Qatruyeh Desert

Qatruyeh Desert, also known as the "Death Flat" (Kafeh-e Marg), lies in the heart of the southeast of Neyriz County, within Qatruyeh District. The desert spreads across the borders of three provinces, Fars, Kerman and Yazd, and is considered one of the most beautiful natural areas of Iran's central plateau. Its elevation ranges from 1,600 to 1,720 metres above sea level, and its hot, dry climate and low rainfall give it distinctive characteristics. Qatruyeh Desert is bounded in the north by the slopes of the southern Zagros, in the east by the Ziyarat and Chah-Bareh mountains, and in the south by the Rizab-Sirjan axis.

The vegetation of the area varies with its climate and topography. In parts of the desert where there are salt flats (daq), vegetation is very sparse, but elsewhere you can see plant types such as saxaul-wormwood (Haloxylon-Artemisia) and saltwort-wormwood (Salsola-Artemisia), which reflect the desert and semi-desert character of this ecosystem. The area is also part of Qatruyeh National Park, so it is home to valuable animal and plant species and has great environmental importance.

The best time to visit Qatruyeh Desert is from autumn to early spring, when the heat eases and conditions for nature travel are more suitable. To reach the desert, travel from Neyriz County toward the town of Qatruyeh and then continue on local roads. Because the landscape is pristine and there are no amenities, it is essential to bring full outdoor equipment. Practising responsible tourism, such as collecting your rubbish, not damaging the vegetation and respecting animal habitats, also plays an important part in protecting this valuable area.