How it works:
- Opening:
- Claiming a camel ride/horse ride can help you enter attractions via a secret entrance and save on the entrance fee.
- Claiming that you can get closer to the Sphinx.
- Claiming that you can get a panoramic view at the Giza Pyramids.
- Set-up:
- Get you to keep your valuables in the satchels on the camels – this will be held to ransom when they overcharge you at the end.
- Halfway through, a higher price will be demanded with you sat atop the camel (2m high).
- You will not be let down unless you pay.
- Another trick: price quote scams.
Places to beware:
- Alexandria: Corniche
- Cairo: Gizeh Plateau
- Giza: Pyramids of Giza, Menkaure Pyramid, Khafre’s Pyramid, Great Pyramid of Cheops (Khufu)
- Hurghada: Hurghada Marina
What to do:
- Fee: at the start, make it clear what the ride entails and do not pre-pay. If a higher payment is demanded midway, get down before you start negotiating.
- Valuables: keep securely with you (money belt/hidden pouch or an anti-theft bag) instead of leaving it with your guide or in the satchels on the camels.
- Alternative: GetYourGuide (leading day tour platform) has one such camel ride tour.
