Here’s a look at seven of the most stunning deserts in the world that redefine what “empty” really means.
Ask any person who has walked in a desert, and they’ll tell you that it is one of the most humbling human experiences. The endless stretches of sky overhead and the grainy sand beneath are a reminder of the triviality of existence, leaving visitors with a mix of feelings. From dazzling dunes and salt flats to surreal rock formations and starlit skies, deserts are nature’s most poetic paradoxes. Over the years, they have also become the hotspots for adventure sports like “Thar Bashing” and taking bumpy camel rides. Here’s a look at seven of the most stunning deserts in the world that redefine what “empty” really means.
1. Sahara Desert, Africa
The world’s largest hot desert stretches across 11 countries and is often described as an ocean of sand. Its golden dunes, some rising over 500 feet, glow like molten gold at sunrise. Beyond its cinematic beauty, the Sahara is home to nomadic tribes, ancient petroglyphs, and surreal oases that seem to appear like mirages. Interestingly, the desert expands by nearly half a mile every month due to climate change — a reminder that its vastness is still growing.
How to reach: Fly to Marrakech, Cairo, or Tunis, and book desert tours that offer dune bashing and overnight camping under the stars.
2. Atacama Desert, Chile
Known as the driest place on Earth, the Atacama surprises visitors with flamingo-filled salt lakes, pink sunsets, and crystal-clear night skies that attract astronomers from around the globe. Some parts of this desert haven’t seen rain in decades — NASA even tests its Mars rovers here because of its otherworldly terrain.
How to reach: Fly to Calama, then drive to San Pedro de Atacama — the gateway to this mesmerising desert.
3. Namib Desert, Namibia
The Namib, believed to be over 55 million years old, is one of the oldest deserts on Earth. Its iconic red dunes at Sossusvlei shift colours from gold to crimson through the day, making it a photographer’s dream. The orange hue of the sand actually deepens with age — the older the dune, the richer its colour — giving the desert a timeless beauty
How to reach: The nearest airport is Windhoek; from there, guided safaris take you into the heart of the Namib.
4. Wadi Rum, Jordan
Also known as the “Valley of the Moon,” Wadi Rum’s dramatic sandstone cliffs and wind-carved canyons have served as Mars in several Hollywood films. The desert is a masterpiece of nature’s sculpting — and it was once home to T.E. Lawrence, of Lawrence of Arabia fame. Today, it remains one of the most breathtaking backdrops for adventure seekers and stargazers alike.
How to reach: From Amman, take a 4-hour drive south or book a desert camp experience near Petra.
5. Gobi Desert, Mongolia & China
The Gobi may not have endless dunes, but its vast plains, mountain ranges, and fossil-rich cliffs are no less stunning. Once part of the ancient Silk Route, this desert tells tales of traders, dinosaurs, and shifting civilisations. It was here that fossilised dinosaur eggs were first discovered — a scientific treasure hidden within the sands.
How to reach: Fly to Ulaanbaatar and drive south through guided tours that include nomadic stays.
6. White Desert, Egypt
The White Desert is unlike anything you’ve seen — its chalky rock formations, shaped by centuries of wind erosion, rise like ghostly sculptures across a pale landscape. Under moonlight, these formations glow silver-white, creating an almost lunar ambience that’s both eerie and enchanting
How to reach: Take a 5-hour drive from Cairo to Farafra Oasis, then continue with a local guide.
7. Thar Desert, India & Pakistan
Vibrant and full of life, the Thar proves that deserts can dance with color. Camel fairs, folk music, and golden dunes define this Great Indian Desert, making it one of the most culturally rich arid regions in the world. It’s also the most densely populated desert — home to villages that thrive amid the sand
How to reach: The nearest city is Jaisalmer, well-connected by road, rail, and air from major Indian cities.
