Camel Safari through the Dunes of Maspalomas

Camel safari through the dunes of Maspalomas is a simple, fun way to see Gran Canaria from a totally different angle, right up close to the famous sand scenery. I like that each camel is set up for two riders, so it feels natural for couples and families. I also like the quick pace: you’re only out about 30 minutes in the dunes, which makes it easy to fit into a morning or afternoon.

One consideration: the experience can be slowed down by queues. If you arrive later in the day, you may lose a lot of time waiting, and the ride itself may feel shorter than you hoped once you add that downtime.

Key things to know before you go

• Two riders per camel makes it a comfortable shared experience for pairs and families.
• Arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to reduce the odds of a long wait.
• Animal equipment is a mixed bag: some gear looks basic, and you may notice muzzles and rope harnesses.
• 30-minute ride time keeps the outing short, but it can feel even shorter if you wait in line.
• Heat matters in the dunes, so plan your clothing and sun protection accordingly.

Maspalomas dunes, but from the camel seat

This is the kind of activity that works because it is straightforward. You meet at a camel safari station in Las Palmas, step into the line, then you’re on a camel headed toward the dunes. The dunes at Maspalomas are famous for a reason, and getting seated up high enough to see the sand changes the whole mood of the area.

You’ll be on a camel with two seats, which is a big practical win. It helps with balance and it usually feels more relaxed than the single-rider setups you sometimes see elsewhere. It also makes it easier for small groups to stay together in the same pace and photo plan.

The outing is also short. A 30-minute ride means you can do it without turning your day into a half-day production. If you’re traveling with kids, that matters. If you’re on a busy itinerary, that matters too.

Your 30-minute plan: what to expect on the dunes

The route is simple. There’s basically one main part: your stop at the Maspalomas dunes dromedary area, where you get set up at the camel station and then go for a 30-minute camel ride. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so there’s no mystery about where you’ll be dropped off later.

Here’s the practical version of how it tends to feel:

• You arrive, check in at the station area, and wait your turn.
• Once you’re called, you mount your camel.
• Then you move through the dunes at a gentle pace for the allotted ride time.
• After the ride, you return to the starting point and you’re done.

That timing structure is why queue management is so important. If you show up close to opening hours, you’re more likely to keep the ride as the headline, not the waiting room.

Also, bring your expectations in line with the setup. This is not a long guided hike. It’s a short, rolling camel ride where the dunes and the sensation of being carried through sand are the show.

Staffing, animals, and the gear details you’ll notice

The staff side is generally friendly. When you’re dealing with a line and a lot of people moving through, that matters. A clean facility and helpful staff make it easier to handle delays without turning the whole morning sour.

I’ll also be honest about the animal and equipment conversation, because it comes up clearly. Some people are reassured by the way the camels seem cared for. They describe the animals as well kept and the ride as smooth.

At the same time, there are real visual details you might spot during boarding and mounting:

• Some camels wear metal muzzles, which can look unsettling in photos.
• Harnesses may look handmade or less like modern padded tack you’d see on horses.

So decide based on your comfort level. If you’re very sensitive about animal gear, you should pay attention to what you see on arrival, not just on the ride. If you’re more focused on experiencing the dunes, it may feel like a small tradeoff for a fun way to get around the sand.

One small bonus detail: camels are sometimes given names. One rider noted their camel was called Daniel, which adds a bit of personality to what otherwise could feel like a purely mechanical setup. There can also be optional photo purchases for a separate fee.

Timing and queues: how to keep this from feeling like a wait

This is the main make-or-break factor. The activity runs daily from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, and the provider can have a maximum of 90 travelers at once. That means you’re never alone in the process, and busy hours can get slow.

Your best move is timing. You’re specifically advised to arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to avoid long queues. One reason is simple: you’re more likely to slot into the early flow, so you spend your time in the dunes instead of standing in line.

If you arrive later, expect the following pattern:

• You may queue for a long stretch before you mount.
• If the line backs up, you could end up waiting again after you reach the front of the queue.
• Then the ride comes, and once you’ve waited that long, the 30-minute portion can feel brief.

I’d rather you plan for this in advance than hope for a smooth run. Set aside time. If you hate waiting, target the early window.

Heat strategy for a camel ride through the sand

The dunes can get hot fast. One review noted it was extremely hot and suggested shifting toward a time when the sun feels less punishing. Even without that exact weather note, you should treat Maspalomas dunes like an open-sun environment.

Do this:

• Use sunscreen and bring something for your head.
• Wear breathable clothing and shoes you can walk in on sand.
• Bring water. The listing does not promise coffee or tea with your ride, so hydration is on you.

If you’re going with kids, heat can be the bigger challenge than the camel itself. Choose lighter layers and plan a calmer day around it. The ride is short, but it still happens outdoors.

Price and value: $21.63 for what you actually get

At about $21.63 per person, you’re paying for a short camel ride through a specific area, plus basic trip protections. Included in the price are all fees and taxes, the 30-minute camel ride, and insurance.

What is not included? Coffee and/or tea, so don’t assume there’s a café stop built into the experience. If you want a drink with your day, plan that separately.

Is it good value? For many people, yes, because:

• The ride is timed and predictable.
• The dunes experience is the core activity.
• You get the convenience of a mobile ticket and a clear meeting point.

But if you arrive at a slower time and lose an hour or two to waiting, you can start to feel like you’re paying for a queue plus a short ride. That’s why your arrival time is so tied to the value you feel.

If you want a low-cost, low-effort activity that adds variety to a Gran Canaria trip, this can make sense. Just don’t treat it like a quick walk-up if you’re arriving later in the day.

Best fit: couples, families, and nervous riders

This is one of those tours that works well for groups that want something fun but not overly demanding.

Couples often like the two-seat setup. You share the same mount and the same slow flow through the dunes. It also makes it easier for photos, because you’re both positioned on the camel.

Families are usually comfortable with the short duration. Kids often enjoy the animal part, and even if a child is nervous, the gentle pace can help. Since the ride is only about 30 minutes, you have a natural endpoint if the kids start to get restless.

Who might want to skip it:

• Anyone uncomfortable with the way the camels are equipped, especially if you are strongly bothered by visible muzzles or harness style.
• People who feel uneasy around animals in a busy public setting.
• Anyone above the weight limit. For comfort of the camels, passengers weighing more than 100 kg will not be able to make the ride.

Practical tips that make the ride smoother

Here’s how to get the most out of it, based on what matters on the ground.

Time your arrival. Aim for the 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM window. If your schedule can shift, shift it.

Wear sand-friendly footwear. You’ll likely walk around the station area before you mount, and sand can be slippery. Closed-toe shoes help.

Pack for sun and heat. Sunscreen is the big one. Add a hat and water.

Bring your own patience. This experience can be calm once you’re seated, but the line process can stretch out. If you keep your expectations flexible, it stays fun.

Consider photos. There is an option to order a photo, and one person said it cost 5 euro. If you care about getting a posed image without your phone in hand, that may be worth it for you.

Quick reality check: what you’ll likely love, and what you’ll judge for yourself

If you’re excited for the novelty of camel riding and the chance to see Maspalomas dunes up close, you’re likely to enjoy this. Friendly staff and a calm pace can make it a stress-free break.

Your main judgment calls:

• Do you want to prioritize minimizing wait time? If yes, go early.
• Are you comfortable with the visible tack and muzzles? If not, inspect on arrival before assuming it will feel fine.
• Do you want a true 30-minute ride, or do you want a longer guided explanation? This is a short ride experience, not a long narrative tour.

Should you book Camel Safari through the Maspalomas dunes?

I’d book it if you want a short, family-friendly activity that changes the way you see Gran Canaria, and you can arrive early to protect the value of your time. The two-rider setup is a sweet spot for couples, and the 30-minute duration keeps it manageable.

I’d think twice or even pass if you strongly dislike the look of animal equipment, or if you know you’ll only be able to arrive late and you hate queues. Also, if you are over 100 kg, you won’t be able to ride, so plan an alternate dune activity.

If you’re flexible, early, and sunscreen-ready, this can be a fun, no-fuss way to spend a memorable half hour in the sand.

FAQ

How long is the camel ride?

The camel ride portion is about 30 minutes.

What is included in the price?

The price includes all fees and taxes, the 30-minute camel ride, and insurance. Coffee and/or tea are not included.

Where does the activity start?

The meeting point is at Camel safari, C. Oceanía, 35100 Gran Canaria, Las Palmas, Spain. The activity ends back at the meeting point.

What are the opening hours?

It runs Monday to Sunday from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, within the operating dates 05/01/2025 to 12/10/2026.

What time should I arrive to avoid long queues?

It’s recommended that you arrive between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM to avoid long queues.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. For comfort of the camels, passengers weighing more than 100 kg will not be able to make the ride.

What happens if the weather is bad, or if I need to cancel?

The experience requires good weather. If it is canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.