Travel Guide Iranian deserts | What to do in Iranian deserts

Iranian deserts

In Iran you will find two great deserts,  the Dasht-e Kavir (salt) and the Dasht-e Lut (kalout) desert. In the Dasht-e Kavir desert you can sleep in small oasis villages like Mesr, Garmeh, Nayband and Esfahak near imposing sand dunes. The peace, the space, the silence is a wonderful experience for the adventurous traveler!

Kalut Desert (Dasht-e Kalut) is a vast and rugged desert located in the southeast of Iran and one of the hottest place son earth. It is known for its unique and stunning landscapes, including towering sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and deep canyons. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Kalut Desert:

  1. Shahdad Kalut: This is the most famous part of the Kalut Desert and is known for its stunning and otherworldly landscapes. The area is characterized by massive sand formations, wind-carved cliffs, and deep canyons. It's a popular spot for photography and hiking, and there are several tour companies that offer guided excursions.

  2. Kalut Villages: There are several small villages located around the Kalut Desert that offer a glimpse into traditional desert life. These villages are known for their unique architecture, traditional crafts, and hospitality. Some of the most popular villages to visit include Keshit, Farahzad, and Deh Salm.

  3. Camel Trekking: Camel trekking is a popular way to explore the Kalut Desert and experience traditional desert life. Many tour companies offer guided camel treks, which typically last for several days and include camping under the stars.

  4. Stargazing: The Kalut Desert is known for its clear and dark skies, making it an ideal spot for stargazing. There are several tour companies that offer guided stargazing tours, which include telescopes and expert guides.

  5. Hot Springs: There are several hot springs located around the Kalut Desert that offer a relaxing break from the desert heat. The most popular hot springs are located near the village of Mahan and are known for their therapeutic properties.

  6. Desert Wildlife: Despite the harsh conditions, Lut Desert is home to a variety of unique wildlife, including desert foxes, lizards, and birds. There are several wildlife reserves in the area, where visitors can learn about the desert ecosystem and observe some of its inhabitants.

  7. Desert Camping: Camping is a popular way to experience the desert and the stunning landscapes of Lut Desert. Many tour companies offer guided camping trips, which include tents, meals, and other amenities.

Kalut Desert is a unique and otherworldly destination that offers a range of experiences for adventurous travelers. Whether you're interested in hiking, camel trekking, or stargazing, there's something for everyone in this stunning desert landscape.

 

Kavir Desert, also known as Dasht-e Kavir, is a vast desert located in the center of Iran. It is known for its stark and otherworldly landscapes, which include salt flats, sand dunes, and barren plains. Here are some of the top things to see and do in Kavir Desert:

  1. Maranjab Caravanserai: The Maranjab Caravanserai is an ancient fortress located in the heart of Kavir Desert. It was built in the 16th century and served as a resting place for travelers and traders on the Silk Road. Today, the caravanserai is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape.

  2. Rig-e Jenn: Rig-e Jenn, also known as the "Sands of Satan," is a massive sand dune located in Kavir Desert. It is one of the largest sand dunes in the world, and its shifting sands are said to make strange and eerie sounds. It is a popular spot for sandboarding and dune bashing.

  3. Salt Flats: Kavir Desert is home to several salt flats, including the Kavir-e Namak and the Howz-e Soltan Salt Flat. These vast expanses of salt offer a stark and otherworldly landscape that is unlike anything else in the world.

  4. The sand dunes near Mesr, also known as Mesr Desert, are a stunning natural wonder located in the heart of Iran. The desert is characterized by its towering sand dunes, which are up to 80 meters high and stretch for miles in every direction. Sandboarding is a popular activity in the sand dunes near Mesr. Visitors can rent sandboards and try their hand at riding down the steep sand dunes. It's a thrilling experience that's sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
  5. Watching the sunrise and sunset over the sand dunes is a must-do activity in the area. The changing colors of the sky, combined with the towering sand dunes, create a stunning visual display that's truly unforgettable.