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Our Camels

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The camels used on all ADE survey treks are the one-humped variety (Dromedary Camel, Camelus dromedarius). They were first introduced into Australia in 1840 but later in larger numbers for the Burke & Wills Expedition of 1860. It is estimated that approximately ten to twelve thousand camels were imported from the sub-continent between 1860 and 1907 to be used for transport and exploration in the Outback. All the ADE camels are descended from those original imports and all were born in the wild and caught to be trained as pack camels. The 'humps' travel in a ‘string’ or caravan, with each camel tied to the one in front. When working with the camels you will be under the supervision of our experienced cameleers, so don’t be concerned if you have had no previous camel (or large animal) handling experience.

Camels are a delight to work with and, as you would expect for a large animal that lives in arid environments, are extremely 'switched on' to their surrounds. They have a natural affinity for humans and our camel team actually consider some of the cameleers to be 'part of the mob'.

Initially you will think that all the camels in our team look the same and are indistinguishable, however after a short while you will come to recognise the various individuals and no doubt pick out your own favourite.

With their distinctive character, travelling with these patient and hard-working gentle giants is an unforgettable experience and you will quickly discover why these majestic animals are perfectly suited to desert trekking. Travelling with the camel string allows a closer connection with the land and the opportunity for you to re-connect to the simplicities of life, reflecting on a bygone era of travel when things were more basic and less cluttered with the trappings of modern life.

..."as the days passed, our relationship with the animals grew stronger. They had great personalities and we delighted in observing their antics...they were all individuals and we loved them."

"I came for the swag beneath the stars and for the experience of once again being in the centre of our wide brown ancient land. The camels were the means to achieve this. I found however, that the camels were central to our trek and have so enjoyed my contact with these strong and patient animals."