Camel Safari through the Dunes of Maspalomas

If you’re visiting Gran Canaria and looking to add a dash of adventure to your trip, a camel safari in Maspalomas might just do the trick. For around $21, you’re treated to a roughly 30-minute ride through the iconic sand dunes, accompanied by knowledgeable guides from the Saharawi community. The experience starts at a central camel station near the dunes, where you’ll hop onto a comfortable, specially-made seat atop a well-trained camel, and gently glide through a landscape that looks like something from a desert movie.

We love the unique opportunity to see a different side of Gran Canaria — away from beaches and city streets, into a vast, peaceful dune landscape. The friendly guides, who share insights about the region’s history and the importance of camels here, add a personal touch that makes this more than just a tourist photo op. Another highlight is that each camel seats two, making it an excellent choice for couples or families with kids who want to share the experience.

A notable consideration is the long queues and waiting times, which some visitors have found frustrating, especially if you’re arriving around mid-morning. Also, the ride itself is brief, and some reviewers felt it could be a bit longer to justify the price. Still, for families, first-timers, or anyone eager for a fun, scenic adventure, this tour offers genuine value — especially if you book early or arrive right when they open.

This activity suits travelers who enjoy authentic encounters, are open to a bit of waiting, and want to experience Gran Canaria’s landscape from a new perspective. If you appreciate friendly guides, stunning views, and don’t mind a quick ride, this is a good choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: A chance to explore the iconic Maspalomas dunes on a camel, not just a bus or walking tour.
• Friendly Guides: Led by official Saharawi guides who share regional insights.
• Family-Friendly: The ride is suitable for all ages, with each camel accommodating two riders.
• Value for Money: For about $21, you get a scenic 30-minute ride and some memorable photos.
• Potential Wait: Arriving early can help avoid long queues, as some reviews note waits of over an hour.
• Limited Duration: The ride’s short length might be a downside for those seeking a longer or more in-depth experience.

In-Depth Review of the Camel Safari Experience

Location and Booking Details

Starting at C. Oceanía in Maspalomas, the tour is very accessible, especially if you’re staying nearby or using public transportation. The activity operates daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, giving you plenty of flexibility to fit it into your schedule. The mobile ticket system makes booking straightforward, and the activity can be canceled free of charge up to 24 hours in advance — a considerate policy if the weather turns sour or your plans shift.

A key point to keep in mind is the early arrival recommendation — arriving between 9 and 11 am can help you beat the crowds and minimize waiting times, which many visitors found beneficial.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The tour kicks off at the camel station at the designated meeting point. After a brief wait, you’ll mount your camel — a process that some reviewers found surprisingly smooth, thanks to the staff’s helpfulness. Each camel is designed for two riders, so if you’re traveling with a partner or child, you’ll share the experience comfortably. The camel guides, all from the Saharawi community, are proud to share their knowledge, and many reviews highlight how friendly and helpful they are.

Once seated, the 30-minute ride begins, offering sweeping views of the dunes, which stretch as far as the eye can see. The landscape is quite remarkable — a sea of golden sand rippling in the breeze — ideal for photographs or simply soaking in the scenery.

The Dunes and Scenic Views

Many visitors say the dunes are stunning, and the experience of crossing this vast landscape on a camel provides a perspective you can’t get from a car or on foot. The peacefulness of the open dunes is often highlighted as a calming, almost meditative experience.

One reviewer, Owen, described it as an “amazing experience”, emphasizing how well-looked-after the camels are and how friendly the guides are. The sands of Maspalomas are not just a tourist attraction — they are an iconic part of Gran Canaria’s natural beauty, and this tour gives you a taste of that.

Animal Welfare and Equipment

A recurring concern among some reviewers is the quality of the harnesses and equipment. Some felt the handmade rope harnesses and metal muzzles might be uncomfortable for the camels, with one reviewer mentioning how the equipment seemed potentially harmful. While the guides do their best to ensure the animals are in good condition, this aspect is worth considering if animal welfare is a priority for you.

The Experience’s Short Duration

The 30-minute ride is often cited as a highlight but also as a limitation. Several reviews mention that the experience feels a bit short, and some would prefer a longer ride. For the price, it’s a decent duration, but if you’re craving a more extended or in-depth adventure, you might find this a bit underwhelming.

The Staff and Guides

The staff are generally praised for their friendliness and helpfulness. One review highlights how “all the staff were really friendly and helpful,” and that the guides are skilled at making nervous children feel comfortable. Their insights about the dunes and regional history add educational value to the tour, transforming it from a simple ride into an engaging experience.

Weather Considerations and Comfort

Another aspect to think about is the heat. Several reviews note that the activity takes place during the warmer parts of the day, with some mentioning excessive heat. If you’re sensitive to the sun, applying sunscreen and bringing water is strongly advised. An early start helps avoid the midday sun, making the experience more pleasant.

Overall Value and Practical Tips

Considering the price of $21.34 per person, this tour offers a unique and memorable experience that combines scenic beauty with cultural insight. While the wait times and brief ride duration might be drawbacks for some, the opportunity to see the dunes from atop a camel, led by friendly guides, makes it a worthwhile addition to your Gran Canaria itinerary.

Booking online beforehand can save you some hassle and sometimes money, but be prepared for potential waits if arriving later in the morning. Remember, the activity is suitable for most travelers, including families, with the caveat that passengers over 100 kg may not be able to ride for comfort and safety reasons.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a family with kids, this is a great way to introduce children to animals and the landscape in a fun, relaxed setting. Couples will enjoy the intimate experience and the opportunity to take scenic photos together. If you’re interested in cultural encounters, guides from the Saharawi community add a layer of authenticity. However, if you’re expecting a long, adventurous ride or are sensitive to waiting times, you might want to consider whether this short experience matches your expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the camel ride?
The ride lasts approximately 30 minutes, providing a gentle, scenic crossing of the dunes.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes all fees and taxes, the camel ride, insurance, and access to the activity at the designated meeting point.

Can I book online?
Yes, online booking is available, and it’s recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy times.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and water. The ride is outdoors, and sun protection is important.

Is the ride suitable for children?
Yes, it’s suitable for the whole family, with most travelers participating comfortably. Keep in mind that passengers over 100 kg may not be able to ride.

What happens if I arrive late or need to cancel?
Late arrivals may face long wait times or missed rides. Cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, the guides are official Saharawi guides, and reviews praise their friendliness and helpfulness.

Is animal welfare a concern?
Some reviews mention the harnesses and equipment, but overall, the camels are described as well looked after. Still, it’s worth considering if animal comfort is a priority.

What is the best time to do this tour?
Arriving early in the morning (around 9 am) helps avoid queues and the hottest part of the day.

Will I get good photos?
Absolutely. The dunes offer stunning vistas, and many visitors find the ride photo-worthy, especially if you bring your own camera or phone.

Final Thoughts

This camel safari in Maspalomas offers a beautiful, accessible way to experience Gran Canaria’s iconic dunes. While the ride is on the shorter side, the combination of scenic views, friendly guides, and cultural insights make it a worthwhile outing. It’s best suited for families, couples, and anyone eager for a relaxed adventure in a unique landscape.

If you’re looking for a memorable photo opportunity and want to see the dunes from a different perspective, this tour will deliver. Just keep in mind the potential waiting times and the brief duration — if those are dealbreakers, you might prefer a longer or different activity. But for many, this will be a highlight of their trip to Gran Canaria — a peaceful, scenic, and somewhat quirky experience you’ll likely remember.