Gran Canaria: Camel Ride Safari w/ Optional Food & Transport

Gran Canaria: Camel Ride Safari with Optional Food & Transport

When you think of Gran Canaria, you might picture beaches and vibrant nightlife, but there’s a quieter, more natural side to explore. This Camel Safari Park in the stunning Fataga nature reserve offers a 3-hour experience that combines a camel ride, a walk through tropical gardens, and a taste of local Canary Island hospitality. For around $48, you get to enjoy a guided tour that’s perfect for families, animal lovers, or anyone craving a peaceful escape into the island’s wild beauty.

One of the best things about this experience is the scenic setting—the Valley of the Thousand Palms is a lush, green haven surrounded by rugged mountains. We loved the way the camel ride takes you into this tranquil oasis, giving a different perspective on the island’s varied landscapes. Plus, the option to include local tapas and hotel transport makes it a convenient, well-rounded outing.

On the flip side, a few travelers noted that the trip can feel somewhat touristy and that the actual scenery might not rival other natural wonders on the island. Also, the camel ride itself is relatively short—about an hour—so if you’re hoping for a full day of adventure, you might want to pair this with other activities.

This tour suits families with kids, animal enthusiasts, or anyone eager to get a taste of rural Gran Canaria away from the beaches. It’s especially good if you like a blend of nature, culture, and local cuisine in a relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic setting in the Valley of the 1,000 Palms, over 300 years old.
• Gentle camel ride with interaction and feeding opportunities.
• Guided walk through tropical gardens and farm animals.
• Option for local tapas sourced directly from the reserve.
• Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off in several popular areas.
• Short duration, making it suitable for a half-day outing.

A Deep Dive into the Camel Ride Safari Experience

The Scenic Location and Itinerary

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or a nearby location in Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés, Meloneras, San Agustín, or Bahia Feliz. The journey takes you through scenic mountain drives to the Camel Safari Park La Baranda in the Fataga area—a lush natural oasis covering approximately 10,000 square meters. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by guides fluent in Spanish, English, and German, ready to introduce you to the animals and the landscape.

The heart of the tour is, of course, the camel ride. For about an hour, you’ll be led through the oasis, which was carefully constructed over 300 years ago. The camel guides are experienced, gentle, and eager to share their knowledge, making the ride both enjoyable and educational. You’ll love the quaint charm of these well-cared-for camels, with reviews praising the calm and friendly nature of the animals and the expertise of the handlers.

The Oasis and Tropical Gardens

After the ride, the tour continues with a guided walk within the tropical gardens, where you’ll see fruit trees like papaya, mango, and guava. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for photographers and nature lovers. We appreciated how guides shared insights into the local flora and fauna, adding an educational layer to the experience.

Visitors have described the reserve as a beautiful, peaceful place, highlighting the well-maintained grounds and the friendly animals—donkeys, farm birds, and even playful parrots. Several reviews mention how much guests enjoyed feeding the animals, which adds a hands-on element to the visit, though it’s worth noting that feeding and photos usually cost extra.

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Food and Cultural Touches

For those who opt for the additional food package, a tapas meal awaits in a museum-like setting showcasing antique farm implements. The local dishes are sourced from the reserve itself, making this a genuine taste of Canary Island cuisine. Reviewers have raved about the delicious, light dishes like chicken paella, cheese, olives, and potatoes, often citing the freshness and flavor. It’s a perfect way to wind down after the ride and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.

Transportation and Convenience

If you select the hotel pickup, the experience becomes very smooth—your guide arranges timely collection and drop-off, often right at your hotel. This convenience is highly valued, especially in a place where public transport may be limited or complicated. The group size tends to be moderate, allowing for a more personalized experience, and the driving is described as safe and scenic.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Start Point

Depending on your chosen option, you’ll be picked up from your hotel or a designated location. The early morning or mid-morning start helps avoid the peak heat of the day, which is wise as the outdoor activity can get hot, especially in summer.

Camel Safari Park La Baranda

The park is a charming farmstead with antique farm tools displayed like a mini museum. Here, you’ll meet the camels and other farm animals. The guides not only lead your camel ride but also share stories about the animals’ care and the history of the oasis.

Scenic Drive to San Bartolomé de Tirajana

The drive offers beautiful views of the mountains and valleys, giving you a taste of rural Gran Canaria. It’s a chance to appreciate the island’s diverse landscapes outside the resort areas.

Return to your Hotel

After about 3 hours, including the camel ride, garden walk, and possibly lunch, you’ll be taken back to your hotel, often with plenty of opportunities to chat with guides and fellow travelers.

Authenticity and Value

Many reviews stress the value for money, especially considering the well-organized logistics, friendly staff, and the quality of the experience. For about $48, you get a genuine connection with the animals, stunning views, and a taste of local cuisine. The tapas option is especially popular, with visitors praising the local ingredients and light, tasty dishes.

However, some note the tour can feel a bit touristy, with some extra sales pitches for souvenirs or additional feeds. The scenery might not always match the dramatic landscapes you see elsewhere on the island, but the peaceful atmosphere compensates for this.

Why It’s Worth Considering

If you enjoy animal encounters, scenic walks, and want a taste of traditional Canary Island life, this tour offers a relaxed, authentic experience. It’s particularly appealing for families or those wanting a break from beach lounging. As several reviewers mention, it’s a great value and a memorable way to spend half a day immersed in nature.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This camel safari is perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape into rural Gran Canaria, especially if you’re interested in animal interactions and local food. It offers a relaxed pace, friendly guides, and a chance to see the island’s green corners that many visitors overlook. If you’re after adventure or dramatic scenery, you might find other tours more suitable, but if your goal is authenticity and comfort, this experience hits the mark.

It’s also an excellent choice if you’re traveling with kids or want a family-friendly activity—the calm animals and gentle rides are suitable for most ages. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a hat, especially for the outdoor parts.

FAQ

Is the camel ride suitable for children?
Yes, the ride is gentle and typically safe for children, but it’s best to check with the guide about age or weight restrictions. Many reviews mention children enjoying the experience.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts around 3 hours, including pickup, transportation, the camel ride, garden walk, and optional lunch.

Is transportation included?
Yes, if you choose the option, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are provided, making the trip hassle-free.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, and light clothing in summer or warmer layers in winter. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen.

Can I feed the animals?
Yes, feeding and photo opportunities are available but usually come at an extra cost.

Is the scenery worth the trip?
Absolutely. The lush oasis and mountain views are what make this experience special—even if it’s not the most dramatic landscape on the island.

What’s included in the tapas meal?
The meal features locally sourced ingredients like chicken paella, cheese, olives, and potatoes—light, flavorful, and a perfect end to the outing.

Are there any age or weight restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals over 275 lbs (125 kg). It’s best suited for most adults and children who meet the weight criteria.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

This camel ride safari offers a charming mix of nature, culture, and cuisine in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re looking for a family outing, a romantic escape, or just a different side of Gran Canaria, it’s an experience worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: