When you picture the perfect vacation day in Los Cabos, your mind probably goes straight to the ocean. You’re thinking of a boat cruise out to the famous Arch, a snorkeling trip, or maybe a sunset sail with an open bar. And while those are all fantastic, the most unique and talked-about tour in Cabo right now doesn’t even have a sail.
It has a hump.
Yes, you read that right. One of the top-rated experiences in this famous Mexican beach destination is riding a camel through the desert. It sounds like a bizarre tourist trap, but the truth is, it’s an incredibly fun and surprisingly authentic adventure that’s winning over thousands of travelers.
Wait, Why Are There Camels in Mexico?
Let’s get the obvious question out of the way. Camels are not native to Mexico. Their presence in the Baja desert is a quirky piece of history. They were originally brought over from North Africa in the 1800s by the U.S. Army for an experimental “Camel Corps” designed to transport goods across the arid American Southwest. While that experiment didn’t last, the camels thrived in the desert environment, and their descendants have become a unique part of the Baja landscape.
What the Experience is Actually Like
This isn’t just a quick, dusty ride around a paddock. Tour operators like the popular Cabo Adventures have turned this into a full-blown, all-inclusive experience at their “Tierra Sagrada” (Sacred Land) ranch.
The adventure starts with an interactive camel experience where you get to meet and feed these surprisingly friendly animals. From there, you embark on a guided camel ride that takes you through a stunning desert canyon landscape, filled with unique cacti and local wildlife, before emerging onto a pristine, empty stretch of Pacific Ocean coastline. Feeling the cool ocean breeze on your face while riding a camel along the shore is a surreal and unforgettable moment.
After the ride, the experience continues with a guided nature walk, a class on how to make traditional handmade tortillas, and an authentic Mexican buffet lunch complete with a tequila and mezcal tasting.
While prices vary slightly between operators, you can expect to pay around $105 USD per adult for this all-inclusive experience, which typically includes round-trip transportation from your hotel.
After the ride, the experience continues with a guided nature walk, a class on how to make traditional handmade tortillas, and an authentic Mexican buffet lunch complete with a tequila and mezcal tasting.
The New, Adorable Reason to Go Right Now
As if the experience wasn’t unique enough, it just got a whole lot cuter. In a heartwarming local news story, the tour company Cactus Tours just announced the birth of a brand-new baby camel right here in Los Cabos!
The healthy female calf has been given the perfect local name: “Choyerita,” a loving nickname for people born and raised in Baja California Sur. She is only the second camel to ever be born in the region, making a visit to see her and her family a truly special and timely experience.
The Verdict
So, is the camel tour just a gimmick? The honest answer is no. It’s a well-run, professional, and surprisingly fun adventure that offers a completely different perspective on the beauty of the Baja Peninsula. For travelers who have already “done” the boat trip to the Arch and are looking for something new, or for families seeking a unique and memorable day out, this is hands-down one of the best tours you can take. It’s a little weird, a lot of fun, and 100% worth it.
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