Like many travelers these days, you’re probably seeking an authentic and immersive experience the next time you venture out into the world. You’ve had enough of the cookie-cutter vacations and are seeking genuine interactions with distant cultures and destinations. If India is in your sights, why not consider a camel safari? You’ll journey through Rajasthan in a manner that local people have for centuries, witnessing the rural desert life of India. Jaisalmer is one of the most renowned Rajasthani destinations for a camel safari. Known as the Golden City, it is easily recognized by the Jaisalmer Fort, a hilltop citadel in the midst of the Great Thar Desert. Spend time admiring the fort walls and intricate Jain temple, then head out into the desert for your camel safari to truly appreciate the landscape. Here is the info to get you started on a camel safari in Jaisalmer.
What Should I Ask Possible Camel Safari Companies in Jaisalmer?
With all this desert to roam and camel safaris being such a cool way to travel, the business is competitive in the area. Be mindful of the less expensive in the bunch – you can expect accommodations, food, etc. to be of lower quality and the groups to be larger. Ask how many people you’ll travel with, what you’ll be eating and how often and, if spending the night, where and what the conditions of the accommodations are like.
Perhaps one of the most reputable companies, The Real Desert Man Camel Safaris is the oldest operator in the area. The guides they use come from small, isolated Thar Desert communities and are trained by the owner. You’ll hear about the area’s bush lore, botany, bird life and rural communities throughout your journey.
How Long Is a Camel Safari?
You can go on a camel safari in a single day, yet for a truly immersive desert experience – if time and budget allow – go for a multi-day trip that will take you far from civilization. Too much? Just go overnight – you’ll experience a beautiful sunset, have dinner over an open fire, star gaze, see the sun rise and then head back.
How Much Does a Jaisalmer Camel Safari Tour Cost?
Typically, quality trips run approximately 1,500 rupees per person for a sunset ride, and up to 1,750 to 2,500 rupees per person for a quality overnight camel safari. For a sunset, or overnight ride, this typically includes hotel pickup, transfer to the desert (usually with a stop at the Kuldhara abandoned village), a guided camel ride into the Great Thar Desert, bottle water and chai and a campfire dinner.
What Should I Pack for a Jaisalmer Camel Safari Tour?
First of all, review with your camel safari tour operator what meals, drinks and accommodations are included. Then, pack sunglasses, a hat or scarf, sunscreen, insect repellent, toilet paper, wipes, a flashlight or headlamp, hand sanitizer, basic medical supplies and a small amount of cash.
Where Else Can I Go on Camel Safari in India?
Although more crowded than Jaisalmer, Bikaner is another option for camel safaris. You’ll visit tiny settlements like Naukh and Baru and be able to talk to the local people. Or, you can visit Pushkar during the annual Camel Fair. During this time, your camel safari tour would take you into local villages where you can meet indigenous tribes. This location also boasts great views of the Aravalli mountain range.
Jodhpur offers camel safaris near Osian, an ancient Thar Desert town, renowned for its 8th- to 11th-century temples. This is a fantastic choice for a more upscale experience as you can stay at the Osian Sand Dunes Resort and Camp.