The first thing you have to learn how to do is mount. No easy feat. Unlike horses, or ostriches, or whatever other reach-the-saddle-from-the-ground type animals you could have elected to ride, you can't just swing onto the back of a camel or an elephant. At least, not without their complicity. Thus, the first moments at the start of a camel or an elephant trek are spent in contemplation. Contemplation of the size, the bigger-than-you-are-ness of these beasts that you compelled yourself to want to ride. For a moment you feel like a fool. You look them in their eyes and you are gripped by a completely comprehensible fear. And then the animal farts. Noxiously. And all is well.

The guide or wallah or animal handler leads the elephant to a nearby ten-foot mounting platform or pulls the camel through its awkward kneeling motions. With a practiced and nonchalant sweep of the arm, he motions you into a contraption (sometimes called a saddle) whose bangles, bells and other glinty things don't fool you for a second into thinking that it is anything other than a Medieval torture device. But you suck up your fear and better judgment and go for broke. Or, rather, break. Literally. Because it hurts. A lot. Think about it. Look at a camel or an elephant from the front. They're not skinny. Then imagine having to straddle one. Ouch. Then go and do it. For a day or three or even a week. Double ouch.

Camel Trekking India Family Fling in Phuket On the Pony's Back Adventure Opportunities at GORP

But this is all anticipatory angst. The truth is, once you are atop these magnificent and mostly docile creatures, all is well. All is more than well. Sluicing effortlessly along a muddy jungle track, through head-high razor-edged reeds, or strolling leisurely into the empty expanse of desert and sky, you come to appreciate their regal out-sized composure. You realize that each one has a distinct character, that they are unique characters. And you admire their infinite patience in agreeing to tote you. They may be beasts of burden, but that makes you the burden. You try not to think about your discomfort anymore and just enjoy the surroundings.

Read the Cold Pick - Dogsledding

RELATED GORP LINKS
Winter Getaways Home
Wildlife
GORP Travel
Wildlife Trips