When most people picture Cabo San Lucas, they imagine golden beaches, sparkling resorts, and sunset cruises to the famous El Arco. But during our recent family trip, we wanted something completely unexpected—an adventure that would surprise the kids and become one of those stories we’d retell for years.
That’s how we ended up on a camel ride through the Baja desert.
Yes, camels in Cabo! 🐪
This Camel & Outback Adventure perfectly combined natural beauty, cultural discovery, and family-friendly fun. It turned out to be one of the most memorable excursions we’ve ever taken.
🌵 Booking the Camel & Outback Adventure
We booked our experience through a reputable local operator, Cabo Adventures, known for their safety record and sustainable animal care practices. According to Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler, this company consistently ranks among the top eco-tour operators in Baja for its emphasis on conservation and community partnerships.
- Tour Options: Half-day excursions available morning or afternoon.
- Transportation: Complimentary roundtrip shuttle from major Cabo hotels.
- Duration: Around 4–5 hours, including travel.
- Cost: Approximately $109 per adult, $89 per child (prices vary slightly by operator).
💡 Pro Tip: Book early—especially during school breaks or holiday weeks—as this tour is one of Cabo’s most sought-after family excursions.
🏜️ The Journey to the Outback
As we left the resort area, the scenery transformed dramatically. Towering cacti and rolling sand dunes replaced ocean views, painting a completely different side of Baja California Sur.
Our guide narrated fascinating facts about the region’s ecology and history. According to the Baja California Sur Tourism Board, this semi-arid desert is home to over 120 endemic plant species found nowhere else on Earth.
The kids were enthralled by the landscape—wide-open, quiet, and filled with anticipation. The idea of riding camels in Mexico sounded surreal.
🐪 Meeting the Camels
Upon arrival, we were introduced to the stars of the show—gentle, beautifully cared-for camels.
Our guides, many of whom were trained through local wildlife preservation programs, explained how these camels were raised in captivity, adapted to Baja’s dry conditions, and monitored by veterinarians.
- Well-Cared-For: Each camel had a calm personality and clear bonds with their trainers.
- Safety First: Helmets and clear instructions were provided before mounting.
- Family Comfort: Even our youngest felt secure; the camels walked at an easy pace with guides walking beside each rider.
💡 Parent Tip: This is one of the few animal-based excursions in Cabo that’s both humane and family-friendly—no racing, no stress, and a strong emphasis on respect for the animals.
🌅 The Camel Ride Experience
The Ride Itself
Mounting the camels felt surprisingly easy—our guides were patient, steadying each animal as we climbed aboard. Once settled, the gentle rise and fall of the camel’s gait began to feel almost meditative. The rhythmic sway wasn’t just movement—it was a pulse that connected us to the landscape around us.
The ride lasted about 25 to 30 minutes, tracing a winding path through Baja’s desert trails. Each turn revealed something new: towering cardón cacti, wild desert blooms, and panoramic views of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains in the distance. The desert stretched endlessly, painted in soft tones of gold and sienna.
As we approached the coastline, the air shifted—the warm desert breeze gave way to a salty whisper from the Pacific. The ocean shimmered like liquid glass, its waves curling against an untouched stretch of sand. That transition—from arid terrain to sparkling sea—was breathtaking, a reminder of how Baja’s landscapes blend contrasts in the most beautiful way.
Our guide pointed out how the Baja peninsula, once part of the mainland, drifted away millions of years ago due to tectonic shifts—creating this rare meeting of desert and ocean. According to the Baja California Sur Tourism Board, this unique topography supports both marine life and desert wildlife, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in Mexico.
The Magic Moment
Then came the moment we’ll never forget.
The camels descended gently toward the beach, their hooves leaving deep imprints in the sand. The Pacific wind brushed our faces, and the rhythmic sound of waves replaced the desert’s stillness.
Riding camels with the ocean stretching endlessly before us felt surreal—almost cinematic. For a few minutes, it didn’t feel like Cabo at all. It felt like we were somewhere between Baja and Morocco, a meeting of continents in spirit if not geography.
Our daughters couldn’t stop laughing at what they called “the camel bounce,” clutching the saddle handles as the camels swayed from side to side. Every giggle became part of the soundtrack of the day—joy, surprise, and pure wonder. My spouse and I exchanged that familiar travel-parent look—the silent acknowledgment that this was one of those family memories we’d never forget.
Even the guides seemed to share our awe, taking photos for us and pointing out whale spouts far off in the distance. The contrast of camels on a beach, the turquoise water, and our children’s laughter felt almost dreamlike.
A Sense of Connection
It’s hard to describe, but there’s something grounding about this kind of experience. Away from the noise of resorts and crowds, you become aware of every sound and scent—the crunch of sand beneath hooves, the salt in the air, the warmth of the sun on your shoulders.
The Harvard Health Blog often emphasizes the mental benefits of immersive outdoor experiences, noting that “mindful travel in natural settings can reduce stress and improve family bonding.” That held true here. For 30 minutes, we weren’t tourists—we were travelers sharing a quiet, magical encounter with nature.
Our Verdict
👉 Verdict: The camel ride was serene, scenic, and surprisingly soulful—a rare mix of fun and tranquility that worked for every member of our family. For younger kids, it was gentle and safe; for adults, it was profoundly calming.
If you’re planning your trip, schedule this excursion early in your Cabo itinerary. Like we wrote in our Carnival Firenze Review, the most memorable travel moments often come when you trade predictability for curiosity. This was one of those perfect surprises—a reminder that adventure doesn’t always mean adrenaline. Sometimes, it’s the quiet sway of a camel against the sound of the sea.
🎓 Cultural & Educational Aspects
This tour went beyond the novelty of camel rides—it was designed to connect visitors with Mexican heritage and the Baja landscape.
- Nature Walk: We learned about native flora like agave and pitaya cactus, used traditionally for food and healing.
- Cultural Lessons: Guides shared stories about ranchero life and indigenous customs of Baja’s early settlers.
- Hands-On Fun: A highlight was the tortilla-making class, where the kids rolled and cooked their own tortillas over a hot comal.
These touches echoed what National Geographic Traveler calls “experiential tourism”—travel that emphasizes learning and authentic cultural exchange.
🌮 Food & Drinks: A Delicious Ending
After the ride, we were treated to a traditional Mexican lunch in a shaded outdoor pavilion overlooking the desert.
The Menu
- Tacos: Handmade tortillas stuffed with grilled chicken, carne asada, or sautéed vegetables.
- Sides: Rice, beans, and house-made guacamole.
- Salsas: Both fiery and mild—something for every palate.
- Desserts: Flan and freshly made churros dusted with cinnamon sugar.
- Drinks: Water, sodas, and—best of all—a tequila tasting for adults.
💡 Kid Favorite: Rolling their own tortillas and devouring churros.
💡 Parent Favorite: A crisp, fresh margarita made with local tequila.
For foodies who love authentic culinary experiences, this meal was a treat. If you enjoy exploring regional flavors, check out our review of Fig Restaurant at Fairmont Santa Monica and our post on Poolside Snacks at Terranea Resort—both highlight how food connects travel and memory.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendliness & Safety
This excursion is one of Cabo’s most family-friendly adventures, balancing fun, education, and comfort.
- Camels are calm and well-trained.
- Guides assist throughout the entire ride.
- Helmets and safety instructions are mandatory.
- Age and weight limits are enforced for everyone’s safety.
Even grandparents in our group found it comfortable and enjoyable.
👉 Verdict: Few excursions manage to please everyone—but this one did.
💰 Pricing & Value
At about $100+ per adult, this tour is a splurge—but worth every peso. Considering it includes transportation, guided activities, camel ride, and a full meal, it’s excellent value compared with snorkeling, ATV, or zipline tours.
- ATV Tours: Fun but not ideal for younger kids.
- Snorkeling: Beautiful, yet similar to other destinations.
- Whale Watching: Incredible—but seasonal.
- Camel Adventure: Year-round, unique, educational, and safe.
As Lonely Planet notes, “the most memorable experiences often come from the unexpected.” This camel ride was exactly that.
🧭 Insider Tips for Parents
- Book a Morning Tour: Cooler weather and fewer crowds.
- Sun Protection: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential.
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes are required.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water for before and after the tour.
- Cash for Tips & Photos: Professional photographers capture every moment.
If you’re cruising to Cabo on Carnival Firenze, you can even arrange this excursion as part of your shore day—see our Carnival Firenze Review for details on logistics and family tips.
💬 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 with amazing views.”
These reviews echo our own experience—consistent praise for safety, food, and the friendliness of guides.
❓ FAQs
Are kids allowed?
Yes. Most tours allow children aged 5+ who meet weight limits.
Is the camel ride scary?
Not at all. Camels move slowly, and guides walk beside them.
How long is the tour?
About 4–5 hours total, including transportation.
Is food included?
Yes—a full meal and beverages are provided.
Is it worth the price?
Absolutely. It’s one of the most memorable family excursions in Cabo.
🌴 Final Verdict: A Cabo Adventure Like No Other
Our family’s Camel & Outback Adventure was unforgettable. It wasn’t just about riding camels—it was about seeing another side of Cabo: the desert landscapes, the local culture, and the laughter that comes from sharing something extraordinary together.
If you’re traveling with kids, skip one beach day and book this experience. It’s a perfect blend of adventure, education, and delicious food—exactly the kind of travel memory that defines why we created Culinary Passages.
👉 Our Verdict:
⭐ 5/5 – A must-do for families visiting Cabo San Lucas.
🔗 Related Reads You’ll Love
- Carnival Firenze Review: Family Cruising from Los Angeles to Cabo & Ensenada
- Terranea Resort: Poolside Snacks & Family Luxury by the Sea
- Uber vs Taxi in Hawaii: Which Is Better for Families?
- Fig Restaurant Santa Monica: Where Coastal Sophistication Meets Family Comfort
About the Author (Ginger Graham):
The author behind Culinary Passages is a Los Angeles–based food and travel writer who believes that the best memories come from trying something new — especially when adventure meets culture. With a passion for authentic experiences, this writer seeks out destinations that combine discovery, local flavor, and a touch of the unexpected.
During their Camel & Mexican Outback Adventure in Cabo San Lucas, the author found exactly that — a journey through desert trails and pristine beaches that felt both thrilling and deeply immersive. It was a reminder that travel isn’t just about where you go, but how it makes you feel along the way.
Through Culinary Passages, the author continues to share personal, experience-based stories that inspire readers to explore boldly, eat beautifully, and embrace every destination with curiosity and heart.
