Desert Dune Lions

Western India holds an extraordinary concentration of contrasting wilderness landscapes. Across Gujarat and Rajasthan, teak and acacia forests give way to open grasslands, immense salt flats, granite formations and the arid expanses of the Thar. This 16-day journey follows changing terrain in search of some of India's most remarkable wildlife, from the Asiatic lion of Gir to the leopard of Jawai, with the rare wildlife of Velavadar, the Rann of Kutch and Desert National Park adding further dimensions to the expedition.

Gir sets the journey in motion. Within its rugged forests, the world's last wild population of Asiatic lions moves through a landscape shaped by seasonal streams, thorn scrub and woodland. The open grasslands of Velavadar offer a striking contrast, with blackbuck, Indian wolves and birds of prey occupying a terrain defined by light, distance and movement.

The Rann of Kutch brings a different kind of wilderness: an immense salt landscape where the horizon seems to dissolve into the sky. Here, the Asiatic wild ass and other desert-adapted species inhabit an environment of remarkable scale. In Jawai, granite hills and boulder-strewn slopes create natural strongholds for leopards, alongside villages and pastoral communities whose lives are closely intertwined with the landscape.

Highlights

• Explore five wildlife habitats across Gujarat and Rajasthan in 16 days.
• Look for Asiatic lions in Gir, blackbuck in Velavadar, wild ass in the Rann, leopards in Jawai and desert wildlife near Jaisalmer.
• Accommodation, outings and transfers are specified in your personalised quotation.

Who it suits

Wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and discerning travellers drawn to India's large predators, lesser-known wilderness areas and the cultural landscapes that surround them. Particularly suited to those seeking variety across several habitats rather than an itinerary centred on a single reserve.

Travel style

Private, bespoke group size

Physical demands

Gentle to moderate, with early starts, extended safari drives and exploration across varied terrain.

Pace & access

Unhurried, with the final rhythm shaped around field conditions and guest comfort.

The route begins in Mumbai and continues through Gujarat into western Rajasthan, ending at Jaisalmer. Transfers can be coordinated around the journey's pace and lodge locations. Optional business jet travel may be arranged, subject to availability and operational feasibility.

The journey offers opportunities to seek Asiatic Lions, Leopards, Blackbuck, Indian Wolves, Asiatic Wild Ass, Desert Cats, Hyenas, foxes and a rich diversity of birdlife. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed; the experience is shaped by habitat, season, animal behaviour and time spent in the field.

Photography

A varied photographic journey spanning forest, grassland, salt desert, granite hills and arid wilderness. Open landscapes offer opportunities to work with distance, scale and light, while Jawai's dramatic geology creates a distinctive setting for leopard photography. Safari schedules and field time can be tailored to photographic interests.

Share your arrival airport, travel dates and any mobility requirements so we can plan the connections around you.

A handpicked selection of quality wildlife lodges and retreats, chosen for their setting, comfort, hospitality and access to the landscapes explored. The precise accommodation plan will depend on availability and the preferred level of comfort. Named stays and room categories are confirmed with your proposal.

We can tailor the route, duration and pace around your interests.

Your proposal is subject to accommodation availability, permits and travel schedules. Confirm the deposit, balance due date, cancellation conditions and any non-refundable costs before payment.