If you think that people are only fascinated by snow-capped mountains and vivacious rivers, your thinking is absolutely wrong. For, in the far west of Rajasthan, it is an arid desert called Thar and the adjoining landscape that attracts tourists in large numbers. And the best way to explore the desert is through desert safaris. The desert may seem uninteresting to many, but the silence of it and the tough but unique life of the people living in the nearby areas also holds many mysteries worth exploring. The desert safari is sure to turn out into an exhilarating experience.

It may be mentioned that desert safaris are undertaken on horses, camels and jeeps. Of the three, camel safaris are the most popular. However, jeep safaris can cover maximum distances and allows tourists better comforts.

The Safari Routes
The main destinations in which safaris are conducted are the desert areas of Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Pushkar and the Shekhawati regions. Some jeep safaris also cover wildlife sanctuaries.

Safari Duration
The duration of safaris vary. From a single day to a month or so, there are various options available to tourists. But the most sought after ones are one and two week safaris.

The Best Time For Safaris
The safaris are arranged in winters from November to February. As the desert region becomes very hot during summers, safaris cannot be organised in summers.

The Camel Safari
Camel Safari is the most unique way to explore the never ending desert and adjoining small villages. Riding on the camel back may not be easy initially but becomes very enjoyable once the rider gets accustomed to it. The advantage of a camel safari is that the animal knows the desert very well and can vary his walking pace depending on sand types. Moreover, the camel can walk long distances without showing any signs of discomfort.

Camel safaris are not monotonous affairs where you travel only through the desert sands. Rather, the itinerary is fixed in such a way that riders come in close contact with the local populace residing in nearby areas and get a chance to interact with them. This is probably a lifetime opportunity for the riders to acquaint themselves with local customs and traditions and appreciate the tough life that these people lead.

The caravan also halts for lunch or dinner in desert villages they are enthralled by the local artistes with traditional dances and music. Another exciting part of the itinerary is halting at night in the midst of the desert to sleep for the night. As riders rest and converse among themselves regarding their experiences, dinner is prepared on sand dunes.

Although the main emphasis of safaris is on the desert, the itinerary also does justice to the monuments and other places of historical importance that falls on the safari route. This adds diversity and colour to the safaris.

Horse Safari
Horse safaris may not be as exciting and extensive as camel safaris, yet undertaking them is great fun. Horse safaris are generally short as the animal cannot cover long distances in deserts. Horse safaris are a popular option for those who want short yet exciting tours. Infact, horse safaris are guided more by the elements of adventure and thrill.

Jeep Safari
A jeep safari is the fastest and the most comfortable way of exploring the desert of Rajasthan. The comprehensive jeep safaris can cover many destinations and offer some of the best views to tourists. An open jeep is most preferred as it offers a breathtaking view of all sides. The itinerary in the different kinds of safaris remains more of less the same.

It may be mentioned that desert safaris are conducted by experienced tour operators and all arrangements in the form of food, tents, sufficient water, foam mattresses, medicines and other required items are made well in advance.