Camel rides near Hurghada can feel like a gimmick. This one is interesting because you get pre-ride coaching plus round-trip hotel transfers, and the camel time itself runs a full hour. You also have options for ride times, which helps you fit it around beach time without turning your day into a long tour marathon.

What I like most is the practical setup: you’re taught how to sit and mount properly, and you’re not left alone with a huge animal and a shrug. I also like that the ride includes helmet, water, and coffee/tea, so you’re not paying extra for the basics right after pickup.

One thing to consider: the word “amazing desert” can be a mixed bag depending on the route on the day. Some riders describe more of a roadside or construction-area start before the “real” part, so it’s smart to go in expecting a walk-and-take-photos camel experience, not a deep-off-road expedition.

Key things that make this camel ride work

• Hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle saves you hassle in Hurghada.
• One full hour on camel is long enough to feel like an actual ride, not a quick photo stop.
• Trainers and coaching help you get comfortable before you start moving.
• Helmet and water are included, which makes the experience feel more organized.
• Family-friendly structure, including child ride options and adult support.

Camel Ride timing and what the 2-hour block really includes

This is a short outing by design. The total duration is listed at about 2 hours, and inside that, you get 1 hour of camel riding. That matters because camel rides marketed as “one hour” sometimes end up feeling like 20 minutes once you add mounting, waiting, and shuffling around. Here, the time is built around the ride.

You’ll also have transfer time from your hotel. Pickup is offered from Hurghada hotels, and the drive is part of why the tour feels easy. If you’re staying far from where the horses and camels are kept, this kind of included transport can be the difference between doing it comfortably or skipping it.

Most groups are kept small, with a maximum of 15 travelers. In a small group, you tend to get quicker attention when you’re mounting and when you have questions about how to hold the reins.

From hotel pickup to the stable: expect a practical start

Your day begins with hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is priced low, and that’s partly because it’s focused on the core experience: you’re not buying a full-day outing with multiple stops and paid attractions.

Once you reach the stables/starting area, you’ll usually get that “you’re here—let’s do this” rhythm: helmet, quick instructions, and help getting settled. Several riders note that staff are friendly and helpful, and that matters if you’re nervous at first or you’re riding with kids.

A few people point out that the immediate surroundings around the stable can look less magical than the desert part you imagined. That’s not unique to Hurghada—animal stables near tourist zones often sit next to development—but it’s still worth knowing. Your “wow” moments are more likely during the ride itself and the photo stops that come along the way.

The one-hour camel ride: pace, photos, and the feeling of control

Here’s the core of the tour: you ride for one hour at a slow, steady pace. Camel riding isn’t like a horse gallop. The motion is more like a gentle sway with you adjusting your balance as the camel walks. That’s why the coaching beforehand is valuable—you’re being taught what to do with your posture and how to handle the reins safely.

A lot of the best moments come from the combination of views and guidance. Riders describe guides taking lots of photos and videos using guests’ phones. That’s not just convenient; it means you won’t be spending the hour half-occupied with camera setup while your body is learning how to sit.

Some riders even describe brief chances to try controlling the camel. If you like the idea of not just sitting there, but actually participating a bit, this is one of the things that makes the experience feel more real.

Where is the “desert” part, really?

This tour is sold as a camel ride in the deserts outside Hurghada, but the ride path can vary. A common theme is that there may be a segment along roads or near built-up areas before you get the more open terrain.

Why that matters: if you’re picturing a totally remote desert scene with zero roads in sight, you could be disappointed. Multiple comments describe portions that are more roadside than deep desert, including starts near busy streets or construction-type areas. Others say the main portion in the route feels much better, sometimes even taking you toward the sea front.

So my practical advice is to set your expectation to match what’s consistently true: you’ll ride camels for an hour, you’ll stop for photos, and you’ll see open sky. Just don’t bet your whole mood on the idea that you’ll only move through pristine, untouched desert scenery the entire time.

If you’re booking with the goal of the best scenery, go in on a “photos and experience first” mindset, and keep your eyes open for where the ride turns more open.

Family-friendly details that actually help

This is clearly positioned as family friendly. Children can ride with adults or on their own camel, and the tour is described as child appropriate. That’s a big deal if you’re traveling with kids because the logistics of mounting and staying balanced can be stressful.

Helmets are provided to each rider. Even if the speeds are slow, a helmet is still a reassuring “we’re organized” signal. It also helps if your child needs that extra confidence boost.

One practical note: the tour’s safety rules include a note that pregnant women are not permitted to ride a horse. The activity is camel riding, but the safety wording is still part of what’s provided—so if that applies to you, double-check eligibility before you go.

Also, expect warm weather. One rider warns about mosquitoes at sunset, calling them vicious. If your ride time lines up with late afternoon or evening, pack repellent and plan for quick reapplication if you’re sitting still for photos.

Trainers and named guides: what you can learn from them

There’s a strong emphasis on having camel trainers during the process. You get instructions before mounting, and trainers assist you while you’re riding. That’s one reason this tour can feel smooth even for first-timers.

In the comments, guide names come up like Camel Max and Alibaba. You might not get those exact people, but the takeaway is the same: you’re likely to be guided by someone who works with these animals every day, not a random driver who points and hopes.

What you can ask in the moment:

• If you’re nervous, ask for a slower start.
• If you’re traveling with kids, ask how they want the child positioned before you mount.
• If you want better photos, ask where they usually do the best photo stops.

This is one of those tours where small conversations improve your results fast.

Included items: you’re not paying extra for the basics

This tour includes the essentials, which helps justify the low advertised price. You get:

• Hotel pickup & drop-off by air-conditioned vehicle
• One hour camel riding
• Professional guide
• Helmet
• Water
• Coffee and/or tea

That last part matters more than you might think. When you book cheap tours, the first thing you usually learn is that refreshments become a paid add-on. Here, coffee and/or tea are included, plus water—so you can focus on the ride rather than hunting for a bottle later.

Still, there are occasional complaints about refreshments not being provided exactly as described. To protect yourself, I’d still plan to bring an extra small bottle of water just in case, especially if you’re sensitive to heat or you’re riding at peak afternoon.

Price and the real cost check (VAT and extra transfers)

The headline price is $13 per person, which is good value for a camel ride with hotel transfers. The catch is that there are additional costs listed.

Two items can change your final total:

• Government VAT: listed as 10 € per person, paid in cash on the spot.
• Extra transfers: if you’re coming from El Gouna, Safaga, Soma Bay, Makadi, or Sahl Hasheesh, there’s an additional 10 € per person, paid in cash on the spot.

So the smartest way to think about it is: the $13 gets you the core tour experience, but you should budget for the VAT, and confirm whether your hotel location triggers an extra transfer fee.

For many people in Hurghada proper, this still ends up feeling like a bargain because you’re getting both the animals time and the logistics handled.

Ride times and how to pick the slot that matches your mood

The tour offers several ride times. That’s useful because you can choose the time that fits your energy level and your day plan.

Two practical considerations:

• If you want fewer crowds around the stable, you might prefer an earlier slot.
• If you’re hoping for atmospheric photos, late-day rides can be appealing, but watch out for the mosquito issue mentioned by riders at sunset.

Because ride times are flexible, I suggest you base your choice on the rest of your schedule. If you already have beach plans later, pick an earlier camel slot. If you want a calmer end to the day, consider the later ride time—then pack repellent.

The ride style: calm pace, and what to do with your body

Most camels walk at a calm pace, and the biggest challenge tends to be comfort. You’re balancing on a moving animal while trying not to overthink it.

What helps:

• Wear shoes you can grip in and out of the camel saddle area.
• Keep your posture relaxed. Trying to “stiffen up” can make the ride feel worse.
• Listen to the trainer’s mounting instructions. A correct starting position prevents awkward readjustments later.

If you’re traveling with kids, teach them to hold on as instructed and to look where the guide tells them to look. It’s a small thing, but it prevents lots of fidgeting.

Where this camel ride really shines

This is a good fit if you want:

• A short, easy activity that doesn’t swallow your whole day
• A genuine animal-based experience with coaching
• Family fun where kids can actually enjoy the ride, not just watch

It’s also a solid choice if you’ve already planned your snorkeling or beach time. This adds variety without turning your schedule into a full itinerary.

Where it may not match your expectations:

• If your dream is remote desert, picture-perfect scenery with zero roadside segments, you might find the route underwhelming.
• If you want a highly polished “luxury” feel, the setup will feel more functional than fancy.

For a budget camel ride with transfers, it hits the mark more often than not.

Should you book this camel ride with transfers?

I’d book it if you’re prioritizing the core experience: one hour on camel with helmet, water, coffee/tea, and hotel pickup. The price is hard to argue with, especially for a ride that’s long enough to feel like you got your money’s worth.

I’d hesitate only if “pure desert scenery” is your top requirement. Since the route can include roads or less scenic sections, this is best treated as: learn how to ride, enjoy the hour, take photos, and let the experience be the point—not the scenery alone.

If you’re going, do one extra thing: ask the guide where the best photo stop is likely to be, and ask what portion feels most like open desert. That small question helps you enjoy the ride even if the start isn’t what you imagined.

FAQ

How long is the camel ride experience in total?

The tour runs for about 2 hours total, including time for pickup and drop-off. The ride itself is one hour on camel.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?

Yes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included by air-conditioned vehicle (for Hurghada hotels as listed for pickup coverage).

What does the price include, and are there extra costs?

The listed price is $13 per person and includes the camel ride, guide, helmet, water, and coffee/tea, plus hotel transfers. You also may pay 10 € per person VAT in cash on the spot. Some locations outside Hurghada have an extra 10 € per person transfer fee paid on the spot.

Are helmets provided?

Yes. A helmet is provided to each rider.

Is this suitable for children?

Yes. The tour is described as child appropriate, and children can ride with adults or on their own camel.

Are there group size limits?

Yes. This activity has a maximum of 15 travelers.

What is the cancellation window?

Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid is not refunded.