Fullday Overnight Camel Safari (Non Touristic)

If you’re after a genuine taste of desert life beyond the usual tourist spots, this Fullday Overnight Camel Safari with Wanderlust Camel Safari might just be your perfect adventure. Designed to avoid the typical crowd and offer a more personal, immersive experience, it combines scenic rides, delicious meals, and nights under the stars in the vast Thar Desert.

What we love about this tour? First, the knowledgeable guides who genuinely care about the experience and safety. Second, the stunning sunset views on the sand dunes—perfect for capturing those dreamy desert shots. Third, the delicious home-cooked food and warm hospitality that make you feel like a guest, not just a tourist. A possible consideration? The moderate physical fitness required for some parts of the journey, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activities.

This tour suits travelers craving authenticity, tranquility, and a break from crowded, commercialized safaris. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple, or a small group, you’ll appreciate the balance of adventure and relaxation in this carefully curated experience.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Avoid touristy crowds for a more personal desert adventure.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the journey and share local insights.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking sunsets and a peaceful atmosphere in the dunes.
• Comfort & Simplicity: Basic overnight accommodation under the stars, suited for outdoor lovers.
• Inclusive Meals: Tasty, home-style meals, snacks, and drinks included, catering to different dietary needs.
• Value for Money: At $90 per person, the experience offers a lot—scenic rides, meals, and overnight stay—at an accessible price point.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Pickup and Transfer

Your adventure kicks off early at 8:00 am from the meeting point at Pleasant Haveli Camel Safari, located on Chainpura street near Gandhi Chowk. From there, a comfortable jeep whisks you into the desert, approximately an hour away, setting the tone for a relaxed yet exciting day. The ride itself, as several reviews praise, is smooth, with occasional stops that add to the scenic charm or provide small insights into local life.

Day 1: Entering the Thar and the Camel Ride

Once in the desert, you’ll meet your camel and guide, who is not just a rider but a camel diver—a term that hints at the expertise involved in handling these gentle giants. According to reviewers, guides like Sambhu and Abeh are a highlight; knowledgeable, friendly, and fluent in English, they make the experience both fun and informative.

You’ll embark on a peaceful camel ride through the dunes, allowing you to slow down and soak in the vast, quiet landscape. This part of the tour is not hurried; instead, it emphasizes serenity and connection with nature. Reviewers especially appreciated the care given to the camels, noting they are “interesting and very well cared for,” making the ride both ethical and enjoyable.

Sunset in the Dunes: A Photo-Opportunity for the Ages

As the afternoon approaches, you’ll reach the dunes for sunset watching. Here, you’ll savor chai and snacks, making the most of the golden hour. Several guests mention how stunning these sunsets are, with some describing the dunes as “the sand was simply wonderful to walk on”—a phrase that captures just how inviting the landscape can be.

Night Under the Stars: Camping and Dinner

The true magic begins after sunset when you settle in for a sleep under the open sky. Many reviews describe this as an unforgettable experience, with comments like “a beautiful night under the stars.” The camping setup is simple but cozy, with beds provided for a comfortable rest—this isn’t luxury camping, but it’s enough to make you feel quite special.

Dinner is a highlight for many, with home-cooked, delicious food served in the desert camp. Guests note that the meals are well-prepared, with some mentioning that their guides even cooked the meal themselves, adding a personal touch. Snacks and drinks, including bottled water and tea, keep everyone refreshed.

Day 2: Sunrise and Return Journey

Waking up early for the sunrise offers an entirely different perspective of the desert, with many reviewers describing the scene as “amazing” and “not to be missed.” After breakfast—often described as fresh and cooked on-site—you’ll take a camel ride back to the jeep, completing your desert sojourn.

The return drive to Jaisalmer is roughly three hours, giving you enough time to reflect, share stories with fellow travelers, and enjoy the changing landscape. Many mention how the guides are happy to answer questions and share local knowledge during this drive, making it both educational and relaxing.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authentic, Non-Touristy Atmosphere

Unlike many commercial safaris, this experience focuses on minimal group size—a maximum of ten travelers—and genuine interactions. Reviewers consistently mention feeling like they were part of a small, friendly group, which enhances the personal touch. The guides take pride in their work, often engaging in conversations and sharing stories beyond the typical tourist script.

Quality of Guides and Care

Guides like Sambhu, Abeh, and Padam seem to go above and beyond, ensuring safety, comfort, and fun. Feedback highlights their excellent English, helpful attitude, and local knowledge, making the trip more enriching than just a scenic ride.

Scenic and Peaceful Experience

From breathtaking sunsets to starry nights, the landscape is captivating. Several reviews emphasize how relaxing and peaceful the desert environment is, making it an ideal escape for those wanting to unwind and disconnect from city life.

Food and Hospitality

Guests rave about the home-style meals—sometimes cooked by the guides themselves—and snacks, often describing them as delicious and filling. The inclusion of tea and coffee adds a cozy touch, making the camping experience feel warm and welcoming.

Cost and Value

At $90 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—collecting transportation, scenic rides, meals, and a memorable overnight stay. Considering the quality, personalized approach, and authentic experience, it’s a worthwhile investment for travelers seeking something beyond the typical.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While the experience is largely positive, a couple of factors might impact your enjoyment. The moderate physical activity involved—camel riding and outdoor camping—may not suit everyone, especially if you have mobility issues or are uncomfortable sleeping outdoors. Plus, the camping setup is simple, so if you’re expecting luxury or high-end amenities, this might not meet those expectations.

Weather can also be a factor; the tour is dependent on good weather conditions, and in case of rain or storms, the experience might be canceled or altered, as noted in the policies.

Who Is This Experience Best Suited For?

This overnight camel safari is ideal for adventurers seeking authenticity and a genuine desert experience without the crowds. It’s perfect for those comfortable with outdoor sleeping and moderate physical activity. Travelers interested in local cuisine, scenic sunsets, and starry nights will find this trip particularly rewarding. It’s also well-suited for small groups or couples wanting a more intimate, memorable journey.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Jaisalmer and transfers by jeep, with the entire journey well-organized to ensure a smooth start and finish.

What does the overnight stay involve?
You’ll sleep under the open sky in tents or beds, as described, enjoying a night in the desert with minimal amenities but all the essentials for a comfortable and unforgettable experience.

Are meals included?
Absolutely. The tour provides snacks, bottled water, tea/coffee, and two dinners and two breakfasts, all home-cooked or prepared on-site, offering authentic local flavors.

How long is the camel ride each day?
The first day features a longer, peaceful camel ride across the dunes, while the morning ride on the second day is about an hour, allowing you to enjoy the desert scenery without overexertion.

What is the best time to do this tour?
While not explicitly specified, based on reviews and the outdoor nature of the experience, cooler months—October to February—are likely the most comfortable and enjoyable.

Is this suitable for children or older travelers?
Moderate physical fitness is recommended, so younger, reasonably fit travelers will find it easier. Always consider personal comfort with outdoor sleeping and camel riding.

Final Thoughts

This Fullday Overnight Camel Safari offers an authentic and peaceful escape into Rajasthan’s desert landscape. Thanks to caring guides, breathtaking scenery, and delicious home-cooked meals, it provides a genuine taste of desert life that’s hard to match in tourist-heavy settings. It’s a great pick for travelers who want a personal, off-the-beaten-path experience that combines adventure, relaxation, and a touch of magic under the stars.

While it’s not a luxury experience, its focus on authenticity, small group size, and passionate guides make it a worthwhile choice for those eager to connect with Rajasthan’s soul. If you’re after a memorable night in the desert with minimal crowds and maximum charm, this tour ticks all the boxes.