3 Best Camel Rides in Broome: Which is best? Full Review

Looking for the Best Camel Rides in Broome?

You’re in the right place because the 3 best Camel rides in Broome are all featured here. How do I know they’re the best? I’ve lived in Australia since 2019, and I have visited Broome.

I have been on several Camel Rides Broome, Western Australia has to offer and vetted all the tours in this article to ensure they’re highly rated and well-reviewed – so all you have to do is book a camel safari tour and enjoy!

As you wander along the sun-kissed beaches of Broome, you’ll be awed by the vast expanse of the turquoise ocean kissing the ruby-red Pindan cliffs. But the Broome experience transcends the usual seaside getaway. It’s a land that invites you to embark on a voyage of unique and memorable adventures, such as the much-acclaimed camel riding in Broome.

Who could resist the charm of meandering down the iconic Cable Beach atop a friendly camel, with the setting sun painting the sky in hues of gold, pink, and purple? The rhythmic sway of your camel, the whispering sea breeze, and the lullaby of waves will serenade you into a state of absolute tranquillity.

This dear readers, is not just another beach activity; it’s an experience, an adventure, and a memory that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Wondering which of these Camel Rides in Broome is best for you? Read on to discover which we recommend and what the Broome Camel Rides Reviews say!

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3 Best Camel Rides Broome

Book this Broome Camel Safari Sunset Tour and get a 1-hour first-class camel ride across the picturesque Cable Beach.

⭐️ Star Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ Tour Start Time: 4:15pm-5pm |⏳ Tour Length: 1 Hour | 🐫 Check Rates and Availability

If you’re looking for the best camel ride Broome has to offer, book this VIP Luxury Tour immediately!

This isn’t your run-of-the-mill tourist attraction; it’s an immersive, memory-making adventure that’ll have you swapping stories long after your tan fades.

At the helm of Broome Camel Safaris is none other than Alison Bird, Broome’s original camel lady. With 30 years of camel guiding experience, Alison’s got the know-how to create a journey that’s as safe as it is unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned camel rider or a first-timer, Alison and her team have got your back.

🐫 When the phrase “Camel Rides Broome Blue” echoes around, it’s a testament to the exceptional experience offered by Broome Camel Safaris, fondly referred to as “the Camels in Blue”. This acclaim isn’t just hearsay; we firmly believe they provide the premier camel safari in Broome.

Now, let’s dive into the rides. Broome Camel Safaris offers three distinct packages: Sunset Camel Ride, Pre-Sunset Camel Ride, and Morning Camel Ride. Each one puts a unique spin on the camel riding experience. But if you ask us, the 1-hour Sunset Camel Ride is the real showstopper. It’s our number one top pick, and for good reason.

The Sunset Camel Ride is more than just a ride; it’s a luxury experience. As you stroll along the famous Cable Beach atop a well-loved camel, you’ll witness the magical Broome sunset over the Indian Ocean, a sight that’s sure to take your breath away.

It’s a moment of tranquillity that’s hard to find in our fast-paced world, making it a perfect way to disconnect and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Broome.

What sets Broome Camel Safaris apart is the attention to detail and the extras that come with your tour. All ladies riding with Broome Camel Safaris receive a complimentary pair of sterling silver freshwater pearl earrings from Dahlia Designs, a perfect memento of your Broome adventure.

Moreover, the tour offers a fantastic and affordable professional photography service. You’re also welcome to bring your own camera, and the team will happily take photos for you free of charge.

As a special offer, guests who ride with Broome Camel Safaris receive a voucher sheet with deals such as free cocktails from Zanders Restaurant and discounts for entry to Malcolm Douglas’ Crocodile Park, among other fantastic Broome experiences.

But the benefits don’t stop at the stunning views and complementary gifts, The Sunset Camel Ride is also an educational experience where you’ll learn a ton about these fascinating creatures. Plus, let’s be real, it’s just a whole lot of fun! It’s an experience that’s bound to put a smile on your face and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

And don’t just take my word for it. The reviews for Broome Camel Safaris are near perfect, and highly praised for the friendly staff, the well-cared-for camels, and the overall experience. It’s clear that this isn’t just a ride; it’s a Camel Riding Adventure in Broome that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

So, if you’re heading to Broome and looking for an adventure that’s a little bit different a little bit epic, and a whole lot of fun, Broome Camel Safaris is your ticket.

With their range of rides, focus on photography and rave reviews, they’re offering a camel riding experience that’s simply too good to miss. And if you’re going to choose one ride, we highly recommend the Sunset Camel Ride!

Camel Rides Broome

2. Red Sun Camels – Magical Morning Tour

⭐️ Star Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ Tour Start Time: 7:30am-8:20am |⏳ Tour Length: 40 mins

The Morning Camel Tour by Red Sun Camels is an excellent alternative to the popular sunset tours. This tour offers a different perspective of the stunning Cable Beach, allowing you to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the morning hours.

Red Sun Camels has been operating since 1991 and has grown from a humble beginning with just six camels to owning more than forty camels today. The company, under the stewardship of John and Janet Geappen, has earned the distinction of being Broome’s only award-winning camel tour and was the first to gain National Tourism Accreditation.

The Morning Camel Tour is a serene experience that lets you witness the awakening of Broome’s coastal wildlife and the soft morning light illuminating the pristine beach. It’s a peaceful and less crowded alternative to the often fully-booked sunset tours, giving you a more intimate experience with these magnificent creatures.

In 2012, Red Sun Camels were awarded Australia’s North West Tourism ‘Best Land Based Tourism Operator’, a testament to their high-quality service and commitment to providing unforgettable experiences for their guests.

The Morning Camel Tour by Red Sun Camels is a fantastic alternative to the popular sunset tours. It offers a unique, peaceful, and educational experience that allows you to enjoy the beauty of Cable Beach in the tranquil morning hours.

Camel Rides Broome

3. Sundownder Camel Tours

⭐️ Star Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | ⏰ Tour Start Time: 7:30am-8:20am |⏳ Tour Length: 40 mins

Discover a unique perspective of Broome’s Cable Beach with the Pre-Sunset Camel Tour by Sundowner Camel Tours.

Sundowner Camel Tours is easily identifiable by its distinctive yellow saddle mats with red trimming.

The venture is led by Steve Madden, a pioneer in the camel tour industry in Broome. Steve was one of the first camel tour operators on Cable Beach back in the ’90s, and his passion for these remarkable creatures is palpable. He and his team are eager to share their wealth of knowledge about the character, physiology, and nature of camels, turning your tour into an engaging and enlightening journey.

The Pre-Sunset Camel Tour is a 30-minute adventure along the iconic Cable Beach. As you ride atop the friendly camels, comfortably seated on soft saddles, you’ll be treated to stunning views towards Gantheume Point.

The timing of the tour is perfect for those who wish to avoid the crowds that typically gather for the sunset, offering a more tranquil and intimate experience.

At the end of the ride, you’re treated to a complimentary drink of your choice – beer, wine, or water, a perfect way to round off the experience.

Camels in Broome: Information and Facts

When it comes to iconic Australian fauna, the kangaroo, koala, or wombat might spring to mind first. However, one of the country’s most fascinating creatures originally hails from faraway lands, the camel.

In the sun-soaked town of Broome, camels have become an integral part of the landscape, offering locals and tourists alike a unique way to explore the stunning coastline. But why are there camels in Broome and what’s special about these creatures?

🐪 Camels in Australia are primarily of two types: the one-humped Dromedary Camels and the two-humped Bactrian Camels. The camels that roam the sands of Broome are Dromedaries. Easily identifiable by their single hump, Dromedaries are known for their incredible adaptability to arid conditions.

🐪 Their distinctive hump, contrary to common belief, doesn’t store water. Instead, it’s a reservoir of fatty tissue, providing energy when food sources are scarce. The hump also serves another crucial purpose – it helps to insulate the rest of the body from heat, allowing the camel to stay cool in hot climates.

🐪 One of the unique characteristics of camels is their gait, a result of their legs’ unusual motion. Unlike most four-legged animals, camels move both legs on one side of their body at the same time, creating a swaying motion that’s earned them the nickname “ships of the desert”.

Why are there camels in Broome, Western Australia?

In the 19th century, camels were transported from India and Afghanistan to Australia to assist with transport and labour. The responsibility of tending these camels fell to Muslim cameleers, who were brought over specifically for this purpose.

They played a vital role in servicing the South Australian outback and eventually started their own businesses, importing and managing camel caravans. Historians estimate that during this period, around 15,000 camels found their way to Australia. The camel handlers, commonly referred to as Afghans or Ghans, also left their mark, lending their nickname to Australia’s famous train, The Ghan.

With the advent of motorised vehicles, camels’ roles significantly diminished, leading to many being released into the wilderness. In these untamed lands, camels flourished, and today, Australia is home to the largest population of wild camels in the world.

However, this population surge hasn’t come without issues. In remote communities, camels wreak havoc by damaging fences, pipes and draining waterholes. Between 2009 and 2013, the Australian government initiated a culling program, resulting in the loss of about 160,000 camels.

Interestingly, the camel ride businesses in Broome can be viewed as a lifeline for these camels. I personally hold reservations towards animal tourism that leads to the animals’ suffering. Yet, these camels are well-cared for – they are well-fed, properly hydrated, carry weight within limits, and work only a couple of times per day.

So, one could argue that these businesses are in fact providing these camels with a sanctuary, shielding them from a possible grim fate in the wild.

Where can you ride camels in Broome?

Cable Beach, with its tranquil scenery, is the one and only location in Broome for camel rides. All tour operators meet guests on this stunning shoreline, making it the ideal backdrop for a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Broome Camel Rides Weight Limit

In Broome, the welfare of camels is a priority. Therefore, there are certain weight limitations for camel rides to ensure the animals’ well-being.

Both Sundowner Camels and Broome Camel Safari enforce a maximum weight limit of 90kg per individual, whereas Red Sun allows a slightly higher limit of 100kg per adult.

For children, the weight restriction is kept at 60kg. Moreover, for couples riding together, the combined weight cannot exceed 170kg. These measures are put in place to protect the health and comfort of these majestic creatures.

What is the best time of day to ride camels in Broome?

A camel ride against the backdrop of a sunset at Cable Beach is the quintessential Broome imagery most travellers have come to expect. And for a good reason – the dazzling display of oranges, pinks, and purples lighting up the sky is genuinely spectacular, making Broome sunset camel rides a hot ticket, often fully booked weeks in advance.

A sunset tour immerses you in the stunning spectacle of a Western Australian sunset, a vibrant feast for the eyes, and you’ll be sure to come away with incredible photos!

That being said, don’t rush to rule out a morning tour. Opting for a sunrise camel ride lets you sidestep the afternoon heat and bustling crowds.

Those seeking a last-minute booking will likely find the morning tours more accommodating. The experience is undeniably calmer, offering you a serene journey on the 22-kilometre stretch of Cable Beach. Rest assured, the early morning vistas are equally insta-worthy.

The morning sunrise camel tours in Broome are generally more budget-friendly!

What to Expect on a Broome Camel Ride?

Embarking on a camel ride in Broome is a delightful adventure that guarantees some hearty laughter and engaging encounters.

Camels have this stereotype of being a touch grouchy, but the ones here in Broome are chill, and happy to amble along with us, the random tourists. Don’t be surprised if you spot a camel-in-training in your convoy. That’s right, even camels have a rookie phase!

While these rookies occasionally test the waters with a quick detour, there’s no need for alarm. It happened in my group and created a momentary stir, but the ever-vigilant tour staff had things back in order in no time. The camels follow a strict single file, flanked by attentive guides at the front, middle, and back, ensuring any bumps in the ride are quickly smoothed over.

For the welfare of the camels, your weight will be asked before the ride. The operators are mindful of not overburdening the animals and have set weight limits.

As for getting on and off the camel, no longer do you have to grapple with the awkward manoeuvre of climbing on a kneeling camel. Most tour operators now provide mounting platforms attached to their trucks. This allows for a graceful ascent and descent, eliminating the camel’s need to get up and down, ensuring a comfortable experience for both the rider and the camel.

Where to stay near Cable Beach?

Given the magical yet specific timing of the camel tours, either embracing the fresh breath of early morning or basking in the soft glow of the setting sun, it’s worth considering spending the night nearby.

Staying locally not only makes for a stress-free start to your camel riding adventure but also allows you to soak up the serene beauty of Broome’s evening sky, undisturbed by the rush of return travel.

How to get to Broome

By Car: Embarking on a road trip from Perth to Broome can be an adventure in itself, presenting opportunities to witness some of Western Australia’s stunning landscapes.

The distance between Perth and Broome is approximately 2200km, and the journey, primarily along the North West Coastal Highway, can take around 23-25 hours non-stop. However, it’s advisable to spread this out over several days to enjoy the sights and stopovers along the way.

Remember to check the condition of your vehicle before starting your journey as remote stretches of the highway have limited services.

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By Bus/Train: While there is no direct train service from Perth to Broome, you can catch a TransWA train to Carnarvon and then a bus to Broome. The train journey is roughly 9 hours, and the subsequent Integrity Coach Lines bus journey is about 16 hours. Keep in mind that this is a long journey, so prepare to bring along snacks, drinks, and entertainment for the trip.

By Flight: Flying is the quickest and most convenient way to travel from Perth to Broome. Several airlines, including Qantas and Virgin Australia, operate daily direct flights from Perth to Broome International Airport.

The flight duration is approximately 2.5 hours. Once you arrive in Broome, taxis and car hire services are readily available for you to reach your accommodation or embark on your camel ride adventure.

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Camel Rides Broome: Frequently Asked Questions

Before you go…

It’s worth noting that Broome’s natural beauty extends far beyond the iconic Cable Beach. To truly appreciate Broome’s coastal charm, don’t miss our comprehensive guide to the best beaches of Broome. From the serene turquoise waters of Reddell Beach to the secluded sands of James Price Point, you’ll find each beach in Broome has a unique character and beauty to offer.

Once you’ve sunbathed and surfed to your heart’s content, why not consider exploring further? Our detailed Perth to Esperance itinerary is an invaluable guide for those embarking on a road trip, loaded with insider tips and must-see stops along Western Australia’s spectacular southern coastline.

Last but definitely not least, let me introduce you to the charming town of Denmark, a hidden gem that’s my personal favourite spot in Western Australia. Discover the reasons why I fell in love with this place, where we explore the pristine beaches, towering forests, and delightful wineries that make Denmark so captivating.