In this age of machinery where riding is associated mostly with bikes, riding a camel can be an adventurous experience. It is a bit different from riding other animals because of the gait of the camel. The long strides and strong humps help a camel to run fast and make your ride more enjoyable. However, it can be dangerous and sometimes fatal too for the first time riders if not done under supervision. To have a safe and enjoyable camel ride, follow the following tips on how to ride a camel.
- A camel is an extremely emotional animal. If handled by unknown hands, he can get panicky and behave in a strange way. If you are a first time rider, ensure that you have a professional camel rider with you till you finish your ride. He will help you and give you tips on how to mount, how to sit and how to balance on a camel.
- Because of the height of a camel, it is very difficult to mount a camel when he is standing. This has to be done only when the camel is sitting. There is a ledge attached to the saddle horn of a camel. This ledge is to help you to get on the camel. Place one leg into the ledge and then put another across the camel’s hump. Take precaution not to hurt the camel while doing this. The best way is to do this mounting process in one go. Do not take breaks while mounting. This will prevent you from falling down while mounting.
- The scariest part is when you mount the camel and are sitting on the camel is when it is time for him to stand. Many people are scared of this part and avoid camel riding only because of this reason. If you are not sitting properly you can fall from his hump injuring yourself. To avoid any embarrassing incident you need to have a firm grip of your knees on the saddle horn. While getting up, when the camel leans forward, you should lean backwards and if he is leaning backwards, remember to lean forward. This will stop you from falling and losing your grip.
- Once you have mounted the camel and after he gets up, next thing is to know how to sit on a camel. You have to know his disposition and the way a camel walks. Although the camel’s movements are very slow, you can be pitched forward at about 45 degree angle. This can be stressful sometimes. But if you allow yourself to be a little flexible, you will enjoy the ride.
- Once you are mounted, hold the reins confidently and draw your knees to a 90 degree bend. This will help you in balancing yourself even if there is a constant movement on a large angle of degree.
- Never try to dominate on a camel after mounting. Sit confidently but without troubling the animal. The camel might take his own time to get accustomed to you
- Getting off from the camel is very similar to mounting. Again, the deadliest part can be when a camel sits. Follow the same instructions of leaning to the opposite side on which the camel leans.
Please pay attention to the following warnings to avoid unpleasant incidences.
- Do not eat or drink while riding on the back of the camel.
- If you have children with you, ensure their safety. Avoid giving reigns in their hands.
- Always obey the orders of the professional rider.
- Do not try to experiment and control the camel.
- Camels walk very slowly. Do take care that you do not fall asleep while riding.
- Pregnant women are advised not take camel rides.


