Discover the Wild Side Near Las Vegas: Camel Safari’s Tram and Zoo Tour

Just about an hour outside the bright lights of Las Vegas lies a surprising sanctuary of exotic animals and desert-dwelling camels. For $104, you can spend roughly two hours exploring a 176-acre wildlife farm, where knowledgeable guides lead you through engaging encounters with animals from camels to sloths. This tour combines a fun tram ride with a personalized, interactive experience that’s perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone curious to see a different side of Nevada’s landscape.
What we particularly like about this experience is the small-group setting, limited to just 12 travelers, which means you get plenty of personal attention and a chance to ask all your burning questions. Plus, the opportunity to get up close with the animals—even take photos with a camel—is a rare treat. On the flip side, one potential consideration is weather dependency; the tour operates outdoors, so extreme heat or weather conditions might impact your visit. Still, for a relaxed, educational outing that appeals to all ages, this tour hits the mark.
This experience is ideal for families with children, animal enthusiasts, or travelers seeking a memorable and authentic wildlife encounter near Vegas. If you enjoy hands-on activities or want to learn about desert-adapted animals from passionate keepers, you’ll find lots to love here.
Key Points

- Personalized Experience: Small group maximum of 12 ensures personalized attention.
- Diverse Animals: Over 30 camels and exotic species like zebra-donkey hybrids, sloths, singing dogs, and more.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable keepers lead the tour, sharing insights about animal care and behavior.
- Interactive Encounters: Hands-on activities, including photos with ambassador camels and feeding opportunities.
- Scenic Tram Ride: A fun, guided 176-acre tour that offers great views of the desert landscape.
- Weather Considerations: Outdoor activity that’s best in mild weather; extremely hot days might require caution.
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A Deep Dive into the Camel Safari Experience

Location and Logistics
The tour begins at 2725 River Cliff Rd, Bunkerville, NV, about 60 minutes from Las Vegas. The meeting point is straightforward to find, and the tour operates at 10:00 am, making it a nice morning escape from the city’s hustle. The mobile ticket system simplifies booking and allows for a smooth start.
The Itinerary: What You’ll Do and See
From the moment you arrive, the experience focuses on interaction and education. You’ll start by hopping aboard the Safari Tram, which takes you across 176 acres of desert habitat. Here, you’ll see over 30 camels, which are the main feature of the farm. The tram ride itself is a highlight—a lively, all-ages adventure that provides excellent views of the animals in their natural setting.
The real magic begins when your guide, often a keeper with genuine passion, invites you to join them in exploring the animal enclosures. You might get a chance to feed porcupines and sloths, or pose for photos with ambassador camels. One reviewer praised their guide for being “super friendly and knowledgeable,” emphasizing how much they love sharing stories and facts about camelids’ unique adaptations.
Next, you’ll visit a variety of animals, including zebras, singing dogs, opossums, and even a two-toed sloth. The guides are eager to answer questions, making this a truly interactive experience. Several reviews highlight how animal care is evident, with healthy, shiny, friendly animals, and staff that genuinely love their work.
The Personal Touch
One of the biggest perks is the small group size—typically limited to 12-25 travelers. This means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guides have time to share their expertise, answer your questions thoroughly, and ensure everyone gets a memorable experience. Many visitors appreciated how friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable their guides, like Ally and Guy, were.
Highlights and Unique Encounters
- Camels galore: With 36 camels, including llamas and donkeys, you get a true camel lover’s dream. The opportunity to see, feed, and even take photos with these creatures makes this tour stand out.
- Wild desert animals: The farm’s collection includes a zebra-donkey hybrid, singing dogs, and other lesser-seen animals that add variety and intrigue.
- Hands-on activities: Visitors frequently mention how feeding animals and petting sessions make the experience interactive and fun.
- Educational component: The guides share fascinating facts, such as camel evolution and desert survival strategies, making it both entertaining and informative.
The Reviews Speak
Many visitors rave about their friendly guides, with one reviewer commenting, “Our guide was super friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about every animal.” Others emphasize how well-cared-for and happy the animals appear, which speaks to the farm’s ethical stance.
However, a few reviews note challenges like poor communication or miscommunications about reservations. One visitor was disappointed after arriving to find the gate closed, due to a weather-related cancellation. These incidents remind us that weather can impact outdoor activities, so it’s wise to verify conditions or confirm your booking.
Pricing and Value
At $104 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive, hands-on wildlife experience that’s difficult to match elsewhere near Vegas. Compared to larger, less personal zoo visits, the small-group format and direct animal interactions provide notable value, especially for animal enthusiasts or families.
Practical Tips
- Bring sunscreen and a hat, especially in summer, as the tour is outdoors.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for the enclosures and tram ride.
- Arrive early to ensure a relaxed start and to ask questions.
- The tour is suitable for most travelers, but those with mobility issues should check accessibility in advance.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you enjoy learning about animals, especially desert-adapted species, and want a personal, engaging experience outside the tourist crowds, this is a great pick. Families with kids will enjoy feeding and interacting with the animals, and anyone who appreciates small, passionate animal sanctuaries will find this delightful. However, if you’re seeking a luxury experience or are sensitive to outdoor heat, plan accordingly and verify weather conditions beforehand.
Final Thoughts
The Las Vegas Safari Tram Ride and Zoo Tour at Camel Safari strikes a fine balance between educational value, fun, and ethical animal care. It’s a unique outing that transforms a simple zoo visit into a personal adventure with plenty of genuine animal encounters. The guides’ passion shines through, making it clear they truly care for their animals and want visitors to leave with a smile—and a few new facts in their pocket.
This tour is best enjoyed by families, animal lovers, and curious travelers who want a relaxed, authentic look at creatures that are often hidden from the public eye. With careful planning, it becomes a memorable day out—one that offers a refreshing change from the bright neon of Vegas.
FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the tram ride and animal encounters without feeling rushed.
What animals will I see?
You’ll see over 30 camels, plus zebras, singing dogs, opossums, and a two-toed sloth among other exotic species.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, this tour is great for all ages, especially given the small group size and interactive activities like feeding and photo opportunities.
What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Camel Safari, located at 2725 River Cliff Rd, Bunkerville, NV.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations under 24 hours are not refunded.
Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring sunscreen, a hat, comfortable shoes, and a camera for photos. It’s also wise to confirm weather conditions before your visit.
Are the animals well cared for?
According to multiple reviews, the animals appear healthy, friendly, and well cared for, adding to the authenticity and ethical appeal of this experience.
Is this experience weather dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities like this can be affected by weather, so check the forecast and confirm your booking, especially during hot summer days or adverse conditions.
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