If you are planning on taking a desert tour, then you are bound to come into contact with a camel and most probably ride it. Since riding a camel in the desert is not something you do every day, it’s important to make the best out of such unique opportunities.
While there are other forms of transportation in the desert, using a camel is more fulfilling. Otherwise, how will you feel like you are on the desert tour if you are using the cars you are used to driving in your home area? Plus, camels provide a fantastic and convenient way to take a stroll in the desert.
Camels have been used as the only means of transport in the desert for centuries until recently when people have tried to incorporate other means. Even at that, camels continue to be the most important means of transportation for journeys through the sand dunes.
Most people who’ve had an opportunity to interact with camels consider them to be among the most loyal animals existing in the world. Although a few may argue that the same animal can be malicious and vengeful, if you know how to handle it, there is nothing to worry about.
If you haven’t sat on a camel before leave alone ride on it, the whole scenario can feel a little bit intimidating. But not to worry, this article is specifically written to help you up to your game next time you tour the desert and decide to ride a camel.
Tips to have fun when riding a camel
Riding a camel is an art that can only be mastered through experience. However, there are a few basics you shouldn’t dare to ride a camel without if you want to enjoy the ride. Although you’ll have a camel guide to help you out, it is still important to know what to do beforehand for your safety and comfort.
Whether you will be riding the camel for just 30 minutes or a number of days across the sub-Sahara desert, with these tips, you are guaranteed to have the most satisfying camel ride.
Clothing
While there is no specific outfit for camel riding, wearing long-sleeved pants and a shirt will protect your skin. The straw-like hairs on the camel’s skin can really make you uncomfortable if they grind up and down on your soft skin. You should also have long socks because as the motions hike up your pants, your socks will be left intact to protect your skin.
Other pieces of clothing you should have are a hat or better still a scarf to protect you from dust storm and sunglasses to protect your eyes. Your guide should help you to wrap the scarf in the most effective style. Dust goggles are also great particularly if storms are a possibility. In short, dress in outfits you are sure will protect you from itchy camel hair, sun and sand.
Mounting the camel
Though it’s quite easy to climb the camel when it’s lying on the ground, if it’s your first time, make sure your guide is holding the camel before you climb. If you are nervous, don’t exaggerate the situation by looking at its eyes. Just stride up with confidence and don’t agitate it. Although the chances of the animal getting agitated are pretty low, take caution and don’t offend it in any way.
The camel gets up first on its back legs and then its front legs. To get balance, lean on the back then on the front. When dismounting, the camel will go down with its front legs then its back legs. Lean backward then forward to maintain the balance.
Ride comfortably
Riding a camel isn’t as tough as some people would insist. You just need to be careful and trust the advice of your guide. The guide is more experienced and knows the animal better than you do. When riding, cross either one or both legs up on the saddle. Doing so will make you more comfortable since your weight will be distributed along the humps.
Unlike the measured gait of the horse, camel ride is herky-jerky and irregular. Therefore, to enjoy the ride, you have to let your body sway back and forth with the camel. Fighting the movements will only ruin your experience. For support, hold onto the front and the back posts. This will make it easier for your body to align with the camel’s movement.
Be careful with any electronic gadgets among other valuables. Those odd movements of the camel can easily cause things to shake loose and fall down. So, be very careful with your valuables not unless you don’t mind leaving them buried in the sand.
Get used to being uncomfortable
Truth be told, riding on a camel can get uncomfortable. If you are intending to do this for the first time, don’t expect the most pleasant ride of your life. In fact, you may experience some pain in your tailbone due to irregular movements and pressure. Have some over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the pain later if the pain is unbearable.
Don’t control the animal
No matter how submissive your camel seems to be, don’t try to control it. Camels only listen to their masters and you are only a rider. Although the camel can respond to occasional tug or push, don’t try to control it. Trying to do so will only make the animal unhappy.
Relax and enjoy
Obviously, there is no point in taking a trip if you are not going to enjoy it and have lots of fun. The beauty of taking vacations is to make beautiful memorable moments of the events. Hence, do what is expected of you then take a deep breath, loosen your muscle and enjoy the ride.
Panicking can cause the animal to panic as well. But when you are calm and relaxed, the same will reflect on the animal and nothing will get out of hand. Meaning, you will get used to the camel gait and your ride will be very enjoyable.
Riding a camel
Camel riding is still magical and no trip to the Arabian Peninsula, Northern Africa or the Middle East is complete without a camel ride. Besides, riding a camel in the desert is a rare occurrence. Meaning, when you get the chance, ride with confidence as you enjoy the moment.
Camels are tall, really tall. If you were to literally climb the animal, very few people could have enjoyed riding a camel. However, camels are very submissive, they sit down to enable you to climb on their backs. Lastly, camels are nice and obliging, reciprocate the same and be nice to your camel. With your guide’s permission, you can give a treat to your camel. Camels love vegetables, dates and fruits.
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