Reviewed · CAMEL RIDES

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks

5.0 · 188 reviews From $110 Operated by Wild Canyon Adventures · Bookable on Viator
Book on Viator →

Camel rides come with a splashy bonus. This four-hour Wild Canyon outing combines a gentle camel ride through El Tule Canyon with a rescued-animal sanctuary, water slides, snacks, and wide views toward the Sea of Cortez. I like the close contact with the camels, especially feeding them and giving one a kiss, and I like the family-friendly mix of quiet animal time and active park fun. The main drawback is the extra $25 park fee, plus transportation costs if you need a shuttle.

The ride itself is fairly short, so you should book this for the full package rather than a long camel trek. Miguel, who helps at the animal sanctuary, has earned praise for his friendly explanations, while guides including Jose and Victor are especially good at helping families with children. Bring a water bottle and towel, and remember that cameras stay in lockers during the ride.

Key points to know before you go

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Key points to know before you go

  • Camel ride through El Tule Canyon: Expect a gentle ride through a desert setting with views toward the Sea of Cortez, not an all-day trek.
  • Animal sanctuary visit: You can meet rescued animals and hear about them from staff such as Miguel.
  • Water park access: The $25 park entry fee includes waterslides, a pool, a fountain, and lounge chairs.
  • Food and drinks included: You receive cheese quesadillas, chips and salsa, plus one smoothie, tequila shot, daiquiri, or margarita.
  • Family-friendly format: Children as young as four can participate, and the group limit is 10 people.
  • Plan for extra costs: Park admission, optional photos, and shuttle transportation are not included in the $110 tour price.

What this four-hour Wild Canyon experience is really like

This outing works because it gives you several different kinds of fun in one visit. You begin with the camel experience, then spend time at the animal sanctuary and have access to the wider Wild Canyon park, including its water attractions.

The setting is near San José del Cabo, at Wild Canyon Adventures along the Carretera Federal Libre Transpeninsular. The listed meeting point is at kilometer marker information for the Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo road, and the activity returns to that same point.

The advertised tour time is about four hours. That is enough time to enjoy the camel program without making the whole day about riding. You should still allow extra time for check-in, changing, lockers, food, and using the water park.

The experience is capped at 10 people. That small group size matters most during the animal portions, when you want a clear view of the guide and a chance to interact without a large crowd pressing around the camels.

Meeting your camel and learning the basics

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Meeting your camel and learning the basics

The heart of the outing is the meeting with the camels. You are introduced to a specially trained, gentle animal, then learn about camel behavior and their individual personalities before riding.

The personal contact is a strong part of the program. You can feed your camel, take part in simple games, and give it a kiss. Those moments are likely to be more memorable than the ride itself, especially for children who enjoy animals.

Staff explain how to interact with the camels and help you get settled. The animals have names, and some families remember riding Aladdin and another camel as part of their visit. That naming detail helps make the experience feel more personal than simply sitting on an animal for a photograph.

The ride uses the camel’s distinctive swaying walk. If you have never ridden one, the motion may feel unusual at first. Hold on as instructed and keep your attention on the ride rather than trying to take photos. Personal cameras are not allowed during the camel portion, and free lockers are available for belongings.

That rule is practical. You need both hands available, and a dropped phone would be hard to retrieve. If photographs matter to you, souvenir photo packages are sold separately. One useful caution is to confirm how and when digital photos will be delivered before leaving, since a past purchaser had trouble receiving a photo link.

Riding through El Tule Canyon

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Riding through El Tule Canyon

The camel route leads into El Tule Canyon, where the desert setting changes as you move toward a greener oasis below. The ride offers views of the surrounding canyon and the Sea of Cortez, giving you a mix of dry mountain scenery and open coastal distance.

Do not expect a long-distance expedition. The ride is described as short and sweet, with the animal interaction and sanctuary visit taking much of the focus. That makes it suitable for families and first-time riders, but anyone hoping for hours in the saddle may find the riding portion too brief.

I see the short route as a benefit if your group includes young children. A long ride in direct sun can become tiring, while this format lets you enjoy the unusual experience without committing an entire day to it.

The canyon setting also gives the tour more character than a simple ride around a flat enclosure. You get a sense of the area’s dry terrain, then reach a green sanctuary at the bottom of the canyon. Wear closed shoes with a secure fit, comfortable clothing, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.

The heat can be noticeable. Bring a towel and bathing suit if you plan to use the water park, and bring your own refillable bottle. Water stations are available for free refills, but the container itself is not supplied.

The rescued-animal sanctuary and Miguel’s visit

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - The rescued-animal sanctuary and Miguel’s visit

The sanctuary provides a quieter part of the day. Here you can interact with rescued animals and learn about the work involved in caring for them.

Miguel is specifically praised for his warm manner and clear explanations at the sanctuary. That part of the experience may appeal to you as much as the camel ride, particularly if you want more than a photo opportunity.

The sanctuary gives children a chance to ask questions and see animals at close range in a setting built around care and education. It also breaks up the more active parts of the outing, so the program does not feel like one long ride followed by nonstop rides and slides.

The animal portion is still structured. Follow staff directions, respect the animals’ space, and listen before feeding or touching. The supplied information confirms feeding and interaction, but it does not promise a fixed list of species, so avoid booking this with the expectation of seeing a particular animal.

A few more reviews worth comparing before you book

Water slides, pool time, and the canyon bridge

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Water slides, pool time, and the canyon bridge

The $25 Park Entry Fee is required when you arrive at Wild Canyon. It is not included in the $110 tour price, but it covers several park attractions that can add real value to the day.

The water park includes waterslides, a fountain, a pool, and lounge chairs. This is the main reason to bring a bathing suit and towel. It also changes the experience from a single animal activity into a half-day outing with a cooling break afterward.

The slides provide the thrill promised in the title, while the pool and lounge chairs offer a slower option for anyone who does not want constant activity. Children can switch between the fountain, pool, and slides, though the information provided does not specify age or height rules for each attraction.

The park entry also includes access to the Los Cabos Canyon Bridge. It is described as the longest vehicle and pedestrian wooden bridge in the country, making it a natural photo stop. Since personal cameras are not allowed on the camel activity, use the bridge area for your own pictures if staff permit cameras there.

You can also use the non-guided bicycle area, with mountain or electric bikes on pump and trail tracks. Eurobungy and climbing walls are included in the park access as well, though weight restrictions apply to Eurobungy and no detailed limits are provided for the other activities.

You do not have to use every attraction. The advantage is choice. A group can split its time between animal encounters, swimming, cycling, climbing, and relaxing, instead of forcing everyone into the same activity.

Quesadillas, chips, salsa, and one included drink

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Quesadillas, chips, salsa, and one included drink

Food is simple but useful. The tour includes cheese quesadillas and chips with salsa, along with one choice of smoothie, tequila shot, daiquiri, or margarita.

This is not a full meal, so plan your expectations accordingly. The included food should help keep children and active adults going through the four-hour visit, but you may want to eat before or after if your group needs a substantial lunch.

The drink choice works for different ages and tastes. A smoothie suits children, while adults can choose an alcoholic drink if they prefer. Water refill stations are available at no charge, so bring a bottle and use them often in the heat.

The food and drink inclusion improves the value, but it does not erase the separate park admission. Add the $25 fee to the advertised $110 price, bringing the known cost to $135 per person before transportation, photos, or other purchases.

Transportation, lockers, and the extra costs

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Transportation, lockers, and the extra costs

Pickup is offered, but transportation is not included in the base price. You can pay for a shuttle at check-in. Round-trip service from the Tourist Corridor carries an additional charge, and pickup from the Diamante Zone or Puerto Los Cabos costs $10 per person.

Check the transport price for your exact hotel area before you commit. A tour that looks affordable for a family can become noticeably more expensive once park fees and several shuttle fares are added.

The meeting point is Wild Canyon Adventures, and the activity ends there. If you arrange your own ride, make sure you know the return plan before starting the tour.

Personal cameras and belongings are not allowed on the camel activity, but free lockers are available on site. This is convenient, though you should avoid bringing valuables you do not need. Souvenir photographs are available for purchase if you want formal camel pictures.

One past photo buyer had not received a paid photo link, so keep your receipt and confirm the delivery process. That is a small but worthwhile precaution.

Who should book this camel ride?

Camel Ride in the Canyon + Thrilling Water-Slides & Snacks - Who should book this camel ride?

This is a strong choice for families with children aged four and older. The camels are presented as gentle, the activity includes games and feeding, and staff such as Jose and Victor have been praised for taking good care of children.

It also suits adults who want a light animal experience with other activities attached. You can ride, meet rescued animals, take a bridge photo, eat, and use the water park without booking several separate excursions.

The format may not suit you if your top goal is a long camel trek. The riding portion is short, and the whole experience is built around variety rather than endurance.

You also cannot participate if you have back, neck, or heart problems, vertigo, or if you are pregnant. The maximum rider weight is 220 pounds, or 100 kilograms. Most people can take part, but you should treat these restrictions seriously and ask the provider if your situation is unclear.

Practical packing advice for San José del Cabo

Wear clothes that can handle dust, sun, and water. Closed shoes are required, while a bathing suit and towel make the water park much easier to enjoy.

Pack:

  • Refillable water bottle
  • Sunscreen
  • Hat and sunglasses
  • Comfortable clothing
  • Closed shoes
  • Bathing suit and towel

If you are also taking an ATV or UTV trip at Wild Canyon, consider something to cover your face. The road trip can be dusty, and a face covering can make the ride more comfortable. You can also buy one at the park gift shop.

Because cameras are restricted during the camel activity, place your phone and other items in the free lockers. Do not count on carrying a loose camera while riding.

Is $135 or more a fair price?

At $110 per person, the base price is not the whole story. The required $25 park fee brings the known total to $135 per person, before any shuttle charge or photo purchase.

That price is easier to justify if you use the wider park. The camel ride, rescued-animal sanctuary, snacks, drink, waterslides, bridge, bicycles, Eurobungy, and climbing wall give you several activities in one place.

If you only want a camel ride and plan to leave afterward, the value is weaker. You are still paying for park access, so plan to spend time at the water park or another included attraction.

For a family, the bundled format can save planning effort. You get animal contact, food, water access, and active options in one half-day visit. Just calculate the full price for your group, including transport from your hotel.

Should you book this Wild Canyon experience?

Book it if you want a family-friendly half-day with a gentle camel ride, rescued animals, snacks, and water attractions. The best parts are the personal camel contact, the canyon setting, the sanctuary visit with staff such as Miguel, and the freedom to use several park facilities after the ride.

Skip it if you want a long ride, dislike organized park settings, or do not plan to use the water attractions and other included activities. The extra $25 admission fee is easy to overlook, and transportation may add more.

For most families, I would treat this as a varied Wild Canyon day rather than a pure camel trek. Bring a towel, refillable bottle, sunscreen, and closed shoes, then budget $135 per person plus any transport or photo costs.

FAQ

How long does the camel ride experience last?

The complete activity lasts approximately four hours. The camel ride itself is shorter than the full visit because the schedule also includes the sanctuary, park access, food, and other activities.

Where does the tour start?

It starts at Wild Canyon Adventures on the Carretera Federal Libre Transpeninsular route between Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, at the listed Cabo Real meeting point.

Where does the activity end?

The activity ends back at the Wild Canyon meeting point.

Is transportation included?

No. Shuttle transportation is not included in the base price, but it can be paid for at check-in. Service from the Tourist Corridor costs extra, and transport from the Diamante Zone or Puerto Los Cabos costs $10 per person.

How much is the required park entry fee?

The Park Entry Fee is $25 per person and must be paid when you arrive at Wild Canyon.

What does the park fee include?

It includes the water park, canyon bridge, non-guided bicycle area, Eurobungy, and climbing wall. The water park has waterslides, a fountain, lounge chairs, and a pool.

What food and drinks are included?

You receive cheese quesadillas, chips and salsa, and one drink choice: a smoothie, tequila shot, daiquiri, or margarita.

Can I bring my camera on the camel ride?

No. Cameras and personal items are not allowed on the tour activity. Free lockers are available, and souvenir photos can be purchased separately.

What is the minimum age?

The minimum age is four years.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The maximum weight is 220 pounds, or 100 kilograms. People with back, neck, or heart problems, vertigo, and pregnant women cannot take part.

Can I cancel for a refund?

Yes, if you cancel at least 24 hours before the experience start time. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, and changes within that period are not accepted.

More like this

Camel Rides, compared.

The full Camel Rides list →
Cabo Beach Camel Ride, Mexican Buffet and Tequila Tasting
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 8,815 reviews· from $99

Cabo Beach Camel Ride, Mexican Buffet and Tequila Tasting

Read our review →
ATV Tour, Camel Ride, Tequila Tasting and Mexican Buffet Lunch
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 3,380 reviews· from $149

ATV Tour, Camel Ride, Tequila Tasting and Mexican Buffet Lunch

Read our review →
Camel Expedition and Beach Club In Riviera Maya
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 777 reviews· from $144

Camel Expedition and Beach Club In Riviera Maya

Read our review →
Beach Camel Ride and Encounter in Cabo
★★★★★★★★★★4.5· 768 reviews· from $71

Beach Camel Ride and Encounter in Cabo

Read our review →
Beach, ATV, and Camel Ride Combo Tour
★★★★★★★★★★4.5· 761 reviews· from $119

Beach, ATV, and Camel Ride Combo Tour

Read our review →
Magical Todos Santos Tour, Camel Ranch, Lunch and Tequila
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 672 reviews· from $89

Magical Todos Santos Tour, Camel Ranch, Lunch and Tequila

Read our review →
Boat Ride to the Arch and Beach Camel Ride in Cabo San Lucas
★★★★★★★★★★5.0· 499 reviews· from $149

Boat Ride to the Arch and Beach Camel Ride in Cabo San Lucas

Read our review →
UTV Adventure with Free Camel Ride and Sky Bikes
★★★★★★★★★★4.5· 435 reviews· from $175

UTV Adventure with Free Camel Ride and Sky Bikes

Read our review →

Browse the lists this tour appears in

Scroll to Top

Explore Mexico

Pick a coast, a ruin or a kitchen.