Iran’s deserts are enigmatic realms of life, history, and unparalleled beauty. From the mesmerizing Dasht-e Lut to the appealing landscapes of Dasht-e Kavir, the deserts of Iran offer a breathtaking journey into nature’s most alluring wonders. As we embark on uncovering the top desert destinations in Iran, prepare yourself to be spellbound by the mystique that these landscapes have to offer. Join us as we delve into the tapestry of culture and history that defines Iran’s deserts. Pack your bags and set forth on a journey of discovery through the top desert destinations of Iran.
Table of Contents
Top Deserts in Iran
- Dasht-e Kavir (Iran Central Desert)
- Lut Desert (Kerman and Sistan-Baluchestan)
- Maranjab Desert (Kashan)
- Abuzeid Abad Desert (Kashan)
- Varzaneh Desert (Isfahan)
- Mesr Desert (Isfahan)
- Halvan Desert (South Khorasan)
- Shahdad Kalout Desert (Kerman)
- Caracal Desert (Yazd)
- Haj Aligholi Desert (Semnan)
- Darak Desert (Sistan-Baluchestan)
What are the two main deserts in Iran?
Dasht-e Kavir or the Great Salt Desert of Iran besides Dasht-e Lut or the Lut Desert are the two main deserts in Iran. Kavir desert is located in the center of Iran’s plateau while the southeast of Iran hosts the Lut desert. Generally, these are the two main deserts of Iran and the home to the renowned desert areas that allow travelers to enjoy the stunning and unspoiled ambiance of them. All of the desert areas of Iran are situated in these two main deserts in different parts of this land with distinctive names retrieved from the local customs and folklore.
Dasht-e Lut, The Hottest Spot on The Earth
The vast salt desert of Lut or Dasht-e Lut is located in southeastern Iran and is renowned for its extreme ground surface temperature which makes it the hottest spot on the planet besides the Death Valley near the border of California and Nevada in the US. Further, Dasht-e Lut is incribed as a natural UNESCO World Heritage Site of Iran in 2016. If you are planning a trip to the top desert destinations in Iran, Dasht-e Lut promises an enduring journey into the heart of Iran’s desert wilderness.
Gandom Beryan – The Hottest Spot on the Earth in Dasht-e Lut
Dasht-e Kavir, The Grand Salt Desert of Iran
Kavir Desert also known as the Great Salt Desert of Iran stretches across this land including the provinces of Kerman, Yazd, Isfahan, and Semnan. Dasht-e Kavir attracts thousands of nature enthusiasts annually who want to camp under the starry desert sky and enjoy an amazing safari. Travelers can also explore the caravanserais located in different parts of the desert to experience the unique ambiance of an ancient monument.
Maranjab Desert Iran
Maranjab Desert, also known as one of the top desert destinations of Iran due to its geographic location, is located in Kashan urban in Isfahan province. The best season to visit this spectacular desert area is winter from late December to mid-March. The famous caravanserai of Maranjab offers suitable accommodation in the middle of the desert if you want to spend a night in this stargazing spot. Maranjab desert weather is mostly pleasant during late autumn and winter which lets you explore this pristine desert. Here is the Maranjab desert map which will help you to find the best route to this area easily.
Abuzeid Abad Desert in Kashan
Abuzeid Abad village is located approximately 30 kilometers east of Kashan in Isfahan province. Abuzeid Abad desert is a part of the Great Band-e Rig desert area in the neighborhood of the Maranjab desert. There are innumerable eco-lodges and camping sites in Abuzeid Abad village and desert urban areas which allow you to experience an unforgettable night. In addition, the Abuzeid Abad Caravanserai which dates back to the Safavid era lets you explore ancient Persian history. You can enjoy a camel ride, safari, and trekking on dunes in Abuzeid Abad desert.
Photography Opportunity in Abuzeid Abad DesertVarzaneh Desert in Isfahan
Varzaneh desert is located 105 kilometers southeast of Isfahan and is one of the best eco-tourism destinations for travelers who visit Isfahan heritage sites. You will have the opportunity of breathtaking sandboarding on the dunes of the Varzaneh desert while you enjoy the ravishing landscapes. Enjoy the beauty of the sunrise and sunset and take some amazing photos while you are walking on the dried salt lake of Varzaneh. You can get to this starry desert by the map below.
Mesr Desert in Iran
The Mesr village is located in the city of Jandagh in Isfahan province. There is a story among the local people of Jandagh that Joseph the Prophet dug a well in this area and honor of him, this village is called Mesr (meaning Egypt in Farsi). The village is located in Dasht-e Kavir, 45 kilometers east of Jandagh and 60 kilometers north of Khor. You can stay in traditional guest houses in Jandagh or Khor to enjoy the sunset and sunrise in the Mesr desert. Further, you can sit around a fire and enjoy a cup of tea while you gather together with friends. Here is the Mesr desert map which helps you to find the best route to this stunning area.
Halvan Desert in South Khorasan
Halvan village is located in Tabas in south Khorasan province in Iran. The desert of Tabas or the Halvan desert leads the central desert of Iran from the north and west. There is a famous sandstone in this area that dates back to a thousand years ago. Also, there is an ancient castle located in this desert which lets you take some spectacular photos. Due to the variety of bird species in this area, many travelers who are interested in bird watching visit the Halvan Desert annually. You can either stay in a local residence in Halvan Village or set up a tent in the desert if you are a nature lover.
Shahdad Kalout Desert
The Shahdad desert including the Kalouts is located in Kerman Province in the southeast of Iran. Kalouts are one of the most surreal landscapes on Earth that are shaped by the relentless forces of wind and water. The height of some Kalouts reaches up to 60 meters from the bottom. These natural wonders, also known as yardangs, are towering sandstone formations sculpted by centuries of wind and erosion. The journey to the Shahdad desert is accessible by road so you can get there by your vehicle. You can rent a car in Kerman to get to the Kalouts and enjoy each moment of your trip.
Caracal Desert in Yazd
Caracal desert or Bafq desert is located in Bafq urban in Yazd province which is the habitat of the wild cat named Caracal or Persian lynx. Bafq desert is just 20 minutes away from Bafq city center and is situated 10 kilometers to the southeast. You can enjoy a camel ride, safari, motorcycle ride, and sandboarding in the Caracal desert. You will be surprised by the water basins in this amazing desert. We recommend you camp in this pristine desert to take the best photos of your lifetime during the sunset and sunrise.
Haj Aligholi Desert in Semnan
Haj Aligholi Desert and Salt Lake are the top desert destinations in Iran where you can find the wildlife of camels and lizards. Haj Aligholi is located south-east of Damghan in Semnan province. The river of Damghan flows to the Haj Aligholi Salt Lake in rainy seasons and creates a dreamy landscape. In comparison with other deserts in Iran, the Haj Aligholi desert is less known and that’s the reason why it is more untouched. Finding accommodation and entertainment like a safari is kind of hard in this desert area without booking in advance.
Darak Desert in Chabahar
Darak Desert is located in Zar Abad village in Konarak city in the southeast of Sistan and Baluchestan province. The mind-boggling fact about Darak is that this less-known natural attraction of Iran is a mesmerizing confluence of sea and desert. Imagine wandering through the dunes of the Darak desert and suddenly you encounter a breathtaking landscape of the sea. The beauty of the road to the desert from Chabahar to Konarak will be another enduring memory for you from your trip to Iran.
Last Words
From the scorching sands of Dasht-e Kavir to the surreal salt flats of the Dasht-e Lut, each desert offers an awe-inspiring journey into the heart of the desert’s wilderness. The adventure, mystery, and beauty of the top desert destinations in Iran await those travelers who want to marvel at the landscapes of these stunning areas. In conclusion, the deserts of Iran are not just vast expanses of arid land; they are living testaments to the enduring power of nature and the resilience of life in the harshest of environments.
FAQ
These are the frequently asked questions on the top desert destinations in Iran.
What is the most famous desert in Iran?
The Dasht-e Kavir (Great Salt Desert) is one of the most well-known deserts in Iran.
Can tourists explore the Lut Desert?
Yes, the Lut Desert is open for tours and known for its extreme temperatures and stunning landscapes.
Are there eco-camps in Iranian deserts?
Yes, several eco-lodges and desert camps offer stays and guided tours in places like Mesr and Maranjab.
Is desert camping popular in Iran?
Yes, desert camping is a growing trend, especially among adventure travelers and photographers.
What’s the best season to visit Iranian deserts?
Autumn and early spring are ideal due to milder temperatures and better travel conditions.
How many deserts are there in Iran?
Iran is home to two major deserts: the Dasht-e Kavir (Great Salt Desert) and the Dasht-e Lut. Both are vast and cover significant areas of the country.
What is the largest desert in Iran?
The Dasht-e Kavir (Great Salt Desert) is the largest desert in Iran, covering a huge portion of the central plateau.
What is the most popular dessert in Iran?
One of the most popular desserts in Iran is Faloodeh, a traditional frozen dessert made with thin noodles, rosewater, and sugar syrup, often served with lime juice and crushed ice.
