riding through the Maspalomas Dunes offers travelers a one-of-a-kind adventure. Guided by experienced staff, riders can enjoy the stunning landscapes and appreciate the dunes’ intricate patterns.

However, ethical concerns surrounding camel welfare should be carefully considered before booking this thrilling experience.

The 30-minute tour provides a distinctive perspective of Gran Canaria’s rugged countryside.