Pushkar sits on the edge of the Thar desert, and just beyond the lake and temples the land opens into rolling sand dunes and scrub — perfect camel country. A camel safari here is one of the town's most popular experiences: you climb aboard a decorated camel, sway out across the dunes as the light turns gold, and watch the sun set over the desert horizon. Longer trips add a night in a dune camp with folk music, a bonfire and a sky full of stars.
This guide covers the kinds of safari on offer, how long they last, what to expect on the ride, and how to choose a comfortable, ethical operator. Pair it with our list of things to do in Pushkar, the places to visit in Pushkar, and the best time to visit Pushkar.
Types of camel safari in Pushkar
Short sunset ride (1-2 hours)
The most popular option — a late-afternoon ride out to the dunes to watch the sunset, then back. Easy, no overnight commitment, and ideal if you only have an evening to spare.
Half-day safari (2-4 hours)
A longer loop through the dunes and surrounding villages, often with chai and snacks at a scenic stop. Good for a deeper taste of the desert without staying out overnight.
Overnight dune camp
Ride out in the afternoon to a tented camp on the dunes, enjoy Rajasthani folk music, dance and a bonfire dinner, sleep under the stars, and ride back at sunrise. The most immersive desert experience.
Multi-day desert safari
For the adventurous — two or more days camping between dunes and villages, covering more ground at a slow, traditional pace. Best booked as a guided package with support vehicles.
What to expect on the ride
Your camel will usually be saddled with a padded seat and led or accompanied by a local camel driver who knows the animal and the route. Mounting and dismounting is the trickiest part — the camel kneels, you climb on, and it rises back-legs-first with a lurch, so hold on to the saddle horn. Once up, the gait is a gentle, rolling sway; the dunes near Pushkar are modest, so the ride is calm rather than thrilling.
Expect open desert, scrub, grazing goats and small villages rather than endless Sahara-style dunes — this is the eastern fringe of the Thar. Sunset is the highlight, with the sand glowing orange and long shadows across the ridges. On overnight trips, the camp adds a campfire, simple Rajasthani food, folk performers and, on clear nights, a brilliant canopy of stars far from town lights.
Tips for a comfortable, responsible safari
Time your ride for late afternoon to catch the sunset and avoid the midday desert heat, and visit between October and March when the weather is pleasant — summer is too hot for a comfortable safari. Wear long, light trousers and closed shoes to protect against the saddle and sand, bring a scarf or cap, sunglasses and water, and carry a light layer for the cooler desert evening.
Choose your operator with care. Pick one that keeps its camels well fed, healthy and not overloaded, gives them rest, and uses padded saddles rather than rushing animals for back-to-back rides. Agree the price, route and duration before you set off, ride with a reputable camp or hotel desk rather than a random tout, and keep cameras and valuables secured in a small bag. Tipping the camel driver at the end is customary if you enjoyed the experience.
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