If you’re after a genuine escape from the crowds in Jaisalmer, a sunset camel safari with dinner might just be your perfect desert adventure. This experience claims a 5-star rating from numerous travelers, and from what we’ve gathered, it offers a rare chance to enjoy the desert in a calm, authentic way—away from the mass tourism hustle.
What really draws us in are three key aspects: the intimate size of the group (max six travelers), the expertly curated stops that showcase local life and landscapes, and the delicious, fresh food cooked in front of you. The only potential consideration? This tour is quite long—around 8 to 10 hours—so you’d want to be prepared for a full day of adventure.
This experience suits travelers who love peace, authentic moments, and scenic views without the crowds. If you’re seeking a genuine desert night with a touch of luxury and a lot of local charm, this safari could fit your travel style perfectly.
Key Points
- Authentic, non-touristic experience that stays away from crowds
- Expert guides and knowledgeable hosts enhance the journey
- Scenic stops include Khabha Fort and Dedha Village, offering beautiful landscape views and cultural insights
- Delicious, fresh dinner cooked on campfire in dunes, with options for joining the cooking
- Comfortable transportation via jeep, with pickup included
- Limited group size (up to 6 people) ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere
What to Expect from the Tour
This sunset camel safari in Jaisalmer is designed for travelers wanting a peaceful, authentic experience. It begins around 2 PM with a jeep pickup from your hotel or designated meeting point. This private or semi-private tour ensures a more intimate atmosphere, far from the busy tourist highways.
The Itinerary in Detail
Stop 1: Dedha Village
The journey starts with a visit to Dedha Village, an oasis in the desert where a man-made pond provides water that never runs dry. It’s a fascinating glimpse into local life—one that showcases how water is traditionally managed in these arid areas. Reviewers highlight that this stop offers a “very authentic experience” and is a peaceful spot to take photos and absorb the calm of rural Rajasthan.
Stop 2: Khaba Fort
Next, you’ll visit Khaba Fort, the last fort in the western part of Rajasthan, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Reviewers have called it “wonderful,” emphasizing the beautiful scenery and the opportunity to see how Rajasthan’s historical architecture blends with the natural environment. The included admission ticket makes this stop both convenient and insightful, adding historical context to the trip.
The Camel Ride
From the fort, you’ll head to the camel point where each guest gets their own camel for about an hour-long ride into the dunes. Reviewers describe this as “a very peaceful ride” and mention that the camels are well-treated, which is important for animal lovers. Expect stunning sunset views as you gently sway across the golden sands—a truly magical moment that many say exceeds expectations, especially if you’ve never experienced camel riding before.
Sunset and Dinner in the Dunes
As the sun dips behind the horizon, you’ll relax on the dunes with a cup of tea or coffee, taking in views that have been called “dreamy” and “picturesque”. One reviewer compared the sunset scene to old camel caravans setting up camp, emphasizing the timeless beauty of this moment.
Post-sunset, a dinner is prepared on campfire right in the dunes. The food is cooked fresh in front of you, including dal, mixed vegetables, rice, and chapati—all highly praised for their flavor and authenticity. Guests often join the camel drivers in helping cook, adding a communal, fun element to the meal. Several reviews highlight the deliciousness of the food and the overall value, considering the setting and experience.
Evening Relaxation and Return
After dinner, you’re free to relax, stroll the dunes, or simply soak in the starry sky. For those who want to extend the magic, some reviews mention sleeping under the open sky or staying overnight in the dunes—though standard tours usually end with the jeep returning to Jaisalmer at around 9:30–10 PM.
The journey back is comfortable and includes bottled water, ensuring you stay hydrated after a long, scenic day.
Why This Tour Stands Out
The guides and hosts are repeatedly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and genuine hospitality. Bhawani, the lead guide, is often mentioned by name as someone who is kind, friendly, and well-versed in local history and culture. Many reviewers appreciated the authentic feeling of the experience, far from the typical tourist traps.
The stops at Khabha Fort and Dedha Village add cultural and scenic depth, allowing travelers to connect with local life and the landscape in ways most guided tours overlook. The limited group size ensures an intimate environment, making it easier to enjoy the tranquility of the desert and have meaningful interactions.
The food deserves a special mention—it’s cooked fresh on-site, and reviewers rave about the quality and flavor, making the meal a highlight rather than just a necessity. The option to join in the cooking process adds an engaging, hands-on element to the experience.
Price-wise, at $70 per person, this safari offers excellent value for an all-day, authentic adventure featuring scenic stops, cultural insights, delicious food, and expert guidance. The inclusion of transportation, water, and meals makes it a well-rounded package, especially considering the personalized nature of the experience.
A Few Considerations
While this experience is highly praised, it is quite lengthy—around 8 to 10 hours—so travelers should be prepared for a full-day outing. Also, since the tour ends late at night, arrangements for transportation back to your accommodation should be confirmed in advance, especially if you’re staying outside Jaisalmer city center.
Plus, the tour is weather-dependent; poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, but the provider offers full refunds or alternative dates, adding peace of mind.
The Sum Up
This sunset camel safari in Jaisalmer offers an authentic, peaceful way to experience the desert’s beauty beyond the crowded tours. The combination of expert guides, scenic stops, and delicious, freshly cooked meals makes it a standout choice for anyone looking to connect with Rajasthan’s desert landscape in a relaxed, genuine manner.
Perfect for travelers who crave quiet moments, cultural insights, and stunning vistas, this tour promises memories that go well beyond typical tourist snapshots. Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a couple seeking romance, or a small group of friends, you’ll find this safari to be a genuine highlight of your Rajasthan trip.
If you’re searching for a non-touristic, intimate desert experience that combines history, nature, and delicious local food, this sunset camel safari is definitely worth considering.
FAQs
Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from your hotel or designated meeting point in Jaisalmer, making it easy to start your adventure without hassle.
How long does the safari last?
The entire experience runs approximately 8 to 10 hours, starting around 2 PM and returning late evening.
What stops are included?
You’ll visit Dedha Village, an oasis with a man-made pond, and Khaba Fort, the last western fort of Rajasthan with panoramic views.
Are the camels well-treated?
Yes, according to reviews, the camels are treated well, and the ride is gentle and scenic, perfect for those new to camel riding.
What is the meal like?
Dinner is cooked fresh over a campfire, with dishes like dal, mixed vegetables, rice, and chapati, praised for their flavor and authenticity.
Can I sleep in the dunes?
While the standard tour usually ends with a return to Jaisalmer, some travelers have mentioned sleeping under the stars, but confirm this with the provider beforehand.
Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but as it’s a full-day experience, those with limited mobility or tight schedules should plan accordingly.
This thoughtfully curated safari promises not just a scenic ride but a chance to truly connect with Rajasthan’s tranquil desert life, making it a memorable addition to your travel story.