There is no outdoor activity more quintessentially Egyptian than going for a camel ride in the desert. Camels form an integral part of local culture and history, and are still used for transportation purposes to this day.

Book a camel riding tour in Hurghada to gain an authentic local experience as you marvel at the vast natural beauty of the desert and spend some quality time with these fascinating creatures.

Here's all you need to know about camel riding, one of the most exhilarating and characteristic outdoor activities in Hurghada.

What are the best camel riding tours in Hurghada?

One-hour camel ride in the desert from Hurghada

Explore the incredible desert landscapes located on the outskirts of Hurghada when you join this 1-hour camel riding experience. Once you have been picked up from your hotel, you’ll be driven into the desert, where you’ll meet the camels.

Your guide will tell you more about the culture and history surrounding camels in Egypt and you’ll be provided with detailed instructions on how to ride a camel before you embark on your adventure in the desert.

Mount your camel and follow your guide as he leads the way across desert paths at a gentle pace. There will be plenty of photo opportunities along the way to commemorate your genuine Egyptian experience.

This family-friendly activity gives children the option of riding their own camel or riding with an adult. At the end of your camel riding tour, you’ll be taken back to your hotel in Hurghada.

Sunrise horse or camel riding experience in Hurghada

Start your day the right way by joining this sunrise camel or horse riding excursion in Hurghada. There is no better feeling than watching the sun rise over the beach or desert dunes from the back of your trusty steed.

You can choose between riding a camel or a well-trained Arabian horse. The choice is yours to make, but your guide is also more than happy to offer his advice. You can also choose between a trip that takes place on the beach or through the desert.

This 2-hour experience promises to be a fun-filled excursion, providing the perfect opportunity for you to make unforgettable memories with your travel companions.

An experienced rider will accompany you for the entire duration of your trip, to ensure your comfort and safety. This tour is perfect for beginners as well as those who may have some experience with camels or horses.

Desert tour and camel ride with Bedouin guide

Make your way from your hotel in Hurghada to the tour operator’s camel stables, where you’ll get to meet these gentle and interesting animals. Once your camel is saddled, you’ll mount your steed and begin your tour through the desert.

Your Bedouin guide is there to lead the way as you marvel at the breathtaking desert and coastal scenery. As this tour takes place at sunset, you’ll get to enjoy the ‘golden hour’ in the desert, which is a truly special time of the day.

The soft-footed camels walk at a gentle pace, giving you more than enough time to admire your surroundings and take in the sights, sounds and smells of the desert. Don’t forget to bring your camera so that you can get photos of your camel-riding experience.

Once the tour has come to an end, your driver/guide will drive you back to your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.

Are there any combo available with camel riding tours in Hurghada?

Combination tours are a popular way to experience multiple outdoor activities in one day — allowing you to make the most of your time in Hurghada and save money.

Camel ride plus ATV quad safari and Bedouin village tour

Head to a Bedouin camp deep within the desert to gain insight into local life, culture and heritage. You’ll make your way to the traditional village on an ATV ride, and when you arrive you’ll get to try traditional tea and ride a camel before making your way back to Hurghada.

Camel ride plus jeep safari and Bedouin village tour

Dedicate an entire day to experiencing the beauty of the Sahara Desert as you zoom past steep dunes in a jeep safari. Once you arrive in the Bedouin village, you’ll be greeted by friendly locals and be treated to a camel ride and traditional refreshments.

Camel ride plus ATV, buggy ride and Bedouin dinner & show

Embark on an Egyptian experience that you’ll never forget when you join this desert safari from Hurghada. Ride buggies, ATVs and camels before sitting down to enjoy a traditional Bedouin barbeque and dinner show.

How much do camel riding tours in Hurghada cost?

Basic 1-hour camel riding tours in Hurghada usually cost around US$20 per person for a group excursion that takes place in the desert. This price is inclusive of hotel transfers and all camel-riding equipment.

The desert tour with a Bedouin guide, which takes place on camelback, costs roughly US$25 per person for this relaxing desert experience.

Slightly more comprehensive camel riding experiences, such as the 2-hour sunrise excursion, typically cost around US$50 per person. For this tour, you can choose between riding a camel or a horse.

The cost of combination tours depends on what other outdoor activities are included and whether the tour is private or not, but you can expect to pay anywhere between US$20 and US$60 per person.

What is included?

Most camel riding excursions in Hurghada are inclusive of roundtrip hotel transfers, a professional guide and all the equipment you’ll need for a comfortable and safe experience, including the use of a helmet.

Some tour operators may also provide you with coffee, tea and bottled water to ensure that you’re properly hydrated. You’ll be responsible for any other personal expenses, and a photo session may be available at an additional cost.

Where does it start?

Camel rides in Hurghada take place in the desert surrounding Hurghada or on the coast of the Red Sea. As tour operators provide hotel pickup services, you won’t need to make your way to the tour’s starting point on your own.

Simply ensure you’re ready and waiting for your guide at the stipulated pickup time and you’ll be driven into the desert in an air-conditioned private vehicle.

How long does it last?

Camel riding excursions in Hurghada usually last 1 or 2 hours, depending on the tour operator you choose. Combination tours, which are inclusive of a variety of additional outdoor activities, are typically full-day excursions, lasting up to 10 hours.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While camel riding tours are not typically wheelchair-friendly or suitable for those with reduced mobility, there are many other outdoor activities in Hurghada that are better suited for wheelchair users.

When is the best time for a camel riding tour in Hurghada?

The best time for a camel riding tour in Hurghada is during the winter months (November to February) when the weather pleasant. However, as this is the best time to visit weather-wise, it's also when Hurghada sees the highest number of tourists.

If you prefer a balance between comfortable weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons are ideal (March through May and September through November).

The best time of the day for a camel riding tour in Hurghada is during the early morning or late afternoon, in order to ensure both your comfort and the well-being of the camels. Avoid mid-day rides, especially during the hotter months.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Hurghada?

Travel tips

Wear light, breathable, and long-sleeved clothing to protect against the sun.
Consider wearing long pants to prevent chafing from the camel saddle.
Use a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes.
Wear shoes that cover your feet and don’t come off easily.
Apply a high SPF sunscreen frequently.
Carry a bottle of water with you to avoid dehydration.
Listen to your guide’s advice and instructions, since he knows the camels and the desert terrain pretty well.
Camels first rise or kneel on their hind legs, which can catch first-time riders off guard, so remember to hold onto the handles of the saddle firmly.
Sit deep in the saddle and lean slightly back, especially when the camel is standing up or sitting down.
Always approach the camels slowly and with confidence, and void making loud noises that might startle them.
Avoid overloading camels or pushing them too hard in the mid-day heat.
Consider a small backpack with essentials like snacks, a first-aid kit, extra sunscreen, and possibly a camera.
Stay alert, stick with your group, and always let someone know where you're going.

Camel Riding in Hurghada