UTV and Camel Ride in the Cabo Desert

UTV and Camel Ride in the Cabo Desert: An Honest, Detailed Review

If you’re considering adding an adventurous twist to your Cabo San Lucas trip, the UTV and camel ride tour offers a unique blend of sun, sand, and wildlife. Although we haven’t personally taken this tour, everything points to a memorable experience that combines high-energy off-road fun with a gentle, unforgettable camel encounter. The two hours of adventure are packed with scenic views and authentic moments, making it a good choice for those craving a taste of Baja’s rugged beauty.

What we particularly like about this experience is the blend of exhilarating activities—from racing through desert trails to petting camels in a tranquil stable. Plus, the roundtrip transportation from both Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo ensures a hassle-free outing. However, potential participants should keep in mind that this experience isn’t ideal if you’re overly concerned about safety equipment or professional photography, since phones and GoPro cameras are not allowed during the activities**.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy active pursuits, appreciate scenic vistas, and want a fun, family-friendly adventure. If you’re looking for a way to explore Baja’s landscape with a dash of interaction with animals, this could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Scenic desert views and ocean glimpses make for memorable photo opportunities.
• Guides are praised for their friendliness and patience, especially with children.
• Activities include a 45-minute UTV race and a 20-25 minute camel ride, offering a good balance of adrenaline and relaxation.
• Transportation is included, simplifying logistics in busy Cabo.
• The tour is well-suited for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 10, ensuring personalized attention.
• The price includes snacks and drinks, adding value beyond just the activities.

A Closer Look at the Tour Itself

Starting Point and Logistics

Your adventure begins with a pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point, with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. This service takes much of the hassle out of logistics, especially after a long day of sightseeing. Upon arrival at the tour facility, you’ll check in, get a locker for your belongings, and meet your guide who will run through the day’s plan.

While the exact order of activities depends on the logistics of the day, most travelers will first tackle the UTV ride, which is quite the highlight. The guides emphasize safety gear—helmets and goggles are provided—and give a clear rundown on driving instructions, making it accessible even to those with no prior off-road experience.

UTV Racing Through Baja’s Trails

Once equipped, you’ll hop into your all-terrain vehicle and follow your guide along trails that weave through sand dunes, desert vegetation, and offer stunning views of the ocean. This part of the tour is especially popular for the adrenaline rush of racing side-by-side, as one reviewer noted, “Lots of fun. Enjoyed the side-by-side and beautiful surroundings.”

The trails are designed to be both exciting and scenic, giving you a real sense of Baja’s rugged terrain. Expect a rough and thrilling ride over sand and dirt, with occasional stops to admire the views and take photographs (although, be aware that phone use during the activity is not permitted).

Camel Encounter: Gentle Giants of Baja

After the thrill ride, you’ll head to the stables for the camel experience. This segment lasts around 20-25 minutes, during which you can pet and photograph these fascinating creatures. The camel tour is less about adrenaline and more about connection; many reviewers highlighted the warmth of the guides and the chance to get up close to these gentle animals.

One guest raved, “Noe, was a wonderful guide! Took extra time and patience with us and our 8-year-old. We loved the camel interaction, the route was beautiful, and the view was incredible.” The camel ride offers a more relaxed pace, with a route passing through dunes and along the coast, providing excellent opportunities for photos.

Food and Refreshments

The tour includes snacks, specifically two quesadillas, and refreshing drinks like horchata and Jamaica. Many travelers appreciated the quality of the included food, which adds a nice touch after the outdoor adventures. The food is simple but satisfying, making it a perfect light refreshment before returning to your hotel.

Final Moments and Return

Once the activities are completed, you’ll have time to review your photos (though, note that phones and GoPro cameras are not allowed during the activities), enjoy a light meal, and then hop back into the transportation for the ride home. You’ll leave with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of memories—if not some great photos.

Authentic Experiences and Honest Reviews

The reviews reveal a mixed but generally positive picture. Many guests praise the guides for their friendliness and patience. One reviewer shared, “Raphael was amazing. We had so much fun! The camel ride experience is one of a kind.” This emphasizes the importance of good guides in making the trip special.

However, not all comments are glowing. Tracy_U found the camel ride disappointing: “The picture take was rude. I had no stirrups or safety harness. I asked for some and the guy just ignored me. There was no information about the expectations of the camel ride.” This serves as a reminder that the safety and quality of the experience can vary based on the staff involved.

Value for Money

At $130.92 per person, this tour offers a decent value considering the combined activities, transportation, snacks, and scenic views. For adventure lovers, the 45-minute UTV race and the unique opportunity to interact with camels add significant appeal. Given that most activities are guided and small-group oriented (max 10 guests), the experience feels personalized.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book in advance, as this tour is popular and tends to fill about 15 days ahead.
• Bring your camera for photos before activities start, since phone use isn’t allowed during the rides.
• Arrive prepared for the desert terrain—wear comfortable clothing, sun protection, and closed shoes.
• Consider the weather, as the tour is weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to cancellations with full refunds or rescheduling.
• Factor in the USD park entrance fee ($5 per person) separately, as this isn’t included.
• If you want professional photos, ask about the photo package at the end of the tour, since phone use is restricted during activities.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is well-suited for adventure seekers who want a mix of high-energy fun and animal interaction. It’s ideal for families with kids, given the guide’s patience and the manageable pace. If you’re someone who loves stunning desert scenery combined with a touch of wildlife, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also suitable for group travelers or couples looking for a memorable outdoor activity that isn’t overly strenuous but provides plenty of excitement. However, those who prioritize professional photography or strict safety standards might want to inquire further before booking.

The Sum Up

The UTV and camel ride tour in the Cabo Desert offers a refreshing blend of thrill and tranquility. It’s a great way to see Baja’s rugged landscapes while enjoying some authentic animal encounters. The guided nature of the experience, combined with the scenic routes and food, makes it a solid choice for travelers eager to add adventure to their itinerary.

While some guests have noted minor hiccups—like safety equipment issues or the inability to use phones during the rides—the overall experience remains positive. The guides’ friendliness, the stunning vistas, and the chance to interact with camels stand out as highlights.

For those who want a fun, active day that offers a good value and memorable moments, this tour is worth considering. It’s best for those who enjoy outdoor activities, scenic landscapes, and animal encounters—a truly Baja adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, roundtrip transportation from Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo is provided, making it easy to enjoy without worrying about logistics.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, including activities and transportation.

What activities are included? You’ll enjoy a 45-minute UTV race through the desert and a 20-25 minute camel ride, with some time to take photos and relax.

What is the price? The tour costs about $130.92 per person, which includes snacks and drinks, and a guide.

Are there any age restrictions? The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families with children, but check the guide’s specifics if you have very young kids.

What should I bring? Wear comfortable clothing, closed shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Bring your camera for photos beforehand, as phones aren’t permitted during rides.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers? Yes, with a maximum of 10 travelers, it’s a small-group experience ideal for those traveling alone or in small groups.

Are photos included? No, official photos are not included, but you can purchase a photo package at the end of the tour.

What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour offers a fun, scenic, and memorable way to explore Baja’s desert landscape while enjoying some animal interaction, all in a safe and guided environment. For adventure lovers with an interest in authentic experiences, it’s well worth considering.