The 21 Most Surreal Desert Landscapes Around The World You Can Actually Visit
Some places feel like they belong on another planet. Deserts are one of them.
From rolling dunes that stretch into infinity to cracked salt flats that shimmer like glass, these surreal landscapes will make you question reality. Some burn under the relentless sun, while others freeze beneath a sky full of stars.
Either way, they don’t care about your comfort—they exist to be wild, raw, and utterly breathtaking. Somehow, life finds a way to thrive in these extreme places.
Nomadic cultures, ancient ruins, and even rare wildlife carve out an existence where nothing should survive. And for those willing to explore, the reward is pure, otherworldly beauty.
Pack light, bring water, and get ready to step into 21 deserts that look like something out of a dream—but are very, very real.
Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia
Bolivia’s Salar de Uyuni is the world’s largest salt flat, stretching over 10,000 square kilometers. After rain, it transforms into a vast mirror, reflecting the sky in a perfect symmetry.
Visitors often feel as though they are walking on clouds, an illusion that captivates photographers and travelers alike. The flat is dotted with islands covered in giant cacti, adding a surreal touch to the horizon.
This unique landscape offers an unparalleled experience for those willing to venture into its expansive beauty.
Namib Desert, Namibia
The Namib Desert, one of the oldest deserts in the world, boasts towering dunes that seem to glow in vibrant shades of orange and red. These dunes, constantly shaped by the wind, are among the tallest on Earth.
This desert is home to unique wildlife, including the oryx and the Welwitschia plant, which has adapted to the harsh environment. The dramatic landscape provides an otherworldly setting that feels both timeless and pristine.
White Sands National Park, USA
New Mexico’s White Sands National Park is a brilliant expanse of gypsum sand dunes, stretching over 275 square miles. This rare phenomenon creates a landscape that resembles waves of snow under the sun.
The stark white dunes, in contrast with the vibrant sky, offer a sense of peace and solitude. Visitors can explore the area on foot or sled down the dunes, adding an element of adventure to the serene surroundings.
Antelope Canyon, USA
Hidden within Arizona’s desert lies Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon renowned for its wave-like sandstone formations. The interplay of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing display of colors, from deep reds to bright oranges.
As sunlight beams penetrate the narrow crevices, they illuminate the smooth canyon walls, enchanting visitors with their beauty. This natural wonder is a photographer’s paradise, offering countless opportunities to capture its ethereal charm.
Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum, also known as the Valley of the Moon, is a stunning desert in southern Jordan. Its dramatic sandstone mountains rise abruptly from the flat desert floor, creating an awe-inspiring view.
The landscape is dotted with ancient petroglyphs, remnants of a long-gone civilization. Visitors can explore this majestic terrain on camelback or embark on a jeep tour.
The vastness of Wadi Rum is best experienced under a starlit sky, where the desert’s serenity truly shines.
Atacama Desert, Chile
Chile’s Atacama Desert is one of the driest places on earth, yet it is teeming with unique landscapes. The region features vast salt flats, geysers, and rugged mountains that create a strikingly beautiful environment.
Despite its arid conditions, the Atacama is home to diverse wildlife, including flamingos and vicuñas. This desert offers an opportunity to explore otherworldly terrains that seem untouched by time.
Lençóis Maranhenses, Brazil
In northeastern Brazil lies Lençóis Maranhenses, a desert unlike any other. This unique landscape is characterized by vast white sand dunes interspersed with crystal-clear freshwater lagoons.
The lagoons form during the rainy season, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding sand. Visitors can swim in the refreshing waters or simply marvel at the surreal beauty of this natural wonder.
The ever-changing landscape offers a new experience with each visit.
Sossusvlei, Namibia
Sossusvlei is a salt and clay pan surrounded by towering red dunes in Namibia’s Namib-Naukluft National Park. The vivid colors of the dunes, especially at sunrise and sunset, create a dramatic backdrop for photographers.
Dead Vlei, a part of Sossusvlei, is scattered with centuries-old dead acacia trees, creating an eerie yet captivating scene. The stark beauty of this landscape is both haunting and beautiful, offering an unforgettable desert experience.
Badain Jaran Desert, China
China’s Badain Jaran Desert features some of the tallest dunes on the planet, some reaching heights of over 500 meters. These enormous sand structures encircle small, sparkling desert lakes, creating a breathtaking contrast.
The remote location adds to the mystical allure of this desert, with few travelers venturing into its depths. The tranquility and isolation of the Badain Jaran provide a perfect escape for those seeking solitude in nature.
Painted Desert, USA
Arizona’s Painted Desert is a vibrant landscape of multicolored rock formations, stretching over 7,500 square miles. The diverse hues of the rocks, formed over millions of years, create a visually stunning mosaic.
The desert is also home to the Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient petrified wood adds to the area’s geological wonders. With its vivid colors and rich history, the Painted Desert offers a unique exploration of nature’s artistry.
Simpson Desert, Australia
The Simpson Desert, located in central Australia, is a vast expanse of red sand dunes extending over 176,000 square kilometers. Known for its parallel dunes, the desert offers a strikingly uniform landscape that captivates adventurers.
Despite its harsh conditions, the Simpson is home to diverse flora and fauna, adapted to survive in the challenging environment. This remote desert provides an opportunity to experience the rugged beauty of Australia’s interior.
Gobi Desert, Mongolia/China
The Gobi Desert, spanning northern China and southern Mongolia, is a vast and varied landscape. It features sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and grassland steppes, creating a diverse environment.
The desert is home to the elusive snow leopard and Bactrian camels, which roam the rugged terrain. Despite its harsh climate, the Gobi offers a glimpse into a world where nature thrives against the odds.
Thar Desert, India/Pakistan
The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, stretches across India and Pakistan. It’s marked by rolling golden sand dunes and sparse vegetation.
The desert supports a rich cultural history, with local communities living in harmony with the challenging environment. Camel safaris offer a traditional way to explore the landscape, providing insights into the region’s heritage and natural beauty.
The Thar is a place where culture and nature coexist in a delicate balance.
Mojave Desert, USA
The Mojave Desert, primarily located in California, is known for its iconic Joshua trees and unique rock formations. This desert’s striking landscape also includes the famous Death Valley, one of the hottest places on Earth.
Despite its extreme conditions, the Mojave is home to diverse plant and animal life. Visitors can explore its natural wonders through numerous trails and parklands, discovering the resilience of life in harsh environments.
Dasht-e Kavir, Iran
Iran’s Dasht-e Kavir, also known as the Great Salt Desert, is a vast expanse of salt flats and barren plains. The cracked earth patterns create a striking visual effect, while distant mountains frame the horizon.
Despite its harsh conditions, the desert is home to unique flora and fauna, adapted to the extreme environment. This remote and untouched landscape offers a glimpse into one of the world’s most desolate yet captivating regions.
Karakum Desert, Turkmenistan
The Karakum Desert, covering most of Turkmenistan, is a landscape of endless sand dunes and arid plains. A unique feature is the Darvaza gas crater, known as the “Door to Hell,” which has been burning for decades.
The fiery glow of the crater against the night sky creates a surreal and otherworldly scene. This vast desert offers a sense of isolation and mystery, enticing those with a spirit for adventure.
Sonoran Desert, USA/Mexico
The Sonoran Desert, spanning the USA and Mexico, is renowned for its giant saguaro cacti and diverse ecosystem. This lush desert supports an array of wildlife, including javelinas and Gila monsters.
The landscape is dotted with rocky hills and vibrant desert blooms, creating a striking contrast with the arid environment. The Sonoran Desert’s unique flora and fauna make it a fascinating place to explore and appreciate nature’s adaptability.
Chihuahuan Desert, USA/Mexico
Straddling the USA and Mexico, the Chihuahuan Desert is a landscape of vast plains and rugged mountains. It features a unique blend of flora, including creosote bushes and various yucca species.
This desert’s arid environment supports a surprisingly diverse range of wildlife, adapted to its challenging conditions. With its striking terrain and vibrant ecosystem, the Chihuahuan Desert offers an opportunity to witness nature’s resilience.
Kalahari Desert, Southern Africa
The Kalahari Desert, spanning several countries in Southern Africa, is characterized by its red sand dunes and sparse vegetation. Despite its arid conditions, the desert supports diverse wildlife, including meerkats and springboks.
The landscape is dotted with salt pans and seasonal wetlands, creating a dynamic environment. This region offers a unique glimpse into the adaptability of life in one of the world’s most challenging climates.
Negev Desert, Israel
Israel’s Negev Desert is a rugged landscape of rocky cliffs and deep canyons. This ancient land is steeped in history, with archaeological sites scattered throughout the region.
Despite its arid conditions, the Negev supports a range of flora and fauna, including ibex and acacia trees. Visitors can explore this fascinating desert through hiking trails and archaeological tours, discovering the rich heritage and natural beauty of the area.
Sinai Desert, Egypt
The Sinai Desert, located in Egypt, is a landscape of stark beauty and historical significance. Its rocky terrain is home to ancient monasteries and Bedouin communities.
This desert offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural wonders. Visitors can hike through its rugged mountains and experience the traditional Bedouin lifestyle, gaining insight into the region’s rich history and enduring spirit.