Cabo : UTV and Camel Ride in the Desert

Cabo: UTV and Camel Ride in the Desert – A Practical Adventure in Baja California Sur

If you’re looking for a combination of adrenaline and authentic animal encounters during your stay in Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo, the UTV and Camel Ride in the Desert tour offers a compelling choice. For $133 per person, this two-hour excursion takes you through the rugged sands of Baja California Sur, featuring an exciting UTV drive and a gentle camel ride. Guided by knowledgeable locals, you’ll enjoy scenic desert views, safety equipment, and a chance to connect with some of the region’s iconic creatures.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible and well-organized it is. The guides are praised for their professionalism and safety briefing, making even first-time drivers feel comfortable behind the wheel of a UTV. Plus, the opportunity to snap photos with majestic camels adds a memorable touch to the adventure, especially since you get to create a personal connection with these gentle animals.

A small consideration might be that phones and cameras are not allowed during the activities for safety reasons. You’ll want to prioritize capturing your experience during the designated photo stops at the end. This tour is best suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic drives, and have no health issues that might be affected by the desert terrain or off-road driving.

This adventure appeals most to travelers seeking a fun, safe, and authentic desert experience with a mix of excitement and animal interaction. Families, couples, and solo explorers who enjoy a bit of adrenaline and nature will find it particularly rewarding.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Adventure for all levels: UTV driving is guided and safe, suitable for beginners.
• Authentic animal experience: The camel ride fosters a personal connection with these gentle desert creatures.
• Inclusive amenities: Snacks, water, safety equipment, and roundtrip transport are included, simplifying planning.
• Scenic desert views: Expect beautiful vistas and fun driving through sand dunes.
• Flexible scheduling: Pick-up and drop-off options are available at multiple locations, with easy reservation flexibility.
• Limited camera use: Photos can only be taken at the end, so plan your shots accordingly.

Exploring the Desert on a UTV

When we think about desert adventures in Baja California Sur, the UTV ride quickly comes to mind. It’s a highlight of this tour—driving through the sand dunes and rugged terrain offers a sense of freedom and exhilaration. The safety briefing before hopping into your vehicle is reassuring, and guides are praised for their professionalism. They set a friendly tone and provide clear instructions, making it an excellent choice even if you’re new to off-road driving.

The scenic drive component after the UTV experience allows you to relax and take in the desert’s stark beauty. Once you’re back on the vehicle, the guides often share insights about the landscape, flora, and fauna—adding a bit of educational value to your adventure.

Meeting the Camels: A Unique Connection

One of the most memorable parts of this tour is the camel ride. The camels are described as majestic and gentle, and the activity provides a rare chance to interact closely with these desert-dwelling animals. As one traveler put it, “The connection with the camels was unexpectedly touching.” You’ll get to take a photo with these stately creatures—so don’t forget your camera, even if phones aren’t permitted during the ride itself.

The 20-minute camel ride is enough to feel immersed without becoming tiring, making it suitable for all ages. The experience offers a unique perspective of the desert landscape and makes for great photos and memories.

The Logistics and Practical Details

The tour begins with pickup from your hotel in Cabo San Lucas or San Jose del Cabo, with timing depending on your location. For those in San Jose del Cabo, pickup is scheduled about an hour before the activity, while in Cabo San Lucas, it varies by hotel. This convenience saves you the hassle of organizing transport, especially in a busy tourist area.

Once at Rancho San Cristóbal, you’ll receive safety equipment—helmets and gear—and a brief safety talk. The duration of the activity is approximately two hours, including transportation, riding, and some downtime for snacks and photos.

The snacks are simple but appreciated—two quesadillas and fresh waters like horchata or Jamaica—perfect for recharging after the activity. The cost of the entrance to the park ($5 USD), collision insurance, and photographs are extra, but overall, the experience offers good value considering the included transportation and guided experience.

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What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides who go beyond the basics, sharing local stories and safety tips. One traveler mentioned, “Our guide, Miguel, was fantastic—friendly, informative, and made us feel safe throughout the ride.”

Others appreciate the stunning desert views: “The scenery was breathtaking, and the dunes gave us that real sense of adventure.” The camel encounter also receives high praise, with visitors describing it as a gentle, memorable experience that adds a special touch to the tour.

Some caution that phone or camera use is restricted during the activities, so plan for pictures at designated spots. Several reviewers note that the group size is manageable, creating a more personal experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who want a taste of Baja’s desert landscape without requiring extensive physical effort. It suits those interested in off-road driving, animal encounters, and scenic photography—though you’ll need to plan to take photos at the designated times.

It’s a good fit for families (with precautions), couples looking for a fun day out, or solo travelers eager for an authentic Baja experience. However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back or heart problems, or those unsure about handling off-road vehicles.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If your idea of fun involves a mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and animal interaction, this UTV and camel ride tour offers excellent value. With professional guides, stunning desert landscapes, and the chance to connect with desert animals, it’s a well-rounded experience. The included transport makes logistics simple, and the overall pace keeps things lively without feeling rushed.

While not a comprehensive tour of Baja’s entire desert ecosystem, it hits the highlights—offering you a safe, enjoyable, and memorable slice of the desert. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a fun, active outing that balances thrill and authentic encounters, all within a manageable time frame and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included? Yes, roundtrip transportation from Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo hotels is included, making it convenient to join the adventure.

How long does the tour last? The total activity lasts about two hours, including transportation, riding, and snacks.

Can I participate if I’ve never driven a UTV before? Absolutely. The guides provide a safety briefing, and the guided nature of the ride ensures you’ll feel comfortable.

Are the guides experienced? Yes, travelers praise the guides for their professionalism, safety focus, and local knowledge.

What should I bring? A hat, sunscreen, water, comfortable clothes, and closed-toe shoes are recommended. Phones and cameras are not allowed during activities but can be used for photos afterward.

Is there an age limit? While specific age restrictions aren’t provided, the activity is suitable for most ages, provided participants are physically able to handle the terrain.

How much does the entrance fee to the park cost? The entrance fee is $5 USD per person and is paid directly at the park.

Are there any health restrictions? The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, or travelers with back or heart problems.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour available in multiple languages? Yes, tours are offered in both English and Spanish, accommodating a variety of travelers.

This UTV and camel ride tour in Baja California Sur offers a well-balanced mix of adventure and authenticity, perfect for those wanting a memorable and manageable desert experience in Cabo.

You can check availability for your dates here: