Pricing & Philosophy

Fair value for authentic experiences

Why We Don't List Prices Publicly

If you've visited other tour websites, you've probably seen fixed package prices: "3 Days / 2 Nights - ₹5,000" or similar. We intentionally do not operate this way, and here's why:

Our Pricing Philosophy

1. Every Journey Is Unique
Two travelers booking a "3-night trip" may have completely different experiences. One might travel in winter when conditions are mild. Another might go in summer when heat is extreme and requires more water, earlier starts, and adjusted routes. One might want intensive camel riding. Another prefers walking. These differences affect costs.

2. We Value Quality Over Quantity
Cheap, fixed prices attract mass tourism and create a race to the bottom. When guides compete only on price, they cut corners—feeding travelers poorly, rushing through experiences, overworking animals. We refuse to participate in that system. Our pricing reflects the true value of what we offer.

3. Transparent, Personal Discussion
When you contact us, we discuss your expectations, physical fitness, budget range, and what you want from this journey. Then we provide a fair quote based on actual costs: food, water, camel care, time, and Isak's expertise. This creates trust and ensures both sides understand what to expect.

4. Respecting Isak's Livelihood
This is not a corporate tour company. This is one man supporting his family through traditional work. Pricing fairly means he earns what he deserves—not what tourists think desert guides "should" cost.

What Affects the Price?

When you reach out for a quote, these are the factors we consider:

Duration

A 2-night trip costs less than a 10-night expedition. Longer journeys go deeper into the desert and require more supplies, planning, and time away from other work.

Season

October to March is peak tourist season with comfortable weather. April to September is off-season—hotter, harsher, but also more challenging and rewarding. Prices may vary.

Group Size

Solo travelers pay more per person because costs are not shared. Groups of 2-4 people benefit from shared camel transport and supplies. We do NOT take large groups.

Physical Requirements

Some travelers want to walk extensively. Others need more camel assistance. Some bring special dietary needs requiring different food preparation. These affect planning and cost.

Customization

Standard trips follow familiar routes. Custom requests—specific locations, photography-focused timing, extended silence retreats—require extra preparation and flexibility.

Last-Minute Bookings

We prefer advance planning to prepare properly. Last-minute requests (within 1 week) may incur additional costs due to rushed logistics, though we try to accommodate when possible.

A Note on "Cheap" Desert Tours

If you search online, you will find desert tours starting at ₹1,500-2,000 per person. These are not comparable to what we offer. Those tours take you to crowded camps with 50+ tourists, loud music, pre-cooked buffet food, and guides who work for companies, not themselves.

We do not compete with those experiences. If your priority is the lowest price, those tours may suit you better. If your priority is authenticity, respect, and genuine desert immersion, then our approach—though more expensive—delivers incomparable value.

What's Included in Your Journey

Isak as your personal guide
Camel transport and care
All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Drinking water throughout the trip
Bedding and blankets for sleeping
Campfire materials
Route planning and navigation
Emergency communication device
Pre-trip consultation and safety briefing
Flexible itinerary based on your needs

What's NOT Included

Transportation to/from Sam village
Accommodation before or after the desert trip
Personal gear (clothing, shoes, etc.)
Travel insurance
Tips/gratuities (optional but appreciated)
Any services not explicitly discussed

Typical Price Range

While every quote is customized, here is a general guideline to help you understand what to expect:

Solo Traveler: ₹3,500 - ₹6,000 per day
2-4 People: ₹2,500 - ₹4,500 per person per day

Example: A 3-night trip for 2 travelers might range from ₹15,000 to ₹27,000 total (₹7,500-13,500 per person), depending on season, customization, and specific needs.

Payment Terms

Deposit: We require a 30% advance payment to confirm your booking. This ensures commitment from both sides and allows Isak to block dates and begin preparations.

Balance: The remaining 70% can be paid in cash upon arrival in Sam, or via online transfer before the trip begins.

No Hidden Costs: The price we quote is final. There are no surprise charges, no "optional extras" that suddenly become mandatory. What we agree upon is what you pay.

Cancellation Policy: Life is unpredictable. If you must cancel, we discuss refunds based on timing and circumstances. We operate on trust, not rigid corporate policies.

Ready to Discuss Your Journey?

Every great journey begins with a conversation. Tell us what you're looking for, and we'll provide an honest, fair quote.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I negotiate the price?

We price fairly from the start. Our quotes reflect real costs and fair compensation. However, we're happy to discuss your budget and find a trip duration or style that works for both of us.

Do you offer discounts for long trips?

Longer trips naturally have better per-day value because supply costs spread over more days. We discuss this openly during pricing.

What about payment security?

We operate on trust. You can verify our legitimacy through email exchanges, video calls, and references from past travelers (available upon request). Once trust is established, payment is straightforward.

Is tipping expected?

Not expected, but deeply appreciated. If Isak's guidance and care exceed your expectations, a tip is a meaningful way to show gratitude. Many travelers tip 10-20% of the trip cost, but any amount given from the heart is valued.