When most people think of Cabo San Lucas, they picture golden beaches, luxury resorts, and maybe a boat ride to see the iconic Arch. But during our family trip, we wanted to try something completely unexpected—something that would surprise the kids and give us all a memory that felt truly once-in-a-lifetime.
That’s how we found ourselves on a camel ride through the Mexican outback. Yes, camels in Cabo! This excursion blended desert scenery, cultural learning, traditional food, and family bonding into one unforgettable adventure.
In this review, I’ll share:
- How to book and what’s included.
- What the camel ride is really like.
- The cultural and educational aspects.
- Food and drink highlights.
- Family-friendliness and safety.
- Pricing and value.
- Insider tips for making the most of it.
- Comparisons to other Cabo excursions.
Booking the Camel & Outback Adventure
We booked our experience through a well-known Cabo adventure company.
- Options: Half-day tours offered morning and afternoon departures.
- Transportation: Roundtrip shuttle from our hotel was included.
- Duration: ~4–5 hours total, including travel time.
- Cost: Around $109 per adult, $89 per child (prices vary by operator).
💡 Tip: Book early, especially during peak holiday weeks, as tours sell out fast.
The Journey to the Outback
Leaving Cabo’s resort zone, the landscape quickly shifted.
- Desert Views: Cacti, rolling dunes, and rugged trails.
- Guide Commentary: Our guide shared history of the Baja peninsula, native plants, and traditions.
- Excitement Building: The kids couldn’t believe we were about to ride camels—animals they’d only seen in storybooks and zoos.
Meeting the Camels
On arrival, we were greeted by the stars of the show: the camels.
- Surprisingly Gentle: Each camel had a calm demeanor, trained for family-friendly rides.
- Well-Cared For: Guides explained their feeding, training, and how they were adapted to Baja’s desert climate.
- Safety Briefing: We received helmets, instructions on how to sit, and tips for holding on securely.
💡 Parent Note: Even our youngest felt safe—the camels walked slowly and guides walked alongside.
The Camel Ride Experience
The Ride
- Duration: About 20–30 minutes along desert trails and down to the beach.
- Scenery: Cacti, mountain backdrops, and ocean waves crashing nearby.
- Family Bonding: Kids laughed at the “camel sway,” while we soaked in the unique experience.
The Highlight
Walking along the sand with the Pacific Ocean in view while riding camels was surreal—it felt like we were somewhere between Baja and Morocco.
👉 Verdict: The ride was gentle, scenic, and fun for all ages.
Cultural & Educational Elements
The tour wasn’t just about camels—it was designed to showcase Mexican culture and traditions.
- Nature Walk: Learning about local plants like agave and how they’re used.
- History Lesson: Stories of Baja’s indigenous communities and ranching traditions.
- Hands-On Activities: Tortilla-making demonstration where the kids got to roll their own.
Food & Drinks: A Tasty Finale
After the ride, we were treated to a traditional Mexican meal.
- Tacos: Handmade tortillas filled with grilled chicken, beef, or vegetables.
- Salsas: A spread of spicy and mild options.
- Sides: Rice, beans, and fresh guacamole.
- Dessert: Flan and churros for a sweet ending.
- Drinks: Included water, sodas, and a tequila tasting for adults.
💡 Kid Favorite: Rolling tortillas and eating churros.
💡 Parent Favorite: Fresh margaritas made with local tequila.
Family-Friendliness & Safety
Why Families Love It
- Gentle, calm camels suitable for kids.
- Educational elements kept kids engaged.
- Hands-on food experiences made it interactive.
- Enough variety that parents enjoyed it too.
Safety Measures
- Helmets required for all riders.
- Guides walked alongside each camel.
- Strict weight and age requirements enforced for safety.
👉 Verdict: A rare excursion that works for kids, parents, and even grandparents.
Pricing & Value
At ~$100 per adult, it’s not cheap—but compared to other Cabo excursions, it offered great value.
- Includes transportation, camel ride, cultural activities, and a full meal.
- Comparable to snorkeling or ATV tours, but far more unique.
- The fact that it’s “bucket list” worthy made it worth every penny.
Comparisons: Other Cabo Adventures
- Whale Watching: Seasonal and spectacular, but depends on luck.
- Snorkeling at Chileno Bay: Beautiful, but not unique if you’ve snorkeled before.
- ATV Desert Tours: Fun but not family-friendly for younger kids.
- Camel Adventure: Safe, unusual, educational, and memorable.
👉 Verdict: The camel adventure stands out for families with younger children who want something beyond the usual beach and pool days.
Insider Tips for Parents
- Book morning tours—cooler weather and calmer kids.
- Bring sunscreen and hats—the desert sun is intense.
- Wear closed-toe shoes—required for safety.
- Pack extra water for before and after the ride.
- Bring cash for photos and tips—professional photos are usually available.
What Other Travelers Say
- “The most unique excursion we did in Cabo!”
- “Kids loved the camels and the tortilla-making.”
- “Worth the money—food was authentic and delicious.”
- “Surprisingly comfortable ride, and beautiful views.”
FAQs
Are kids allowed on the camel ride?
Yes—minimum age is usually 5 or 6 years old, with weight limits.
Is the camel ride scary?
No, camels are calm and trained, and guides walk alongside.
How long is the tour?
About 4–5 hours total, with 20–30 minutes on the camels.
Is food included?
Yes, a full Mexican meal with drinks is provided.
Is it worth the price?
Yes—for the uniqueness, family-friendliness, and cultural extras.
Final Verdict: A Unique Cabo Adventure
Our family’s camel and Mexican outback adventure in Cabo was unlike anything we’ve ever done on vacation. It wasn’t just about the ride—it was about the desert landscapes, cultural stories, tortilla-making, and the joy of doing something together as a family that felt totally unexpected.
👉 Our verdict: If you’re traveling to Cabo with kids, skip one beach day and book this adventure. It’s a memory-making experience you’ll talk about long after you return home.
