Hidden gems: Desert dunes worth exploring
What's the story
Exploring hidden desert dunes has its own unique thrill for adventure travelers. These far-flung landscapes make for the perfect setting to witness nature's beauty and challenge oneself in new terrains. From sweeping sands to towering dunes, they promise an exhilarating journey away from the beaten path of common tourists. Here's taking a look at the world's concealed desert gems, perfect for adding adventure to your travels.
Rub' al Khali
The majestic Rub' al Khali
The Rub' al Khali, also famously known as the Empty Quarter, is one of the largest sand deserts in the world. Spread across Saudi Arabia, Oman, Yemen, and the UAE, it presents endless stretches of untouched sand dunes. Adventurers can experience extreme temperatures and shifting sands while exploring this vast expanse. Its sheer size and isolation make it a challenging yet rewarding destination.
Skeleton Coast
Namibia's remote Skeleton Coast
Renowned for its desolate beauty and dramatic landscapes, Namibia's Skeleton Coast is a dream destination for adventurers. This remote stretch features towering dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean, creating a striking contrast of sand and sea. Travelers can explore shipwrecks along the coast or venture inland to discover unique wildlife adapted to this harsh environment. Skeleton Coast offers an unparalleled sense of isolation and wonder.
Lut Desert
The enigmatic Lut Desert in Iran
Renowned for its surreal landscapes and harsh conditions, Iran's Lut Desert is a marvel in its own right. One of Earth's hottest locations, it consists of expansive salt flats, sky-high dunes, and bizarre rock formations formed from wind erosion over thousands of years. The UNESCO World Heritage site invites thrill-seekers to hike through its stark beauty while battling some of nature's fiercest challenges.
Erg Chigaga
Morocco's Erg Chigaga dunes
Less known than Erg Chebbi, Erg Chigaga in Morocco provides stunning vistas without the crowds. Close to M'Hamid El Ghizlane at Sahara's edge, these golden sands stretch over 40 kilometers with peaks as high as 300 meters. Ideal for camel treks or off-road adventures under starry skies, it gives you an authentic desert experience, far away from tourist spots.