While horseback riding remains a classic travel experience, the world offers a menagerie of extraordinary animals waiting to carry you into adventure. From the undulating gait of camels across desert landscapes to the gentle plodding of elephants through lush jungles, riding unique animals provides not just transportation but an intimate connection with both creature and landscape. These distinctive journeys create memories far beyond ordinary travel experiences and offer authentic insights into local cultures where these animals have been transportation partners for centuries. Ready to saddle up on something unexpected? Here are ten remarkable animal riding experiences that will transform your travel story.

Double-humped camel rides across the moonscapes of India’s Nubra Valley transport you to another world

In the remote Nubra Valley of Ladakh, India, the rare Bactrian camel offers a riding experience unlike any other. These magnificent double-humped creatures, once vital to Silk Road traders, now carry travellers across surreal sand dunes that contrast dramatically with snow-capped Himalayan peaks. The 30-minute ride feels like stepping onto another planet as you sway gently atop these gentle giants, traversing landscapes that shift between desert and mountain terrain. Local guides share fascinating tales of the region’s history as caravans once travelled these ancient paths. The experience is best enjoyed during summer months when the weather is mild and the famous apricot trees of Nubra Valley are in bloom, adding splashes of colour to this otherworldly setting.

Sunset camel treks in Morocco blend ancient tradition with breathtaking desert vistas

Journey into the russet-hued landscape outside Marrakech aboard a dromedary camel for an experience that connects you with centuries of nomadic tradition. Unlike their Bactrian cousins, these single-humped ships of the desert provide a distinctive swaying motion that takes some adjustment but soon becomes mesmerizing. Local Berber guides lead small caravans through palm groves and rocky outcrops as the setting sun transforms the landscape into a photographer’s dream. The three-hour excursion typically includes a stop for traditional mint tea where riders can rest while camels rest nearby, creating perfect photo opportunities. Comfortable cushions atop traditional saddles make the ride accessible even for beginners while the peaceful pace offers a welcome contrast to Marrakech’s bustling medina. Wear long pants and bring a light scarf to protect from sun and occasional sand breezes.

Andean llama treks through sacred valleys connect travellers with Peru’s Indigenous heritage

In the highlands surrounding Cusco, llama treks offer a uniquely Andean experience that honours indigenous traditions dating back to Inca times. Unlike conventional riding where you sit atop the animal, llama treks involve walking alongside these curious, gentle creatures who carry your supplies while you navigate ancient pathways between archaeological sites. Local Quechua guides share traditional knowledge about llamas—considered sacred animals in Andean cosmology—and their vital role in pre-Columbian civilizations. The leisurely pace allows for meaningful connection with both the animals and the breathtaking mountain scenery. Most treks include stops at small villages where you’ll witness traditional weaving using llama wool and sample pachamanca, a traditional earth-oven feast. The experience is particularly magical during the dry season (May-September) when clear skies provide stunning visibility across the valleys.

Ethical elephant experiences in Thailand’s northern sanctuaries create meaningful connections

In the misty mountains near Chiang Mai, a new generation of ethical elephant sanctuaries offers meaningful interactions with these gentle giants. Rather than circus-like shows or traditional riding with seats, these experiences focus on walking alongside elephants, helping bathe them in forest streams and preparing nutritious meals of bananas, sugar cane and special elephant vitamins. Visitors don traditional mahout clothing and learn basic commands in Thai while expert guides explain elephant behaviour, conservation challenges and the complex cultural relationship between elephants and northern Thai communities. The half-day experience typically includes a mud spa alongside your elephant companion—a joyful, messy adventure that elephants genuinely enjoy as part of their natural behaviour. Sanctuaries limit group sizes and prioritize elephant welfare, often rescuing animals from logging or tourism industries. The experience concludes with a traditional northern Thai lunch and spectacular mountain views.

Dog sledding expeditions through Yukon’s pristine wilderness capture the spirit of Canadian winter adventures

In the heart of Canada’s Yukon Territory, dog sledding offers an authentic and exhilarating journey through some of North America’s most spectacular winter landscapes. Professional mushers guide visitors through snow-covered boreal forests, introducing them to a team of powerful and spirited Alaskan and Siberian huskies bred for extreme winter conditions. The experience goes far beyond a simple ride, providing an immersive insight into the rich tradition of dog sledding that has been crucial to northern survival for centuries. Participants learn basic mushing techniques, help harness the dogs and understand the intricate communication between musher and canine team. Most tours include opportunities to interact with the dogs, learn about their training and care and enjoy hot beverages around a warming fire. The adventure typically ranges from half-day experiences to multi-day expeditions, with options to witness the magical northern lights and explore the pristine wilderness that defines Canada’s northern territories.

Water buffalo rides through rice paddies showcase Southeast Asia’s agricultural heritage

In the emerald landscapes of rural Vietnam and Cambodia, water buffalo rides offer an immersive journey into Southeast Asian agricultural traditions. These gentle giants, often called the “living tractors of Asia” guide travellers through brilliant green rice paddies along narrow mud embankments inaccessible to conventional vehicles. Local farmers typically lead these experiences, sharing generations of knowledge about sustainable rice cultivation while demonstrating how buffalo and humans work in harmony with seasonal flooding patterns. The unhurried pace allows for exceptional birdwatching opportunities and chances to observe traditional farming techniques unchanged for centuries. Rides often conclude with home-cooked meals in village houses featuring locally grown produce and rice harvested from the very fields you’ve traversed. The experience proves especially captivating during planting and harvest seasons when entire communities engage in synchronized agricultural activities across the patchwork landscape.

Australian camel trains along cable beach combine sunset spectacle with Outback history

The pristine white sands of Cable Beach near Broome transform each evening into a mesmerizing spectacle as camel trains silhouette against blazing orange sunsets over the Indian Ocean. These camel rides connect travellers with Australia’s fascinating “Afghan cameleer” history when Central Asian migrants brought their desert skills to help explore the continent’s harsh interior. Professional camel handlers share stories of these historical connections while guiding strings of camels along the shoreline during the magical golden hour when colours intensify across the landscape. Unlike desert camel experiences elsewhere, this beach journey features the unique contrast of turquoise waters alongside your traditionally adorned mount. Photographers consider this one of Australia’s most iconic images, and riders receive digital souvenirs capturing their silhouette against the spectacular backdrop. The 30-minute experience requires no previous riding experience and includes fascinating commentary about both camel behaviour and Broome’s multicultural pearling history.

Reindeer sledding adventures across Lapland’s snow fields connect travellers with Sami traditions

Deep within Finland’s Arctic reaches, reindeer sledding offers a profound connection to indigenous Sami culture and the winter wonderland of Lapland. Unlike mechanized snowmobiles, reindeer provide silent transportation across pristine snow fields, accompanied only by the soft jingling of traditional bells and the swish of runners. Sami guides, wearing vibrant traditional clothing, share centuries of knowledge about their special relationship with semi-domesticated reindeer herds that remain central to their cultural identity. The experience typically begins with learning about reindeer husbandry before being tucked under warm reindeer hides in wooden sledges. The journey through snow-laden forests creates opportunities to spot Arctic wildlife while learning survival skills that have sustained northern communities through harsh winters. Most experiences conclude in traditional lavvu tents where stories are shared around crackling fires alongside hot lingonberry juice and freshly prepared reindeer stew.

Muleback journeys through Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre mountains reveal hidden natural wonders

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Puerto Vallarta’s Sierra Madre mountains, this muleback adventure offers an immersive journey through some of Mexico’s most breathtaking wilderness. Expert local guides lead small groups along ancient trails, navigating rugged terrain with these sure-footed animals that have been vital to mountain transportation for generations. The experience begins with a careful introduction to mule handling, ensuring even novice riders feel confident and connected to their animal companions. Highlights include exploring the mysterious “Tiger Cave,” a geological marvel with fascinating local legends and traversing scenic routes that wind through dense tropical forests and alongside the pristine Cuale River. The tour culminates at “El Salto,” a stunning natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim, providing a moment of tranquil reward after the exhilarating ride. Comfortable riding gear, water and light refreshments are typically included, making this a comprehensive exploration of Puerto Vallarta’s less-travelled mountain landscapes.

Donkey journeys through Mediterranean olive groves blend culinary discovery with timeless transportation

Along the sun-dappled hillsides of southern Spain and Greece, donkey trekking offers a gentle immersion into Mediterranean agricultural traditions. These patient animals, historically crucial to olive cultivation on steep terrains inaccessible to larger livestock, carry minimal supplies while travellers walk alongside, creating minimal environmental impact. Expert guides use these journeys to showcase traditional olive cultivation methods, stopping frequently for tastings of different olive varieties and pressing techniques. The leisurely pace permits exploration of abandoned stone shepherds’ huts, ancient irrigation systems and spectacular viewpoints overlooking patchwork landscapes little changed since Roman times. Lunch typically features farm-to-table feasts at small family-owned estates where organic cultivation methods preserve biodiversity across the groves. Evening accommodation in converted traditional farmhouses allows for stargazing from stone terraces while sampling local wines. The experience proves especially memorable during autumn harvest season when entire communities engage in collecting the precious olive crop.