The Shahdad Desert in Kerman is one of the best deserts in Iran for desert lovers. The incredible wonders found within this desert attract many tourists each year to explore its scenic spots such as the Kaluts of Shahdad, its lake, and salt plains. Join us to get to know this beautiful desert better.
The Shahdad Desert, with temperatures exceeding 70°C, is known as one of the hottest places on Earth. Located in the western part of the Lut Desert, about 100 km from Kerman and 40 km from the city of Shahdad, it is one of the most attractive destinations for both domestic and international tourists. One of the most fascinating features of the Shahdad Desert is the Kaluts, natural formations that rise from the desert floor. The tops of these formations are flat, while the wind-facing sides are steep. These formations are typically the result of ancient lake sediments eroded into hill-like shapes. Some believe that the word "Kalut" is derived from “Kal” (meaning village) and “Lut” (referring to the Lut Plain).
The Kaluts of Shahdad are a unique natural phenomenon, with similar formations only found in Utah, USA. These stunning and mysterious structures attract large numbers of domestic and foreign tourists every year. Simply witnessing these Kaluts up close is reason enough for desert lovers to visit. Additionally, the Shahdad Desert offers a variety of recreational activities, especially in autumn, making for a memorable trip.
The Kaluts of Shahdad are estimated to be around 20,000 years old. Formed by water and wind erosion, they now span an area of 145 km in length and 70 km in width, covering 11,000 square kilometers of the Lut Desert. Aside from their visual beauty, another astonishing feature of the Shahdad Desert is that it holds the highest recorded temperature on Earth. It is officially recognized by UNESCO as part of the Lut Desert, listed as the hottest place on the planet, a title confirmed by both Iranian geographer Professor Parviz Kardavani and NASA, which recorded a surface temperature of 70.7°C in 2005.
The Kaluts are shaped primarily by water and wind. Every rainfall and windstorm subtly reshapes these formations. The 120-day winds from Sistan and Baluchestan Province are the main agents of erosion, carving the Kaluts over time. According to geologists, the Rood-e-Shur (Salty River) has had a major role in forming the Kaluts by providing moisture that helps maintain their shape. This is the only permanent river within the Lut Desert, originating in the mountains north of Birjand, and flows through the salt mountains of Serya, making its waters extremely salty.
Rood-e-Shur is a permanent river flowing through the Shahdad Desert. Starting in the mountains north of Birjand, it ends at the salt mine basin near Mount Serya, playing a key role in the formation of the Kaluts. Its salt concentration is so high that during certain seasons, the water appears milky white.
This young lake emerged after a flood in April 2019—an almost miraculous occurrence in the heart of such an arid region. The appearance of this lake has not only added stunning views but also altered the local climate. Many migratory birds have since flocked to the area, and new plant species have sprouted along its shores.
As the Rood-e-Shur flows through the desert, it significantly raises the salt content of the soil. In one part of Shahdad Desert, there is a 100,000-hectare salt plain with a unique egg-shaped pattern, unmatched anywhere else in the world.
Safari and Off-roading
Motorbiking
Desert hiking
Stargazing at night
Camping
Staying in wooden camps near the Kaluts
These are some of the thrilling experiences awaiting visitors in this stunning desert.
Due to its extreme heat, the best time to visit is from autumn to early spring. Summer travel is not recommended, and most tour organizers avoid scheduling tours during the hot season.
