Las Vegas Safari Tram Ride and Zoo Tour at Camel Safari

If you’re looking for a break from the bright lights and bustling casinos of Las Vegas, a visit to Camel Safari offers a refreshing dose of nature and wildlife. This 2-hour adventure combines a scenic tram ride across 176 acres with up-close encounters with a variety of exotic animals, making it a solid choice for animal lovers, curious families, and anyone seeking something a bit different.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see over 30 camels in their desert habitat—a sight that’s both impressive and surprisingly serene. Plus, the small-group setting (limited to 12 travelers) means you’ll get personalized attention, making it more engaging than larger zoo tours.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour relies heavily on good weather; poor weather could lead to cancellations or changes. So, if you’re visiting during the hotter months, plan accordingly and double-check the forecast.

Best suited for those who enjoy interactive, educational activities and are comfortable with a leisurely outdoor pace, this tour will appeal to families, animal enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a unique Nevada outing.

This experience made our article of We Rank The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do In Nevada.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Up to 12 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• In-depth animal encounters: Get hands-on with animals like camels, sloths, and singing dogs, and ask keepers questions.
• Scenic tram ride: Explore the 176-acre property comfortably on a guided tram tour to see the desert habitat of camels.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable keepers and guides provide insightful commentary about each animal, their care, and history.
• Educational and fun: Perfect for families and animal lovers wanting more than just a quick look—expect interaction and learning.
• Weather dependent: This outdoor experience is susceptible to weather conditions, so check the forecast before booking.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Off: Meeting at Camel Safari

Your adventure begins at the Camel Safari location in Bunkerville, about an hour outside of Las Vegas. The meeting point at 2725 River Cliff Rd is straightforward, and the friendly staff makes check-in smooth. Once you arrive, you’ll notice the well-kept grounds and the promise of a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.

The Tram Ride: A Wide-Angle View of the Desert

The highlight for many is the scenic tram ride across the 176-acre property. This isn’t just a quick loop; it’s a thoughtfully guided tour, allowing you to view over 30 camels in their natural environment. The tram takes you through the desert terrain, giving you a good sense of the arid landscape that these animals thrive in.

The tram is an easy, comfortable way to take in the scenery, especially if you’re traveling with kids or anyone with mobility concerns. The size of the group (up to 12) ensures a more intimate experience—it’s not a crowded bus making stops every 10 minutes.

Up-Close with Camels and More

Once off the tram, the real magic begins. A knowledgeable guide (or keeper) leads you through animal encounters, sharing fascinating insights into each species. For example, you’ll learn about camelids in general, their unique adaptations for desert life, and the history of camels in Nevada and beyond.

Guests are encouraged to interact with the animals, and many reviews highlight how much fun this is. You might even get to take photos with an ambassador camel—a memorable moment that makes for great keepsakes.

Exotic Animals and Personal Encounters

Beyond camels, the tour includes visits to other animals such as zebras, singing dogs, two-toed sloths, opossums, hedgehogs, and even a hybrid zebra-donkey. Guests often comment on the friendly demeanor of the animals and the quality of care they seem to receive.

One reviewer noted, “The animals are loved and treated so well,” which speaks volumes about the level of attentiveness at Camel Safari. You’ll have the opportunity to feed animals like porcupines and sloths, ask questions, and observe their behaviors up close.

Why Guides Make a Difference

Many reviews praise the expertise and friendliness of guides like Ally and Guy. They’re described as “super knowledgeable,” eager to share their passion and answer every question, making the experience both educational and engaging. This personalized approach is a key part of what we love about this tour from larger, more superficial zoo visits.

Lunch, Facilities, and Additional Considerations

Some reviews mention enjoying a yummy lunch and the well-maintained grounds, which add to the overall value. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable outing that fits nicely into a day trip from Vegas.

However, because the tour is outdoors and weather-dependent, extreme heat or rain could cause cancellations or changes. It’s wise to confirm the weather forecast and be prepared with hats, sunscreen, or rain gear.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal if you’re seeking authentic animal encounters in a relaxed setting. Families with kids will appreciate the interactive nature and safety of the guided group. Animal lovers will value the chance to learn from knowledgeable keepers, and those interested in desert wildlife will find the scenery and animal behaviors fascinating.

It’s also a good choice if you want to avoid the crowds typical of larger zoos—small groups mean more personal interaction and fewer crowds. If you’re seeking a unique off-the-beaten-path adventure close to Las Vegas, Camel Safari fits the bill.

The Price and Value

At $104 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the personal attention, hands-on animal encounters, and scenic tram ride. Compared to typical zoo tickets or animal experiences, the inclusion of a guided tram tour and direct animal interactions makes it quite competitive for the quality and intimacy offered.

Plus, the opportunity to ask questions, take photos, and interact directly with the animals elevates the experience beyond a simple viewing. It’s a memorable, educational outing that can appeal to a variety of travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For those interested in animal-focused activities, small-group tours, or a different kind of Nevada adventure, Camel Safari is a standout option. It offers a mix of scenic views, educational content, and genuine animal interactions, all delivered by passionate guides who care deeply for the animals.

While weather can impact plans, if you’re prepared and the conditions are favorable, this experience promises a fun and enriching day outside of the Vegas strip. Whether you’re traveling with family or solo, the blend of scenic tram rides and up-close animal encounters makes this a worthwhile stop.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally family-friendly, offering engaging animal encounters suitable for all ages.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours, including the tram ride and animal visits.

What animals can I expect to see?
You’ll see camels, zebras, singing dogs, sloths, opossums, hedgehogs, and a zebra-donkey hybrid, among others.

Is the tour outdoor or indoor?
Most of the experience is outdoors, so dress appropriately for weather conditions and bring sunscreen or a hat.

Are there group size limits?
Yes, groups are limited to 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Can I take photos with the animals?
Yes, guests often take photos with ambassador animals, including camels and other friendly creatures.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through Viator, with options for free cancellation and mobile tickets.

Is the tour accessible for guests with mobility issues?
While most of the outdoor areas are accessible, it’s best to check with the provider for specific mobility needs.

Final Words

Camel Safari near Las Vegas offers more than just a zoo visit—it’s a chance to connect with desert animals in their habitat, guided by passionate experts. The small-group setting and interactive encounters make it a standout experience for animal lovers, families, and curious travelers alike. If you’re ready for a day outside the neon glow of Vegas, this trip provides an educational, fun, and memorable outing worth considering.