Desert trekking 101: 5 spots for an epic adventure
What's the story
Deserts provide some of the most unique and treacherous trekking experiences on the globe. These vast, barren lands are not just visually magnificent but also provide a sense of seclusion and adventure that is hard to find otherwise. From soaring sand dunes to rocky terrains, each desert has its own signature character and challenges. Here are five untamed deserts promising once-in-a-lifetime trekking adventures for the brave-hearted.
Sahara trek
Sahara: The endless sea of sand
Spread across North Africa, the Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world. Its endless sea of sand dunes provides trekkers a unique sense of isolation and beauty. Ranging from rolling dunes to rocky plateaus, the terrain is perfect for trekkers. They can explore ancient trade routes and meet nomadic tribes who have adapted to this harsh environment over centuries.
Atacama trek
Atacama: The driest place on Earth
Located in northern Chile, the Atacama Desert is also the driest place on Earth. Despite being so dry, the desert offers a variety of landscapes including salt flats, geysers, and even lunar-like valleys. Trekkers can enjoy stunning sunsets over massive salt plains or visit high-altitude lagoons rich in wildlife. The clear skies also make it one of the best stargazing places on Earth.
Gobi Trek
Gobi: A blend of sand and stone
The Gobi Desert covers parts of northern China and southern Mongolia. Unlike regular sandy deserts, it consists of sand dunes and rocky outcrops. The varied terrain allows trekkers to explore dinosaur fossil sites or remote monasteries set in cliffs. The extreme temperatures make it even more challenging for adventurers looking for peace in this massive wilderness.
Namib Trek
Namib: Where dunes meet ocean
The Namib Desert along Namibia's Atlantic coast is one of the world's oldest deserts. Its iconic red sand dunes crashing into ocean waves create breathtaking vistas that can only be seen here. From climbing some of the tallest dunes while spotting rare wildlife such as desert-adapted elephants, to taking guided tours through eerie ghost towns left behind by diamond miners decades ago, trekkers won't be disappointed.
Simpson trek
Simpson: Australia's red heartland
Hidden deep within Australia's Outback is Simpson Desert, a remote wilderness dotted with parallel red sand ridges that stretch infinitely into the horizon. Locally referred to as "Big Red," these monolithic structures make for thrilling challenges for seasoned trekkers who want to take them on directly. With a rich Aboriginal history inscribed into the land, Simpson offers an unforgettable expedition through the heartland down under.