Riding a camel in Egypt might seem like the quintessential experience. Few things are as iconic as swaying atop one of these magnificent creatures with the Great Pyramids of Giza looming in the background or trekking through the golden sands of the Sahara Desert. But this seemingly magical experience is also a controversial one, sparking debates about animal welfare, cultural tradition, and the socio-economic realities of those who rely on camel tourism to survive.

So, is it OK to ride a camel in Egypt? The answer isn’t straightforward. To truly understand the complexity of this issue, we need to examine both sides—the role camels play in Egyptian society and the ethical concerns surrounding their treatment.

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The Role of Camels in Egyptian Society

Camels are far more than just a tourist attraction in Egypt. They are woven into the cultural, historical, and economic fabric of the country.

A Vital Source of Income

For many camel owners, offering camel rides is their primary source of income. These rides are not just a way to entertain tourists; they are an essential livelihood. Many families rely on the money generated from camel tourism to cover basic necessities like food, housing, and education.

In areas like Giza or the Sinai Peninsula, economic alternatives are scarce. Tourism provides jobs in regions where unemployment rates are high, and camel rides are one of the more accessible ways for locals to participate in this industry.

A Cultural Tradition

Camels are an intrinsic part of Egypt’s identity. For centuries, they have been celebrated in art, literature, and daily life as symbols of endurance and adaptability. The tradition of working with camels has been passed down through generations, especially among the Bedouin tribes of Egypt.

For many handlers, their bond with their animals is a source of pride. Camels are part of the family—a legacy that represents a way of life that predates modern tourism.

The Challenge of Alternatives

If camel rides were suddenly banned, it could devastate communities that rely on this income. Without viable alternatives, many families would face deepened poverty. A sudden shift away from animal tourism could create ripple effects that harm not only handlers but also their surrounding communities, where local economies are often intertwined as well the camel’s themselves!

The Problem: Animal Welfare Concerns

While camels are essential to many communities, it’s impossible to ignore the darker side of this practice. In some cases, the welfare of the animals is compromised, raising serious ethical concerns.

Poor Living Conditions

Not all camel owners treat their animals with care. Reports have surfaced of camels being kept in inadequate conditions, such as overcrowded enclosures, insufficient food and water, or with little access to veterinary care.

The pressures of tourism can exacerbate these problems. Some handlers, eager to maximise profits, may overwork their camels, pushing them beyond their physical limits with long hours in extreme heat.

Abuse and Mistreatment

In extreme cases, camels are subjected to outright abuse. There have been reports of handlers using whips or sticks to force camels to work, particularly when they are tired or uncooperative. Such practices not only cause physical harm but also reflect a disregard for the animal’s well-being.

Unwitting Tourists

Most tourists don’t realise the conditions these animals face. The lure of a memorable experience often overshadows the ethical implications. By unknowingly supporting operators who mistreat their camels, travellers can unintentionally perpetuate a cycle of exploitation.

What Can You Do as a Responsible Traveler?

Navigating this issue requires a thoughtful approach. Whether or not you choose to ride a camel during your time in Egypt, there are ways to engage ethically and responsibly.

Do Your Research

If you decide to participate in a camel ride, seek out operators who prioritise animal welfare. Look for certifications or endorsements from responsible tourism organisations. Some operators are making strides in humane treatment by limiting working hours, providing adequate food and water, and ensuring proper healthcare for their camels. Finding these operators, however, is very challenging! Certainly, I’ve not managed to find one online!

A good rule of thumb is to observe the animals and their handlers. Are the camels well-fed and hydrated? Do they have access to shade? Are the handlers treating them with respect? Do they have any sores? Are you able to see them without their saddles on? These signs can provide insight into the operator’s practices.

Support Ethical Operators

Some camel ride operators are working to balance animal welfare with sustainable livelihoods for their handlers. By choosing these operators, you can ensure your money supports both the ethical treatment of animals and fair wages for local workers. Unfortunately, I do not have the names of any to share, but on my return visit to Egypt, this is going to become my mission!

The challenge lies in finding these operators. After thorough research online, I have not been able to find a single one, which means as tourists, we are still reliant on our own judgement of the animal in question. This I believe is a huge shortfall, as how many tourists know enough about camels to actually make that call?

Explore Alternatives

If riding a camel doesn’t sit right with you, there are alternative ways to experience Egypt’s incredible landscapes and culture. Consider walking tours, ATV rides, or even hot-air ballooning for a different perspective. These options allow you to enjoy the country’s beauty without contributing to potential exploitation.

Is There a Broader Solution?

The issue of camel tourism in Egypt reflects a broader challenge: how to balance economic necessity with ethical responsibility. Addressing this problem requires collaboration between governments, NGOs, and tourism operators.

Regulation and Education

One potential solution is implementing regulations to ensure animal welfare standards. Training programs for handlers could also help improve treatment practices and create a more sustainable model for camel tourism.

They have cracked the whip (excuse the pun) in the Pyramid complex, and I have to say that overall, the condition of the camels was significantly better than I expected. Sadly, this is not the case elsewhere in Cairo.

Diversifying Income

Efforts to diversify income sources in camel-reliant communities could reduce pressure on handlers to overwork their animals. Supporting initiatives that provide alternative livelihoods, such as crafts or guided cultural tours, can help alleviate dependence on camel rides.

Raising Awareness

As a traveller, you have the power to influence change. By choosing ethical experiences and sharing your knowledge with others, you can help raise awareness about the importance of animal welfare in tourism.

Support Relevant Charities

If you care about the welfare of working animals in Egypt, you might want to consider donating to a reputable charity. Organisations like SPANA (The Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad) are dedicated to improving the lives of working animals through veterinary care, education and advocacy.

What does SPANA do?

SPANA works across many countries, including Egypt, to ensure that working animals receive the care they need. Their initiatives include:

• Free Veterinary Care: SPANA-operated clinics and mobile units that provide essential medical services to camels, donkeys, horses, and other animals relied upon for livelihoods. From treating wounds to vaccinations and parasite control, their teams offer a lifeline to animals that might otherwise suffer.
• Training for Owners: The charity also focuses on educating animal owners about proper care, nutrition, and humane handling practices. By working with communities, SPANA helps build a more sustainable, compassionate approach to animal welfare.
• Emergency Response: During times of crisis – such as droughts, floods, or conflicts – SPANA delivers emergency aid, including water and food for animals in dire situations.
• Advocacy and Awareness: SPANA campaigns globally to raise awareness about the importance of working animals and advocates for systemic change to protect their welfare.

Why Support SPANA?

Camels and other working animals are not just transportation tools; they are vital to the survival of countless families in rural and urban Egypt. However, many of these animals suffer due to a lack of resources or awareness. Charities like SPANA address these issues holistically, helping both the animals and communities that depend on them.

Inspired? You can make a donation HERE.

Final Thoughts on whether we should ride camels while in Egypt

So, is it OK to ride a camel in Egypt? The answer ultimately depends on your values and choices as a traveller. By educating yourself, supporting ethical operators, and considering the broader implications of your actions, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your principles.

Egypt’s camels are more than just a tourist attraction—they are a symbol of the country’s rich history and a lifeline for many families. Navigating this complex issue requires empathy for both the animals and the communities that depend on them. Whether you choose to ride a camel or not, one thing is clear: as travellers, we have a responsibility to engage with the world thoughtfully and compassionately.

Planning a trip to Cairo? Check out my 6 Day Itinerary! And if you are looking for the best guides that can help you navigate ethical camel providers, then check this out!