What to Know Before Going Camel Riding

As the desert winds blow and the golden sun sets over the horizon, there’s something truly magical about embarking on a camel ride. But before you saddle up and start your journey, there are a few important things to know. From preparing for your ride to meeting your camel and enjoying the journey, every step of the way is crucial for a safe and memorable experience. So, grab your water bottle and sunscreen, and let’s dive into the top 10 things to know before you go camel riding.

Preparing for Your Ride

As exciting as camel riding can be, there are certain things you need to keep in mind before mounting your trusty steed. By preparing properly, you can make sure that you are comfortable, safe, and ready to enjoy the ride. To ensure that you have the best possible experience, we’ve put together a list of 10 things to know before you go camel riding. From timing to dress code, these tips will help you prepare for a smooth and memorable ride. So, before you start planning your camel riding adventure or booking camel riding tours, read on to learn what you need to know.

1. Choose the Right Time of Day

When planning to go camel riding, one of the most important factors to consider is choosing the right time of day. The time of day can greatly affect your overall experience and comfort during the ride. If you’re riding in a desert or other hot climate, it’s best to go early in the morning or in the late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. An early morning ride can be especially rewarding as you’ll get to enjoy the sunrise and start your day in a peaceful way.

However, if you’re riding in a colder climate, midday may be the best option as the sun is at its highest point and temperatures are at their warmest. It’s also important to consider the time of year you’ll be going camel riding. In some areas, temperatures can vary greatly between seasons, so be sure to do your research and choose a time that works best for you.

Furthermore, it’s a good idea to avoid riding during peak tourist season if possible, as you may end up waiting in long lines. This is especially true if you’re traveling to a popular destination for camel rides, such as Egypt or Morocco. Researching the peak tourist seasons for your chosen destination can help you avoid crowds and plan a more enjoyable experience. For more information on camel rides around the world, check out this guide.

2. Stay Hydrated

Staying hydrated is particularly crucial when going camel riding. Camel riding can be a strenuous activity, and the desert heat can quickly dehydrate you. It is important to bring enough water for the ride. A camel ride can last anywhere from one to three hours, so it is better to have more water than you think you need. A good rule of thumb is to bring at least one liter of water per person.

Drinking water before your ride is also important as it will help you to hydrate before you even start moving. It is essential to stay hydrated throughout your time on the camel as well. Drink water regularly during the ride, even if you do not feel particularly thirsty.

It is also a good idea to bring an electrolyte drink, such as a sports drink or coconut water, to replace the electrolytes lost during sweating. This will help keep you hydrated and refreshed throughout your ride.

In addition to drinking water, avoid drinks that can dehydrate you, such as soda, coffee, and alcohol, before and during your ride. These drinks can contribute to dehydration and make you feel more tired, which can be unsafe during your ride.

Remember, dehydration can lead to serious health problems, and it is essential to stay hydrated during your camel ride. By following this simple rule, you can make sure you have an enjoyable experience with no health complications.

If you want to know more about the benefits of camel riding to health, check out our article on the subject.

3. Dress Appropriately

When it comes to dressing for your camel riding adventure, it’s important to keep in mind the climate and the type of ride you’ll be going on. Here are a few tips to help you dress appropriately:

• Cover up: Loose, comfortable clothing that covers your arms and legs is ideal for camel riding. Not only will it protect you from the sun, but it will also prevent any chafing that might occur from the friction of the saddle.
• Avoid bright colors: It’s best to stick to neutral or earthy tones when choosing your outfit, as bright colors can startle the camels.
• Wear a hat: A wide-brimmed hat is a great way to protect your face and neck from the sun.
• Choose closed-toe shoes: Sandals or flip-flops are not recommended as they can easily slip off and get lost during the ride. Closed-toe shoes or boots with a low heel are the best choice.
• Bring a scarf: If you plan to visit a mosque or other religious site, you may be required to cover your head. Having a lightweight scarf on hand can also protect your face from the wind and sand.

By following these dressing tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your camel ride comfortably and safely. If you’re interested in learning more about camel riding etiquette, check out our article on Camel Ride Etiquette.

4. Bring Sun Protection

When going for camel riding, it is essential to pack sun protection items to avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion. Here are some of the things you should consider bringing along:

• Sunscreen: To protect your skin from the sun’s harmful UV rays, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Apply it generously on all exposed skin areas 30 minutes before the ride and reapply every two hours.
• Sunglasses: Bring sunglasses that block UV radiation to protect your eyes from the harsh sun rays; they will also help prevent sand and dust from getting into your eyes.
• Wide-brimmed hat or headscarf: Cover your head with a hat or scarf to protect your hair and scalp from the sun. A wide-brimmed hat will also shade your face, ears, and neck.
• Long-sleeved shirt and pants: Wear lightweight, breathable, and loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against the sun and sand friction. Avoid tight clothes or short sleeves to protect sensitive skin on your arms.
• Water: Bring enough water to stay hydrated during your ride as heat and sun exposure can cause dehydration. A good rule of thumb is to bring at least one liter of water per hour.

By bringing these sun protection items, you can safeguard your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays during your camel riding tour. It’s also recommended to learn more about the history and ecological importance of camel riding before embarking on a ride. You can read about it by visiting /bedouin-camel-riding-history/, /camel-rides-ecosystems/, or gather tips for taking great photos during camel riding by visiting /camel-riding-photo-tips/. You might also want to check out some famous camel rides in the world by visiting /famous-camel-rides/ and packing hacks by visiting /camel-riding-tour-packing-tips/.

Meeting Your Camel

As you make your way to the camel riding location, you might be feeling a mix of excitement and nervousness about meeting your new companion. The moment has finally arrived, and it’s time to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. With the following tips and guidelines, you’ll be able to make the most of your time with your camel and ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.

5. Get Acquainted with Your Camel

Before embarking on your camel riding adventure, it’s important to get to know the animal that will be carrying you. Here are a few ways to acquaint yourself with your camel:

• Approach Slowly: Approach your camel slowly and steadily, making sure to give the animal plenty of space to see and smell you. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises which could startle the camel.
• Watch Their Body Language: Pay attention to your camel’s body language. If their ears are laid back or they’re making a loud, guttural noise, it may be a sign that they’re feeling agitated or annoyed. On the other hand, if their ears are perked up and they’re making soft humming noises, it may indicate that they’re feeling content and relaxed.
• Offer a Treat: One way to befriend your camel is to offer them a treat. Camels love snacks like carrots or apples, so bringing a few along to offer your camel can be a good way to start building a relationship with the animal.
• Stroke Their Neck: Once your camel is comfortable with your presence, you can start stroking its neck or giving it a gentle scratch behind the ears. This can help your camel feel more at ease and build trust with you.

Remember, camels are unique animals, and getting to know your camel can be a fascinating and rewarding experience. By taking the time to build a relationship with your camel, you’ll not only have a more enjoyable ride, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures.

6. Remember the Safety Rules

When it comes to camel riding, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some important safety rules to keep in mind:

1. Always wear a helmet:	Camel riding can be unpredictable and a fall can happen at any moment. Wearing a helmet can protect your head from serious injury.
2. Keep both hands on the reins:	Make sure to hold onto the reins with both hands to maintain control over your camel. Never let go of the reins, even for a moment.
3. Listen to your guide:	Your guide is there to keep you safe and lead you on the right path. Always follow their instructions and don’t try to do anything outside of their guidance.
4. Stay focused:	Camels can spook and start running, so it’s important to stay focused and alert. Don’t get distracted or take your eyes off the trail.
5. Keep a safe distance:	Ensure you maintain a safe distance from other camels. This is to prevent collisions which can be dangerous.
6. Avoid sudden movements:	Sudden movements can startle a camel and cause them to react unpredictably. Stay calm, avoid sudden movements and take your time when moving or adjusting your position on the camel.

By following these safety rules, you can help ensure that your camel ride is a fun and memorable experience without any unnecessary accidents.

During Your Ride

As you set out on your camel ride, it’s important to stay mindful of your surroundings and follow the lead of your guide. The desert terrain can be unpredictable, so it’s crucial to listen closely to instructions and remain calm. But don’t forget to take in the breathtaking surroundings and capture some memories with your camera. Here are some tips for making the most of your camel ride experience.

7. Follow Your Guide’s Instructions

During your camel ride, it is important to follow your guide’s instructions. These instructions are designed to keep you safe and ensure that everyone in the group has an enjoyable experience. Here are some of the most important things to keep in mind:

Listen carefully	Make sure to pay attention to your guide’s instructions and listen carefully. If you are unsure about something, ask for clarification. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Hold on tight	When the camel stands up or sits down, hold on tight to the saddle or handlebars. This will help you stay balanced and avoid falling off.
Stay in line	It is important to stay in line with the other camels in your group. This will help prevent any accidents and ensure that the group stays together.
Keep a safe distance	Be sure to keep a safe distance from the camel in front of you. This will give the camels enough space to maneuver and help prevent any collisions.
Watch your step	Be mindful of your surroundings and watch your step, especially when getting on or off the camel. Camels can sometimes make sudden movements, so it is important to be aware of your surroundings.
Don’t feed the camels	While it may be tempting to feed the camels, it is important to refrain from doing so. Feeding camels can cause them to become aggressive and can also be harmful to their health.

By following these tips and listening to your guide, you can have a safe and enjoyable camel ride experience. Remember to always be respectful of the camels and your surroundings, and to have fun!

8. Enjoy the Scenery

While on your camel ride, it’s important to take in the stunning scenery around you. Here are some tips to help you fully enjoy the experience:

• Look around: As you leisurely stroll on your camel, take the time to look around and absorb your surroundings. Camel safaris are often conducted in areas with breathtaking views and unique landscapes.
• Observe wildlife: Some camel rides will take you through areas where you can spot wildlife such as gazelles or various desert birds. Keep your eyes peeled and enjoy the opportunity to see these creatures in their natural habitat.
• Take breaks: Your guide may make stops along the way to allow you to rest and take pictures. Use this time to truly appreciate your surroundings and take it all in.
• Appreciate the silence: One of the most unique aspects of camel rides is the almost complete silence that surrounds you. Take a moment to close your eyes, listen to the sound of your camel’s footsteps, and enjoy the serenity.
• Experience the sunset: If you’re taking a camel ride in the evening, look forward to experiencing a beautiful desert sunset. Watch as the sun dips below the horizon and bathes the landscape in a warm glow.

Remember, enjoying the scenery is an essential part of the camel riding experience. Take the time to appreciate the beauty of your surroundings and create lasting memories.

9. Take Plenty of Photos

As you embark on your camel ride, don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone with you to capture the incredible memories you’ll make. When it’s safe to do so, take plenty of photos of yourself and your camel, as well as the stunning landscape around you.

Here are some tips for taking great photos while camel riding:

1. Get creative with your angles	Try taking photos from different angles, such as from below looking up at the camel and rider, or from a higher vantage point looking down. This can add variety and interest to your photos.
2. Use natural light	The best lighting for outdoor photos is natural light, so avoid using your camera’s flash if possible. Choose times of day when the sun is lower in the sky, such as early morning or late afternoon, for softer and more flattering light.
3. Capture the details	Don’t forget to capture the smaller details, such as the intricate designs on your camel’s saddle, or the patterns in the sand created by the camel’s footsteps. These types of photos can add depth and interest to your collection.
4. Include the landscape	Make sure to capture the beauty of the landscape around you as well. Incorporate the mountains, sand dunes, or other natural features as the backdrop to your photos. These types of photos can help you remember the overall experience of your camel ride.
5. Take candid shots	While it’s important to get posed shots with your camel and your group, don’t be afraid to take candid shots as well. Some of the best memories are captured when people are caught off guard and being themselves. So snap a few photos of your friends and family having fun on their camels.

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to have a beautiful collection of photos to look back on and remember your amazing camel riding adventure.

After Your Ride

As your exciting camel ride comes to an end, there are several things to keep in mind in the aftermath of the journey. It’s important to show gratitude to your guide, who has led you safely through the desert terrain. Additionally, taking a moment to reflect on the experience and bask in the memories is essential before jumping back into daily life. Let’s explore some helpful tips and advice on what to do after your camel ride.

10. Tip Your Guide (if Applicable)

Showing your appreciation for your guide is an important aspect of a camel riding experience. If you received a great tour, don’t forget to leave a tip as a sign of gratitude. Even if tipping is not typical in the country, it is appreciated and reflects well on you as a polite traveler. Here are some tips on tipping your guide:

• Check the company policy: Some tour companies have a strict no-tipping policy, while others expect it. Make sure you are aware of the policies before deciding to tip.
• Consider the length of the tour: If your tour was longer than expected, consider giving a little extra than you originally planned.
• Think about the quality of the service: Did your guide go above and beyond to make sure you were comfortable during the ride? If so, show your appreciation with a more generous tip.
• Small bills are appreciated: Make sure to bring small bills with you, as your guide may not have change for a larger bill.
• Be discreet: Hand your tip to your guide privately and discreetly, rather than making a public spectacle of it.

Remember that tipping is a personal choice and should be based on the quality of service provided. By following these tips, you can ensure that your guide feels appreciated and valued for the great job they did.

Conclusion

After taking an exhilarating camel ride through the desert, it is important to reflect on the experience and appreciate the unique opportunity it offers. Camel riding allows one to see the world from a different perspective, as well as get a glimpse into the thousands of years of history and culture that surrounds the animals and the regions they inhabit.
It is important to remember to respect the camels and their handlers, as they have been a crucial part of life in these areas for centuries.
Camel riding can also provide a sense of adventure and excitement, making it a great activity for those seeking a change of pace from their daily routine. By following the tips and advice outlined in this article, travelers will be able to make the most of their camel riding experience and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime. Lastly, always remember to cherish the moment, take plenty of photos, and be grateful for the opportunity to ride such magnificent animals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is camel riding?

Camel riding is a popular activity that involves sitting on the back of a camel and traveling through an area.

What is the best time of day for camel riding?

The best time of day for camel riding is in the early morning or late afternoon, as the temperature is cooler during these times.

What should I wear for camel riding?

You should wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing, as well as closed-toe shoes or boots.

Do I need to bring sunscreen for camel riding?

Yes, it is recommended that you bring sunscreen and apply it frequently throughout the ride to avoid sunburn.

What is the maximum weight limit for camel riding?

The maximum weight limit for camel riding varies, but it is typically around 220-250 lbs.

How long does a typical camel ride last?

A typical camel ride lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on the tour or package you choose.

Can children participate in camel riding?

Yes, children can participate in camel riding, but they may need to be accompanied by an adult and meet certain age or weight requirements.

Do I need to bring my own camel for camel riding?

No, you do not need to bring your own camel. Camels are typically provided by the tour or activity company.

What should I do if I feel uncomfortable during the camel ride?

If you feel uncomfortable during the camel ride, you should let your guide know immediately so that they can help you adjust or end the ride if necessary.

Is it customary to tip the guide after a camel ride?

It is customary to tip your guide after a camel ride if you feel that they provided a good experience for you. The amount of the tip may vary depending on the length of the ride and the quality of service provided.

References

• What you should know before you go on a camel ride tour
• Camel train – Wikipedia