Gran Canaria is also known as a "miniature continent", because on this island you can see all different kinds of landscapes all in the same day. There, you can enjoy idyllic beaches with crystal-clear water as well as mountainous countryside full of Canary pine trees. There are any number of ways you could discover this island, but we are almost certain that the idea we are proposing to you is something you have never done before. Have you ever ridden a camel? If the answer is no, then don't wait any longer and try a ride on one of them.

There are certain areas of the island that are inaccessible by car, so take a trip on one of these animals and discover the treasures waiting in this Canarian paradise.

Where to ride a camel in Gran Canaria?

Undeniably, the key spot for camel riding on this island is in the municipality of San Bartolomé de Tirajana. This well-known area may ring a bell because this is where you can find some of Gran Canaria's best-known beaches, such as Maspalomas, Playa del Inglés and San Agustín.

We recommend you visit the Maspalomas Dunes Nature Reserve to enjoy this wonderful experience. If you want to be transported to the desert, this is the ideal place for it. Not only will you be able to experience what it feels like to ride this animal, but you will also be able to enjoy dreamlike views, as this natural space is home to a unique ecosystem. This combination of desert and oasis just enhances how peculiar it is, as you can find both a palm forest and a lagoon as you ride along the dunes.

If you have never ridden a camel because you are afraid of them, we assure you that these animals are not aggressive at all. In fact, they are quite the opposite. Camels are very calm and would never attack you. Moreover, the Sahrawi guides, who are the ones who will be in charge of taking this animal, are experts in dealing with them, so you have nothing to fear.

The rides usually last about 35 minutes, and during this time you will be able to explore the dunes and discover the indigenous wildlife. Riding a camel in the Canary Islands is more common than you might have imagined, and it is also very popular on other islands, such as Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, as well as Tenerife.

What is the best time of year to go on a camel tour in Gran Canaria?

The Canary archipelago is lucky enough to have a microclimate that is totally different from the rest of the country, which is why people say that the Canarians live in an eternal spring. This- yes, albeit without much rain, as it rains very few days a year in the south of the island.

For these reasons, there is no better or worse time to take a camel ride in Gran Canaria. The only thing you should bear in mind is that when there is a lot of haze or strong winds blowing over from the Sahara, you won't be able to do the activity, as you won't be able to see any of the landscape due to the amount of sand in the air. This is the only weather limitation that you must take into account to know if you will be able to do a trip through the dunes on the day or not.

Who can ride a camel in Gran Canaria?

The saddle on top of the camels is for two people, so you can share this experience with anyone. However, if the two of you together weigh more than 110 kilos, you will have to ride separately because a camel cannot carry more weight than this. The most important thing is that the animal is comfortable and calm at all times. For this reason, it is very important that you listen to what the guide advises at all times.

Children must be at least 1.20 metres tall to be able to ride on their own, as it is very important that the child is able to relax their body and follow the rhythm of the camel as it moves. Younger children must be in the same seat as the parent, but can still get on without any problem.

As you'll find out, anyone can get on a camel and enjoy a ride in this island.

What do I need for a camel excursion in Gran Canaria?

You should be aware that in the south of Gran Canaria it is hotter than the rest of the island. As it is a humid heat, it is important that you wear breathable and comfortable clothes. Even if it is not sunny on the day of the activity, we assure you that you will still be hot, as Maspalomas is one of the areas with the highest temperatures on the island.

Another essential item in your bag is sun cream to protect your skin at all times and, of course, sunglasses so that the sun won't get in your way during the tour. We also advise you to bring a scarf to prevent the sand from blocking your view or causing you discomfort. Finally, although the ride does not last long, if it is very hot that day, it is better that you bring a bottle of water so that you can refresh yourself at any point.

Now that you know everything you need to know about camel rides in Gran Canaria, you can't miss out on this activity in the home of the Canary Islanders.