Jaisalmer Camel Safari Guide: Sam vs Khuri, Cost & Tips
A camel safari across the Thar at sunset is the reason most people come to Jaisalmer. Here’s how to do it right — where to go, when, what it costs, and what nobody tells you until you’re on the sand.
- Best time: late afternoon into sunset — cooler, and the light is unreal.
- Where: Sam dunes (lively, popular) or Khuri (quieter, rustic).
- How long: a short ride is ~30–60 min; longer safaris run 1–2 hours.
- Pair it with a desert camp night for folk music, dinner and stars.
- Carry a scarf, sunglasses and a jacket for after dark.
Sam vs Khuri: which dunes?
Sam Sand Dunes (~40 km west of the city) are the famous ones — bigger dune fields, more camps, more energy, and a lively sunset scene. Khuri (~45 km southwest) is quieter, smaller and more rustic, better if you want calm over crowds. For a first trip, Sam delivers the classic experience; for a more offbeat night, choose Khuri.
When is the best time for a camel safari?
Sunset, hands down. Midday desert heat is harsh and the light is flat; late afternoon into golden hour is comfortable and beautiful. Many travellers also love a short sunrise ride the next morning — quieter and softer. Season-wise, aim for October to March; avoid the April–June heat.
How long does a camel safari last?
It varies. A short sunset ride is around 30–60 minutes — plenty for most people, since camel riding gets tiring. Dedicated safaris can run 1–2 hours, and multi-hour or overnight ‘dune camping’ safaris exist for the adventurous.
How much does a camel safari cost?
Standalone short rides are inexpensive, but prices at the dunes are negotiable and travellers are often overcharged on the spot. The better value is a package that bundles the safari with a desert camp, meals and transfers — you pay one fair price and skip the haggling. Our packages include a sunset camel safari and camp night with a private cab.
What to wear and carry
- A scarf or bandana for sand and sun
- Sunglasses and sunscreen
- A light jacket — desert temperatures drop fast after sunset (Nov–Feb especially)
- Closed shoes or sandals you don’t mind filling with sand
- A power bank — you’ll shoot a lot of photos
Is a camel safari safe?
Yes, for the vast majority of riders — camels are led by an experienced handler at walking pace. Hold the saddle handle firmly during the ‘stand up’ and ‘sit down’ motions, which lurch forward and back. Choose an operator who treats their animals well; well-run camps do.
Want the camel safari done right?
We include a sunset camel safari and a desert camp night in every package — private cab, no on-the-day surprises.
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How much does a camel safari in Jaisalmer cost?
Short standalone rides are cheap but prices are negotiable and often inflated on the spot. A package bundling the safari with a desert camp, meals and transfers is better value and avoids haggling.
Should I choose Sam or Khuri dunes?
Sam for the classic, lively experience with bigger dunes and more camps; Khuri for a quieter, more rustic night away from the crowds.
What is the best time for a camel safari?
Sunset — it's cooler and the light is best. A short sunrise ride the next morning is also lovely. Travel between October and March.
How long is a camel safari?
A short sunset ride is about 30–60 minutes; longer safaris run 1–2 hours. Camel riding gets tiring, so most people find a shorter ride is enough.
Is a camel safari safe?
Yes — a handler leads the camel at walking pace. Just hold on firmly when the camel stands up and sits down, as it lurches. Pick an operator who cares for their animals.