Peru: Camel Ride and Wine Tasting Experience

When you think of Peru, images of Machu Picchu and vibrant cities often come to mind. But just a few hours south of Lima, in the Ica Region, there’s a surprisingly captivating day trip that combines exotic desert scenery, Arabian flair, and local wine. For $75 per person, you get a 12-hour journey filled with gentle camel rides, traditional dress-up, and guided tastings of Peru’s renowned wines.

What we really love about this experience is how it transports you to a different world—imagine feeling like you’re in a desert of Arabia, all within the Peruvian landscape. Plus, the chance to interact with camels and feed them makes it more than just a ride; it’s a heartwarming encounter. The guided wine tasting afterward is a perfect way to unwind, savoring some of the region’s best vino while soaking up the scenic views.

One possible consideration is that the full-day tour can be quite long, and with a flexible schedule, you’ll want to confirm the starting times. It’s also worth noting that transportation to the DROMEDARIUS center isn’t included, so planning your logistics is essential. This trip suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, cultural surprises, and a little bit of luxury. If you want a memorable, authentic experience that blends nature, culture, and local flavors, this tour will hit the spot.

Key Points

• Unique desert adventure: Camel riding in Peru’s desert with traditional Arab attire.
• Interacting with animals: Opportunity to feed and bond with gentle camels.
• Cultural twist: Dressing in Arabic-style clothing adds fun and photo opportunities.
• Wine tasting: Guided sampling of local wines like Mio Cid and El Campeador.
• Amenities at Dromedarius: Mini zoo, pool, and toboggan slides for leisure.
• Flexibility: Small group size (limited to 10) ensures a personalized experience.

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A Closer Look at the Experience

From the moment you arrive at the DROMEDARIUS recreational center, you’ll step into a world that feels a long way from the typical Peruvian landscape. Instead of the Andes or historic ruins, you’ll be transported into a little slice of Arabia, with traditional attire waiting to be donned before your camel ride. This dress-up isn’t just for fun—it offers fantastic photo opportunities and makes the experience more immersive. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the attire, adding a layer of cultural appreciation that’s often missing in more commercial tours.

The camel ride itself lasts long enough to enjoy the desert scenery—sandy dunes stretching toward the horizon—without feeling rushed. The camels are gentle and well-behaved, and you’ll have plenty of chances to feed and pet them, creating real moments of connection. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the interaction with the camels and the friendly guides who made us feel at ease.” The ride is a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, giving you time to soak in the stunning views and snap memorable photos.

After the ride, you’ll have some free time at the center. This is a nice break to explore a mini zoo, splash around in the pool, or race down the toboggan slides—especially if you’re traveling with kids or just want some lighthearted fun. The amenities add value to the tour, making it feel like a full day of varied activities rather than just a quick ride.

The highlight for many visitors is the guided wine tasting. You’ll sample a selection of local wines—white, red, and rosé—considered some of the best in the region. The guide explains the nuances of each, and you’ll get to savor the flavors while taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. One guest praised the tasting as “a perfect way to relax after the camel adventure, with knowledgeable guides making it all enjoyable.” It’s a refreshing way to wind down and reflect on your day.

The cost of $75 offers good value, considering all that’s included: the camel ride, traditional dress, interaction with animals, access to amenities, and the guided tasting. Keep in mind, transportation to the center is not included, so you should plan your own transfer or arrange a pickup if available.

The small group format (max 10 participants) ensures a more intimate and attentive experience, allowing guides to answer questions and cater to individual interests. The tour operates in both English and Spanish, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Dromedarius Center: Your day begins here, where the desert atmosphere is set with Arabian decor and friendly staff. You’re greeted, and you select your traditional Arab attire—think flowing robes and headscarves—that instantly elevate the experience from touristy to authentic.

Camel riding: With your guide’s instructions, you’ll mount a genuine camel and set off across the sandy dunes. The ride lasts long enough to enjoy the scenery, take photos, and feel the gentle sway of the camel beneath you. The desert landscape is surprisingly striking, with vast dunes and a clear sky that makes for spectacular photographs.

Animal interaction: After the ride, you’ll have the chance to feed the camels and other animals, which many find delightful. This part of the tour emphasizes respectful interaction, making it both educational and fun.

Leisure time at Dromedarius: You can relax at the mini zoo, take a dip in the pool, or enjoy the slides. This flexibility allows you to tailor your experience—perhaps just lounge with a drink or explore the grounds.

Wine tasting: As the tour winds down, the focus shifts to tasting local wines. The guides introduce you to Mio Cid and El Campeador wines and help you understand their unique profiles. You’ll sample white Toronto, rich reds, and the delicate quebrantin rosé, each offering a taste of the region’s vinicultural talents.

End of day: The tour concludes after the tasting, giving you time to reflect on your unique adventure. It’s a fulfilling way to spend a day, especially if you enjoy outdoor activities combined with cultural experiences.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of authentic culture and relaxing leisure activities. Dressing in Arab attire and riding a camel make the experience feel special and memorable, not just a generic tourist photo op. The guided aspect ensures you understand the cultural context and get the most out of your visit.

The wine tasting adds a refined touch—local wines are a highlight for many travelers, and the guided tasting guarantees you’ll appreciate the nuances of each varietal. The inclusion of amenities like the mini zoo and pool makes it feel like a full-day outing rather than just a short excursion.

In terms of value, at $75, you’re paying for a well-rounded experience—cultural, scenic, and indulgent—all in one package. Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so factoring in your transfer is wise, especially if staying in Ica or Huacachina.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for curious travelers who want a break from traditional sightseeing and enjoy a bit of adventure combined with cultural elements. It’s great for families or couples looking for a fun, interactive day. If you like animal encounters, scenic outdoor activities, and wine tasting, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Since the tour lasts about 12 hours, it’s suited for those with a flexible schedule and a desire for a full-day adventure. It’s less ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with animal allergies, as noted in the restrictions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation to the DROMEDARIUS center included?
No, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own transfer or check if your booking options offer pickup services.

How long is the camel ride?
The exact duration isn’t specified, but the ride is long enough for photos, scenic enjoyment, and interaction with the camels, without feeling rushed.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothes suitable for desert weather, along with a hat and sunscreen, are recommended to stay protected from the sun.

Can I participate if I have animal allergies?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with animal allergies, as you will interact closely with camels and other animals.

Is the wine tasting included in the price?
Yes, the guided wine tasting of Mio Cid and El Campeador wines is part of the experience.

What amenities are available at Dromedarius?
You can enjoy the mini zoo, pool, and toboggan slides during free time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the amenities and animal interactions could appeal to children, but parental discretion is advised based on the activity nature.

What is the group size?
Limited to 10 participants, ensuring a small, personalized group experience.

Is the experience available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour is offered in both English and Spanish.

Final Thoughts

This camel ride and wine tasting tour offers a distinctive way to experience the Ica region, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation in a scenic desert setting. It’s a great option for travelers who want something beyond the typical tour, with enough interactive elements to keep everyone engaged.

The chance to don traditional Arab attire and ride a real camel, paired with the equally authentic wine tasting, makes this a memorable day. Plus, the added amenities at Dromedarius provide a variety of activities, ensuring the day feels well-rounded and rewarding.

While it’s a lengthy tour, the blend of scenic rides, animal interactions, and wine makes it worth considering if you’re after a fun, flavorful, and culturally engaging experience in Peru. Perfect for those who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure, culture, and leisure—this tour promises genuine moments and beautiful views.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby