Dagh-e Sorkh Desert

Dagh-e Sorkh Desert lies northeast of the town of Zavareh, in Ardestan County, Isfahan Province, and forms part of Iran's Central Desert. Measuring roughly 50 kilometres long and 20 kilometres wide, it is one of the largest areas of salt flats and sand dunes in the region. Its sweeping landscapes include polygonal salt flats, island-like sand dunes and small marshy areas, which give the desert a pristine and unique character.

The desert's nature is a blend of varied landscapes. In some parts you will see smooth, polygonal salt flats that shimmer across the surface like a mirror in the moonlight. At the centre of Dagh-e Sorkh are island-like sand dunes known as "Tal-e Shaytan" (Devil's Mound), which clearly show the direction of the wind. The vegetation along the desert's edges is mainly saxaul, which forms a natural barrier separating it from the Central Desert. In addition, deposits of salt, gold and lead have been reported in Dagh-e Sorkh, and along desert tourism routes the area is also recognised as an important natural resource.

To reach the desert, first travel to Zavareh (a town in Ardestan County), then head northeast from villages such as Aliabad or Jahanabad and follow the dirt road until you reach the edge of the salt flat. The best time to visit is during the milder seasons (spring and autumn), because the desert's temperatures are more bearable then and spending a night under the desert's star-filled sky is far more enjoyable. Responsible tourism is also very important when visiting this area: in particular, protect the desert surface and avoid damaging the salt crust and the sand dunes.