Tenerife El Tanque: Camel ride through farmland trails

Summary

Camel riding in El Tanque: farm trails, native animals & local stories

You’ll sway along El Tanque’s farmland trails on a camel ride with a local guide, meet native animals like Canarian goats and Pelibuey sheep, and catch glimpses of historic sites among banana plantations. It’s an easygoing way to feel Tenerife’s rural side — with moments you’ll remember long after you’ve brushed off the dust.

What’s the experience like?

We were already laughing before we even climbed onto the camel — it’s not every day you find yourself in El Tanque, up on Tenerife’s northwest side, trying to figure out how to sit gracefully on a giant animal that looks like it’s judging you. The air smelled a bit earthy, like potatoes after rain (they grow a lot of them here), and our guide, Marta, grinned at my nervous shuffle. She handed me the reins and said something in Spanish I only half understood — I think it was “don’t worry, he’s friendly.”

The camel ride itself was slower than I expected, kind of swaying and lurching along these old farmland trails. You get this odd rhythm going, and after a minute or two you stop worrying about falling off. We passed by fields where Canarian goats watched us with what felt like mild curiosity (or maybe just hunger). There were Pelibuey sheep too — their wool looked almost reddish in the afternoon light. Marta pointed out banana plantations further down the slope and told us about La Rambla de Castro, which is this protected landscape full of palm trees and old stone buildings. I tried to picture what life was like here before all the tourists started coming for day trips from other parts of Tenerife.

At one point we stopped so Marta could show us some donkeys and ponies grazing near an old water lift called La Gordejuela. The machinery looked ancient but somehow still proud against the green hills. A breeze came up carrying this mix of wildflowers and something sweet — maybe from the banana trees? I remember thinking how quiet it was except for the soft clop of hooves and Marta humming a tune under her breath. Not sure why that stuck with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Camel Ride and Nature Tour

• Visit El Tanque town
• 20-minute camel ride through farmland trails
• Observe native animals and flora
• View protected landscape of La Rambla de Castro

Top questions

How long does the camel ride last?

The camel ride lasts approximately 20 minutes.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there weight restrictions for riders?

The maximum weight per rider is 120 kg.

What animals will we see during the tour?

You may see Canarian goats, Pelibuey sheep, donkeys, ponies, and other native species.

Is pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; public transportation options are available nearby.

Are infants allowed on the camel ride?

Infants can participate using specialized infant seats or in a pram or stroller.

Is this activity recommended for people with back problems?

No, it is not recommended for participants with back problems or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your experience includes entry to the farm area at El Tanque plus a roughly 20-minute guided camel ride through farmland trails where you’ll spot native animals and learn about local history from your guide before heading back at your own pace.