Camel rides are fun, but this one has a real farm feel. You’ll ride through El Tanque’s agricultural trails while spotting native animals like Canarian goats and donkeys, plus views toward the north coast and protected spots such as La Rambla de Castro. I also like how the operation focuses on healthy, well-cared-for animals. The main thing to consider is that the ride time is short, so manage expectations if you’re chasing a long, scenic trek.

If you want to lean into the experience, add the optional costume and plan on a few photo moments at the center. Staff members like Daniella and Marcelo show up in the mix, and they’re the kind of people who help you feel sorted quickly, especially if it’s your first time on a camel.

Key things to know before you book

• 20 minutes in the saddle (booked), with the full experience often feeling longer once you factor in check-in and extras
• El Tanque farmland routes on paths through native flora and protected areas
• Meet native animals up close including Canarian goat, Pelibuey sheep, donkeys, and ponies
• Optional costume dressing if you want a more theatrical Tenerife moment
• Optional pickup stops can include tastings like wine with tapas (honeyed cheese, sauces, potatoes)
• Small group size (max 20) keeps the vibe calmer than big-ticket tours

El Tanque camel ride: why the rural north feels special

El Tanque sits on Tenerife’s northwest side, and it shows. Instead of a cookie-cutter attraction, this feels like you’re stepping into an active farming area—potatoes, cereals, and grapes—then walking a route that crosses farmland tracks and protected land. That matters, because you don’t just get a ride; you get a sense of how people actually live in this part of the island.

During the camel ride, you also get animal sightings that are more “Canary Islands” than “generic zoo.” You’re likely to see Canarian goats and Pelibuey sheep, plus donkeys and ponies. On a calm day, it’s a nice contrast to busier tourist zones, and it’s a good way to spend an hour without needing big stamina.

You’ll also catch sightlines that connect this rural area to the north coast—think fertile fields, palms, and banana plantations. The route’s described as taking you through La Rambla de Castro, where you can spot features like La Hacienda de los Castro and the old water lift of La Gordejuela. Even if you don’t know the details up front, the setting gives you a story beyond the camel itself.

Finding Camello Center (TF-82, km 10.2) without stress

This is one of those tours where your biggest “gotcha” is not the camel. It’s the start point. The meeting place is Camello center (paseos en camello y restaurante) on Carretera General, TF-82, km 10,2, in El Tanque.

If you’re driving, follow the TF-82 marker and aim to arrive early. If you’re using public transport, the center is listed as being near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re basing yourself in the area. If you rely on phone maps, do yourself a favor: download offline directions before you arrive. Some visitors have had trouble finding the spot when reception was weak.

One more practical angle: the ride is short. So if you arrive 2 minutes late, you’ll still be waiting. If you arrive 15 minutes early, you’ll settle in, use the facilities if you need them, and get comfortable before you mount up.

What you’ll do during the ride (and why it’s only 20 minutes)

The included core is a camel ride of about 20 minutes, and the activity ends back at the same place. In real life, that usually means: check in, meet the staff, get on, follow the group along the route, then dismount and finish at the center.

The route is described as running through farmland trails with native flora and protected natural spaces. That’s the part that makes it feel less like a ride loop and more like a small walk through the area’s working landscape. Along the way, you can expect to spot the native animals mentioned earlier, plus you’ll pass areas tied to La Rambla de Castro.

Now, the honest consideration: the ride time is brief. Several people loved it for exactly that reason (it’s easy, it’s not exhausting), while others felt it didn’t justify travel time if they expected something longer. So pick this tour for a quick, fun family experience and a real sense of place—not for a half-day adventure.

Also, expect the saddle feel to vary. Some visitors note the seats can be stiff. If you’re sensitive, wear clothing that won’t make that uncomfortable, and keep your stance steady when you mount and dismount.

Animals, costumes, and the photo moment that comes with it

The camel is the headline, but the animals are the supporting cast. The site is set up so you can see multiple species during your time on the grounds and along the ride route. That matters for kids and for adults who like animal encounters that feel calm.

There’s also an optional costume element. It’s not required, but if you want the extra fun factor—more playful, more “Tenerife story” for photos—this is your chance. People mention costumes like tunics and turbans, which can turn a quick ride into a more memorable snapshot.

After the ride, there’s typically a shop/restaurant area on site, and visitors say there are toilets and photo sales. You may be offered a remembrance photo purchase right after or during your visit. If you’re camera-shy, you can still enjoy the ride without buying anything; just be ready for the pitch.

One small tip: if your goal is the experience, not the photo package, set a quick decision for yourself ahead of time. That way you don’t feel pressured in the moment.

Optional pickup tastings: wine and tapas stops you might add

If you choose an option with pickup, you can start from areas like La Quinta, Turquesa, and Teneguía (listed as optional pickup zones). In those cases, the tour can include tastings, and that’s where the experience can level up from a simple camel ride into a small local-food moment.

The tastings are described as featuring wine and tapas such as honeyed cheese, sauces, and potatoes. This is a nice “northwest Tenerife flavor” add-on, and it’s especially useful if you’re pairing the camel ride with food time anyway. It also helps justify the stop if you’re aiming for more than just a quick animal encounter.

The drawback is obvious: pickups usually mean extra time on the clock. If you’re on a tight schedule, consider whether you really want that extra segment—or if you’d rather keep your day light and direct.

Price and value: what $18.07 buys (and what it doesn’t)

At about $18.07 per person, this sits in the “short-and-fun” category. You’re not paying for a long trek, a multi-stop itinerary, or a full meal.

What you are buying is:

• a guided camel ride of around 20 minutes
• entrance to the activity area
• a chance to see and interact with a small collection of animals in a rural setting
• optional extras like costume, and in some pickup versions, wine and tapas

So the value depends on your goal. If you want an easy family activity with laughs, a chance to try something different, and a glimpse of Tenerife’s agricultural side, it’s a solid deal for the money.

If you’re the kind of traveler who wants a scenic, extended ride—something that feels like a real outdoor experience rather than a quick attraction—then this price won’t stretch your day enough to feel “worth it.” In that case, you might be happier spending your time and budget on something longer elsewhere.

Who this camel ride suits best (and who should skip it)

This is listed as one of those activities where most people can participate. But there are clear limits you should respect.

• Kids must be accompanied by an adult. It’s a family-friendly outing by design.
• Not recommended for participants with back problems. The saddle and mounting process can be uncomfortable.
• Maximum weight per rider is 120 kg. If you’re booking for someone near the limit, plan ahead and double-check details during booking.

If you’re traveling with children, you’ll likely appreciate how short it is. It’s long enough for the novelty to land, but not long enough to wear everyone out. If you’re older, short rides can also be a win—less waiting around, less fatigue.

If you’re traveling solo and you’re chasing a deep immersion day, be honest with yourself: this isn’t a full cultural program. It’s an animal-and-ride experience, with optional food and costume only if you add those layers.

Timing, weather, and small tips that make the day smoother

The activity runs in good weather. If weather is poor, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Since camel time depends on conditions, don’t stack this tour at the very last minute of your trip.

Hours are listed across a multi-year period, and Monday is 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For other days, check the current schedule when you book so you don’t waste time.

Here are a few practical tips that fit the way the experience operates:

• Plan to arrive a bit early. The ride is short, and early arrival means you’re not rushed during check-in.
• Bring light layers. Even in Tenerife, the experience can feel cooler near the coast or on shaded farmland paths.
• If you care about comfort, wear supportive footwear and dress for a bit of sitting.
• Have offline directions ready in case the area is spotty for phone signals.

Also, this activity can run with a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps the vibe. You’re not stuck in a huge line, and the staff can focus on keeping things moving.

Should you book the El Tanque camel riding tour?

Book it if you want a quick, friendly camel experience in Tenerife’s northwest farming area, with native animals and a protected landscape route. It’s especially worth it for families, first-timers, and anyone who likes seeing how the island looks beyond the beach.

Skip it if you’re expecting a long, scenic camel trek or you hate short experiences where most of the value is the “try-it-once” factor. Also skip if back comfort is an issue, since this isn’t listed as a good match for back problems.

If you’re flexible with timing and you’re okay adding a costume or optional tastings (if you go with pickup), this can be a fun, low-stress break in your Tenerife itinerary.

FAQ

How long is the camel ride?

The camel ride is approximately 20 minutes.

Where does the tour start and end?

It starts at Camello center (paseos en camello y restaurante) on Carretera General, TF-82, km 10.2, in El Tanque, Tenerife. It ends back at the same meeting point.

Is pickup included?

Pick-up service is not included, though optional pickups are offered in La Quinta, Turquesa, and Teneguía with tastings.

What’s included in the price?

The price includes the 20-minute camel ride (approximately) and an entrance ticket.

What language is the tour offered in?

The experience is offered in English.

What’s the maximum group size?

This activity has a maximum of 20 travelers.

Are there age or medical restrictions?

Children must be accompanied by an adult. The activity is not recommended for participants with back problems.

Is there a weight limit?

Yes. The maximum weight per rider is 120 kg.

What’s the cancellation policy?

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience start time for a full refund. If you cancel less than 24 hours before, the amount paid is not refunded.

Does the tour run in bad weather?

This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.