Mongolian Camels are known for their ability to endure extreme temperature changes, ranging from +40 degrees in the summer to-40 degrees in the winter, and can go weeks without eating or drinking. They have an amazing ability to go months without drinking water, but when water is available, they can drink up to 60 liters at once. Their humps serve as energy fat reservoirs. Their humps are plump and erect at the end of the summer, but as resources dwindle, they shorten and lean to the sides. Camels have been adapted for desert conditions and can accommodate 200 kg on long journeys. Bactrian camels enable nomads to move heavy loads through deserts and other harsh environments.
Mongolians value camel fur, drink camel milk, and refine it into cheese, in addition to the camel’s significance for transportation. We’ve been putting in a lot of effort recently to protect and conserve the Bactrian camel population, which has been steadily decreasing over the last two decades. The Camel Festival, which took place in 2016, drew over 1,100 camels and set a Guinness World Record for the largest camel festival. The festival has been organized by local herding communities for nearly 20 years with the aim of preserving two humped Bactrian camels, increasing the income and productivity of local nomads through tourism, and raising awareness of Mongolia’s unique culture and heritage among the younger generation.
The camels are Bactrian and have two humps. The Gobi is the perfect place to experience all the fun of camels which are surprisingly more comfortable than horse riding as they walk slowly and gently, and we will be well supported by the humps, sitting comfortably between them. The best time to visit the Gobi is June to September. Beautiful scenery and exhilarating riding – a wonderful combination!
Camel riding is available in the gobi desert of Southern Mongolia, diversity of steppe, sand dunes and mountains of central Mongolia and limited experience in north west Zavkhan Province.
Popular Camel Riding Destinations in Mongolia
- Elsen Tasarkhai (Mini Gobi): A convenient transition zone featuring golden sand dunes, green grasslands, and local herder families.
- Khongor Sand Dunes (Singing Dunes): Iconic, rolling dunes in the South Gobi ideal for sunset rides and multi-day desert treks.
- Terelj National Park & Ulaanbaatar Surrounds: Accessible options close to the capital often combined with horse riding and cultural sightseeing
