Qom Tappeh Desert

Qom Tappeh Desert is located in East Azerbaijan Province, northeast of the city of Tabriz. It lies a few kilometres from the village of Qom Tappeh, surrounded by nature. In Persian, "Qom Tappeh" means "sand hill" or "sand dune". Small, attractive sand dunes cover the whole of Qom Tappeh Desert and add to its beauty. The winds blowing across the area constantly reshape these dunes, creating a spectacular view.

Although Tabriz is a mountainous area, Qom Tappeh Desert has a hot, dry climate. It is hard to believe that this desert lies in the heart of the mountains. Vegetation in Qom Tappeh is sparse and limited. Plants such as tamarisk (gaz), saxaul (taghh), asphodel (eskanbil), Zygophyllum (qeych), mullein (dom-gavi) and various salt-tolerant plants grow in the desert. Qom Tappeh also has a relatively rich variety of wildlife. Animals such as lizards, jerboas, hares, wolves, jackals, foxes, chukar partridges and see-see partridges live here.

The desert has a hot, dry climate. In summer the weather is extremely hot and exhausting; temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius, and there is a risk of heatstroke. In winter it is cold and freezing; temperatures may drop to -20 degrees Celsius, and snow and rain are possible. The best seasons to visit are spring and autumn. The desert has numerous natural and tourist attractions. Recreational activities in the area include camel riding, sand dune walking, motorcycling, off-roading and camping.