Learning how to draw a Bactrian camel is easier when you break it into simple shapes. Follow these 7 clear steps to build the body, add details, and finish with a realistic outline.

STEP 1: Draw the Basic Head and Body Shapes

Start by sketching two ovals — a large horizontal oval for the body and a smaller circle for the head. Add a curved line connecting the head to the body to form the neck. Draw a light vertical guideline through the head to help place the facial features correctly.

Short Tip: Keep your lines light so you can easily erase them later.

Make sure the body oval is larger and positioned slightly lower than the head to create a natural posture.

STEP 2: Shape the Body and Humps

Using the large oval as a guide, draw the outline of the camel’s back and create the two distinctive humps of the Bactrian camel. Add a short line at the back to indicate where the tail will be.

Short Tip: The two humps should be rounded but slightly uneven for a natural look.

Refine the neck curve so it flows smoothly into the body.

STEP 3: Add the Legs and Snout

Sketch the basic shapes of the legs using long curved lines. Add the snout shape extending from the head circle.

Short Tip: Camel legs are long and slightly bent at the knees.

Keep the legs simple at this stage — you’ll refine them later.

STEP 4: Refine the Legs and Add the Ears

Now give the legs more definition by shaping the joints and feet. Add the ears on top of the head.

Short Tip: Camel feet are wide and flat, not pointed like hooves.

Make sure the legs look balanced and support the body evenly.

STEP 5: Add Facial Features and Tail

Draw the eye, nostrils, and refine the mouth. Add the tail at the back of the body.

Short Tip: Place the eye slightly above the center guideline for a natural expression.

Carefully adjust the snout and jawline to give the camel character.

STEP 6: Add Fur and Body Details

Sketch light fur lines around the neck, humps, and legs to show texture. Add small contour lines to give the body more shape.

Short Tip: Use short, curved strokes to create a soft fur effect.

Keep the texture subtle so it doesn’t overpower the outline.

STEP 7: Final Outline and Clean Up

Go over the final lines, making some thicker and darker for emphasis. Add ground lines beneath the feet and erase all guidelines.

Short Tip: Thicker lines on the outer edges make your drawing stand out.

Once cleaned up, your Bactrian camel drawing is complete!