Blissful Camel Safari Review: Sunset & Musical Evening

Thinking about checking out the ‘Blissful Half Day Sunset Camel Safari with Musical Evening’? You know, the one advertised all over Jaisalmer? It sounds super appealing, doesn’t it? It’s almost got that promise of riding into the sunset, feeling all Lawrence of Arabia-like, and then capping it all off with some cool tunes in the desert. But is it really all that it is cracked up to be? Is that what you’re wondering? Well, I went ahead and took the plunge, and this review will, maybe, help you figure out if it is the right adventure for you.

Setting the Scene: Pre-Safari Prep

So, the safari starts in the afternoon, that is, giving you some time to chill in Jaisalmer before heading out. Typically, that is how it happens. Most tours include a pickup from your hotel, very handy for that very reason. Be sure you’re clear on the pickup time, so that there’s no stressful waiting around. Also, it’s a good idea to bring along a bottle of water and some sunscreen – that sun can be rather intense, to be honest, even as it begins to set. Wearing light, comfortable clothing is also a pretty good call.

Now, just to set expectations right from the get-go, the “blissful” part really depends on a few factors, almost like any tour. The initial meeting point can sometimes feel a bit chaotic, particularly if you’re there during the busy season. Just keep a cool head, double-check you are with the right operator, and you’ll be fine. Often, there’s a short Jeep ride out to the starting point of the camel trail, a journey which, admittedly, can be as bumpy as all get out. I mention it because I had someone behind me lose a contact lense!

The Camel Ride: Bumps, Views, and Everything In-Between

The camel ride itself? It can be pretty fun, even though it may feel a bit awkward at first, arguably. You kind of waddle onto the camel, get settled, and then try your best not to grip too tightly as the thing gets up. Those camels, they’re real characters, each with, seemingly, its own personality. Some are pretty chill, others are… well, let’s just say they’re a bit more spirited. The guides usually pair you up based on how experienced you are (or aren’t) at riding, so too you should feel relatively safe, typically.

What I was not prepared for was just how incredible the desert is! Sure, it is that sand, as far as the eyes can see, yet the stillness is so great that there can be so many thoughts going through your mind, right? As you trot along, just take it all in: the seemingly endless expanse of sand dunes, the scrubby vegetation dotted around, and the clear, clear sky above. That feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, really experiencing that remote vastness, is pretty spectacular. However, fair warning: your bum might start feeling it after about 30-40 minutes. Camel riding isn’t, arguably, the most comfortable thing you’ll ever do, that is certain.

Sunset Spectacle: Worth the Hype?

Alright, so now comes the big moment: the sunset. This is what you’re paying for, what everyone raves about, you know? Luckily, it genuinely is beautiful. Very beautiful. The sun starts dipping towards the horizon, painting the dunes with this, seemingly, incredible mix of oranges, pinks, and purples. It’s a view you will remember, truly, so too be prepared for a moment of awe.

The guides usually stop the camels at a good vantage point, that is, letting everyone soak it all in and snap photos. Pro tip: put your phone away for a little bit and just actually watch it. The cameras really do not do the light any kind of justice, to be fair. This part of the safari definitely lives up to its promise; yet make the most of the tranquility, as it only lasts for a bit.

Musical Evening: Tunes Under the Stars

Once the sun is well and truly set, that is, the musical evening kicks off. Depending on the tour operator, the setup may vary, even if only slightly. Usually, there are some comfy cushions laid out on the sand, and a group of local musicians get ready to play. The music? It’s traditional Rajasthani folk, so it might include singing, drumming, and other instruments you’ve possibly never seen before.

The vibe can be actually pretty neat, a little magical, in some respects. You are sitting out in the desert under a starlit sky, listening to these awesome sounds, drinking chai, and relaxing with other travelers. The performers often tell stories through their songs, so it’s arguably a great way to get a feel for the local culture, that is right. Just keep in mind that the quality of the performance can vary. The thing to remember is that you are contributing to this local economy, after all, and you are probably getting much more out of it than they are. If, on the other hand, you’re thinking it will be Coachella, just know it may be better to manage your expectations.

It could be better. The musical portion feels very tourist-aimed, that’s it. If the guides just kept playing longer or there were some more options for that entertainment, it could elevate the whole tour a bit.

Food and Drink: What to Expect

So, food is, typically, included as part of the safari package. Do not expect, maybe, a gourmet experience, yet it’s generally decent and filling. The meal often consists of a basic thali, that includes things like dal, rice, roti, and some vegetable curry. You can be very sure that the dishes are very flavourful, which, again, is great!

The food is served buffet-style, that is, so that you can have seconds if you’re hungry. Most places provide bottled water, which is crucial for staying hydrated. Chai (tea) is usually available throughout the evening. Overall, the food situation is adequate – not outstanding, just perfectly sufficient for a desert experience. A suggestion: they can do s’mores or roasted marshmallows.

The Return Trip: Back to Reality

After the music and the dinner, that is, it’s time to head back to Jaisalmer. You will usually get piled back into jeeps for, likely, a bouncy ride back to your hotel. It’s worth keeping in mind that it can get really cold once the sun has gone down. Bringing along a light jacket or sweater is actually, arguably, a good idea.

Depending on the operator, you might get dropped off right at your hotel, very convenient! Or, you may need to make your own way from a central drop-off point. Be sure to check with your tour people to avoid, almost, any confusion.

Anyway, just that the roads back are usually incredibly unpaved… maybe grab something for any motion sickness ahead of time if it hits you easily! Then maybe you, too, can have a contact lense casualty.

Is it Worth the Hype? Final Verdict

So, back to the big question: Is the ‘Blissful Half Day Sunset Camel Safari with Musical Evening’ really worth the money and the time? Actually, I would say yes, for sure, with just a few things to keep in mind, basically. It’s almost like a cool experience, a one-off memory you are not very likely to forget.

The camel ride, although possibly not the most comfy thing ever, is pretty awesome, specifically the part where it just looks like desert as far as you can see! And the sunset? Very breathtaking. Very amazing. The musical evening? That can either make or break the evening for people, but if the goal is a look at the culture while having chai, it does the job! However, if that bit can get expanded with the money put in, then it could be quite awesome, I believe. To summarise, the experience will leave you fulfilled and smiling when it is all done and dusted!