Travelers looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas will find this camel ride adventure outside the Strip offers a surprising dose of tranquility and authenticity. While Las Vegas is famously all about bright lights and high-energy entertainment, this tour provides a refreshing contrast—an opportunity to enjoy the desert landscape and get up close with some friendly animals.
What we love about this experience is how it combines scenic natural beauty with hands-on animal interaction. The camel ride itself is a gentle journey through the Nevada desert, offering splendid views of the Virgin Mountains, while the zoo part of the tour introduces you to llamas, alpacas, and other exotic creatures. The small group size—limited to just six participants—ensures you get plenty of personal attention and a more intimate atmosphere.
One thing to consider is that this tour is fairly basic in terms of amenities—there’s no included transportation from Las Vegas, and the meeting point is about an hour north of the city, on a gravel road that might be tricky for some vehicles. Also, it’s not suitable for children under five or pregnant women, so plan accordingly.
This tour suits travelers who love animals, enjoy scenic outdoor experiences, and want a relaxed, off-the-beaten-path activity that offers a good value for the price. If you’re after a memorable, authentic desert adventure, this might just be the highlight of your trip.
Key Points
- Unique desert experience combining camel riding and wildlife encounters
- Small group size offers personalized attention and a relaxed vibe
- Stunning views of the Virgin Mountains and Nevada desert terrain
- Interactive animal encounters with llamas, alpacas, and exotic species
- Accessible for most but excludes young children, pregnant women, and those over 250 lbs
- No included transportation—requires self-drive to the meeting point
Exploring the Experience in Detail
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bunkerville.
A Refreshing Break from the Las Vegas Hustle
Most visitors associate Las Vegas with casinos, shows, and neon lights, but just a short drive away lies a different world—one filled with quiet desert landscapes and unique wildlife. The Camel Safari Zoo is about an hour north of the Strip, located near Bunkerville. This location provides a much-needed change of pace, especially if you’re craving some fresh air and natural scenery.
The journey to the site is part of the experience. You’ll need to drive yourself, heading west on Foster Lane after taking Exit 112 off I-15. The gravel and dirt road might seem a bit rustic, but it’s part of the adventure. Once you arrive, the welcoming staff guides you through a relaxed, two-hour activity that balances scenic tranquility with animal fun.
The Camel Ride: A Gentle Desert Trek
The highlight of the tour is undoubtedly the camel ride. You’ll get to sit on one of these gentle creatures as they amble along sandy trails, with the Virgin Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. The ride lasts around an hour, offering plenty of opportunity for photos and simply soaking in the desert’s quiet beauty.
The camel handlers are experienced and friendly, making sure each rider feels comfortable. They’ll guide your camel and provide some educational commentary about these fascinating animals. The maximum weight load of 250 lbs per camel ensures the ride remains comfortable for most participants.
Many reviewers, like Eddie, a recent visitor, mention how much fun they had. Eddie said, “My 20-year-old grandson and I really enjoyed our day. We left quite surprised by how much fun it was. If you love animals, it’s definitely worth the trip.” That’s a testament to how accessible and enjoyable this activity can be, even for those who might be initially unsure.
Animal Encounters and Interactive Highlights
Beyond the camel ride, the tour incorporates several engaging activities. You’ll enjoy a safari tram ride that exposes you to the diverse desert ecosystem and the various animals living there. The zoo tour is quite lively, with opportunities to feed llamas and alpacas, and get up close with other exotic animals, guided by a zookeeper.
This hands-on approach appeals to animal lovers and families alike, creating a fun and educational experience. The zookeeper guides are knowledgeable, adding depth to the visit by sharing interesting facts and stories about each species.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details and What’s Included
For $149 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the range of activities packed into just two hours. Included are the camel ride, safari tram, animal photo-ops, feeding opportunities, and the exotic animal encounters.
You won’t get transportation from Las Vegas included, so plan to arrange your own car or rideshare. The meeting point is straightforward, but the gravel road and the fact that the road sign can sometimes blow down due to wind mean you should allow a little extra time to find your way.
Clothing should be practical—think comfortable, weather-appropriate, and able to get dirty, as you’ll be outdoors most of the time. Closed-toe shoes are a must, and sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera are highly recommended.
Limitations and Considerations
While the tour is generally highly praised, some potential limitations are worth noting. The maximum weight limit means heavier guests might not be able to participate, which could be disappointing. It’s also not suitable for very young children under five, pregnant women, or anyone with back problems.
Plus, since the tour is limited to small groups, it offers a more personalized experience, but this also means booking in advance is wise, especially during peak seasons. Cancellation is flexible—free if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance—but no refunds are available if you cancel later.
Authenticity and Overall Value
What makes this experience stand out is the authenticity of the desert environment combined with personal animal encounters. It’s a rare chance to see a different side of Nevada—away from the neon glow—while enjoying some truly memorable moments with animals and scenic views.
The reviewer, Eddie, captures the essence well: “If you love animals, it’s definitely worth the trip.” And it’s clear from other feedback that visitors find the guides knowledgeable and the overall experience to be good value for money.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This activity appeals most to nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, and those seeking a peaceful outdoor excursion. It’s suitable if you enjoy scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and learning about desert ecosystems.
However, it may not be ideal if you’re traveling with very young children, pregnant, or need a more comfortable or accessible experience. Also, if you’re relying on transportation from Vegas, you’ll need to plan accordingly, as the tour does not include pickups.
Final Thoughts
This Desert Camel Ride near Las Vegas offers a charming blend of scenic beauty, relaxed animal interaction, and a chance to experience Nevada’s wilderness in an engaging way. It’s a well-rated activity that provides excellent value, especially for those craving something different from the usual Vegas attractions.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small family, this tour is best enjoyed with an appreciation for the outdoors and an interest in animals. It’s a memorable way to spend a couple of hours and see a side of Nevada many visitors overlook.
In summary, if you’re after a quiet, authentic desert adventure that combines scenic views with animal fun, this camel ride is a solid choice. The knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and interactive elements make it a worthwhile addition to your Vegas itinerary—especially if you want to step off the Strip for a while.
FAQs
Is transportation from Las Vegas included?
No, the tour does not include transportation. You’ll need to drive to the meeting point, which is about an hour north of the Strip.
How long is the camel ride?
The camel ride itself lasts approximately one hour within a total experience of about two hours.
What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable clothes that can get dirty, and wear closed-toe shoes. Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera are also recommended.
Can children participate?
The tour is not suitable for children under five years old.
Is the tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate.
What is the maximum weight allowed on the camel?
The maximum weight load per camel is 250 lbs.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, the tour is limited to small groups (up to six), so reserving ahead is recommended.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
What animals will I see besides camels?
You’ll encounter llamas, alpacas, and other exotic animals during the zoo visit.
Is the experience good value for the cost?
Based on reviews and the range of activities included, yes—especially for animal lovers and those seeking a scenic outdoor experience outside of Vegas.
To sum it up, this desert camel adventure is a charming, authentic activity for travelers looking to enjoy Nevada’s landscape and wildlife without the bright lights. It’s ideal for those who love animals, scenic vistas, and small-group experiences. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views make it a memorable addition to a well-rounded Vegas trip.
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