A recent ranking BY science.howstuffworks.com celebrates the striking beauty of desert landscapes, featuring Egypt, Namibia, Chad, Norway, and Australia among the world’s most beautiful desert countries.
Known for their vast, diverse terrains, these destinations offer unique natural experiences—from Egypt’s iconic sand dunes to Norway’s Arctic deserts, where the midnight sun and Northern Lights create an otherworldly allure.
5 Most Beautiful Desert Countries
Although devoid of the bustling wildlife of some of the other landscapes listed above, deserts are great places to explore nature and enjoy some silence among the vast expanse of sandy dunes and rocky outcroppings.
1 Egypt
A large chunk of this country’s tourism comes from some of the best-preserved of the ancient world’s stunning architectural wonders. Yet many travelers forget to visit many of the other beautiful places Egypt offers. The White Desert, Red Sea and the lost city of Heraklion are all mesmerizing destinations.
2 Australia
Hike a few kilometers from Australia’s white sand beaches and world-famous Great Barrier Reef and you’ll find yourself in a landscape that transports you to another planet. Those brave enough to travel the “Bush” will be rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
3 Chad
The Ennedi Plateau in northern Chad is a goldmine for explorers looking to visit a place with incredible geological and anthropological significance.
4 Mongolia
If you’re in China and looking for the world’s top spot to escape the crowds, just head north until you find yourself in the Gobi Desert.
Then, continue on to the “singing sands” of Khongoryn Els and the Khentii Mountains of Khustain Nuruu National Park, where many believe the conqueror Ghenghis Khan’s hidden tomb is located.
5 Namibia
Namibia is one of the most diverse countries on the planet. Expansive savannas with safari wildlife, the wonder of Fish River Canyon, the stark cliffs of the Skeleton Coast, and the red dunes of Sossusvlei prove is bound to be an adventure for everyone in your travel group.