Discover the Charm of the Fataga Camel Ride with Tapas and Drinks
Imagine riding a camel through Gran Canaria’s stunning Fataga Valley, surrounded by sun-baked mountain peaks and lush palm groves. This tour offers that exact experience, combined with a taste of local cuisine, all for $56.97 per person. Starting at the Camel Safari Park near Fataga, you’ll spend about four hours immersed in the island’s natural beauty, topped off with tasty Canarian tapas and drinks.
What we love about this experience is how it blends adventure with relaxation. The camel ride itself is a highlight, giving you a unique perspective of the Valley of the One Thousand Palms—a landscape that feels more akin to the Middle East than the Atlantic. Plus, the opportunity to drive camels and dromedaries with a license is a fun, memorable touch that sets this tour apart.
One consideration to keep in mind is the timing—it starts at 11:00 am, so you’ll want to plan your morning accordingly. Also, while the ride is family-friendly, participants with back problems or those over 120 kg should be cautious. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience in Gran Canaria.
Key Points
- Scenic Landscape: The tour showcases breathtaking views of Fataga’s mountain valleys and palm groves.
- Unique Experience: Camel riding through a tropical garden with a guide who offers insights and fun facts.
- Authentic Food: Enjoy traditional Canarian tapas and drinks in a charming setting decorated with local farm implements.
- Family-Friendly: Suitable for children, with the chance for kids under 4 to participate for free.
- Well-Reviewed: Consistently praised for friendly guides, good value, and delicious food.
- Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 15 travelers, it keeps the experience intimate and personal.
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A Detailed Look at the Fataga Camel Ride with Tapas and Drinks
Starting Point and Logistics
The tour begins at the Camel Safari Park, located at Carretera hacia Fataga km.12. The meeting time is 11:00 am, and the activity lasts roughly four hours. The park is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible if you’re staying in Maspalomas or nearby areas.
We appreciate that this is a mobile ticket activity, simplifying the check-in process. The group size is capped at 15 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social interaction and a feeling of personal attention.
What the Tour Entails
Once you arrive, your guide will likely be friendly and multilingual, as reviewers have noted. You’ll start with a guided tour through the tropical gardens, where you can see a vibrant array of fruit trees like papayas, mangoes, and guavas. This part of the experience gives you a chance to appreciate the lushness of the park’s 10,000 square meters of natural oasis. According to reviews, this walk is both calming and visually stunning.
Next is the camel ride—a full hour of riding through the Palm Valley. You’ll traverse a massive canyon filled with more than 300-year-old palm trees, creating an almost surreal atmosphere. One reviewer fondly remembers the ride through this “massive canyon with views of Pico de Nieve,” describing it as “expertly guided by a local.”
What makes this ride particularly appealing is the chance to feed and interact with the camels, including the famous “Don Gustavo,” a camel known for showing affection with kisses. The guide will give you a license to drive camels and dromedaries, which adds a playful, hands-on element to the experience.
The Park and Wildlife
Beyond the camels, the park hosts a variety of farm animals, birds like parrots and peacocks, and even a small rainforest area. Visitors mention that all animals are well looked after, making it a comfortable environment for families and animal lovers alike.
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Lunch and Refreshments
The lunch is a highlight, especially if you enjoy authentic Canarian cuisine. The restaurant, decorated with old Canarian farm tools, offers a tapas-style meal with drinks included. The tapas are described as “fantastic” and satisfying, with a good variety of local flavors. Several reviews praise the quality of the food and the friendly service, making this meal a worthwhile part of the experience.
Additional Features
The park also hosts a camel show and a dining room-museum, where you can learn about local farming traditions. For many, this combination of nature, animals, and culture creates a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just a ride.
The Authenticity and Value of This Tour
This tour truly stands out for its balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight. Many reviewers highlight the friendly guides who speak both English and Spanish, enriching the experience with local knowledge.
The cost of $56.97 is reasonable considering that it includes a one-hour camel ride, a guided tour of the gardens, a tapas lunch with drinks, and the chance to feed farm animals. Several reviews mention that the service is excellent, and the scenery is unforgettable.
While some critics note that the “not really a walking botanical garden” and that the tour duration might feel shorter than expected, the overall consensus is that the tour offers good value for the money. The experience is particularly suitable for families, animal lovers, and travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic adventure.
What Makes It Special
The interactions with camels, especially being able to drive them, are a unique feature not always offered in similar tours. Plus, the authenticity of the setting, with its palm groves and mountain views, makes this a memorable on-island experience.
The lunch is not just an afterthought; many say the tapas are tasty and plentiful, making it a genuine taste of local cuisine rather than a generic tourist meal.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is best suited for those who want a relaxed excursion with a touch of adventure. Families with children will appreciate the animal encounters and kid-friendly activities. Nature enthusiasts will love the stunning landscape and lush gardens, while food lovers will find the tapas lunch a delightful addition.
If you’re seeking an authentic, engaging way to see Gran Canaria’s countryside without strenuous activity, this tour fits perfectly. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly outing that combines nature, culture, and cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the entire tour?
It lasts approximately four hours, including riding time, walking through the gardens, and lunch.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a one-hour camel ride, a guided tour of the tropical gardens, a tapas lunch with drinks, and access to the park’s animals and show.
Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcome, and kids under 4 can enter free. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Is the tour suitable for people with back problems?
It is not recommended for those with back issues, as the ride involves sitting on camels which can be bumpy.
What about the group size?
The maximum number of travelers is 15, ensuring a more personal experience.
Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes and a hat are advisable, especially since much of the tour is outdoors.
What should I do if the weather looks bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth Your Time?
This Camel Ride in Fataga with Tapas and drinks offers more than just a fun ride; it’s a peek into Gran Canaria’s natural beauty and local flavors. The friendly guides, authentic setting, and delicious food make it a well-rounded experience that many travelers cherish.
It’s perfect for families, animal lovers, and travel enthusiasts looking for a leisurely, scenic, and culturally enriching activity. While not a full-day adventure, it packs a lot of value into a manageable four-hour window.
If you’re eager for a unique, authentic taste of Gran Canaria with plenty of opportunities for photos and fun interactions, this tour should be high on your list.
Additional Resources
This tour promises a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience that combines scenic beauty, friendly animals, and authentic Canarian cuisine.
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