Deserts are among the most spectacular and mysterious natural attractions in the world, attractions that become even more impressive at night when thousands of stars appear in the sky, showcasing their beauty to the fullest. Given the vast desert landscape of Iran, two of the world’s most amazing deserts, called Dasht-e Kavir (Great Salt Desert) and Lut Desert, are located there. However, deserts of Iran are not limited to these two; these natural attractions can be found in several different provinces. If you are interested in seeing sand dunes, salt lakes, and yardangs (kaluts), join Eligasht as we get to know the deserts of Iran.
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Introducing the Best Deserts of Iran
Many domestic and foreign tourists are fans of the Iranian deserts. The best time to travel to the heart of the desert is the second half of the year, during the fall and winter seasons. You may be wondering in which provinces the best deserts of Iran are located. South Khorasan, Isfahan, Kerman, Yazd, and Semnan provinces have the best deserts in Iran, which have become a destination for many desert tourism enthusiasts. Each of the Iranian deserts has its unique beauty and charm. You can walk among the dunes and sands of the desert and fully enjoy the beauty. We at Eligasht intend to introduce the best deserts of Iran, so you can gain a good understanding of the various deserts in this country. When you know the geographical location of the deserts and the access routes to them, you can experience a more informed and enjoyable trip.
Mesr Desert, one of the most famous deserts in Iran
Mesr Desert is one of the most famous deserts of Iran, located 55 kilometers from Khor city and next to a village with the same name. This beautiful desert is also known by other names such as Kalateh Youst, Mazraeh Yousef, or Chah Deraz. In this desert, the rolling sand hills are shown in their most beautiful form, and at night, the twinkling stars adorn the black desert sky. Sitting around the fire in this sea of sand and watching the beauties of Mesr Desert will definitely be a memorable experience for every tourist.
Some of the activities in this spectacular desert include camel riding with locals, using ATVs in the heart of the desert, exciting off-road vehicle rides, and sandboarding. Also, Iran’s largest seasonal salt lake, called Khor Salt Lake, is located in Mesr Desert. The spectacular view of this lake attracts many tourists to this region as the shallow surface water of the lake reflects the desert sky, creating an infinitely beautiful view. In addition, Khor Salt Lake is one of the largest sources of potash extraction in the world.
The best time to travel to Mesr Desert is during the cold seasons, from November to May. In autumn and winter, the temperature in this area is spring-like and mild during the day, but the weather gets cold at night, and you should definitely bring warm clothes. Also, in these seasons, animals such as scorpions, snakes, and rutile will not bother you.
Mesr Desert Address: Isfahan Province, Khor and Biabanak County, Jandagh District, Mesr Village
Maranjab Desert, One of Iran’s Most Beautiful Deserts
Maranjab Desert is one of the most beautiful deserts of Iran and Isfahan province, located only three hours from Tehran. This desert is situated in the north of Aran va Bidgol city, a subdivision of Kashan, and is bordered by the Masileh Salt Lake to the north, the Ab Shirin Desert and Masileh Desert to the west, the National Desert Park and Posht-e Rig Desert to the east, and the Band-e Rig Desert to the south.
The desert’s name comes from a historical Qanat (underground water channel) and Caravanserai dating back to the Safavid era, located in the same area. With its pristine and beautiful nature, Maranjab Desert is one of Iran’s main desert tourism hubs, attracting large and small groups in different seasons of the year. High sand dunes, desert trees called “Taagh,” and the Salt Lake are among the most spectacular sights in Maranjab Desert. The best time to visit Maranjab Desert is in the second half of the year.
Address of Maranjab Desert: Isfahan Province, Kashan City, Aran va Bidgol, Artesh Boulevard, Maranjab Road, Maranjab Desert.
Lut Desert, Iran’s First Natural Site Registered in UNESCO
Lut Desert is Iran’s first natural site registered in UNESCO. This amazing attraction, which covers 10% of Iran and is known as one of the driest and hottest regions in the world, was registered as a World Heritage Site in 2016. Approximately 70% of the Lut Desert is located in Kerman province, and parts of this mysterious desert are still unknown.
The word “Lut” in Balochi means naked, thirsty, empty of everything, and without water and vegetation. However, Lut Desert is not empty of everything and contains many wonders. This clay-like land, like other Iranian deserts, was formed in the Tertiary period of geology and was actually an ancient lake. After the water evaporated in the past, only salt and salt marshes remain today. These salts prevent any plant growth in the area.
The Lut Desert is geographically divided into three parts: Northern Lut, Central Lut, and Southern Lut. Northern Lut is located in South Khorasan and near Birjand, and its various points range from 500 to 1000 meters in altitude. The lower part of Northern Lut is full of irregular cuts, sedimentary and volcanic hills, and high mountains.
Central Lut, or Challeh, with its rectangular shape, is 162 kilometers long and 52 kilometers wide. This section has a different appearance and includes huge and interconnected masses of sand and gypsum and salt deserts. Southern Lut, with its historical monuments and very little vegetation, is located in Kerman province and northern Sistan and Baluchestan. In general, the attractions of the Lut Desert include the Dasht-e Sar or Hamada (stony desert plains), spectacular Kaluts (yardangs), sand dunes, the Roteil Gorge, the Lut Desert Lake, and the starry night sky.
Address of Lut Desert: Iran, between the provinces of South Khorasan, Sistan and Baluchestan, and Kerman.
Shahdad Desert, One of the Most Spectacular Deserts of Iran and the World
Shahdad Desert is one of the most spectacular deserts of Iran and the world, with an area of 11 kilometers, located west of the Lut Desert and 40 kilometers from the city of Shahdad. The natural Kaluts of this desert, which have been created by humidity and wind, are very spectacular. The height of some of these Kaluts or huge structures reaches 138 meters. Other attractions of Shahdad Desert include the permanent Shoor River which originates from the mountains north of Birjand, a newly emerged incredibly beautiful lake, egg-shaped boiling salt marshes, and the natural phenomenon of Nebka (vegetated sand dunes). In addition to seeing the natural attractions, tourists in this beautiful desert can also enjoy activities such as safari, off-roading, camel riding, motorcycling, hiking, and photography.
The hallmark of the Shahdad Desert is its otherworldly terrain, dominated by impressive yardangs. These sculpted landforms, carved by relentless wind erosion over millennia, rise dramatically from the sandy plains like ancient, weathered sentinels. These natural sculptures take on fantastical shapes, resembling castles, towers, and even figures from mythology, fueling the imagination and earning Shahdad the moniker of a “city of spirits.”
The colors of the yardangs shift dramatically throughout the day, from the soft hues of dawn to the fiery oranges and reds of sunset. As the light plays across their textured surfaces, the landscape transforms into a mesmerizing spectacle, offering endless opportunities for photography and contemplation.
Beyond its stunning natural beauty, Shahdad holds a rich history. Archaeological evidence suggests that this area was inhabited as early as the 5th millennium BC. The presence of ancient burial grounds and settlements points to a thriving civilization that adapted to the challenging desert environment. Exploration of the region has unearthed numerous artifacts, including pottery, metal tools, and jewelry, providing valuable insights into the lives and culture of these early inhabitants.
Address of Shahdad Desert: Iran, Kerman Province, Old Kerman Bam Road, Sirch Road, Shahdad Road.
Rig-e Jenn Desert, a Mysterious Desert
The Rig-e Jenn Desert is a mysterious desert located in the southwest and west of the Dasht-e Kavir (Great Salt Desert) and on the border region of Isfahan and Semnan provinces. With an area of 3,800 square kilometers, it is known as the third largest sand dune area in Iran. With its pyramidal sand hills, barchan dunes, sediments, and salt marshes, Rig-e Jenn is one of the most beautiful deserts of Iran, attracting many domestic and foreign tourists every year to visit this scary and amazing place.
For centuries, Rig-e Jin has been shrouded in mystery and fear. Local legends speak of malevolent spirits, supernatural forces, and a land that swallows those who dare to trespass. These tales, passed down through generations, have contributed to its reputation as one of the most dangerous and forbidding places in Iran. What truly sets Rig-e Jen apart is its unusual auditory phenomenon. Visitors have reported hearing a variety of strange noises emanating from the dunes, ranging from low rumbles and groans to high-pitched whistles and even what sounds like human voices. These unsettling sounds have fuelled the local superstitions and contributed to the belief that the desert is haunted.
While the legends persist, science offers some explanations for the enigmatic sounds. It is believed that the noises are caused by the movement of sand grains on the dunes. As the wind pushes the sand across the surface, the grains rub against each other, creating vibrations that resonate within the dunes themselves. The size, shape, and composition of the sand grains can all influence the type of sound produced, leading to the variety of noises heard in Rig-e Jen. This phenomenon, known as “singing sand” or “booming sand,” is not unique to Rig-e Jen but is particularly prominent there due to the specific characteristics of its dunes.
Interestingly, most old maps don’t even show the name of this desert, and today the quicksand bogs of Rig-e Jenn can lead those unfamiliar with the area to their death. Therefore, if you plan to visit this desert, be sure to go in a group with professional teams and bring enough equipment. The second half of the year, especially the autumn season, is the best time to travel to the Rig-e Jenn Desert.
Address of Rig-e Jenn Desert: Iran, Semnan Province, Garmsar City, Kavir National Park, Rig-e Jenn Desert
Varzaneh Desert, the Largest Desert Recreation Site Among Iranian Deserts
The Varzaneh Desert is the largest desert recreation site among deserts of Iran. This desert is located in the east of Isfahan province and is about 530 kilometers from Tehran. Varzaneh Desert is bordered by Varzaneh and Zayandehrud River to the north, Hassanabad to the south, Gavkhouni wetland to the east, and Varzaneh to Hassanabad Road to the west. Recently, sections such as zip lines, single-person four-wheelers, camel riding, safaris, sherbet houses, restaurants, paragliding, and camping have been launched in this area, and these activities have attracted many tourists to the Varzaneh Desert.
The Varzaneh Desert is characterized by its expansive stretches of pristine white sand dunes, some reaching impressive heights. Unlike the brown or red sands often associated with deserts, Varzaneh’s dunes owe their pale color to the high concentration of quartz minerals. This contributes to a breathtaking visual spectacle, especially under the bright Iranian sun.
Due to the different winds in this desert, the sand dunes are formed in longitudinal, pyramidal, and crescent shapes. Some of these spectacular hills are 100 meters high. Also, the length of the sand dunes in this area is 45 kilometers and their width varies from 10 to 1 kilometer. Like other deserts in Iran, autumn is the best time to travel to Varzaneh Desert.
Located at the southeastern end of the desert, the Gavkhooni wetland offers a different perspective on the desert ecosystem. While facing challenges due to water scarcity, the wetland still attracts migratory birds and provides a habitat for unique flora and fauna.
Address of Varzaneh Desert: Isfahan Province, 100 km east of Isfahan, 150 km west of Yazd
Caracal Desert of Yazd, Habitat of One of the Most Attractive Felines of Iran
The Caracal Desert, often overlooked by tourists focused on Yazd’s historical sites, provides a unique opportunity to experience the raw beauty of the Iranian desert. Unlike the vast, sprawling deserts of central Iran, the Caracal offers a more intimate experience, easily accessible for a day trip or overnight adventure. The Caracal Desert of Yazd is the habitat of one of the most attractive felines of Iran called “Caracal.” This small and fast feline lives in Africa in addition to Iran. To visit the Caracal Desert, you must go to the city of Yazd and Sadeghabad village.
The activities and attractions of this beautiful desert include walking on the sand, camel riding, motorcycling on the sand dunes, tumbling from the top of the hills, safaris, and watching the starry desert sky. If you are interested in spending the night in the Caracal Desert of Yazd, you can stay in the traditional residences of this desert or spend the night in a tent with professional groups.
While the Caracal Desert itself is the main attraction, consider exploring nearby attractions such as the abandoned village of Kharanagh, known for its mud-brick architecture and ancient citadel. This historical gem provides a fascinating insight into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Address of Caracal Desert of Yazd: Yazd, Bafgh City, Sadeghabad Village
Zardgah Desert and Nayband Desert
Located in the southern region of Khorasan-e Razavi province, the Zardgah Desert, aptly named for its “golden place,” is characterized by its towering sand dunes, sculpted by relentless winds over centuries. The sheer scale of these dunes is awe-inspiring, creating a landscape that feels both alien and profoundly beautiful. Nowadays, some of the old houses in the terraced village of Zardgah, perched on the slopes of Nayband Mountain, have been turned into places to stay. From here, you can take in the stunning views of the Zardgah Desert and admire its beauty, which lies right next to the Nayband Protected Area.
Adjacent to Zardgah is the Nayband desert and village. Both villages benefit from shared springs and qanats (underground water channels), which bring life and greenery to the area. Nayband is also a terraced village and is often referred to as the Masouleh of Iran’s deserts. Its remarkable architecture, the nearby caves and mountains, and the palm grove in Nayband are some of its most impressive highlights. This unexpected oasis is fed by underground springs that support a variety of plant life, from hardy shrubs and grasses to towering palm trees, creating a vibrant green patch in the otherwise barren landscape.
The refuge is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Asiatic cheetah, a critically endangered species. While sightings are rare, the opportunity to contribute to their conservation efforts is a compelling reason to visit. Other animals that roam the Nayband Desert include wild goats, gazelles, foxes, and various bird species.
Exploring Nayband requires respect for its fragile ecosystem. Guided tours are recommended to ensure responsible travel and to learn about the conservation efforts being undertaken to protect this unique corner of the Iranian desert.
Zardgah offers a range of activities for those seeking adventure. Dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle is a popular thrill, while sandboarding down the steep slopes provides an exhilarating experience. For a more tranquil immersion, camel trekking allows you to explore the desert at a leisurely pace, connecting with the traditional mode of transport in this arid region. Stargazing in Zardgah is an unforgettable experience. Far from the light pollution of urban areas, the night sky explodes with countless stars, constellations, and the Milky Way, a celestial tapestry woven across the darkness.
Address: Kavir Rural District, Deyhuk District, Tabas County, South Khorasan Province.
Halvan Desert, One of Iran’s Most Pristine Deserts in South Khorasan
Halvan Desert, one of the most untouched deserts of Iran, is located in South Khorasan and was registered as a national heritage site in 2018. This desert spans 750 square kilometers near the historical village of the same name, 80 kilometers from the city of Tabas. Halvan Desert is bordered by the Central Desert and the Pir-Hajat Mountains to the north, the Khor-Tabas road to the south, the Asheghan Mountains to the east, and the salt lake of the Central Desert to the west. The highest sand dunes in this desert, reaching 80 meters in height, are among the most spectacular attractions of the region.
Due to the desert’s location in an industrial area, access is very convenient. Upon arrival, you’ll encounter a triangular sand dune that beautifully showcases itself. Recreational activities in the Halvan Desert include camel riding, sand bathing, walking on the sand dunes, off-roading, desert trekking, stargazing, and photography.
Halvan Desert Address: South Khorasan Province, Tabas, Halvan Village
Tips when visiting Deserts of Iran
- Travel with a Guide or Tour Operator: This is highly recommended, especially if you’re not experienced with desert environments. They’ll know the terrain, have reliable transportation, have experience dealing with emergencies, and can provide valuable insights into the local culture. Look for reputable tour operators with good reviews.
- Check the Weather Forecast: Deserts can experience extreme temperature fluctuations. Look at the long-term forecast before booking and double-check it closer to the trip date. Sandstorms are also a possibility.
- Water bottles: Carry plenty of water (at least 4 liters per day, more if you’re active). Dehydration can be very dangerous in the desert.
- Choose light clothing for this trip, and be sure to bring warm clothes for the evenings and nights.
- It’s best to have a map or GPS with you if you are not traveling with a tour.
- Bring a scarf or headscarf with you to use if you encounter a sandstorm.
Final words
In this article, we introduced the most famous deserts of Iran. As mentioned, these deserts are among the most pristine areas in the world and contain many natural attractions. Since parts of the Iranian deserts remain unexplored, and traveling to these areas alone without equipment involves significant risks, we recommend traveling to desert areas in groups and with professionals.
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FAQ
What are the main deserts located in Iran?
The two major deserts of Iran are the Dasht-e Kavir (also known as the Kavir-e Namak or Great Salt Desert) and the Dasht-e Lut (Lut Desert). There are also smaller desert regions like the Maranjab Desert, Rigestan Desert, and parts of the Sistan Basin.
Are Iranian deserts similar to deserts in other parts of the world?
While sharing common characteristics like low precipitation and extreme temperatures, Iranian deserts have unique features. The Lut Desert, for example, contains some of the hottest land surface temperatures recorded on Earth. The Kavir Desert is known for its vast salt flats.
What are “yardangs” and where can I see them in the Lut Desert?
Yardangs are elongated, streamlined ridges formed by wind erosion in arid environments. In the Lut Desert, you can find some of the most spectacular and extensive yardang fields in the world, sometimes referred to as the “City of Kaluts.”
Why is the Rig-e Jenn Desert named so?
Inaccessibility to parts of this desert – lack of water resources – salt marshes and impassable sand dunes – excessive desert heat – the sound of the wind – and the terrifying sound of rocks collapsing have all led the locals to believe that genies exist there.
Which desert is closest to Tehran province?
Rig-e Jenn Desert in Semnan
Which desert has the largest seasonal salt lake in Iran?
Mesr Desert in Isfahan