Maspalomas dunes feel like another world on camelback. I like the 2-seater saddle setup because it keeps things comfortable and beginner-friendly, and you still get that classic view of the sand sea. It is a guided ride through the Maspalomas dunes for about 30 minutes, with Saharawi guides looking after the camels and your group.

What I also really like is how smoothly the operation runs once you’re there, from mounting to photos. The one drawback to keep in mind is the whole experience is short, so if you want a long trek or a lot of story about the area, this may feel like a fast sampler.

Key highlights

• Comfort first: the camels use a 2-seater saddle, so you are not balancing on the hump
• Guides nearby: Saharawi guides stay attentive throughout the ride
• Photo-friendly: staff help with pictures and video on your phone
• Gentle pacing: the ride is calm, which makes the dunes feel relaxed instead of intense
• Good value for the time: insurance is included in the $21 price, and it is only 30 minutes

Getting To Charca Maspalomas And The Camel Station

This starts at the Charca Maspalomas area. From there, continue about 5 minutes along Oceania Street, and look for the camel station on the right-hand side.

Two practical notes that will save you time. First, the entrance can feel a bit tucked in, so don’t rely only on big, obvious signage. Second, I’d aim to arrive earlier than you think you need, because waiting can be longer in busy hours, especially when the sun is up.

If you’re using a taxi, you can ask to be dropped closer to the camel area, then plan on a short walk to the station.

Before The Ride: What You’ll Do While You Wait

The ride itself is 30 minutes, and the operator runs on a first come, first served approach for getting on the camels. That means your arrival time matters more than you’d expect. If you can, go earlier in the day to avoid the hottest conditions and busier queues.

You will get basic instructions on how the get-on and get-off works. The camels are guided with constant supervision, and the staff focus on safety steps before you move out into the dunes. In real-world terms, this is the moment where first-timers often relax, because you can see exactly what to do.

You might also spot onsite options to keep yourself comfortable. Some visitors note vending machines for water or juice, which is handy when you did not pack quite enough.

The 2-Seater Camel Saddle: Comfort You Can Actually Feel

Here’s the big comfort win: this is not a sit-on-the-top-and-hold-on situation. You ride with a 2-seater saddle, designed to keep you secure and reduce the awkward bouncing that can happen on other camel experiences.

Once you’re seated, the camel pace is typically calm, so you can actually enjoy the dunes instead of fighting your balance. People who were doing their first camel ride often describe it as surprisingly comfortable, even if the idea feels unusual before you start.

Still, it is a camel walk across sand, so it won’t feel like a smooth bus ride. One small criticism I saw was about extra padding in spots like the back of the seat. If you have a sensitive back, consider wearing a slightly thicker layer of clothing to make the ride feel better.

Riding Through The Maspalomas Dunes With Saharawi Guides

The heart of this experience is simple: you follow your route through the rolling Maspalomas dunes with Saharawi guides staying close and watching the camels and riders.

What makes it special is how the dunes look from up on a camel. You get that classic tall-perspective view, and the rhythm of the ride makes the scenery feel slow and wide. Several people highlight how calm the whole thing feels, which is exactly what I’d want from a first-time dune activity.

Guides are also part of the vibe. They help with getting set up, keep riders together, and stay present enough that you can focus on the experience. And yes, they help with photo moments along the way.

Photo Moments And Camel Personality (Yes, They Have Personalities)

If you care about photos, you’ll be glad this ride is set up for them. Staff commonly take pictures for you, including using your own phone, and can also capture short videos while you are on the camel.

It helps that camels themselves can be a little characterful. One camel named José was mentioned as stubborn, and the guides and riders ended up laughing it off rather than turning it into a stressful moment. Another set of riders referenced camels named Raul and Santiago, which gives you a sense that these animals are cared for and handled regularly.

One practical tip: wear something that wind can’t steal. A scarf can work well, especially if you’re going at a breezy time.

What $21 Buys You: Value That Makes Sense

At about $21 per person for roughly 30 minutes, this is priced like a fun local activity rather than a full-day tour. The key value point is what’s included: the ride and insurance are part of the price, so you’re not juggling extra costs for safety coverage.

The other “value” angle is psychological. This is easy to do even if you don’t want a complicated itinerary. You get the dunes experience, a memorable animal encounter, and a handful of solid photos without committing your whole day.

One detail that affects perceived value: because the ride is 30 minutes, you should think of it as a highlight stop. If you want a long outdoor adventure, pair this with something else in Maspalomas instead of expecting a full trek.

What To Bring So The Ride Feels Good

You’re in sand and sun, so pack like it’s a mini outdoor event, not just a quick checkmark.

Bring:

• Sunscreen
• Water
• Insect repellent

Also consider:

• A hat (or scarf)
• Sunglasses

Wear comfortable clothing. If you’re sensitive to sun or heat, early timing helps a lot, since some riders note very hot conditions when operations run.

Who This Is For (And Who Should Skip It)

This works best for people who want a gentle, guided animal experience and don’t mind a short duration. It also tends to suit families well, because the operation is designed for safe get-on/get-off and the guides stay attentive.

On the other hand, it is not suitable for:

• People with mobility impairments
• Wheelchair users
• People with vertigo

There’s also a weight limit: maximum 100 kilograms (220 lbs). If you’re close to that limit, it’s worth checking carefully before you show up.

Children under 3 can ride with their parents for free, which is a nice bonus if you’re traveling with little ones.

Small Logistics That Matter More Than You Think

A few details can make the difference between a smooth ride and a slightly annoying wait.

• Arrive earlier than you plan: first come, first served can mean lines when it’s busy.
• Don’t over-pack your expectations: it’s around 30 minutes, so go in knowing it’s a short ride.
• Finding the station: the entrance can feel hard to spot, so use your phone map and give yourself a buffer.
• Heat is real: even if you’re traveling in cooler months, the dunes can still feel intense at mid-day.

Also, while the guides are friendly and helpful, some people wanted a bit more guiding and story during the ride. So if you want deep explanations, treat this more like an activity with a light human touch, not a full educational tour.

Should You Book This Camel Ride In Maspalomas?

I’d book it if you want a straightforward, low-stress way to experience the dunes, especially if you care about comfort and photos. The 2-seater saddle, the calm pace, and the attention from Saharawi guides are the main reasons this is worth it, and it’s hard to beat the price for a 30-minute dune adventure that also includes insurance.

Skip it if you’re looking for a long trek, a lot of guided narration, or if you need accessibility options not covered by the activity rules. Also, if heat makes you miserable, choose the earlier start times when available.

If you want one simple plan: do this in the morning, bring water and sunscreen, and then spend the rest of your day exploring Maspalomas at your own pace.

FAQ

How long is the camel ride in Maspalomas?

The camel ride lasts about 30 minutes.

What is included in the price?

Included are the 30-minute camel ride and insurance.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included.

Where is the meeting point for the camel station?

Starting from Charca Maspalomas, continue 5 minutes along Oceania Street. The camel station is on the right-hand side.

What should I bring with me?

Bring sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. Comfortable clothing is also recommended.

What is the weight limit for riding?

The maximum weight limit is 100 kilograms (about 220 lbs).

Are small children allowed to ride?

Children younger than 3 years of age can ride with their parents for free.

What languages are the guides/instructor able to speak?

The instructor/guides are listed as speaking Spanish, English, and German.