The golden city of Jaisalmer, set against the backdrop of the Thar Desert, feels like a scene from a timeless Rajasthani tale. With its majestic forts, sweeping sand dunes, and age-old traditions, a desert safari in Jaisalmer offers more than just sightseeing — it’s an experience soaked in culture, adventure, and royal charm.
Whether you’re exploring on camelback or dancing around a desert bonfire, here are the top things to do on a Jaisalmer desert safari that will make your journey truly unforgettable.
1. Camel Safari – Embrace the Spirit of the Desert
Step back into the past as you ride a camel, the “ship of the desert”, across the golden sand dunes. It’s one of the most authentic ways to explore the Thar’s rugged beauty.
Popular spots:
- Sam Sand Dunes
- Khuri Dunes
- Lodhruva & Kanoi
Camel safaris are best experienced at sunrise or sunset, when the desert is at its most magical.
2. Jeep Safari – Fast-Paced Desert Thrills
If you’re looking for a shot of adrenaline, hop into a 4×4 for a jeep safari. This high-speed ride across shifting dunes is an exciting contrast to the slow, steady camel trek.
Expect to:
- Zip over dunes in a rugged vehicle
- Explore deeper parts of the desert
- Visit remote villages and nomadic settlements
Perfect for families and adventure lovers!
3. Watch a Royal Sunset Over the Dunes
There’s something almost surreal about watching the sun sink below the horizon in the desert. The sky turns into a masterpiece of orange, pink, and purple as the dunes reflect golden hues.
Tip: Bring a scarf or turban for style and protection from the sun and wind.
4. Spend a Night in a Luxury Desert Camp
After a day of exploration, head to a desert camp for a magical overnight stay. Whether you choose a luxury tent or a rustic setup, the charm is unmatched.
What to expect:
- Traditional Rajasthani dinner
- Folk music and Kalbeliya dance performances
- Stargazing under crystal-clear skies
- Cozy bonfire moments
It’s a perfect blend of royalty and raw nature.
5. Meet the Locals and Explore Desert Villages
Beyond the dunes lies a world of desert culture and hospitality. Many tours include stops at small villages where you can interact with locals, learn about their crafts, and see how life flourishes in this arid land.
Highlights include:
- Pottery & weaving demonstrations
- Tasting traditional Rajasthani snacks
- Visiting the ghost village of Kuldhara
6. Try Desert Activities & Adventures
Some camps offer extra activities for the more adventurous:
- Quad biking
- Parasailing over the dunes
- Dune boarding
These are great for those who want to mix culture with some action.
7. Photograph the Golden Beauty
The Jaisalmer desert is a paradise for photographers. From camel silhouettes at dusk to vibrant turbans and rustic village scenes, there’s no shortage of picture-perfect moments.
Pro tip: Early morning and sunset are the best times for photography due to soft, golden lighting.