Overnight Camel Safari – Sleeping under the Stars

If you’re heading to Jaisalmer and craving an authentic taste of Rajasthan’s desert life, the Overnight Camel Safari offered by Trotters Tours & Travels is a standout choice. For just $51 per person, you’ll spend roughly 20 hours exploring the stunning dunes, visiting historic sites like Khaba Fort, and sleeping in a cozy desert camp under a blanket of stars. This tour is particularly popular—booked on average 25 days in advance—and it earns a perfect 5-star rating from 362 reviews.

What makes this experience special? First, the small group size (max 12 travelers) ensures a personalized and friendly atmosphere, making it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers. Second, the comprehensive inclusion of meals, transport, and overnight stays offers great value, especially considering the quality of the food and the authentic hospitality we encountered.

One thing to note: the tour begins early in the afternoon, and there are no bathroom facilities at the camp, so prepare accordingly. This adventure suits those who enjoy scenic rides, local culture, and a night under the desert sky—perfect for couples, solo travelers, and anyone eager for an authentic desert experience away from touristy camps.

Key Points

• Intimate group size enhances personalized guidance and interactions.
• Includes meals and accommodation, offering excellent value.
• Scenic 90-minute camel rides provide a genuine desert adventure.
• Knowledgeable guides enrich the experience with insights about flora, fauna, and local life.
• Stunning sunset and sunrise views are highlights you won’t forget.
• No bathroom facilities at the camp—plan accordingly.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Let’s walk through this adventure step-by-step to understand what makes each part memorable—and what you should be prepared for.

Departure and Initial Visits

Your journey kicks off around 1:30 PM from Jaisalmer in a jeep, heading toward the desert with a few interesting stops en route. The first stop features Khaba Fort, a lesser-known yet striking site that offers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s history. It’s also the gateway to discovering the natural oasis nearby—an unexpected splash of greenery amid dunes, perfect for some photos and a moment to breathe.

Dune Trekking and Sunset Camel Ride

Once you arrive at the sand dunes, you’ll meet your friendly guides and get comfortably seated on well-maintained camels. Each person is allotted one camel for a 90-minute ride, which is a generous amount of time to soak in the landscape and enjoy the rhythmic sway of the camel. As you glide across the dunes, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the setting sun—a favorite among travelers, praised for how peaceful and beautiful it is.

Desert Camp and Evening Activities

Arriving at a traditional desert camp, you’ll settle into cozy bedding—many reviews mention the warmth of the double blankets and the comfort of the sleeping arrangements. As night falls, a bonfire warms the group, creating a communal atmosphere. The dinner is a highlight, with freshly cooked, delicious vegetarian dishes like rice, chapati, dal, and chai, all prepared with care. Travelers frequently mention how “the food was delicious and in sufficient quantity”—a welcome surprise after a day of activity.

Sleeping Under the Stars

Most reviews highlight how special it is to sleep outdoors under the vast Rajasthan sky. The experience of lying on a bed in the open, with the stars overhead, is both humbling and exhilarating. In colder months, the provided warm blankets keep you cozy; one traveler noted they “did not freeze at all in the night”. Be aware, though, that there are no bathroom facilities at the camp, so pack accordingly and plan your needs beforehand.

The Morning After: Sunrise and Return

Early birds will wake to a beautiful sunrise, often described as a magical moment—the soft light spreading over the dunes. After a hearty breakfast featuring eggs, fruits, and hot chai, you’ll mount your camel once more for a 90-minute ride back to the jeep. The return trip to Jaisalmer is comfortable and scenic, with most travelers arriving by around 11 AM.

Authenticity, Guides, and Guest Experience

A common thread woven through the reviews is the praise for knowledgeable guides—many travelers mention “Shagan” by name, appreciating his friendliness and helpfulness. These guides don’t just lead rides—they share insights about the local flora, fauna, and desert culture, enriching your understanding of Rajasthan’s landscape.

Guests also love the authenticity of the experience. Unlike larger, more commercial camps, this safari emphasizes a personal touch—freshly prepared food, small group camaraderie, and genuine hospitality. One reviewer said, “Authentische Guides, kleine Gruppe, frisch in der Wüste zubereitetes Essen”—authentic guides, small group, freshly prepared desert food.

Some minor considerations

While the experience is largely positive, a few travelers mention the lack of bathroom facilities, which is typical for desert camping but worth planning for. The timing (departure at 1:30 PM) also means you spend a good part of the afternoon traveling and may have limited time for sightseeing beforehand.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This overnight camel safari is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking authentic desert experiences. It’s ideal for those who enjoy scenic rides and are comfortable with outdoor sleeping arrangements. If you love delicious local food, stunning sunset and sunrise views, and appreciate small-group intimacy, this tour will meet your expectations.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers looking to escape crowded tourist spots and connect with the natural landscape of Rajasthan in a meaningful way. Budget-conscious travelers will find the price to be a good value considering the meals, transport, lodging, and guided experience included.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this safari delivers a well-rounded, authentic Rajasthan experience. The combination of scenic camel rides, cultural stops, and sleeping under the stars creates a memorable adventure that isn’t oversimplified or overly commercialized. For $51, you get more than just a tour—you get a glimpse into desert life, a chance to unwind amid natural beauty, and stories to tell for years.

The personalized guidance and delicious regional food elevate this from a simple ride to a genuine cultural experience. The stunning vistas and peaceful nights make it a highlight for those wanting to see the desert in a truly immersive way.

If you’re after a meaningful, scenic, and authentic overnight experience in Rajasthan, this camel safari is a fantastic choice.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour departs around 1:30 PM from Jaisalmer’s Trotters Tours & Travels shop.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, it includes a vegetarian dinner with rice, chapati, dal, chai, and snacks, plus a breakfast with eggs, fruits, bread, chai, and coffee.

Are there options for non-vegetarian meals?
Yes, non-vegetarian meals can be provided for an extra fee if requested in advance.

What should I bring for the overnight stay?
Bring warm clothing and blankets if traveling during cooler months, as nights can be cold. Also, since there are no bathroom facilities, pack your personal hygiene items accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly?
Most travelers, including families with children and older adults, have enjoyed the experience, but consider individual mobility and comfort with outdoor sleeping arrangements.

How long are the camel rides?
Each camel ride lasts about 90 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What is included in the price?
Transport, meals, overnight stay, and guided camel rides are included. Bottled water is available as needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, with full refunds. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

This overnight camel safari in Jaisalmer offers a wonderful blend of scenery, culture, and adventure. For travelers eager to experience Rajasthan beyond the usual tourist spots, it’s a worthwhile, genuine journey into the heart of the desert.