The dromedary camel (i.e. the one humped version) was introduced to Australia throughout the nineteenth century as a sturdy long distance courier. While the caravans and cameleers have disappeared, camels are still used for transport in Australia, usually in a tourism capacity. The picturesque beaches of the Sunshine Coast offer two such camel riding options.
The
Camel Company is an owner operated business located on Noosa's North Shore (
Beach Road, Tewantin). Their range of experiences includes the 1 – 2 hour beach and bush safari's, an overnight camping trip at Laguna Bay and tailor made packages for corporate functions. The Camel Company caters to all ages over five, although a weight restriction of 95 kilograms applies, and they are open seven days a week.
For a more relaxing experience, try the
Fraser Coast Camel Safari. Courtesy of the
Fraser Lodge Holiday Park (
20 Fraser Street, Torquay), this safari is an hour long sunset ride along Scarness Beach in Hervey Bay. The tour also includes an information session about the physiology of camels and their role in Australia's history.
Horseback riding along the beach at sunset is such a cliché. For a more exotic beach experience, take a camel ride instead.
