Jaisalmer Desert Safari & Camel Ride with Trotters: Our Overnight Camping Experience
While Jaisalmer as a city is very impressive with its iconic fort and havelis, the undoubted highlight of any visit here is the opportunity to sleep under the stars on a desert safari.
The Jaisalmer desert safari experience was the perfect finale of our 7-day Rajasthan Itinerary and it did not disappoint AT ALL.
You’ll ride deep into the glorious golden sand dunes on a camel, see real village life in the Thar Desert and camp miles from civilisation under a blanket of stars. You’ll never imagine what it feels like until you experience it for yourself.
In this guide, we’ll share some tips to book your own desert safari. From the different options for day trips vs overnight camping to tips on how to get the most out of your time, as well as an honest review of our experience with Trotters Tours, who we booked our camel safari with.
It’s important to note this post is not sponsored, just our genuine opinions to help you get the most out of your time in Jaisalmer.
Is A Jaisalmer Desert Safari The Best In India?
Quite simply, YES!
When people consider travelling to India, one of the first things they think of, after the Taj Mahal, is dry dusty roads, baking hot sun and camels walking in the desert. However, many don’t realise that India is actually incredibly green. Thanks to a long, heavy monsoon season, a lot of India, especially in the south, is almost tropical with palm trees, backwaters and tea plantations.
The only real desert as people think of it, with rolling sand dunes and little development is the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, where Jaisalmer is located.
The only other place you could consider a ‘desert safari’ in Rajasthan is Bikaner. But the desert there is nowhere near as impressive with few dunes and too much human life to allow you to be at one with nature.
Jaisalmer Desert Options – Safari vs Camp vs Day Visit
Overnight Camel Safari
The best option in our opinion – a camel safari allows you the most authentic desert experience in Jaisalmer.
You’ll stay overnight without a tent, just sleeping out in the wilderness in small groups – we were just the 2 of us and one other traveller. You’ll be way off the beaten track, perfect for those who want a taste of the nomadic desert life.
You’ll eat around a campfire, wake up to the natural sunlight peering over the dunes and get to ride a camel to the most serene of settings.
You can read more about our experience below.
OverNight Desert Camp
This tends to be the luxury option. Expect ‘glamping-style’ tents, a comfy bed, electricity, toilet – the whole lot. You’ll be surrounded by other tents, giving the camp a more travel community feel.
You’ll still get the chance to get some desert activities. The stay often includes a camel or Jeep safari (or both), although these may not take place in as isolated stunning dunes as the full safari.
In the evening you’ll get a wider variety of dining options and the chance to witness a traditional Rajasthani cultural programme including singing, dancing and a puppet show.
Overall, this is the best option for those who want to get out of the city and get the desert feeling but without the further experience of sleeping completely out in the wild. For those who want to mix a bit of splendour with their adventure.
To get a fuller picture from someone who experienced it for real check out: Jaisalmer Camping review
Day Visit
If you haven’t got the time, or just don’t fancy the overnight desert stay, it is possible to visit during the day. In fact, you’ve actually got multiple options to do this:
Sunrise/Sunset
Both take approximately only 6 hours, giving you plenty of time to fit more into your Jaisalmer itinerary. These tours include one freshly cooked meal over the campfire, a camel ride in the desert and a Jeep to take you there and back to the city.
The sunrise and especially the sunset were the highlight of our desert safari and a photographer’s dream, so it’s great that you can see this too even when on a tight schedule.
Full-Day Camel Safari
Expect a long but rewarding day, with a long time on the camel – you may need a cushion the next day. This is as close as you can get to the full overnight camel safari without doing it for real.
You’ll get to ride your camel both before and after a lovely home-cooked meal and of course, you’ll again be able to witness the stunning desert sunset before heading back to Jaisalmer in the evening.
This option is great for those who have an overnight or early morning train to catch or want the comfort of their hotel room rather than sleeping amongst the dunes.
Sam Dunes vs Khuri Dunes
Sam Dunes is probably the most famous area in the Thar Desert, mainly because it’s close to Jaisalmer, has high rolling dunes that look amazing and has lots of activities.
However, for all those reasons we recommend you not to go there!
It is simply too busy during peak season (which really is the only season as the desert gets too hot to visit in summer). Expect crowds of people, jeeps and camels everywhere and everyone getting in each other’s way to get the best sunset photo.
Instead, you’ll want to make sure you head to an alternative such as the Khuri Dunes. These off-the-beaten-track dunes are nearly as impressive on paper but way more so in reality as you’ll have them nearly to yourself.
Most tour operators don’t say if their tours go to Sam, Khuri or elsewhere, but look out for descriptions such as ‘non-touristy’ to have the best chance of getting the tranquil, unspoiled desert journey you dream of.
Tip: Trotters overnight Safari takes place on a serene, quiet dune with no other tours around.
Choosing Trotters For Our Jaisalmer Camel Safari
Why We Picked Trotters For Our Safari Over Other Options
Trotters was the stand-out choice for us for a multitude of reasons:
- They had amazing reviews ( see here: Trotters – Tripadvisor).
- Their safaris go deep into the desert and away from busier areas ensuring near solitude to get the most out of time in the Thar.
- They responded quickly to queries we had about our trip, giving us confidence in their customer service.
- They have a range of options and times including one that fits perfectly with our schedule (1pm to 11am).
- We read testimony that they treat their camels well. This was very important to us and should be to anyone who cares about ethical tourism.
What Was Included In Our Desert Safari With Trotters
Pretty much everything you’ll need including:
- Jeep transfers to and from Jaisalmer to the Thar Desert
- Abandoned village and natural oasis tour on the way
- Camel Ride for 90 minutes in the afternoon and the following morning
- Homecooked dinner and breakfast over the campfire (+ chai and snacks)
- Bedding, including camp bed if you want to be off the ground
- Luggage storage if you need it at their hotel in Jaisalmer
Cost of Jaisalmer Camel Safari
We paid around ₹3000 (£30) per person for our camel safari experience. This is probably slightly above average, but in our opinion is worth it for the best-reviewed tour company.
It is possible to get a cheaper deal if you turn up on the day to book but this can be risky during peak season (December – January) as they may not have availability or put you on a busier tour.
You can also stay for additional nights. We didn’t have the time in our Jaisalmer itinerary, but some people have raved about the 2 or 3-night desert stays. These will truly allow you to be fully immersed in the serene desert life. These tend to be priced at around ₹2500 per night.
To book your desert safari with Trotters, see here (not sponsored): https://trottersjaisalmer.net/camel-safari-in-jaisalmer/
Our Experience: Riding Camels And Sleeping In The Thar Desert
What The Camel Ride Was Actually Like
After getting in our jeep and being whizzed into the desert, stopping at a few local landmarks on the way, it was finally time to get the safari started. We were dropped off in the middle of nowhere with just our backpack, our guides and our newfound friends: the camels.
Getting onto a camel is much more difficult (and a little more scary) than we expected. You get on when it is sat down and they lift their back legs up first so you feel like you’re going to be launched forward, so hang on tight!
Once we got on, we felt much higher than it looked but you soon get used to it and actually, it’s quite a nice experience. As the camel walks, you feel like you’re in a rhythmic, relaxing swaying motion. And best of all you get amazing views over the desert landscape.
We walked initially through plants and fauna, saw farmers shepherding their goats and wondered where we were headed. Eventually, as we rose up over a sandy ridge we saw it: vast, empty undulating sand dunes. Absolutely stunning, it would be our base for the night.
Sunset At The Sand Dunes
We got there in time to see the desert in its golden beauty but the sunset was closing in fast and it truly was the highlight of the entire trip.
It was the most pictures we took in the whole of India as it continued to get more and more bewitching by the minute.
Dinner Around The Campfire
After the sun was finally gone, we wondered what we’d do next when we were greeted by the alluring smell of freshly cooked Indian food.
Delicious daal, roti, vegetables and pakoras, all cooked over the campfire! We even paired it with a delicious beer that they were able to keep cool for us. Cheers!
Sleeping Under A Thousand Stars
Once we had finished every little bit of our dinner, we sat out and watched the stars. It seemed impossible how many there were. With no clouds, no trees and no light pollution it seemed every inch of the sky was covered, giving a slight glint to the desert sand.
Our guides had set up our beds and it felt a real privilege to sleep out in the wilderness but also feel 100% safe and cared for. We lay awake, taking it all in, watching shooting stars and identifying constellations.
Waking Up To The Desert Sunrise
As someone who isn’t the best sleeper, waking up before my alarm is normally very irritating, but not here.
We awoke to watch the sight as an orange glow gradually peered over the dune tops, greeting us with morning warmth (warning: the desert can be very chilly at night).
As we continued to take in the sunrise, we were given hot masala chai and a comforting breakfast, again freshly made, home-cooking-style. Obviously, delicious.
From there we rode our camels back to the jeep, despite both our legs aching from the ride the previous day, and we returned to the city of Jaisalmer.
Is An Overnight Safari Worth It In Jaisalmer?
YES, without question!
It was the equal-best experience of our Rajasthan Itinerary, with our other safari: a Tiger safari at Ranthambore (we saw 2!).
It’s such a fantastic feeling to feel so far away from urban life, to feel in the wilderness but also to feel completely safe and be looked after by caring guides who want you to have the best time possible.
Do We Wish We Would Have Done Longer? 2 Nights In The Desert?
For us, no.
One night seemed the perfect amount for us, we’re both quite ‘on-the-go’ people so it was great to relax for a little bit, but we feel we got what we wanted from the trip in the time we had.
If you’re more of a slow-moving traveller who enjoys really taking your time to take in every moment, you may want to stay longer and we couldn’t blame you!
Quick Guide to Jaisalmer
To see our full guide on the best things to do in 48 hours in Jaisalmer, see our 2-day Jaisalmer Itinerary.
Where To Stay In Jaisalmer
You don’t get the chance to stay inside a real, still active fort everywhere you go, but you can in Jaisalmer. We stayed at Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli and it couldn’t have been more perfect.
They have amazing heritage-style rooms and incredible views over the city from the top of the fort walls.
Most importantly, they will also store your bags for you while you go on your desert expedition.
How To Get To Jaisalmer
The best way to get to Jaisalmer, if you’re completing a trip around Rajasthan is via train. There is an overnight train from Jaipur that will help you arrive here in time to drop off your bags and set off on your desert safari the same day.
Alternatively, there is a small airport with direct flights from Delhi and Mumbai if that suits your travel plans better.
Where To Go After Jaisalmer
As mentioned, Jaisalmer fits perfectly into a wider Rajasthan travel plan, check out our 7-Day Rajasthan Itinerary for more inspiration.
Or if you want a more detailed look at most people’s next destination, take a look at our Travel Guide To Udaipur, to get you started.
What should I pack for my desert safari?
Pack loose, breathable clothing, a cap or hat for sun protection, Sunglasses and sunscreen for the day and the camel ride. Women may want to bring a sports bra as the camel ride can be bumpy.
Also, ensure you bring a lightweight jacket or hoodie and maybe an extra blanket for those chilly desert nights.
From our own experience, also make sure you have toilet roll and a portable charger with you.
Are There Toilets On A Camel Safari?
There are no toilets available during the desert safari. You’ll need to go amongst the desert when camping overnight. For glamping-style camps, you will have toilets.
Is A Camel Safari Safe?
Yes, camel safaris in Jaisalmer are generally safe when you go with a reliable, reputable tour organiser. The guides are experienced, and camels are well-versed for desert trips.
When Is The Best Time To Do A Desert Safari In Jaisalmer?
The best time for a desert safari is in winter from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more manageable for day expeditions.
What Is The Difference Between A Jeep Safari And A Camel Safari?
Generally, all camel safaris include both a jeep ride into the desert where you’ll meet your camels and then ride them to your base for the night.
A jeep safari will just take you straight to where you’ll be staying.
Make sure to check out the tour description you’re booking for full details.
Do I Need To Book A Camel Safari In Advance?
We recommend you book your desert safaris in advance during peak season (Dec-Jan). On-the-day bookings may be available (and cheaper) in low season.
We absolutely loved our Jaisalmer desert safari and camel ride. Have you been? Or had the chance to experience the charms of a desert trip elsewhere? Let us know in the comments below.
