a unique way of exploring Egyptian landscapes
Camel riding as part of a one or two day tour is a distinctly different experience to the short rides which are provided throughout Egypt mainly as photo opportunities for tourists.
Longer distance camel riding instead of travelling in a vehicle gives you feelings of being more connected to the environment, and a different appreciation of time. You are continuously surrounded by open views, closer to the changes that can be observed throughout a day immersed in the desert.
Camels are not indigenous to Egypt, but as in other countries where they were introduced they became essential for transporting humans and goods on the desert trade and religious pilgrimage routes, for exploration and in the early days of tourism, and also as food.
Mechanized transport substantially replaced camels, however they remain important in some areas, especially where Bedouin use them for transport to places not accessible by 4WD. They are highly valued by the Bedouin and well cared for in the desert areas where they still provide daily transport.
camels have unique personalities and give you a unique perspective of the landscapes
you ride through
As camels now are used mostly for tourism it is not unusual to see them on a city street or a beach with their handler offering short rides, and of course at Giza around the pyramids where they provide rides for thousands of tourists every year.
There are camel races held in South Sinai which are interesting to attend, especially the major race held every January between two Bedouin tribes. This is run along a wadi (dry river bed), and watching the race means you are actually part of the action as you travel in jeeps, cars or trucks alongside the racing camels and their riders.
Riding a camel for a longer time is available in several places as part of tours, including the tours we offer in Fayoum and along the Red Sea coastal trail in South Sinai between the Blue Hole and Ras Abu Galum near Dahab.
In Fayoum, camel riding can be for one or two days. The route is usually between Rayan Valley or Magic Lake to Whales Valley or Qsour el Arab (not far from Whales Valley). The camel riding is a whole day including these sites, then completing your tour by vehicle. If you prefer the two day tour we camel ride the next day back to the starting point.
Camels are adapted to the desert not only by their ability to go for substantial time without water, but also because of their feet and their double eyelashes which protect their eyes from sand dust. They are sure footed on different desert surfaces, rock as well as sand. Those who have ridden camels often will tell you they prefer to trust the steadiness of a camel to their own two feet.
If you have not ridden a camel before, it is a different sensation to riding a horse or donkey and you quickly become used to the rhythm and pace of the camel. You will find that camels are mostly good natured and become endearing travel companions. Riding for a longer time gives you a sense of how travelers and traders in the past traversed the deserts of Egypt, and will give you unique memories of your time in Fayoum.
For more about our Fayoum tours including camel riding
