The Art of Being an Ethical and Effective Cameleer
​'The Cameleer Experience ' offers an unparalleled, hands-on opportunity to fully immerse yourself in the life of a working cameleer. This once-in-a-lifetime journey requires good fitness, curiosity, and a willingness to develop a genuine bond with both the camels and our experienced cameleers.
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As a participant, you’ll sleep alongside the camels and take part in essential daily routines — grooming, saddling, blanketing, and shepherding. You’ll gain a deep understanding of camel care, teamwork, and life in the Outback.
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This experience invites you to engage fully in every aspect of the cameleer’s role. A solid level of physical fitness is important, along with an attentive, cooperative mindset. Tasks may include sharing lifting saddlery, walking long distances, and if you feel confident, leading camel strings with our seasoned Cameleers through varied terrain.
Support is always close at hand, and guidance from Senior Cameleers ensures a safe, structured, and empowering learning environment.
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Practical preparation makes all the difference — sturdy shoes, quality socks, and a backpack fitted with a water bladder and tube are highly recommended. Many participants secure their packs on the lead camel for easy hydration and freedom of movement while walking or leading.
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Our cameleers come from diverse backgrounds and bring with them:
• Genuine care and respect for camels
• Strong teamwork and communication skills
• Outdoor training and remote first aid qualifications
• Experience in remote operations and navigation
• A love of challenge, nature, and human connection
• Remote communication devices and AED safety equipment on hand
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Our aim is to share the knowledge we’ve gathered over decades of working closely with camels — and the extraordinary sense of connection that grows when you move together through remote country.
A Day in the Life of a Cameleer
​The day begins just before sunrise, when the first light paints the ranges in soft golds and pinks.
Swags are rolled, personal belongings packed, and the gentle rhythm of camp life begins to stir. There’s a shared energy — quiet, purposeful, and connected to the land.
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Our camels are always tended first. We feed them, then move through the familiar routine of grooming, brushing, blanketing, and saddling. Each animal has its own personality and rhythm, and learning to read them is part of the art of being a cameleer. Once the loads are balanced and secure, the day’s journey begins.
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We travel alongside the camels, guiding them through ancient country, pausing for rest and water breaks, and sharing the responsibility of care. The experience is physical but deeply grounding — a practice in mindfulness and teamwork.
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At lunch, the camels are supervised as we enjoy a meal and a short rest before continuing on. Upon reaching the evening campsite, the camels are unsaddled, rubbed down, and allowed to wander and feed among the bushes — a peaceful ritual known as shepherding. Guests take a snack and UHF radio and may join the cameleers as they watch the herd browse against the setting sun.
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Before nightfall, the camels are tethered near their favourite acacias. Cameleers return to the campfire circle for dinner, stories, and the quiet satisfaction that comes from a day well spent.
As the stars fill the sky, each cameleer lays their swag near the camels —
always close, always connected.
The Cameleer Experience
Designed for those seeking a deeper connection with the camels, cameleers
and rhythms of Outback life.
It’s a hands-on journey that requires energy, focus, and teamwork — ideal for those who enjoy being part of every stage of the expedition.
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You’ll assist with daily cameleer duties such as grooming, blanketing, saddling, and loading supplies. At day’s end, you’ll help care for the camels as they settle for the night, often camping nearby under the stars. It’s immersive, physical, and rewarding — an experience that brings a true sense of purpose and camaraderie.
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Our Cameleer Experience guests share the journey alongside our professional cameleers, learning what it takes to manage and care for these remarkable animals. Mealtimes are scheduled in rotation so that someone always keeps a watchful eye on the camels as they browse or rest. Cameleers checks are needed through the night — a tradition passed we've maintained throughout our years leading journeys. Cameleer Experience guests are welcome to assist at their own choosing.
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While this option involves sustained participation, it’s also an extraordinary opportunity for personal growth and authentic connection. Many find that the physical effort quickly gives way to a deep sense of calm, focus, and achievement.
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(Limited to four guests per journey)
