Jaisalmer is one of the most popular destinations for those wanting to experience the beauty of India’s desert. It is known for its majestic sand dunes, camels, and folklore. However, it can be a bit of a challenge to find the perfect tour. Nevertheless, with a bit of research and planning, you can find an unforgettable and enjoyable Jaisalmer Desert Safari. Here is an honest review about the desert tours offered in Jaisalmer.
Are you planning to visit India? Start here:
What is a Jaisalmer Desert Safari
A desert safari in Jaisalmer is an exciting and thrilling adventure that takes you on a journey of discovery through the majestic Thar Desert. You will get to experience the beauty of the golden sand dunes, the unique landscape and the local culture of rural Rajasthan.
HOW DOES IT WORK? Usually the desert safari operators will pick you up in a jeep or a 4×4 vehicle from your hotel or other designated spot, before setting off for a 1-hour drive towards the desert area where the safari begins.
Depending on the tour you’ve chosen, you can expect to explore the desert on a jeep, camel or sandboard. Usually a traditional Rajasthani dinner is included, and if you choose the overnight option (which is the standard one) you get to spend the night in the desert under the stars.
Jaisalmer Desert Safari Options
There are three main options for safaris in Jaisalmer: the most popular is the Sam Sand Dunes, the second is the area of the Khuri Village and the last option is the so called “non-touristy tour” which are supposed to be way more basic and you get to explore other areas of the Thar Desert.
OPTION 1 – SAM SAND DUNES: Sam sand dunes offer some of the most spectacular views of the desert, and are great for sandboarding and dune bashing. It is the most popular of the 3 options, and it’s also the one preferred by Indian tourists.
OPTION 2 – KHURI VILLAGE: Khuri is more of a cultural experience, and you can explore the local culture and cuisine. It is less touristy than Sam, but still offers some level of comforts. There is usually a Rajasthani folk dance show included in the package.
OPTION 3 – NON-TOURISTY TOUR: Non-touristy tours offer a unique and authentic experience in the Thar Desert. These tours are usually organized by local tour operators who provide an insight into the local culture and lifestyle. You can experience the real beauty of the desert, away from the tourist crowds, but don’t expect any amenities or comforts, as everything is kept as basic as possible.
Jaisalmer Desert Safari Experiences
As for the experiences, here is what you can do in the desert:
Jeep safari: You will explore the desert on a 4×4 jeep, and experience the thrill of dune bashing. This is a great option for those who want an adrenaline rush.
Camel safari: This is an authentic desert experience, as you explore the desert atop a camel. You can admire the views of the desert and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Sandboarding: This is a great way to experience the desert, as you slide down the dunes on a sandboard.
Star gazing: You can enjoy the night sky and admire the stars and constellations. This is great for those who want a more relaxing experience.
An honest review
Our Experience on a Jaisalmer Desert Safari
After hearing rave reviews about the Jaisalmer desert tour, we eagerly decided to embark on the adventure ourselves. Our expectations were simple — no luxury, no extravagance, just a hope for a relaxing time in the desert while gaining insights into the local culture.
Regrettably, our experience took an unexpected turn. Here’s a breakdown of what unfolded, from initial excitement to subsequent disappointment:
1) Booking the Jaisalmer Desert Safari
Opting to go with our hostel for the desert tour, which had been satisfactory during our stay, we chose the Khuri Village tour. This was promoted as a more authentic experience, promising a glimpse into the culture of rural Rajasthani people.
The price per person was 3000 INR ($36 USD), a reasonable but not particularly budget-friendly cost, considering the generally lower prices in India.
2) Time of the year
Choosing to visit at the end of December (from the 25th onwards), we found ourselves in the midst of a bustling period in India. The holiday season drew crowds to Jaisalmer and the desert, turning the tours into crowded affairs.
While this alone wasn’t an issue, the way the tour organizers handled the situation left much to be desired.
3) Getting to the desert
Even before setting out on our journey, the tour started to raise eyebrows. Our group, comprised mostly of guys from different states of India, was friendly.
However, despite everyone paying the full price, the organizers crammed eight people (plus the driver) into a five-seater vehicle. Attempts to address the issue with the hostel staff fell on deaf ears. We chose to go along with it, sharing a laugh, but little did we know this would mark the beginning of an imperfect adventure.
4) Arriving to Khuri Village
As we rolled into Khuri Village, we were directed to a charming campsite. The surroundings were pleasant, but oddly, there wasn’t anyone from the tour to guide us. It was a bit like stepping into the unknown – no clear explanation of the activities planned or what steps we should take next.
We found ourselves in a beautiful spot, yet slightly adrift without a roadmap for the adventure ahead.
5) The camel ride
Typically, we steer clear of animal-related activities when traveling. However, given the enthusiasm everyone had for camel rides in Jaisalmer, we figured it was a must-try, especially in a desert setting. The whole experience, though, turned out to be a bit peculiar.
We were relaxing in the camp when suddenly, some guys summoned us, indicating it was time to go. Outside, a lineup of camels awaited us. Despite everyone paying the same price, the staff exhibited little patience in organizing who would have their own camel and who would be sharing with a total stranger. Adding to the discomfort, some of the camel herders were children.
The journey up the sand dunes itself was surprisingly enjoyable. We soaked in the scenery, engaging in conversation as the camels plodded along. However, our positive vibes took a nosedive once we reached the summit and were met with an unexpected twist.
6) The sunset on a Jaisalmer Desert Safari
Our expectations were set high when we were promised a picturesque sunset experience complete with tents, a bonfire, camels, and local guides. However, the reality turned out kinda different.
The camel men departed with the camels, and to our surprise, there were no tents, no bonfire—just us, dropped off on a solitary sand dune.
Later, we discovered that the herders, driven by the demands of the high season, hurried back to Khuri for a second ride with another set of tourists on a different sand dune, all in pursuit of additional earnings (at the expense of the camels).
It left a bitter taste, and we couldn’t help but feel disappointed with the turn of events.
7) The ride back
The sun hadn’t even begun its descent, and the camel men reappeared, insisting that we should head back immediately. We pushed back, pointing out that none of the promised elements had come to fruition.
Determined to salvage at least a bit of the evening, we stood firm. After some reluctant agreement, they eventually took us back, still before the sun had set, and not without persistent insistence on their part.
8) Dinner at the camp & folk show
The dinner segment of the tour turned out to be a pleasant, positive surprise. The camp was beautiful, the food was delicious, and the entertainment show, though lengthy, proved to be captivating.
After the show wrapped up, it was time to hit the hay, but little did we know that more surprises were lurking just around the corner!
9) Sleeping under the stars
Sleeping under the stars turned out to be a dreadful moment of the tour. We’ve had some basic camping experiences before, but this was in a league of its own.
Arriving at the night camp, it was already pitch black, and to our dismay, the tents were completely undone. The tent structures weren’t even assembled, the covers were scattered, and the blankets were buried under sand.
Adding to the dismay, the blankets and pillows were incredibly stained and dirty, and to top it off, we were given only one pillow for the two of us. If that weren’t enough, the next morning, we discovered street dogs comfortably nestled on the blankets they hadn’t used during the night.
10) The next morning
The morning brought a beautiful sunrise, but the surprises were far from over. As our group gathered, eager to return to the base camp for breakfast, the sole representative from the tour was still fast asleep. We patiently waited for a good additional 45 minutes before he finally woke up. Without uttering a word, he simply said, “Let’s go.”
Breakfast was decent, but the journey back to Jaisalmer wasn’t quite as smooth.
Our thoughts after the Jaisalmer Desert Safari
Despite the organizational shortcomings, the desert itself offered a nice backdrop, and we managed to gather some beautiful memories during our time there. While it would be easy to romanticize and portray it as a perfect Jaisalmer experience by focusing solely on the positive aspects, we felt it was more valuable to provide an honest review of our overall journey.
The chaotic nature of our tour organization could be attributed, in part, to the high season. However, when offering a paid experience, customers rightfully expect a corresponding level of value for their money. Unfortunately, this wasn’t the case for us.
To be clear, the tour has the potential to be genuinely enjoyable, and we acknowledge that the Jaisalmer Desert Safari has been a remarkable experience for many travelers who opted for different organizers.
Although the sand dunes, particularly those of Khuri, might not be the most awe-inspiring, the Thar Desert landscapes are undoubtedly worth exploring. Selecting the right tour, however, appears to be crucial in making the most of your time in Jaisalmer.
Best tips to avoid having a bad time
Thoroughly Research Organizers: Opt for organizers with a proven track record and recent positive reviews. A blend of good and recent reviews is crucial to ensure consistency in service.
Carefully Read Reviews: Take the time to read reviews attentively. Look for detailed feedback, especially regarding aspects that are important to you. Be on the lookout for any recurring red flags or concerns.
Seek Recommendations from Fellow Travelers: Talk to other tourists in the area before making a decision. Locals or fellow travelers often provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their personal experiences.
Utilize Social Media: Leverage social media platforms to gather information. Search for the location and specific tours you’re considering and inquire about others’ experiences. Social media groups and forums can be rich sources of candid, real-time feedback.
Check for Certification and Compliance: Ensure that the Jaisalmer Desert Safari organizer is licensed and complies with safety and ethical standards. Verified certifications add a layer of reliability to the organizer’s credentials.
Clear Communication: Engage in clear communication with the organizer before booking. Ask about the details of the tour, what’s included, and any potential changes due to factors like weather or other unforeseen circumstances.
Compare Prices and Inclusions: While budget is a factor, it’s essential to compare prices with the inclusions offered. Sometimes, a slightly higher cost may include better services or additional amenities, making it a more worthwhile investment.
Flexible Booking Policies: Opt for Jaisalmer Desert Safari organizers with flexible booking policies. Life on the road can be unpredictable, and having the flexibility to adjust plans can significantly contribute to a more enjoyable experience.
Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off or raises concerns during the booking process or initial interactions, trust your instincts. It’s okay to reconsider and explore other options to ensure a positive experience.
Have a Contingency Plan: Be prepared for unforeseen circumstances. Know the organizer’s cancellation policy, have emergency contact information, and consider travel insurance to mitigate potential risks.
Feedback after the Tour: After the tour, share your experience through reviews or feedback. This not only helps future travelers but also provides valuable input for the organizer to improve their services.
By combining thorough research, communication, and a proactive approach, you can significantly enhance the likelihood of having a positive and enjoyable travel experience.
