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Best deserts to visit in Iran
Complete Travel Guide to Iran’s Deserts and Surrounding Attractions
From the UNESCO-listed Lut Desert to the hidden wonders of Rig-e Jenn, each region offers a unique blend of adventure and culture. This comprehensive guide covers the top destinations and Iran desert tours offered by Esfahan Tours to help you plan the perfect journey.
1. Dasht-e Lut Desert (Lut Desert) – Kerman Province
loot desert iran
Overview:
Dasht-e Lut, also known as the Lut Desert, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the hottest and driest places on Earth. With its towering “Kaluts” and dramatic scenery, it’s a favorite among photographers, adventurers, and nature lovers.
Recommended Visit Duration:
2 to 3 days (including Kaluts, Shahdad, and nearby heritage sites)
Nearby Attractions:
- Kaluts of Shahdad
- Shahdad Ancient Cemetery
- Gandom Beryan Plateau
- Shafiabad Caravanserai
- Nebka Forests
- Rayen Castle
- Shahzadeh Mahan Garden
2. Maranjab Desert – Isfahan Province
Overview:
Maranjab is one of the most popular and accessible deserts near Tehran and Isfahan, known for its golden sand dunes and peaceful stargazing nights.
Recommended Visit Duration:
1 to 2 days (weekend getaway or day trip)
Nearby Attractions:
- Maranjab Caravanserai
کاروانسرای مرنجاب کاشان اران و بیدگل
- Salt Lake of Aran va Bidgol
- Kashan
- Abyaneh Village
- Nooshabad Underground City
3. Mesr Desert – Isfahan Province
Overview:
Mesr Desert offers a tranquil experience with its picturesque dunes and authentic village hospitality.
Recommended Visit Duration:
2 to 3 days (perfect for slow travel and cultural immersion)
Nearby Attractions:
- Mesr Village
- Garmeh Village
- Farahzad Village
- Salt Lake of Khur
- Bayazeh Castle
4. Varzaneh Desert – Isfahan Province
Overview:
Varzaneh is ideal for shorter trips and family-friendly desert experiences, just one hours from Isfahan.
Recommended Visit Duration:
1 day (day trip or short overnight stay)
Nearby Attractions:
- Varzaneh Town
- Gav Chah (Ox Well)
- Salt Lake of Gavkhouni Wetland
- Varzaneh Citadel & Old Mosque
- Zayandeh Rood River
5. Rig-e Jenn Desert – Central Iran (Semnan Region)
Overview:
Rig-e Jenn, or the “Dune of the Jinn,” is Iran’s most mysterious desert, surrounded by eerie legends and challenging terrain.
Recommended Visit Duration:
3 to 4 days (requires experienced guides and off-road planning)
Nearby Attractions:
- Salt Swamps of Rig-e Jenn
- Jandagh Village
- Jandaq Caravanserai
- Bastam and Kharqan
Which Desert is Best for You?
| Desert | Highlights | Best For | Visit Duration |
| Lut Desert | Kaluts, extreme heat, UNESCO heritage | Adventure, photography | 2–3 days |
| Kavir Desert | Salt lakes, wildlife, caravanserais | Nature & history lovers | 2–4 days |
| Maranjab | Salt lake, Kashan, Abyaneh | First-timers, cultural explorers | 1–2 days |
| Mesr | Peaceful villages, Garmeh oasis | Quiet retreats, authentic stays | 2–3 days |
| Shahdad | Kaluts, historical gardens | Landscapes & cultural mix | 1–2 days |
| Varzaneh | Family-friendly, close to Isfahan | Short trips, traditional life | 1 day |
| Rig-e Jenn | Mysterious, remote, salt swamps | Off-the-beaten-path adventurers | 3–4 days |
At Esfahan Tours, we offer tailor-made desert tours to all these destinations with professional guides, authentic accommodations, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re chasing the stars in the Mesr Desert or tracing ancient footsteps in Lut, we make your desert dreams a reality.
Plan your desert adventure today with Esfahan Tours!
For custom itineraries, bookings, or group tours, contact us at: banooyekermani@gmail.com or visit our website at www.esfahantours.ir.
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