Camargue 4x4 Safari from Arles: Wild Horses, Bulls & Village Stop

Summary

Ride through Camargue’s wild heart with local stories and a village pause

You’ll ride through Camargue’s wild wetlands in a 4x4 with a local guide, spotting white horses, black bulls and flamingos up close. There’s time to explore Saintes Maries de la Mer on your own — maybe grab a pastry or watch the waves — before heading back with your head full of new stories.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely bumped down the dusty track when our guide, Jean, stopped the 4x4 to wave at an old man on horseback — just chatting away in Occitan. I couldn’t catch a word but the way they laughed felt like something you only see in places where everyone knows everyone. The air smelled salty and kind of sweet, like marsh grass after rain. Jean pointed out a group of white Camargue horses grazing by a pond — their coats looked almost silver in the morning light. I tried to take a photo but honestly just ended up watching them for a while instead.

The Camargue is flatter than I expected, all big skies and shimmering water. We rattled along muddy tracks with flocks of pink flamingos lifting off ahead of us (they’re louder than you’d think). At one point Jean handed me his binoculars so I could spot some black bulls half-hidden in reeds. He told us about the local “manadiers” who raise them — apparently it’s a whole way of life here. My French is not great but he switched to English whenever I looked confused, which was often enough that we both laughed.

We got half an hour to wander around Saintes Maries de la Mer — that little seaside village where pilgrims come every year. The church bells rang while I was eating a pastry from this bakery that smelled like butter and almonds. Some kids were kicking a football near the sea wall and for a second it felt like time had slowed down or maybe just bent sideways. Anyway, it’s hard to explain unless you’ve been there.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — 4x4 Safari and Village Stop

• 4x4 safari in Camargue park
• Guided discovery of wildlife and nature
• 30-minute stop at Saintes Maries de la Mer

Top questions

How long does the Camargue 4x4 safari last?

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours including stops.

Is there free time during the tour?

Yes, there’s a 30-minute stop in Saintes Maries de la Mer village.

Are infant seats available on this safari?

Specialized infant seats are available for this tour.

What animals can you see on this day trip from Arles?

You may see Camargue horses, black bulls, and various birds like flamingos.

Is this safari suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to road conditions.

Do you need to be fit for this Camargue tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup by your driver-guide from Arles, guided commentary throughout the Camargue wetlands by someone passionate about local culture, plus half an hour of free time to explore or relax in Saintes Maries de la Mer before returning together.