Deserts are some of the most mesmerizing and mysterious natural attractions in the world, and as night falls, they reveal an even more stunning beauty that captivates all who behold them. In Iran, you can find these natural wonders in several provinces. If you're interested in seeing sand dunes, join us as we explore the deserts of Iran.
Iran, due to its unique geographical location, is known as the land of four seasons. In some months of the year, temperatures ranging from -20°C to +20°C can be recorded across the country. This diverse climate has made Iran a year-round tourist destination. A large portion of the country’s area is covered by some of the most beautiful deserts in Iran, including the Dasht-e Kavir and the Lut Desert in the central and southeastern regions. The best deserts of Iran are located within these vast deserts.
Iran's deserts are popular destinations among both domestic and international tourists. The best time to visit Iran's deserts is during the second half of the year, in the fall and winter. To learn more about the best deserts of Iran, stay with us.
Rig-e Jenn Desert, the Bermuda Triangle of Iran's Deserts
We begin with one of the most exciting yet dangerous deserts in Iran, located between Isfahan and Semnan. Known as the Bermuda Triangle of Iran, the locals believe it to be a place where living creatures are buried. Those who have spent the night in Rig-e Jenn talk about the eerie atmosphere of its nights, the strange sounds that echo through the region, and how even animals dare not approach it. Due to its treacherous marshlands, Rig-e Jenn is considered a very dangerous place, and visiting it without complete knowledge is not recommended. However, if you possess the right skills and knowledge, a trip to Rig-e Jenn offers the highest level of excitement.
Karakal Desert, the Territory of the Persian Cat
One of the most beautiful deserts in Iran, Karakal Desert is located in the central Dasht-e Kavir region. It is near the village of Sadeghabad in the city of Bafq, Yazd province. The Karakal Desert reaches a height of 50 meters and spans over 1,500 hectares. It is named after the Karakal, a wild cat native to this pristine region. The desert has very limited vegetation, mostly consisting of sand-dwelling plants with weak roots, while tamarisk bushes can be seen at the edges of the desert. The area is surrounded by beautiful palm groves. The sand in Karakal Desert is very soft and suitable for walking and is also popular for off-roading and motorcycling.
Maser Desert, the Most Famous Desert in Iran
Maser Desert, one of the most famous deserts in Iran, is located 55 kilometers from Khur county, near a village of the same name. The desert is known for its magnificent sand dunes and at night, the sparkling stars of the dark desert sky decorate the horizon. Sitting around a fire in this vast sea of sand and witnessing the beauty of Maser Desert is an unforgettable experience for every traveler. Additionally, the largest seasonal salt lake in Iran, Saltkhur Lake, is located in the Maser Desert. The mesmerizing view of this lake draws many tourists as the shallow surface of the lake reflects the desert sky, creating a breathtaking landscape. Furthermore, Saltkhur Lake is one of the largest sources of potassium extraction in the world.
Zardgah Desert
Located in South Khorasan province, Zardgah Desert is known as the greenest desert in Iran. It is situated near the city of Tabas, next to Mount Nayband. The desert’s name comes from the village of Zardgah, the last settlement near the desert. The vast, golden landscape of Zardgah Desert offers the most stunning view from Mount Nayband. Visitors can enjoy desert activities such as safari, camel riding, and quad biking. Walking across the sandy dunes in Zardgah Desert requires less energy compared to other deserts. Like the Matinabad Desert, Zardgah is a great destination for those with less experience in desert tourism.
Shahdad Desert in Kerman, the Hottest Place on Earth
Shahdad Desert, also known as the Kaluts of Shahdad, is part of the Lut Desert. The Lut Desert’s unique position has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Over the past two decades, the Kaluts of Shahdad have experienced the highest temperatures ever recorded on Earth (70°C), making the name Shahdad famous worldwide. The Kaluts are natural formations within the desert, with their highest points being flat. Over time, due to desert winds, their slopes have increased. These Kaluts are remnants of ancient lakebeds and are rare worldwide, making them a popular attraction for visitors. The discovery of a civilization dating back 6,000 years has further enhanced the region’s value and importance. The uniqueness of Shahdad’s Kaluts has attracted travelers from all over the world, and facilities have been developed in the area to serve visitors.
Lut Desert, Iran’s First Natural UNESCO World Heritage Site
Lut Desert, Iran's first natural UNESCO World Heritage site, covers 10% of Iran's territory and is one of the driest and hottest regions in the world. It was officially registered in 2016. Around 70% of the Lut Desert is located in Kerman province, and much of this mysterious desert remains unexplored. The desert is 900 kilometers long and 300 kilometers wide. Historically, the Lut Desert was once a sea known as the Tis Sea, which gradually dried up and became a desert, leaving behind its salts and minerals. The desert is divided into three sections: northern, central, and southern, with the central area being the largest. In 2005, Lut Desert set the record for the highest temperature on Earth at 70°C, becoming one of Iran's top tourist destinations.
Varzaneh Desert, the Largest Desert Recreation Area in Iran
The city of Isfahan, located in central Iran, is close to the Dasht-e Kavir. Several of Iran's most suitable deserts for tourism and camping are located in this province. The closest and most famous desert to Isfahan is Varzaneh Desert. The sand dunes in Varzaneh are formed in various shapes such as crescent, longitudinal, and pyramidal, with some dunes reaching heights of up to 100 meters. The desert is also known as Kharah Desert, named after the vast Kharah desert. Varzaneh Desert is home to various plant and animal species, including tamarisk bushes, foxes, and wildcats. The Gavekhouni Wetland, located near the desert, is also a notable attraction.
Maranjab Desert, One of the Most Beautiful Deserts in Iran
Maranjab Desert, located in the northern part of Aran and Bidgol in Isfahan province, is known for its rich plant and animal life. The name Maranjab comes from a historic caravanserai and qanat built during the Safavid era. Maranjab Desert is one of the top destinations for desert tourism and is visited by both beginners and experienced desert adventurers. Walking through the high sand dunes surrounded by tamarisk forests and salt lakes is one of the main attractions of this desert.
Helwan Desert, One of the Most Pristine Deserts in South Khorasan
Helwan Desert, one of the most pristine deserts in Iran, is located in South Khorasan province. It covers 750 square kilometers and is located 80 kilometers from Tabas. Helwan Desert is bordered by the Central Desert of Iran and is known for its 80-meter-high sand dunes. The desert is easily accessible due to its proximity to industrial areas and has various plant species, including tamarisk, wild almond, and sagebrush. The region is also home to numerous animals such as foxes, wildcats, and golden eagles.
Riggan Desert
Riggan Desert, located in southeastern Kerman, is one of Iran’s lesser-known and most pristine deserts. The desert is distinguished by its bright sands, which set it apart from other deserts in the country. The locals believe that the Riggan Desert has therapeutic properties, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking its healing benefits. The desert offers a variety of activities such as off-roading, motorbiking, paragliding, and sand skiing. The lush acacia forests at the desert’s edge provide a habitat for various desert wildlife, including the spiny-tailed lizard, foxes, and wildcats.
