Detailed Broome Cable Beach Camel Reviews 2025
If you’re planning a trip to Broome, you’ve likely heard about camel rides on Cable Beach, one of the most iconic experiences Western Australia has to offer. But you might be wondering if they really worth it?, will it be safe?, and what should I expect in terms of cost? These are all common concerns, especially for first-timers.
In this guide, I’ll help you navigate everything you need to know about camel rides in Broome, from choosing the best time of day, to tips on what to wear, and even addressing concerns like safety and cost. By the end, you’ll have all the information you need to book a ride that suits your needs and ensure you have an unforgettable experience on Cable Beach.
This post may contain affiliate links (of companies I book through). This means I may receive a small commission if you book through them. You can read the disclaimer for more information.
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The Popular Red Sun Camel Sunset Tour will be one of the best things you’ll do in Broome.
Comparing Camel Rides in Broome Western Australia
Three companies operate camel rides in Broome; Broome Camel Safaris, Red Sun Camels, and Cable Beach Camels.
Red Sun Camels
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 ⏰ Tour Start Times: 7:50am, 4pm, 4:50pm ⏳ Tour Lengths: 30-60 mins
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Red Sun Camels began in 1991 but were purchased by John and Janet Geappen in 2000, who now have over 40 camels. The couple opened the Camel Store in Broome in 2007, where you can purchase camel-related products.
Red Sun Camels have red blankets and offer a sunset tour, a pre-sunset sampler tour, and a morning tour. They have a strict 100 kg maximum per person and two people ride each camel. If you have a child on your lap (0 to 4 years), you jointly cannot exceed the 100 kg limit. As with Broome Camel Safaris, the combined weight of two passengers cannot exceed 170 kg. Child rates apply for 5 to 15-year-olds.
There are a variety of tours, but their signature is the “Sunset Safari.” Lasting about an hour, this tour is timed perfectly to capture the sunset over the Indian Ocean. As the sky transitions through a kaleidoscope of colors, you’ll be riding atop one of Red Sun’s well-trained, gentle camels, each with its own name and personality. It’s not just a ride; it’s an interaction with these lovely animals.
Red Sun Camels have an hour Sunset Tour, a Pre-Sunset Sampler Tour, and a Morning Tour.
Customers often highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, along with the well-cared-for camels. A frequent comment from reviews is the ease and comfort of the ride, making it suitable for all ages and experience levels.
Broome Camel Safaris
⭐️ Rating: 4.6/5 ⏰ Tour Start Times: 3:45pm, 4:45pm ⏳ Tour Lengths: 30-60 mins
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Alison Bird profoundly cares for her camels, has trained them, and brought up orphan calves from the wild. Alison and her husband, Allen, now have over 30 camels which are all loved. They have a strict 90kg per person weight limit policy, with a combined weight of two passengers not exceeding 170 kg. Children are between five and fifteen but must not weigh more than 60 kg; otherwise will be charged as adults. Children up to four years old can sit on an adult’s lap.
You can tell their camels by the blue blankets. They offer morning, afternoon, and sunset camel rides on Cable Beach, and every lady receives a pair of freshwater pearl earrings.
The most popular holiday activity is the one hour sunset camel ride, where you get to give your camel a carrot at the end.
The 30-minute pre-sunset tour is great value if you prefer a shorter ride. It also allows you to take photos of the camel train at sunset.
The rave reviews speak volumes. Visitors consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the friendly camels, and the unforgettable views. One reviewer mentioned, “It’s more than just a ride; it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that connects you with nature and these incredible animals.”
Cable Beach Camels
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5 ⏰ Tour Start Times: Various ⏳ Tour Lengths: 30-60 mins
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Cable Beach Camels is under new ownership by Del who has 25 years of experience with these gentle giants of the desert. She also operates a sanctuary for rescue camels along with Harold Canard in Silverton, NSW, where they rehabilitate these beautiful creatures.
Look for the yellow blankets on Cable Beach. There’s the option of a 30-minute pre-sunset tour or an hour sunset ride. A 90 kg per seat limit applies – adults between 91 and 100kg will need to purchase 2 seats.
Maximum Weight Limit of Camel Rides in Broome
There are maximum weight restrictions for camel rides in Broome to safeguard the health of these animals.
Broome Camel Safari has a 90kg weight limit, and Red Sun Camels has a 100kg limit per adult. Child weight limits are 60 kg, and a couple cannot exceed 170 kg.
Camel Rides in Broome: My Review
My top two camel ride operators have excellent reviews and the prices are similar. We ended up choosing Red Sun Camels, but Broome Camel Safaris looked good too.
Pre Sunset Camel Ride Tour
I opted for the Broome pre-sunset ride as I thought a 30-minute ride would be long enough and wanted to be on this beautiful beach to take photos of the camel trains at sunset. It was also cheaper for our family of four, and you still have the same experience, although not at sunset.
Also, this end of Cable Beach gets very busy around sunset, and lots of 4wd vehicles park and drive along the beach. However, the camels do go further up the beach.
Camel Information & Facts
There are two types of camels; Arabian Camel (Dromedary) and Bactrian Camel. The Dromedary camels have one hump and are the ones found in Broome. They live to about 25 years old in the wild, but Domestic camels can live up to 40 years old.
These animals can grow to 7 feet at the hump and weigh 1600 pounds. Their hump stores fat which can be broken down into energy when food is scarce. They hardly sweat, so they don’t require much water. The domestic ones will drink around 25 litres daily, but a thirsty camel can drink 115 litres in 13 minutes.
Unlike most animals, when walking, the camel moves both feet on one side of its body, then both feet on the other.
History of Camels in Australia
Camels were introduced from India and Afghanistan into Australia in the 19th Century to help with transport and workloads. Muslim cameleers were brought in to service the South Australian outback and soon began their own businesses importing and running camel trains. It is estimated that around 15,000 camels were imported into Australia at that time. The handlers were known as Afghans or Ghans, from which the train, The Ghan, gets its name.
After the arrival of motorised transport, camels weren’t required and so were released into the wild. Here they thrived, and today Australia has the world’s largest population of feral camels. This has become a problem for outback communities where they destroy fences and pipes and drink the waterholes dry. The government funded a culling program that killed around 160,000 camels from 2009 to 2013.
So you could say that these camel ride companies are saving the camels from death. I’m not a supporter of animal tourism when the animals suffer. However, these are well looked after; they are fed and watered, there is a weight limit for passengers, and they only work two to three times a day.
Best Time to Visit Broome for Camel Safaris
The best times to visit Broome for camel safaris are during the dry season, which typically spans from April to October. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect during these months:
- April to June: This period marks the transition from the wet to the dry season. The weather is more comfortable, and the landscape is green from the recent rains. It’s an ideal time for those who prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds.
- July to August: These are the peak tourist months in Broome. The weather is dry and cool, making it perfect for outdoor activities like camel safaris. However, it’s also the busiest time, so booking tours in advance is recommended.
- September to October: As the dry season comes to an end, the temperatures start to rise, but it’s still a great time for camel safaris. The sunsets are particularly spectacular during these months, offering a breathtaking backdrop for evening rides.
What to Wear on a Camel Ride in Broome
A camel ride is a memorable experience, but with the tropical weather and sandy terrain, it’s important to dress appropriately to ensure comfort and safety during your ride. Here’s a guide to what you should wear:
Light, Breathable Clothing
Broome’s warm, often hot climate means you’ll want to wear loose, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Light, long-sleeved tops and pants are ideal as they help protect your skin from the strong sun while keeping you cool. Avoid heavy or tight-fitting clothes that may trap heat.
Sun Protection
Since camel rides, especially the iconic sunset tours, often involve direct exposure to the sun, it’s essential to come prepared. Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, along with sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare. Additionally, apply a generous layer of sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) before the ride, especially on exposed areas like your face, neck, and arms.
Comfortable Footwear
Opt for closed-toe shoes like sneakers or light hiking shoes. While you won’t be doing any walking during the ride, closed shoes offer protection from the sand and ensure better stability when mounting or dismounting the camel. Alternatively, ride barefeet.
Avoid Heavy Backpacks
You likely won’t need much during the ride itself, but if you’re bringing a bag, keep it light. A small cross-body bag or backpack with essentials like water, sunscreen, and a camera is enough. Anything heavy could be uncomfortable during the ride and isn’t necessary since the camel ride experience is relatively short.
My Helpful Tips for First-Time Camel Riders
- Listen to the Guide: Pay attention to the instructions provided by your guide for mounting, riding, and dismounting the camel.
- Stay Relaxed: Camels can sense if you’re tense. Stay calm and relaxed, especially during the mount and dismount, as camels stand up and sit down front legs first. Note that Red Camels mount via a ute so the camels don’t have to bend down.
- Hold on Securely: Use the saddle handle to hold on when the camel is moving, but avoid gripping too tightly.
- Sit Upright: Maintain a straight posture with your weight balanced. Leaning can make the ride uncomfortable for both you and the camel.
- Be Prepared for Height: Camels are taller than horses, so be ready for a higher perspective.
- Use Sun Protection: Apply sunscreen and wear a hat, as you’ll be exposed to the sun for the duration of the ride.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Quick movements can startle the camel. Move smoothly and follow the camel’s rhythm.
- Capture Memories: Bring a camera or phone to take photos, but make sure it’s secure.
- Respect the Animal: Remember that camels are living creatures. Treat them with respect and kindness.
Other Tours in Broome
There are so many tours in Broome to choose from – from scenic flights and Pearl Farms to Whale Watching – there’s a tour for all interests.
🤩Book tours DIRECT below – Don’t Miss Out!!
More Information on Broome
Looking for more exciting things to do in Broome? Don’t miss my list of Top Activities in Broome, from whale watching to pearl farms.
Planning a trip to Broome? Check out my detailed Broome Travel Guide for tips on where to stay, eat, and explore while you’re in town.
If you’re wondering where to stay, I’ve got you covered with my guide to the Best Accommodation in Broome, featuring options for every budget.
For those who want to experience even more unique tours, take a look at my post on Top Tours and Day Trips from Broome to plan your adventure.
Check the Broome Visitor Centre when in town.
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