Maun, Botswana: Safari Camel Adventure

If you’re visiting Maun and craving a truly unique outdoor experience, the Safari Camel Adventure at Okavango Camel Rides offers an unexpected twist—riding gentle camels in the heart of Botswana. This farm-based tour provides a charming, family-friendly way to connect with local wildlife, learn about desert animals, and enjoy scenic surroundings without the need for prior experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or with kids, this adventure promises fun, education, and memorable moments.

What we really love about this tour is its relaxed pace, the opportunity to feed and pet the camels, and the fact that it’s accessible to almost everyone. Plus, the location’s proximity to Maun’s airport and town center makes it a convenient escape into nature. That said, those looking for a multi-day safari or a more adrenaline-fueled experience might find this a bit light on adventure. Still, for a laid-back, authentically local activity that offers a taste of Botswana’s desert life, this is spot on. It’s particularly perfect for families with children, animal lovers, or anyone curious about camels and rural farm life.

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Key Points

Family-friendly activity: Suitable for kids and adults alike with no prior riding experience needed.
Educational experience: Learn about camels’ history, behavior, and adaptability.
Authentic farm setting: Located in Maun Village, just minutes from the airport and town center.
Flexible scheduling: Two daily sessions—morning and afternoon—allowing easy planning.
Affordable value: At $50 per person, it offers a unique outdoor activity without breaking the bank.
Photo and bonding opportunities: Pet, feed, and take pictures with the camels for lasting memories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of Maun’s Camel Safari: What to Expect

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An Introduction to Camel Rides in Botswana’s Heartland

The Okavango Camel Rides experience is situated on a family-operated farm in Maun’s Moeti ward, behind the airport. This location is easy to reach—no 4×4 needed—making it accessible for all kinds of travelers. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted by friendly guides eager to share their knowledge about these fascinating animals.

The tour begins with a brief educational talk about camels—covering their roles in desert life, their history, and how they’ve adapted to dry environments. This sets the stage for understanding why camels are such valuable companions in Botswana’s arid regions. The guides’ enthusiasm makes the learning engaging and approachable, especially for kids who love animals.

The Guided Camel Ride: 1 Kilometer of Scenic Calm

After the intro, you’ll mount your camel for a 1 km ride across the farm. The camels are described as gentle and easy to handle—ideal for beginners and nervous riders alike. The ride lasts about an hour, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and snap photos. Expect to see the farm’s peaceful surroundings, with views of the rural landscape that hint at the broader desert-adapted ecosystem.

Guests report that the camels are well-trained and calm, with some noting that the experience exceeded their expectations. As one reviewer put it, “I was surprised at how comfortable I felt on the camel — it was smooth and relaxing, even for someone like me who had never ridden before.”

Feeding, Petting, and Bonding with Camels

One of the most loved parts? The opportunity to interact closely with the camels. Visitors are encouraged to feed and pet these friendly creatures, revealing their playful personalities. The guides facilitate this interaction, often sharing little stories about each camel’s quirks and habits.

Guests have mentioned that the camels are very approachable, and bonding with them is surprisingly easy. “The highlight was definitely feeding and petting the camels — they’re surprisingly affectionate,” says one traveler. For families, this hands-on experience is both fun and educational, making the animals’ personalities shine.

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Photo Opportunities and Relaxing Farm Environment

Throughout the tour, plenty of chances arise for memorable photos—whether it’s a selfie with a camel or candid shots of the rural landscape. The farm environment itself provides a quiet, peaceful backdrop that invites relaxation. Visitors often comment on how refreshing it is to escape the hustle of town and just enjoy nature and animals in a laid-back setting.

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Practical Details: Booking, Timing, and Accessibility

Tours operate seven days a week, with two daily sessions—morning (8 am to 10 am) and afternoon (3 pm to 6 pm)—each with a one-hour riding slot. The booking process is straightforward, and you can reserve your spot in advance, with the option to pay later, adding flexibility to your plans.

Getting there is simple: the farm is a five-minute drive from Maun International Airport and about seven minutes from Maun’s town center. Since it’s accessible by all vehicle types, no special arrangements are necessary, making it convenient even if you’re arriving from elsewhere in Botswana.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $50 per person, the experience includes:

A guided 1 km camel ride
An educational talk about camels
The chance to feed and pet the animals
Photo opportunities with the camels
Free parking and a tranquil farm environment with friendly guides

Extras such as transportation from your accommodation or meals are not included, but these can be arranged separately if needed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

This experience delivers more than just a ride; it’s about connecting with animals, learning something new, and enjoying a peaceful rural setting. For families, it’s safe, interactive, and often cited as a highlight of Maun’s outdoor activities. The modest price point makes it accessible, especially considering the personalized attention from guides and the opportunity to get up close with camels—a rare find in Botswana.

Travelers who appreciate authenticity and a slower pace will enjoy the farm’s relaxing atmosphere. Plus, the location’s proximity to airport and town means you can easily fit this activity into a broader itinerary, perhaps before heading into the Okavango Delta.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor activity that’s educational and fun, this tour is perfect. Animal lovers and shy riders will appreciate the calm, gentle nature of the camels. It’s also well-suited for travelers who want to experience Botswana beyond traditional safaris, adding a local farm visit to their adventure.

However, those seeking a long or adrenaline-pumping safari might find this more laid-back than they prefer. Pregnant women and children under 1 year are advised against participating, but otherwise, most guests find it suitable and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts: A Charming, Authentic Adventure

The Maun Camel Safari at Okavango Camel Rides offers a delightful way to spend an hour immersed in Botswana’s rural life. It’s a chance to meet and interact with gentle camels, learn about desert animals, and enjoy scenic farm views—perfect for a family outing or a quiet interlude amidst your travels.

The guides’ warmth and knowledge add a genuine touch that enhances the experience. The low cost combined with the high-quality interaction makes it an excellent value, especially for those wanting to diversify their Botswana adventure with something memorable and different.

Whether you’re a curious traveler, a family with kids, or an animal lover, this tour provides a peaceful, authentic encounter that will leave you with plenty of photos and stories to share.

FAQs

Is prior experience needed to ride the camels?
No, you don’t need any previous riding experience. The guides are there to assist and ensure you feel comfortable throughout the ride.

How long does the tour last?
Each session lasts one hour, including the educational talk, riding, feeding, and photo opportunities.

Can I participate if I am pregnant?
No, pregnant women are advised not to take part in the camel rides for safety reasons.

Where exactly is the farm located?
The farm is in Moeti ward in Maun, behind the airport. It’s accessible by all vehicle types and only about five minutes from the airport.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera, sun protection, and comfortable clothing. Food and drinks are not included unless pre-arranged.

How do I book my spot?
You can reserve your session through the booking platform, with the option to pay later, and choose from the morning or afternoon session.

To sum it up, the Maun Safari Camel Adventure offers a unique, authentic taste of Botswana’s rural and desert life in a friendly, accessible setting. It’s ideal for families, animal enthusiasts, or anyone looking to add a memorable outdoor activity to their Maun itinerary. With knowledgeable guides, scenic views, and hands-on interaction, it’s well worth the modest investment for a genuine local experience.