Desert Safari
The time we spent camping in the Thar Desert is one of the best memories from our three-month trip to India.
The Thar Desert is located on the far eastern side of the Indian state of Rajasthan and runs across the border with Pakistan. Camelback safaris leave from Jaisalmer, “The Golden City,” which is located in the heart of the Thar Desert.
We booked a three-day, two-night Safari with Sahara Travels that was led by local guide and veteran camel driver of 15 years, Nongarem. Our expedition’s three camels where named Kalu, Lalu and Papu.
WednesdayDec 11
61°F
clear sky
ThursdayDec 12
68°F
clear sky
FridayDec 13
66°F
scattered clouds
Camelback safaris into the barren wasteland of the Thar Desert are a must-do activity and unforgettable means of accommodation when visiting Jaisalmer in eastern Rajasthan.
The safaris can be booked upon arrival in Jaisalmer and there are a number of competing travel agencies that all book similar trips. Itineraries range from half-day sunset tours to five-day, four-night excursions.
Camel safaris provide the opportunity to explore the rippling, windswept desert and witness the isolated rural desert life of India. Basic meals are cooked on open fires and nights are spent on the side of a dune, wrapped in a bundle of blankets under the sprawling night sky filled with glowing stars.
A desert safari is unglamorous and raw, much like the rest of India, but it’s an unbelievable opportunity to connect with local people and experience a completely different way of life.
All food and water must be brought into the desert and carried by camelback, as there is no way to acquire additional supplies while on the safari. Given these limitations, all meals are cooked on a small fire in a hole in the sand and consist of vegetable curry and side of chapatti. Water and tea are also served with each meal.
While the meals in the desert are simple, they are incredibly authentic and prove that great food can be made with even the most basic ingredients and cooking techniques.
Camelback desert safaris take place in the sprawling Thar Desert in eastern Rajasthan near the border between India and Pakistan. Safaris leave daily from the city of Jaisalmer.
Sahara Travels
Near Fort First Gate
Gopa Chowk, Jaisalmer-345001
Rajasthan, India
Desert Safari
Sahara Travels
Near Fort First Gate
Gopa Chowk, Jaisalmer-345001
Rajasthan, India