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11 Best Desert Towns in the U.S. for Beautiful Landscapes and Mystical Vibes

Arid climate? Check. Quirky shops? Check. A getaway unlike any other? Check.

There's something special about desert towns. Be it their otherworldly landscapes , arid climate, mystical vibes, or unique flora and fauna, these destinations offer an escape unlike any other. Even better, they have modern amenities, but you can still get away from it all for a bit of solitude.

Thankfully, there are plenty of desert towns to go around, as the U.S. is home to four major deserts , including the Great Basin, Mojave, Chihuahuan, and Sonoran. So, if you're on the hunt for a magical getaway, these desert destinations will more than deliver.

Grand Junction, Colorado

For a Wild West desert getaway, look no further than Grand Junction. The desert community settled by homesteaders in the late 1800s has maintained its historical charms, thanks to its still rugged terrain, wild horses roaming the nearby hills, and perfectly preserved red rocks all around. It's also a destination that's made for wine lovers, with numerous vineyards open for tastings and tours. And Grand Junction doesn't forget arts and culture lovers, either. Visit the Main Street area to catch a glimpse of Art on the Corner , a public display of sculptures by local artists.

Marfa, Texas

Marfa may just be the most Instagrammable desert destination on the list. That's thanks largely to the famed Prada Marfa , which isn't a store at all, but rather a permanent installation by artists Elmgreen and Dragset. But it's not the only reason to come to town. In Marfa, art fanatics can also visit the Chinati Foundation or Ballroom Marfa , both nearby contemporary art museums, and the Ayn Foundation , which focuses on large-scale pieces that are all on display for visitors to peruse.

Boulder City, Nevada

Las Vegas tends to draw the most attention as far as Nevada desert destinations go. However, those looking for a more relaxing getaway with far fewer neon lights will be delighted to find Boulder City just 40 minutes away from Sin City. Find a respite in the quieter town by visiting the Boulder City Art Guild & Gallery , meandering through its antique stores , or using the destination as a launchpad for other nearby adventures, including helicopter tours of the Grand Canyon and the Hoover Dam.

Ojo Caliente, New Mexico

Immerse yourself in Mother Nature's greatest gifts with a visit to Ojo Caliente, a desert community in New Mexico best known for its hot springs . And while there are hot springs dotting much of this region of the nation, these happen to be the only ones in the world with four different types of sulfur-free mineral waters. The best way to experience them is by visiting the Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa . Come for a day soak, or spend the night and take advantage of its lengthy massage treatment menu, too.

Cottonwood, Arizona

Cottonwood is yet another charming, quaint desert town worthy of your getaway time. The destination is only home to about 12,000 residents, but its sparseness is what makes it special. It's a place tailor-made for those who like to get outside, thanks to spots like the Verde River Greenway State Natural Area . Here, visitors will find a lush riverside landscape and cooling waters to dive into. After spending time in the great outdoors, head to Old Town Cottonwood for food, shopping, and an old-school Main Street vibe.

Joshua Tree, California

Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure

Mystical energy, martian landscapes, and a vintage clothing scene that can't be beat, Joshua Tree delivers all this and more. The Southern California desert community is an off-beat haven, thanks to its unique national park filled with its eponymous trees, aura-healing spaces like the Integratron , and a delightful central town where travelers can shop in a number of vintage and antique shops, as well as dine in desert-chic venues like La Copine , The Natural Sisters Cafe , and Pappy and Harriet's .

Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo may have a sizable population, but it still offers eccentric, desert town vibes with lots of quirky things to experience. Cadillac Ranch, for example, is a free art exhibit made from old Cadillacs dug into the ground headfirst along Interstate 40. There's also Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the U.S., and Jack Sisemore Traveland RV Museum , dedicated to the history of the great American RV trip . Downtown Amarillo also offers plenty of culinary and cultural delights to keep everyone in even the most disparate travel group happy.

If blinding, awe-inspiring beauty is what you're after, then plot a vacation to Moab because that's exactly what you'll find. Moab is home to both Arches National Park and Canyonlands , each known for their red-rock formations. Both places make for ideal hiking destinations , in addition to offering mountain biking, horseback riding, river rafting, and camping under the stars. And that's just the beginning. Visitors looking for a bit more socialization can head downtown to find restaurants, microbreweries, concert events, and plenty of delicious food to fuel their next adventure.

Sedona, Arizona

There's one more red-rock destination to add to your must-see desert list: Sedona . The community blends a lot of what makes each of the above places great into one delightful spot. It's also well-known for its mystical powers — including Cathedral Rock Vortex , one of the area's four energy vortexes — and home to famed hikes with stunning views, like the Devil's Bridge Trail . Following any and all outdoor adventures, guests can make their way to the Uptown area for shopping (don't leave without visiting a few jewelry shops), dining, and entertainment.

Silver City, New Mexico

Silver City, an old mining town located in the southwest corner of New Mexico, is the place to be to when it comes to finding your new favorite gem in terms of a desert destination and in the literal sense. You see, the town is a thriving arts community, filled with creators crafting gorgeous paintings, pottery, and jewelry. The historic downtown area is lined with shops owned by these artisans who are ready to talk to you about their individual craft and sell you their wares. Come for the crafts, but stay for the plentiful festivals , including the Silver City Blues Festival, the Wild, Wed West Pro Rodeo, and more.

Terlingua, Texas

Located on the very edge of the West Texas border, desert lovers will find the charming town of Terlingua, Texas. The sparsely populated spot was once a silver mining town, and now serves as a tourist attraction due to its proximity to Big Bend National Park . The destination isn't exactly what you'd call "happening," though it has a well-maintained status as a proper ghost town, thanks to its persevered homes and storefronts. There are shops to browse, including desert oddities and antiques, and the town is home to the famed Chili Cookoff , so you know a visit here comes with some seriously delicious food. As for where to stay, Terlingua offers great glamping accommodations and short-term rentals with breathtaking views of the Chisos Mountains, like Willow House .

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The Top 10 Desert Getaways

Your favorite trails—for biking, hiking, and running—all turn to puddles and mud around the same time every year. The rain is coming down and, in some places, the winter thaw is just releasing its grip. Turn to these 10 spots, where excess water is never a problem, to get away.

Heading out the door? Read this article on the Outside app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

There’s no better way to escape the mess of mud season than by making a beeline for the desert. From the cholla-studded mountain bike trails of New Mexico to the shifting sand dunes of Namibia, these oases offer big sky, vertical rock playgrounds, wildlife, and miles of hiking, running, and mountain biking trails. All 10 come with sun-powered Vitamin D.

10. Sossus Dune Lodge, Namibia

An African adventure

Namibia is one of those rare conservation success stories where wildlife recovery is on the rise, 42 percent of the land (which includes 26 parks and reserves) is under conservation management, and the country’s entire 1,000-mile coastline is protected. The southern African country also claims the Namib, the world’s oldest desert, which is home to the world’s second-highest sand dunes that top out at nearly 1,000 feet.

Get a floor-to-ceiling view of those iconic shifting formations from one of 23 chalets or two honeymoon suites at Sossus Dune Lodge (doubles from $280 per night). On the eastern edge of Namib-Naukluft Park near the iconic Sossusvlei dunes, the lodge is a magnet for photographers and who want to seek the most sublime sunrise or sunset in Southern Africa or, possibly, the world. The wildlife viewing isn’t bad either. Hartmann’s mountain zebra, kudu, gemsbok, klipspringer, duiker, steenbok, leopard, baboon, black-backed jackal, bat-eared fox, African wild cat, caracal and aardwolf all live here.

9. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

If the expansive flat isn’t salty enough for you, the hotel will be

This 4,086-mile expanse, the world’s largest salt flat, holds an estimated 10 billion tons of salt. It’s also where 50 to 70 percent of the world’s lithium reserves originate—a good reason to see the Salar de Uyuni now, before the world’s cell-phone and electronics manufacturers gobble it up.

The appeal of this place is the play of light on these wide-open spaces: Sitting at almost 12,000 feet above sea level on the Altiplano of southern Bolivia, the Salar de Uyuni is almost entirely devoid of wildlife and vegetation, save for three species of pink flamingos (who get their coloring from the pink algae and crustaceans they ingest), a rare hummingbird species, and an occasional Andean goose.

In the middle of all this desolate white sits the Isla de Pescadores, a bizarre, fish-shaped island dotted with cacti. The real bragging rights for the visit will be the nights you spend at the salt hotel, where the walls, bar and tables are built of salt—just don’t lick the walls. There’s even a saltwater pool out back. Adventure Life offers an eight-day “Backroads Bolivia” tour that includes two nights in the Salar de Uyuni ($1,825).

8. Atacama Desert, Chile

See why the Atacama is Earth’s most Martian landscape

South America isn’t exactly a weekend road-trip, but southern-hemisphere fall in the world’s driest desert is spectacular—temperatures hover around 78 degrees Fahrenheit from April to June during the day, and at night the skies are so clear that the Milky Way is in view with the naked eye. (It’s much more enhanced, however, when viewed through the world’s largest telescope, which is located nearby.)

The hub of this 40,600-square-mile desert, famously referred to as the most Martian landscape on Earth, is the 10,000-year-old village of San Pedro de Atacama. It sits within view of a string of volcanoes, the highest of which, Lincancabur, tops out at 19,423 feet.

Stay at Tierra Atacama Hotel & Spa , a sleek, eco-friendly boutique hotel that blends into the landscape and was built by the Purcells, the same family that started the famously intimate Ski Portillo resort. From here, set out in any direction—mountain bike from the hotel toward the Salt Mountain Range; four-wheel to the El Tatio geothermal geysers at 14,000 feet; visit the village of Machuca, where the roofs are made of cactus and the local delicacy is grilled llama; or take a day trip to the salt flats and Chaxa Lagoon to photograph pink flamingos. Double occupancy rates start at $1,050 for a two-night stay, which includes all meals (and drinks); daily activities; full use of all the hotel facilities, including gardens, pools, saunas and Jacuzzi; and airport transfers to and from Calama.

7. Tanque Verde Ranch, Arizona

Go west, young man

Cowboys, this one’s for you: Just east of Tucson, at the base of the Rincon Mountains near Saguaro National Park sits a 60,000-acre ranch stocked with 180 horses. From basic horseback riding to lope checks to team penning, beginning to advanced riders can take a lesson and then trot or gallop off into the sunset. There’s even a three-hour horse whisperer-like program called “Harmony With Horses” taught by a champion rider and equine therapists, where participants learn how to tap into their horse’s behaviors by using subtle movements and commands.

For the non-horseback riders, 600 acres of singletrack mountain biking trails snake through the property, daily guided hikes cover miles of trails, and there’s a 1.5-acre lake stocked with bluegill and largemouth bass. On the other hand, the chaise lounges at the outdoor pool are pretty comfortable, too. Doubles, with breakfast included from $189.

6. Joshua Tree National Park, California

Learn the ropes

“Typically people think of desert as vast emptiness, but in Joshua Tree you can climb rock anywhere from five seconds off the road to a few hours in,” says Mark Bowling. He should know. The owner and director of Joshua Tree Rock Climbing School and AMGA-certified guide has been exploring and teaching rock climbing in Joshua Tree since 1988. Beginners will want to sign up for his one- or two-day Basic Rock Climbing courses, which start with the fundamentals—how to put on a harness— and end with a 100-foot climb. If students want to take it further, they can add on a two-day Intermediate course ($150 per day).

Beyond the climbing, what’s so magical about this place? According to Bowling, it’s the Suessian blob-like boulders and Joshua trees. “The trees contrast with the light at that magic hour just before sunset and after sunrise,” he says. “The color changes and the landscape pops out at you.” Reserve a campsite at Indian Creek or Black Rock campgrounds ($15 per night; 800-365-2267) and be sure to BYO water—there’s none available in the park.

5. Death Valley National Park, California

Where the temperature has hit 200 degrees

The first step is to wrap your head around the facts: This National Park sits 282 feet below sea level; is surrounded by steep, precipitous mountain ranges; and has average daily temperatures that range from 90 degrees in April to 109 degrees in June. (On July 15, 1972, the highest ground temperature at Furnace Creek hit 201 degrees Fahrenheit.) It’s also a wilderness park with no roads and very few developed trails, so get your bearings by buying a copy of Michel Digonett’s Hiking in Death Valley before you leave home.

Ease into your trip by spending the first night at The Inn at Furnace Creek (doubles from $340 per night). The next morning, pick up your free backcountry permit at the Furnace Creek Visitor Center then launch a hiking expedition from Cottonwood to Marble Canyon, a 26- to 32-mile backcountry loop (with no signs or cairns) that takes you through deep, narrow canyons and has an elevation gain of 3,500 feet. The three- to five-day loop is one of the most popular in the park, but with water only available at Cottonwood and Deadhorse Canyon and a very high percentage (roughly 50 percent) of hikers who veer off track at some point along this route, a few human sightings may be welcome. Whatever you do, don’t come unprepared.

4. Villa Santa Cruz, Todos Santos, Baja California

Not your average Mexican retreat

This beautiful adobe hacienda with a soft orange patina sits on 20 acres of secluded beachfront property. The four-suite casa, which was built in 2006 but was designed to appear as if it had been there for hundreds of years, is powered almost entirely by solar electricity, the clean linens are line-dried in the desert breeze, and all meals are made with produce grown in the on-site vegetable garden. Out the front door and just a five-minute walk down the beach surfers can head to La Pastora, with its giant breaks and minimal crowds. Later in the season—from November to April—guests can watch the migrating humpbacks from the rooftop terrace. Any time of year guests can arrange for yoga classes, visit the farmers’ market, taste local wines at La Bodega de Todos Santos , and arrange for an in-house massage. Doubles start at $195 per night. To find out what else is on tap in Baja, visit baja.com .

3. Moab, Utah

Escape to the red rocks

“Moab is a very different place now than it was a few years ago,” says Scott Escott, He should know. As the trails coordinator for Grand County Trail Mix , a local non-profit organization that works closely with the BLM to design and build new mountain bike trails, Escott and his crew have already built more than 40 of the 150 miles of trails the BLM has approved in its resource management plan. One of the new additions, Pipe Dream, is a ten-mile trail accessible from town that follows the southwest ridgeline of the Moab Valley. Good news for advanced intermediate riders: Unlike the storied slickrock of Poison Spider, most of the new trails are less technical. Added bonus: There’s also the new North Moab Recreation Areas Alternative Transportation System, a paved bike path that allows for unmotorized access to all the public lands—like Arches National Park—north of Moab.

For details, visit discovermoab.com . For bike rentals, shuttles, and maps, check in with Poison Spider Bicycles . Camp in town at the tent-only, walk-in Up The Creek Campground (doubles, $30 per site). For a roof over your head, a kitchen to cook a hearty post-ride meal, and a place that welcomes dogs, book A Moab House (from $125 per night) right in town.

2. Ojo Caliente, New Mexico

Get pampered in the Land of Enchantment

A layer of snow might fall here through the end of April, but this town’s sulfur-free, geothermal mineral waters flow from a subterranean volcanic aquifer that can heat up to 109 degrees—and that should keep you plenty warm. Sitting roughly halfway between Taos and Santa Fe on U.S. 285, Ojo Caliente has been a spa oasis ever since the ancestors of today’s Native American Tewa tribes built pueblos surrounding the hot springs in the 15th century. Today there’s still a private soaking area for tribal leaders, but the public pools—Lithia, Iron, Soda, and Arsenic—are yours for the soaking, and they’ve been upgraded with a new ozone and UV light filtration system to keep them clean and chlorine-free.

Also new within the last few years are 12 miles of mesa-top hiking and mountain biking trails, a wine bar, three private soaking pools with outdoor fireplaces, four spacious new massage therapy rooms, and beautifully updated cottages and suites. Don’t worry, the centuries-old charm hasn’t worn off. The all-inclusive three-night, four-day Ojo Escape starts at $899 per person.

1. Sedona, Arizona

The ultimate desert paradise

This red rock wonderland 30 miles south of Flagstaff used to be the primary domain of Vortex seekers. But in the past few years Sedona has increasingly attracted serious athletes for its network of 100-plus hiking, running, and mountain bike trails. Take a sunrise six-mile run on the Big Loop-Llama Trail-Bell Rock ring around Courthouse Rock or a mountain bike ride on the 12-mile Slim Shady-Templeton-Baldwin loop. Follow either with a sunset six-mile round-trip hike to the saddle of Cathedral Rock from the North Bell Rock parking lot and you’ll be an instant convert.  Rest assured that you’ve ticked off roughly five percent of what’s out there.

At the end of the day vegans can go nuts with the 100-percent natural vegetarian menu at Chocolate Tree and its fully loaded case of—what else—chocolate made from raw Ecuadorian cacao. For a romantic splurge, make a reservation in advance to dine creekside at L’Auberge de Sedona . While you’re at it, book one of the creekside cottages, where you can rinse off the red dirt in an outdoor cedar shower, then build a fire inside ($450 per night ).

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How to Travel in the Desert Like a Pro

Are you thinking of a desert getaway for your next trip? Continue reading to learn how to travel in the desert like a pro.

Updated by Jan Keyser on November 14, 2022

Making up roughly 33% of the earth’s surface, deserts have been home to many people and animals throughout history. Many natural and historic sites have been major tourist attractions in recent years and thus traveling in deserts is more popular than ever.

Learning how to travel in the desert is easy and there are some key things to keep in mind before you go. In this article, we will cover how to prepare, when to go, and what to expect from your desert vacation.

What to keep in mind for desert adventures

Deserts become inhospitable due to extremely high heat making it difficult for plant life. The hottest recorded temperature ever was in Furnace Creek, California with a temperature reaching 56.7°C (134.1°F). With such high temperatures being possible, it’s best to keep this in mind before you go.

Deserts are dry and arid places. For somewhere to be classified as a desert it requires less than 25 cm (10 in) of rain in a year on average. That means visiting a desert requires you to bring your own water and shade. Be sure to stay very hydrated if visiting a desert for a long time.

It’s beautiful

You don’t have to look too hard to find some of the most beautiful deserts in the world. The Hoggar Mountains in Algeria or Sud Lipez in Bolivia consistently rank near the top of the most beautiful deserts. The list really goes on and on. Make sure you have your camera ready!

It can be dangerous   

Deserts are home to diverse ecosystems that have evolved to thrive in harsh conditions. This includes many little animals and critters that are considered quite dangerous. The saw-scaled viper, rattlesnakes, and sometimes even cougars can be found in deserts. Keep an eye out and make sure you have the necessary safety gear. Here are some tips for what to do if bitten by a rattlesnake in the desert .

How to prepare to travel in the desert

Pick a destination.

While deserts cover 33% of the earth’s surface, you want to avoid some places and prioritize others. Picking a destination is the first step. Some criteria to consider include activities, accommodations, transportation, and history/natural beauty. The Gobi desert in Mongolia and the Sahara are two of the most popular desserts for tourists but they also span vast distances so you want to narrow them down.

Decide on activities

Desert vacations offer a ton of activities. These range from hiking to camping or more extreme activities such as quad biking or sand surfing. Riding a camel is always a must-do activity when planning a desert vacation. If there is something you really can’t miss, make sure that activity is available in the place you are going. If you are looking for more fun adventure vacations, be sure to check out this article .

Get the right gear

The right gear is important when learning how to travel in the desert like a pro. Whether it’s the perfect dessert scarf or this simple dusk mask you want to make sure you have the right gear for when you are in the desert. Breathable and light clothing is recommended. Protect your skin from the intense sun while not trapping too much heat. There is a reason nomads have developed such interesting and unique styles.

Also, keep in mind that many deserts are scorching hot during the day but cool down considerably at night. If you are camping in the desert, here are some great healthy camping dinners to try .

Spring or fall is most likely the best time, climate-wise, to visit a desert. The time of year that spring or fall occurs will depend on the location of the desert. For example, Spring in the Gobi desert is from March 20th to June 21st whereas Spring in Bolivia is from September 22 to December 21.

Going during the right time of year means less extreme temperatures. Also, keep in mind that some deserts are prone to flash floods, where ancient river beds suddenly overflow with water from unexpected rain. These can be very dangerous, so plan to go when they are least likely.

Eight tips on how to travel in the desert

1. be prepared for the heat.

Tip #1 on how to travel in the desert is to know it’s going to be hot. Temperatures can be very high in the desert, so don’t stay outside for too long if they are. Go on tours early in the morning or in the evening. During peak heat, try to stay inside and find air conditioning if available. Here are some useful tips for dealing with extreme heat in the desert .

2. Protection from the sun

The sun can be really intense in the desert. Be sure to have lots of sunscreen handy while also covering your skin from extended exposure by wearing loose, breathable clothing.

3. Layer up

Deserts actually get quite cold at night. So you want to be prepared for that also. Camping in the desert can be a surreal experience however many don’t expect to be chilly at night. Bring a sweater and blanket.

4. Don’t stray from the path

If you are hiking or mountain biking in a desert, be sure that you stick to the trails. It’s surprisingly easy to get lost in a desert. Help is not always nearby if you do.

5. Drink tons of water

Staying hydrated is key to enjoying a desert vacation. When spending time in high heat we often sweat much more. This can cause us to become tired and dizzy. Bring a water bottle and always have a fresh supply nearby.

6. Keep an eye on the weather

We mentioned flash floods and extreme heat. These are two of the biggest risks of traveling in the desert. Make sure you keep an eye on the weather before visiting the desert. This is especially true for hiking in canyons or old river beds prone to flash floods.

7. Find shade or shelter

With few trees to seek shelter from the relentless sun, be sure you have some form of shade, such as an umbrella or canopy to escape to. This is especially true during the hottest time of day.

8. Respect local customs

Deserts are home to nomadic tribes. Each tribe has their own customs and way of life. Many are welcoming and happy to share their culture. However, be sure to show the utmost respect when visiting these tribes. Some basic things about western culture can be offensive to other cultures. Remember you chose to visit these places. So if something doesn’t work for you it might be best not to go.

Final Thoughts

Deserts offer some of the most spectacular vacations in the world. There are countless desert vacations to choose from, each more wonderful than the last. Make sure you are prepared and know what to expect. Deserts are dry, hot, and potentially dangerous places. There is a reason they are so inhospitable to human life. Make sure to stay hydrated, never leave the trail, protect yourself from the sun, and most importantly enjoy an experience of a lifetime.

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The 10 Best Desert Getaways in the U.S.

See recent posts by Lara Grant

Whether you despise rain or are just tired of city lights and skyscrapers, a trip to one of the desert towns in the U.S. can provide relief with skin-warming sun and cacti as far as the eye can see. Though summers in these locales can be a bit too sweltering, the typically mild winters make them suitable travel destinations. We've rounded up the best desert getaways in the U.S., so you can hike, bike, and sightsee to your heart's content. Technically, we've included a few high-desert spots that lack the arid landscape of low deserts, but they still provide much of the same natural characteristics as the lower-elevation terrains.

1. Sedona, Arizona

The laid-back Palm Springs has had an evolving persona. Located a two-hour drive from Los Angeles in the Sonoran Desert, it first attracted health-conscious individuals with its dry heat and hot springs, followed by Hollywood starlets like Frank Sinatra and Elizabeth Taylor. These days, it plays host to LGBT-friendly parties and hip vacationers looking for little more than a poolside cocktail amid retro furnishings. For those who aren’t content to simply relax, the sacred Native American sites, top-notch golf courses, and vintage shopping provide ample indoor and outdoor activities.

Our Hotel Pick: Two Bunch Palms

The upscale Two Bunch Palms Resort and Spa is renowned for its natural mineral springs and glamorous Hollywood past (it was a rumored hideout of Al Capone’s). he Grotto rooms still maintain some of their vintage details, notably in the bathrooms, while the Solstice rooms are modern and sleek. The spa has everything from mud baths to watsu pools. Grounds include hiking trails, lakes, and a walking labyrinth. A dedicated yoga dome, tennis courts, lap pool, and fitness center highlight the resort’s emphasis on a healthy Californian lifestyle.

Pricing for Two Bunch Palms

7. Big Bend National Park, Texas

Though Marfa, Texas has appeared on lots of where-to-travel lists in the last couple of years, tourists should instead drive 90 minutes south to Big Bend National Park. Occupying 801,163 acres of land, the park includes the entire Chisos mountain range and a large portion of the Chihuahuan Desert. Its southern border is the flowing Rio Grande, with Mexico on the other side, allowing visitors to kayak between cliffs that rise up to 1,500 feet. Though strenuous, the South Rim hike culminates in a 2,000-foot gain with breathtaking vistas. Plus, there are bird-watching opportunities along the way.

8. Tucson, Arizona

Eric Javits ‘Hampton’ Straw Sun Hat

The desert sun can become immense. Alongside a bottle of sunscreen, a packable hat is a must-bring in order to protect that scalp.

You’ll Also Like:

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Southern California Desert Day Trips: 40 Amazing Destinations

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Discover the beauty of California’s desert regions with these unique day trip ideas. When people think of Southern California, they usually envision its stunning beaches, incredible amusement parks, and vibrant cities. Often overlooked by tourists, the desert regions of Southern California are home to two national parks, Death Valley and Joshua Tree, as well as Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. Visitors can explore ghost towns and historical sites and enjoy outdoor adventures. Explore Southern California’s desert destinations.

Unusual Attractions – Off-Road Adventures – Parks and Monuments – Desert Road Trips

Day Trips in and Around Death Valley National Park

Shoshone California: Last Stop Before Death Valley

Shoshone, California, is a small town in the desert located near the southern entrance of Death Valley National Park. It is situated along Highway 178 and was initially known as Metberry Spring. In 1909, the area was renamed Shoshone and used as a station stop on the Tonopah & Tidewater Railroad. Shoshone is a popular stop for travelers going to or returning from Death Valley National Park. Nearby Dublin Gulch Caves are worth visiting when visiting Shoshone.

Death Valley Junction Almost a California Ghost Town

Death Valley Junction is located along California State Route 127 at the junction of California State Route 190. The gas station is permanently closed. Amargosa Cafe is usually open on weekends. Tours of the Amargosa Opera House are available if you can find someone to give you the time. Most travelers drive by Death Valley Junction without knowing its history.

China Ranch Date Farm Death Valley Side Trip

An oasis is hidden in a desert valley; the China Ranch Date Farm is off the beaten path and worth a side trip on your next journey across the Mojave Desert as you wander into this little palm-lined haven between Death Valley and the Dumont Dunes. A small shop sells date treats and souvenirs. Several hiking trails let visitors explore the area.

Harmony Borax Works Death Valley

Harmony Borax Works is a well-known tourist spot in Death Valley National Park. The site comprises the remnants of the processing plant and a few buildings from Harmony’s mining camp. Harmony Borax Works was exclusively used to process borax from 1882 to 1888. Currently, the site is registered on the National Register of Historic Places.

Natural Bridge Death Valley National Park Hiking

Several arches in the Death Valley National Park vary in size. The most famous arch is the Natural Bridge, which is easily accessible. Natural Bridge is just one of the many remarkable attractions in Death Valley. It is made of sedimentary rock carved out by the wind, rain, and flash floods.

Salt Creek Boardwalk Death Valley

The Salt Creek Interpretive Trail in Death Valley National Park features a raised wooden boardwalk, a visitor must-see. The entire Salt Creek Interpretive Trail is on a raised wooden boardwalk. There is a series of signs along the route that explain the history and wildlife of the area.

Scotty’s Castle Mansion in the Middle of Death Valley

Scotty’s Castle, built in 1927 by wealthy insurance executive Albert Johnson, is in the middle of Death Valley National Park. Unfortunately, it is closed, and there is no date for reopening. The main building is a two-story Spanish Villa that covers 32,000 square feet and is situated in Grapevine Canyon.

Wildrose Charcoal Kilns Death Valley

The Wildrose Charcoal Kilns are a popular attraction in Death Valley but are located in a remote area. They were constructed in 1877 to supply charcoal to Lookout City’s mining operations in the Argus Mountain Range. Due to their location, the road leading to the kilns is usually closed during winter.

Tecopa Hot Springs Near Death Valley

Hot Springs, a tranquil desert town just outside Death Valley National Park, is located approximately 90 minutes away from Furnace Creek Visitor Center or Las Vegas. The town’s main attractions include natural hot springs, mud baths, run-down resorts, and Death Valley. For the more adventurous day-trippers, there are a couple of natural hot pools on the outskirts of town.

Unusual Southern California Desert Attraction

Borrego Springs: Galleta Meadows Sky Art Sculptures

Borrego Springs is a distinctive desert town in the heart of Anza-Borrego State Park. It is an ideal destination for a quick weekend getaway or a budget-friendly family desert day trip. This desert oasis offers diverse attractions, including the renowned metallic sculptures known worldwide. Regardless of the season, visitors can enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of this desert paradise all year round.

The Crochet Museum: An Unexpected Stop in Joshua Tree

The Crochet Museum is a well-known roadside attraction behind the Joshua Tree Saloon. It is in a small artist colony, including Soul Connection, Art Queen Gallery, Space Cowboy Books, a ceramic shop, and a glass blower. This unique little museum is in Joshua Tree, California, just outside the National Park.

Yermo’s Roadside Diners: Eddie World & Peggy Sue’s Diner

Yermo, a town in California’s desert region, was once a bustling railroad hub in the early 1900s when Union Pacific Railroad established a roundhouse and depot. However, the town’s prosperity declined after the opening of Interstate 15 in the late 1960s, which allowed most traffic to bypass Yermo. These days, Yermo has become a popular stop for those who enjoy visiting interesting roadside diners.

Salvation Mountain: A Beautiful Tribute to Folk Art

There is a distinct monument, Salvation Mountain, in the barren badlands east of San Diego. Salvation Mountain is a 30-foot high and 100-foot wide concrete and adobe structure covered in over 150,000 gallons of lavish multi-colored acrylic paint and religious slogans. It is situated close to the salty shores of the Salton Sea, a once-thriving vacation destination.

Explore Gubler Orchid Farm in the Hi-Desert

The Gubler orchid farm in California’s high desert is an incredible place to visit if you’re a flower enthusiast. It’s hard to believe that the delicate and exotic orchid plant can survive in this harsh desert environment. The farm is the place to go if you want to buy orchids. They offer various colors and species that will impress any flower lover.

Glass Outhouse Art Gallery 29 Palms California

The Glass Outhouse Art Gallery is on Thunder Road, just off Highway 62 in 29 Palms, California. Although it is located in a remote desert area, a few miles away from the nearest town of Twenty-nine Palms, the gallery attracts artists and art collectors from all over the country. This unique gallery is known for its glass outhouse and draws visitors from far and wide.

Cactus Mart Morongo Valley Dig Your Cactus

Cactus Mart in Morongo Valley is a must-visit for anyone headed to Joshua Tree National Park. With a tremendous selection of cacti and helpful staff to guide you to the right plants, it’s a great stop on your trip. Cactus Mart features succulents, cacti, grifts, garden accessories, and a vast selection of cacti. And you can dig your own cactus if you like.

Integratron: A Far Out Day Trip To Landers California

is a unique attraction located in the Yucca Valley desert of California. Despite its unremarkable exterior, it provides visitors with an otherworldly experience that leaves them feeling spaced out. The only all-wood, acoustically perfect sound chamber in the United States, Integratron was built by NASA physicist George Van Tassel. According to Van Tassel, he received instructions from aliens to construct this chamber.

Off-Road Day and Overlanding Desert Trips

Old Mojave Road 4-Wheel Drive Adventure Trip

The Old Mojave Road is a well-known route for off-road enthusiasts. It starts from the Colorado River and takes you through the Mojave National Preserve to Afton Canyon near Barstow, California. The road is steeped in history, having been used by native Indians, Spanish explorers, and settlers. The Mojave Road is a popular adventure trip for groups of overlanders who are looking for a thrilling and memorable experience.

Day Trip to Burro Schmidt Tunnel Mojave Desert

Burro Schmidt was a determined man who spent 32 years digging through the rock to create a shortcut for transporting gold ore to the smelters near Mojave. Although he never found any gold ore, he completed his tunnel. Bring a flashlight and plenty of water to visit the tunnel. The trek through the tunnel takes about 30 minutes, and the ceiling is high enough that most people do not have to duck.

Explore Trona Pinnacles: Ancient Rock Formations in Kern County

Trona Pinnacles is about 20 miles east of Ridgecrest in northeastern Kern County. The terrain in this area looks like it’s straight out of a science fiction movie. The tufa pinnacles found at Trona Pinnacles have been used as filming locations for movies such as Star Trek. Driving to the Pinnacles with a two-wheel drive is possible, but 4WD is recommended.

Titus Canyon Off-Road Trip to Death Valley

There are two ways to enter Titus Canyon in Death Valley National Park. The first option is to park at the west entrance and walk in. The second and more exciting option is to drive in from Nevada Highway 374. This 27-mile journey starts near the town of Beatty in Nevada. It ascends 5,000 feet before descending into lower Titus Canyon and eventually leading into Death Valley National Park. It is advisable to have a 4-wheel drive vehicle for this route.

Saline Valley Hot Springs

Saline Valley Hot Springs offers a rugged experience but is worth the effort for those who enjoy soaking in hot mineral water pools. The hot springs are maintained by volunteers who have built and managed them for years. There are no services, limited paved roads, and cell phone reception is scarce in the area. A 4WD or high-clearance vehicle is recommended, but some travel in 2WD vehicles.

National Parks, State Parks, Monuments

Death Valley National Park

Death Valley National Park is recognized as the hottest, driest, and lowest place in the United States. The area, located in California, was named “Death Valley” by prospectors who crossed the valley on their way to the goldfields. However, only one recorded death occurred during the Rush. Plan on spending at least two to three days exploring the park due to its vastness.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park is the largest state park in California and the second-largest in the United States, covering an area of 600,000 acres. It accounts for one-fifth of San Diego County’s land and offers over 500 miles of roads to explore. Some routes require an off-road vehicle as they feature rocky climbs or deep sand, while others are paved.

Red Rock Canyon California State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park covers an area of nine square miles of badlands and exposed mudstone strata on both sides of California Highway 14, situated in the middle of the Mojave Desert. The park has a mysterious landscape resembling a distant planet, featuring scenic desert cliffs, buttes, and multi-colored rocky outcrops.

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is located in Riverside and San Bernardino counties, covering almost 800,000 acres of land. More than half of this land has been designated as a wilderness area. The park has two deserts, each with a unique ecosystem that varies depending on elevation. The Mojave Desert section is located at a higher elevation and is dryer and cooler than the other section.

Mojave National Preserve

Mojave National Preserve is located in the heart of the Mojave Desert and was established in 1994 through the California Desert Protection Act. It is a must for any outdoor enthusiast and an excellent way for the entire family to spend some time outdoors.

Old Plank Road Imperial Sand Dunes Monument

Before constructing the Phoenix to San Diego highway, a seven-mile stretch of roadway called the Old Plank Road was built over the Algodones Dunes in Yuma, Arizona, in 1914. The monument features a reconstructed segment of the original plank road that used to cross the desert. This section is made from planks from the actual road.

Museums, Historic Sites, Artworks

Twentynine Palms: A Thriving Artist Colony in the Mojave Desert

Twentynine Palms is situated at the northern entrance of Joshua National Park. Many travelers pass through the town without realizing its potential despite its peaceful desert oasis. Most of the town’s revenue comes from the nearby 29 Palms Marine Base and tourists visiting Joshua Park for a day.

Goffs Schoolhouse Museum Historic Route 66

The Mojave Desert Heritage Association is an intriguing museum that displays the fascinating history of the Mojave Desert. It boasts an extensive collection of mining and railroad artifacts, antique automobiles, Route 66 memorabilia, and military exhibits. The museum comprises two main buildings: Goffs Schoolhouse and a replica of the historic Goffs Santa Fe Railway Depot. If you are traveling across the Mojave Desert, do not miss the chance to visit this exceptional museum.

Antelope Valley Indian Museum 

The Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park boasts a fantastic collection of Native American artifacts. Located about 25 miles from Lancaster in the Mojave Desert, the museum is housed in a one-of-a-kind 1920s Swiss-style chalet built into a rock formation. Visitors must climb up the rock formation to access the upstairs California Hall. There is a small admission fee charged to enter the museum.

Harvey House Railroad Depot Casa Del Desert

The Harvey House Railroad Depot, also known as the Casa Del Desierto, is located alongside the railroad tracks in Barstow, California. It was opened in 1911 as a Santa Fe train station and Harvey House. During your visit to the Harvey House Railroad Depot, you can witness the impressive sight of several colossal freight trains passing by, heading towards the Mojave Desert. Some of these trains are over a mile long, so it’s worth seeing!

Kelso Dunes & Depot Mojave Desert Trip

Kelso Dunes rises almost 700 feet from Southern California’s East Mojave desert. These spectacular dunes are the remains of mountains long worn away. Winds created the dunes, blowing sand particles across the Mojave River sink. When climbing down the dunes, your shoes make a booming sound to the delight of children of all ages. Kelso Depot is only a few miles from the dunes and well worth a stop while in the area.

Borax Visitor Center Boron, California

The Borax Visitor Center is in the Mojave Desert in Boron, California. The visitor center is built on a massive material extracted from the Borax mine pit. The displays in the center showcase the various uses of Borax. Visitors can also watch an exciting movie about the history of the Borax industry from the past to the present. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy a view of the massive open pit mine where Borax is extracted.

Noah Purifoy Joshua Tree Outdoor Museum

The Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum is a remarkable collection of artwork situated in the middle of nowhere along a dusty desert road. The artist Noah Purifoy (1917-2004) moved to the desert to escape the high cost of living in Los Angeles. Over 15 years, he created distinctive sculptures, buildings, and artwork using recycled materials.

Southern California Desert Road Trips

Amboy Loop of Route 66 California

Consider taking a road trip along Route 66 and the Amboy Loop. This route features several points of interest worth checking out, including Ludlow, California; Amboy Crater National Natural Landmark; Roy’s Motel and Cafe Amboy; the Guardian Lions of Amboy; and Essex, California.

National Old Trails Highway Road Trip

The National Trails Highway, situated west of Needles, California, was the primary route for travelers journeying from New Mexico to California. During our road trip, we will be traveling along this iconic highway named after the coast-to-coast highway that existed before Route 66, but today, only a few remnants remain.

Desert Hot Springs, California: Spa City

Located in the foothills above the Coachella Valley, the town of Desert Hot Springs offers a scenic view of the vibrant lifestyle of the wealthy and famous in nearby Palm Springs. The area boasts plenty of sunshine with average temperatures ranging from the mid to upper 80s, making it a perfect destination for visitors to relax in the local hot mineral water spas.

Big Morongo Canyon Preserve

More space can be beneficial, particularly for the Big Morongo Canyon Preserve. This preserve covers over 31,000 acres of the Little San Bernardino Mountain Range, and due to the varying elevations, it has an incredibly diverse range of evolved plant and animal species. The Morongo Canyon Preserve is a short road trip from Palm Springs.

Antelope Valley California

Antelope Valley is a place that takes its name from the Pronghorn antelopes that used to roam the desert floor until people hunted them down in the 1880s. It is a unique combination of remote desert landscapes and cutting-edge technology. This place is also known as the “aerospace capital of the world” and is about two hours away from Los Angeles by car.

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32 Essential Desert Hiking and Backpacking Tips

From what gear to bring and how to stay cool and safe, these desert hiking and backpacking tips will help you prepare for the southwest heat and terrain.

The American Southwest is one of the top destinations for hikers and backpackers with vast landscapes, unique geological features, and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. A desert day hike or backpacking trip can be a wonderful way to explore the trails in this region even when snow blankets most mountainous backpacking destinations.

From my years of hiking and backpacking in the deserts of Utah, Arizona, and California, I’ve learned that preparation is key. Hiking in the desert is a completely different experience than hiking in the mountains. Knowing how to deal with heat, sun exposure, desert wildlife, and water supply are all key factors in planning a safe (and fun) desert hike.

Before you take off to the desert, you need to have to plan, and I’ve got you covered with these desert hiking and backpacking tips. Whether you’re a first-time or seasoned hiker, these tips will help you plan what gear to bring and how to stay cool and safe on the trail.

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Basic Desert Hiking and Backpacking Tips

If you’ve never hiked in the desert before, these general tips can help you get started. It is crucial to think carefully about the time of year you plan to hike in the desert and how you will navigate the trail.

1. Hike in the spring or fall

The Southwest hosts millions of visitors each year, and while many people plan their trips during the summer months, it’s best to hike in the desert in the spring or fall.

In the winter, days are short, so you’ll have less sunlight to hike in and nights can be surprisingly cold. In the summer, daytime temps in the desert often exceed 100 degrees, which can be extremely dangerous for long hikes.

While spring and fall can be cool and wet across the U.S., it’s my favorite time to explore the desert since it’s one of the few times of year you’ll find pleasant hiking temperatures. Many popular national parks in the Southwest, like Utah’s Mighty 5 , are less crowded during spring and fall, making for a more intimate and personal experience. Water is also more plentiful in the desert in the spring, and you may even catch some spring wildflowers and cactuses in bloom.

2. Get an early start

Hiking in the desert can be HOT, and often in the desert, you are completely exposed to the sun with little to no shade. If you plan to hike in the desert when it’s hot outside, start hiking before sunrise.

Even though I hate setting my alarm that early, it’s always worth it to get a headstart on the day while enjoying the sunrise and the cooler morning temps. You also won’t feel as rushed on the trail if you give yourself ample time with an early start.

3. Take breaks in the shade

The desert is usually hottest between 10am to 4pm. If you’re out on the trail during these hours, whatever you do, don’t take your lunch break in the direct sun. This will zap your energy and only leave you more tired.

Instead, wait to break until you find a shady spot – whether than be against a bush or on the ground behind a rock. You may have to get creative looking for shade since you might not be able to find a tall tree like you would in the mountains.

If you are backpacking, you might even consider taking an afternoon cat nap in the shade, while you let the heat of the day pass.

4. Keep an eye out for cairns

A rock cairn is a human-made rock formation of stones piled on top of each other. Their purpose is usually to help hikers navigate the trail, which can be helpful while hiking in the desert in sections where it might be unclear where to go.

Although you may have good intentions, you should NOT build cairns for fun. Only park rangers, trail maintenance volunteers, or trail creators should create new cairns; otherwise, they could send hikers in the wrong direction or misrepresent the trail.

Building a cairn also disrupts the natural ecosystem and alters nature for the next visitor while leaving a reminder you were there. Per Leave No Trace principles, you should leave no sign whatsoever that you were on a trail, which means not creating new cairns.

5. Choose trails with shade and water

Research the trail you plan to hike to make sure there is plenty of shade and water. Shade provides relief from the sun, helping you regulate your body temperature on the trail and prevent overheating.

Not all trails in the desert have water sources, but those that do are a great choice. You can dunk your buff or hat in the water to cool off, and if you carry a water filter, you won’t have to pack as much water.

With that said, water sources in the desert can also dry up during certain parts of the year, so make sure you check current conditions before you go and plan accordingly.

6. Don’t bust the crust

In certain areas in the Southwest, there is a bumpy layer of cryptobiotic soil made up of microorganisms. This fragile soil is crucial to desert environments because it helps prevent soil erosion, absorbs water, and improves nutrient availability for new growth.

Desert hikers often accidentally damage cryptobiotic soil because they are unaware of what it is or its importance in preventing desertification. With just one step, it can be damaged, and it can take thousands of years to reform in the desert.

The best way to protect cryptobiotic soil is to not go near it, stay on the trail, and make sure your dog doesn’t step on it. Without cryptobiotic soil, nothing new can grow, and the plants and animals that rely on it will not survive.

What to Wear Hiking and Backpacking in the Desert

Conditions in the desert can be unforgiving, so bringing the right gear and wearing the right clothes while hiking and backpacking can make all the difference. Here is what I recommend wearing for a desert hike.

7. Cover your skin

You may think that a tank top and shorts would keep you cool in the desert. However, having direct sun contact on your skin can actually leave you hotter and sunburnt. So despite the heat, you should also try to cover as much skin as possible.

I always look for clothes made with sweat-wicking fabrics. Loose, long pants and lightweight, long-sleeve shirts, like the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Shirt , provide coverage without being unbearable.

8. Wear light colors and fabrics

Choose lightweight fabrics and light colors that reflect UV rays. While I usually wear darker colors because they hide dirt better, when hiking in the desert it’s best to avoid wearing colors like black or navy since dark colors absorb UV rays. 

This doesn’t mean you always need to wear white while hiking in the desert, though. Just know that lighter colors will help keep you cooler.

9. Wear a wide-brimmed hat

Always wear a hat to protect your face and scalp from getting burnt – ideally a wide-brimmed hat . Some people also like hats with a neck flap that covers the back of your neck and ears while you’re on the trail.

10. Apply sunscreen to exposed skin

Be sure to lather on sunscreen on any exposed areas of skin and reapply every 2 hours. I prefer to use something lightweight that’s easy to apply. 

Don’t forget your lips, too! Bring chapstick with SPF to protect your lips from the sun and keep them from getting uncomfortably dry.

11. Wear sunglasses with UV protection

Harsh sunlight can be tough on the eyes. Don’t forget your UV-protecting sunglasses to take pressure off of your eyes and enjoy the views along the trail.

I love my Roka sunglasses because they are lightweight, durable, and have a little flex. They never hurt my nose or ears when I have a hat on. I also like Pit Vipers due to the side-eye protection.

12. Wear breathable footwear

No one wants sweaty feet on the trail while hiking in the desert. I recommend wearing desert hiking shoes or boots that are lightweight and breathable yet also durable enough to handle uneven terrain.

When deciding which shoes to wear for a desert hike, look for ones that are designed with good traction and moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials. Unless you’re hiking in winter when there’s a chance of bad weather, avoid waterproof boots for a desert hike since they aren’t as breathable and can cause blisters.

As good as it might feel to walk around barefoot, I don’t recommend doing this in the desert. Many of the spiky and sharp features on the ground would not feel good to step on!

13. Wear a Buff

I love wearing a Buff on hikes. There are so many uses for them!

You can wear it around your neck to protect it from getting burnt (or wet it to help your body cool down quickly) or use it as a headband. You can also use it to prefilter your water or breathe through if the air is dusty. A bandana even works as a makeshift sling in an emergency scenario.

Read next: For more of my recommendations, check out what to wear hiking in the desert .

Gear for Hiking in the Desert

There are some essentials for hiking in the desert that you’ll want to make sure you have in your pack before you hit the trail. To avoid adding unnecessary extra weight to your pack, try to only stick to the items you truly need. Here are my recommendations for desert hiking gear.

14. Pack the 10 hiking essentials

When deciding what to pack, you’ll want to take into consideration how remote, difficult, and long your hike is. For a one-mile hike in a busy National Park, you can approach your gear list more casually.

However, for bigger hikes in wilderness areas where you’re unlikely to encounter lots of other hikers, it’s crucial to pack the 10 Day Hiking Essentials for the desert. Without proper safety gear, an emergency could quickly take a turn for the worse.

While I’ve touched on some of these essentials, the standing recommendation is to pack a first aid kit , knife/ multi-tool , way to start a fire , shelter/ emergency bivvy , food, extra water, and layers.

15. Carry a communication device

When hiking in the desert and other remote areas, I always bring a satellite communication device and GPS, like the Garmin inReach Mini .

Although these communication devices can be pricey, they are worth the investment. Especially when I’m with my partner, Ryan, who hikes with Type 1 Diabetes , it gives me peace of mind to know I can send an SOS message in case of an emergency even when I don’t have cell service.

These devices also allow you to send and receive custom text messages from your contacts and see your exact location on a map so you don’t get lost.

16. Have a reliable navigation tool (and a backup)

The desert can be a tricky place to navigate. Landmarks aren’t as obvious as they are in the mountains, and visual footpaths aren’t always as easy to see or follow.

Washes, dried riverbeds, and sandy areas can often be easily confused for trails (or sometimes that is the trail!), so pay attention and make sure you know where you’re going.

Always bring a reliable navigation device – whether that be your phone, a GPS, a compass, or a paper map. If you are using your phone, download the map for offline use on your favorite hiking app (this will also help you get back on the trail if you are lost).

Make sure you have a way to keep your phone charged as well if you’re using it as your primary navigation device. Bring a battery pack and/or solar charger and keep your phone on airplane mode to save power.

17. Carry a hiking umbrella

An umbrella is an important piece of gear for hiking in the desert. You don’t want to be caught off guard in a downpour especially in the desert as there are often no trees or shelter that you can stand under to wait out the storm.

A hiking umbrella also helps shield you from the sun where there otherwise isn’t a lot of shade. I have the Silver Shadow Carbon Umbrella by Six Moon Designs, and it literally feels 20 degrees cooler under the umbrella than it does in direct sunlight.

It weighs only 6.8 ounces, and it’s slender enough to fit in your backpack’s side pocket when you aren’t using it. They also sell a hands-free umbrella kit that you can use to attach it to your backpack.

Safety Tips for Desert Hiking and Backpacking

When hiking in the desert, you must take extra safety precautions to prepare for the heat. Here are some tips to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable time on the trail.

18. Have a desert hiking safety plan

When formulating a safety plan for your desert hike, base it around the least experienced or abled person. The slowest hiker determines how much ground the group can cover.

You should be realistic about your goals. If you’re a beginner desert hiker, start with shorter, easier, well-marked trails. It’s also good to have an established turnaround time (even if this means not finishing the hike) so you don’t get caught in the dark or run out of water.

19. Tell someone about your hiking plans

While this is something you should always do when you hike (especially if you hike solo ), a vital piece of advice for desert hiking is to always inform someone of your hiking plan.

Tell this person your start and end times (including when you expect to be back in cell service), the trailhead and trail info, and who you’re hiking with. When you’re done hiking, let that person know you’re safely off the trail.

20. Be aware of wildlife

When you’re in the wilderness, it’s important to remember that you are just a guest of the animals that live there. In the Southwest, common animals include rattlesnakes, coyotes, javelinas, jackrabbits, bighorn sheep, and mountain lions.

It’s especially important to keep an ear out for the warning rattle of a rattlesnake and know how to safely avoid dangerous wildlife encounters . Be alert and if you are wearing headphones, keep one earbud out . If you do hear and see a rattlesnake on the trail, give it space and don’t make any sudden movements that might freak the snake out.

21. Know the signs of heat exhaustion

Make sure you don’t push your limits in the desert and know the signs of heat exhaustion. Some common signs include heavy perspiration, fatigue, lightheadedness, nausea, muscle cramps, headache, goosebumps, high body temperature, fainting, and rapid heartbeat.

If you or someone you’re hiking with begins showing signs of heat exhaustion, act quickly so it doesn’t lead to heatstroke. Move to a cooler place, hydrate with water and electrolytes, loosen or remove clothing, and apply cool, wet rags to the skin.

22. Look out for cacti

Another desert hazard is cacti and other pointy plants. Staying on the trail and watching your surroundings will help you avoid brushing up on any plants. Carry tweezers in your first aid kit to be able to extract any needles should you get poked.

Staying Fueled on Your Desert Hike

Staying hydrated and nourished on the trail is one of the most important desert hiking tips. Following these fuel suggestions can help you make sure your body gets the energy it needs.

23. Stay hydrated

It’s always recommended to carry extra water on you in the desert since there aren’t rivers and streams to refill like there are in the mountains. I personally like hiking with a hydration reservoir because it makes it easy to drink water on the move.

The general recommendation for hiking in the desert is to drink at least 4L per person/day , but on a very hot day when you’re sweating a lot, you might drink more.

24. Pack electrolytes

When you’re drinking that much water, it’s imperative that you also maintain your electrolytes.  There is such a thing as overhydrating, and it can lead to the concentration of electrolytes in your body being too low. This actually happened to me once, and I got extremely lightheaded and dizzy and ended up with a medic having to pump electrolytes into me through an IV.

As you sweat, you also lose electrolytes. And since you are more prone to dehydration in the desert, getting enough electrolytes is key to keeping you hydrated and full of energy.

You can get electrolyte tablets or powders (such as Nuun tablets ) that dissolve in water, or Salt Stick makes electrolyte capsules or chews that you can easily pop as you hike.  If you go with the powder form, I like having a separate water bottle for electrolytes, so my hydration bladder stays clean.

25. Research water availability

This may be the most important desert hiking and backpacking tip. Unlike mountains, which commonly have plentiful water sources, you can easily go long stretches in the desert without a water source, and water sources are less reliable as they can seasonally dry up.

Be sure to call the Ranger Station to get the most up-to-date information on water sources for your hike. Carry a map with all water sources circled, and for longer hikes when you do come across water, chug some on the spot and then fill up before moving on.

26. Bring a reliable water filter (and a backup)

Water sources in the desert are often stagnant, cloudy, and contaminated by livestock. You need to research these water sources and make sure the filter you bring will work for the source. Your water filters are likely to get clogged and slow to use, so I recommend carrying backup water treatment , like water purification tablets .

For example, if you are filtering from a stream that’s only a couple of inches deep, then something like the popular Platypus Gravityworks which requires you to fill up a big bag of dirty water before filtering may not work. Instead, you might need something like the Sawyer Squeeze or the MSR Trailshot .

If the water is contaminated with more than your usual bacteria, then you might need a purifier that will work against viruses. If the water is full of sediment, you may need to pre-filter using a bandana and also the Steripen which uses UV light to kill bacteria will not work.

Case in point, you need to make sure whatever method you plan to use will work in the desert environment.

27. Pack salty snacks

Pack salty snacks will actually help your body retain water. Here are some of my favorite desert hiking snacks:

• Salted nuts
• Protein Bars
• Peanut Butter Pretzels
• Nut butter with apple

Read next: For more ideas, check out these easy hiking snacks for your next adventure .

Desert Backpacking Tips

While desert hiking and backpacking tips often overlap, these are unique to desert backpacking. If you’re planning to stay in the desert backcountry overnight, use these tips to help you make sure you have an enjoyable (and safe) trip.

28. Pack Light

Since you will likely be carrying more water than your usual backpacking trip, it’s important to keep your desert backpacking gear as light as possible and pack lightly .

Now, this doesn’t mean skipping on the backpacking essentials , but anything you can do to slim down your load will make a world of difference when you’re carrying a pack heavy with water (for reference, 1 liter of water weighs roughly 2.2 lbs).

Swapping out your usual gear for a tarp-style tent , an ultralight quilt , and an ultralight backpack will go a long way in reducing your base weight. You’ll also want to plan out your meals so you aren’t carrying an excessive amount of extra food, and you should also choose foods that have a high calorie-to-weight ratio.

Read next: For more tips to shed weight from your backpacking setup, check out these ultralight backpacking tips .

29. Prepare for cool nights

Although it may feel warm and sunny during the day, the night can be an entirely different story. Depending on the time of year that you backpack, there can be big temperature swings. Frost and freezing nighttime temps are common in late fall, winter, and early spring.

Make sure you bring warm layers to wear at night. You can always remove layers if you get too warm, but you can’t add layers that you don’t have!

30. Sweep for needles

When you pick a camp, be sure to sweep for loose needles before setting up your tent, and use a ground cloth if you have one. Always carry a patch kit for your sleeping pad just in case yours deflates in the desert.

31. Pack meals that require little water

If you are backpacking in the desert in a spot with limited water sources, prepare meals that require little to no water like peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, bars, wraps, and other hearty snacks, so you can save your water for drinking.

32. Pick the right trail for your ability

The Southwest has PLENTY of desert backpacking trips. It is important to pick one that fits your (and your group’s) physical fitness level. Here are our favorites broken down by state:

• Paria Canyon : A stunning 4-day/3 night trip hiking down a meandering riverbed in between two enormous walls of Navajo sandstone.
• West Rim Trail : This 2-day/1 night trip in Zion National Park is the ultimate way to avoid the crowds.
• Coyote Gulch : Located in Escalante National Monument, this trip can span 2-3 days and has awesome slot canyons and waterfalls.

Read next: If you want to explore even more options, here are more of my recommendations for the best Utah backpacking trips .

• California Hiking and Riding Trail : This 35-mile trip located in Joshua Tree National Park is great for beginners as it’s relatively flat and has awesome scenery.
• Trans-Catalina Trail : Located on Catalina Island off the coast of Southern California, this 40-mile trail includes campsites on the beach and epic views.
• Havasu Falls – This is a great beginner desert backpacking trip. The campground is located 10 miles from the trailhead, and there is a spigot for you to refill your water.

Planning a trip to the desert? Check out these day hikes.

• Best Hikes In Bryce Canyon National Park
• Trail Guide: Hiking The Bright Angel Trail In The Grand Canyon
• How To Hike The Corona Arch Trail In Moab
• Best Tucson Hiking Trails
• Best Hikes In Utah

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Are you planning a desert hike or backpacking trip? If you’ve spent some time in the desert, what are your favorite trails? Leave us a comment below!

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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Hi Jessica,

Thank You so much for this post.

My daughter is heading for a trekking and mountaineering trip and I was searching all the way on the web for the essential things to keep in mind and the useful things that shouldn’t be missed.

And here I am on your post. Thank a ton again for this compiled up information.

This is going to be of great help.

Regards, Steven

Thanks for great tips. I\’d add something like always be focused and aware of unknown places and everything should be good.

These tips are very helpful! I want to go backpacking soon!

Hiking & Backpacking

Backpacking in the Desert: Essential Skills and Gear

There’s something magical about backpacking in the desert. Perhaps it’s the big views, naked geology, and stubborn otherworldly flora. At night, clear starry skies evoke feelings of insignificance and meaning at the same time.

More practically speaking, desert backpacking is what’s available as I write this in the depths of a northern hemisphere winter. Through fall, winter, and spring, we go backpacking in the desert to get our nature fix when mountain trails are blocked by snow.

Desert backpacking has much in common with backpacking anywhere else, but deserts also require a few special considerations. Setting out into the desert without this knowledge can be unpleasant at best and downright dangerous at worst.

In this post I’ll share the most important differences between backpacking in the desert versus other environments, and the gear and skills needed to cope with them. I learned most of this on my Arizona Trail thru hike and a number of shorter adventures in the deserts of southern California, Arizona, and New Mexico.

Perhaps you’re dreaming of a thru hike on the Arizona Trail or the southern reaches of the PCT. Maybe you want to enjoy a weekend backpacking trip in Death Valley or southern Utah. Whatever your desert dreams entail, read on to learn what it’s like to backpack in the desert and how to do it skillfully.

When to Hike in the Desert

Let’s start with this critical safety information: many deserts are dangerously hot during summer . Sadly, hikers die from heat exposure each summer in areas like Death Valley. With temperatures often topping 100 degrees F, no shade in sight, and few water sources, it’s all too easy to get in over your head during summer in the desert.

I strongly recommend, along with pretty much every other experienced outdoorsperson, that you do not backpack in lower-elevation deserts during the months of June, July, and August (in the northern hemisphere). Even the shoulder months of April to May and September to October can be uncomfortably hot. Certain higher-elevation areas can be ok; check the average temps for the precise location.

Outside of summer, deserts can be accessible for many months of the year, though each season has its challenges.

Spring : Often ideal! Reasonable temperatures, good seasonal water sources, maybe wildflowers.

Fall : Good if you can find water. Manageable temperatures but seasonal water sources are often dry.

Winter: Depends. Low elevations are usually snow-free but might be very cold. Snow can be problematic at higher elevations.

S ummer : Dangerously hot at low elevations (avoid!), can be nice at higher elevations.

Water in the Desert

By definition deserts are dry, but as backpackers we often rely on natural water sources. In the desert we need to pay extra attention to how we plan water refills, carry enough water, and treat dirty water so it’s safe to drink.

Plan Water Refills Carefully

In the desert you can’t count on crossing a stream every hour or two. You’ll need to research water sources in advance and plan your days and camp locations around them. You can often find water reports online at trail organization websites, Facebook groups, or guides like Guthook / FarOut depending on the trail and area.

Key tips: Always be sure a water report is recent before relying on it, have a backup plan in case it’s dry, and update the report with your own findings to help future hikers. Be especially skeptical of seasonal water sources during fall.

Caching water is an option on some trails. You can either cache your own or – on popular trails like the southern section of the PCT and the Arizona Trail – benefit from the generosity of trail angels. For more on the etiquette of water caches, see Water on the AZT .

Carry Extra Water

Desert water sources are highly seasonal. Many deserts have flowing streams during spring as snow is melting up in the mountains, but most dry up during summer and fall.

Depending on the trail and season, you could easily end up carrying 4-6 liters. More remote and adventurous desert routes might require 8 liters or more!

Consider your strength. At 2.2 pounds per liter, water is heavy! Carrying more than 6-8 liters is too heavy for most people to bother with, so only the hardiest of hikers will take on routes that require it. Honestly consider how much water you can carry without it taking all the fun out of your hike.

Pack light. Everyone likes a lighter pack, but desert backpackers especially benefit from lightweight backpacking strategies that leave more headroom for all that water weight. Since desert weather is often dry, sometimes it makes sense to save weight by carrying less burly rain gear and shelter (within reason – it does sometimes rain in the desert) than you might in the mountains.

Monitor your water needs. Desert air is typically very dry, which means sweat evaporates quickly from your skin. You might not even notice that you’re sweating, but you’re still losing water. It’s important to keep drinking to avoid dehydration in these conditions.

Add extra water capacity : You might need to add a few liters to your typical backpacking hydration system . To keep things as light and compact as possible, consider collapsible soft bottles or dual-use items like the dirty bag from your gravity filter system.

Treating Dirty Water

If you backpack in the desert for long enough, you will sooner or later – probably sooner – filter and drink some really, really disgusting water.

In the ranch lands of the American southwest, water sources are often human-made. Windmills power pumps that draw water from deep in the ground, and cattle troughs quench the thirst of grazing herds (and hikers). The few natural sources remaining through summer are often small, algae-filled puddles with abundant “floaters” and “swimmers.”

Backpackers have several good options when it comes to choosing a water filter , but the demands of desert hiking make some better than others. Here’s what I recommend:

Choose a high flow-rate filter like the Sawyer Squeeze instead of the slightly smaller but more easily clogged Micro and Mini models.

Prepare to backflush or clean your filter often, sometimes multiple times per liter.

Prefilter with a bandana, buff, or square of old pantyhose to prolong the life of your filter.

Avoid UV treatment because it’s not effective in cloudy or silty water.

Avoid chemical-only treatments ; you’ll definitely want something to filter out the gunk.

Carry chemical treatment as a backup (ideally chlorine dioxide ) or to double-treat extra gross water.

Let very silty water settle overnight if possible to avoid clogging your filter.

Important : If using a hollow fiber filter like the Sawyer Squeeze or Katadyn BeFree, sleep with your filter at night to prevent damage from freezing. Overnight temperatures can be colder in the desert than you might expect based on other environments.

Camping in the Desert

Campsite selection.

If you’re accustomed to forested campsites blanketed in soft pine needles, you’ll need to make a few adjustments for desert backpacking. Here’s how to think about choosing a campsite.

Don’t camp in washes (dry waterways) or canyons if there’s any chance of rain, even far away. It doesn’t rain often in the desert, but when rain does fall it flows quickly into washes and can cause dangerous flash foods even many miles away.

Look for wind shelter if you can find it. Deserts can be blustery places, especially in large flat areas or along ridgelines.

Avoid trampling cryptobiotic soil . In some places, including southern Utah, this living organism plays an essential role in the desert ecosystem and takes a long time to grow back.

Camp at least 200 feet away from any water source, so you don’t discourage animals from visiting the only pond / trough / puddle for miles around.

Avoid camping near plants with spikes or thorns . If you must, check the area thoroughly before laying down your tent.

Gear suggestion : Inflatable sleeping pad users, take care to avoid punctures! Put a thin foam pad beneath your inflatable one – ideally a lightweight one like Gossamer Gear Thinlight – for extra protection.

For many backpackers, the desert lends itself especially well to “cowboy camping” – sleeping out under the stars without a tent or tarp. Infrequent rain, clear skies, and lack of dense trees overhead make for an appealing openness. If you like the idea but worry about creepy-crawlies, look into a bivy like my favorite from Borah Gear .

Rocky or Sandy Soil

This isn’t only a desert problem, but in some desert areas you’re more likely to find hard-packed rocky soil. When it comes to backpacking, this causes problems in two ways: pitching shelters and digging cat holes .

Here are two pieces of gear I use specifically for desert backpacking in rocky areas like the Arizona Trail:

Titanium tent stakes : Upgrading to sturdy titanium stakes will help prevent bending and breaking as you pound them into rocky desert ground.

Bathroom trowel : In other areas I use a trekking pole or stick, but in rocky desert regions a titanium trowel makes digging cat holes so much easier.

Sand : If you’ll be camping in a particularly sandy type of desert landscape, consider wide tent stakes like the MSR Blizzard or even Big Agnes Blowdown anchors. In my experience though, many deserts (especially in North America) are more rocky and less sandy than you might expect.

Cold Nights

Overnight temperatures can be quite cold in the desert, even when days are hot. It’s common to have sub-freezing nights even in spring and fall.

In these conditions be sure to pack a warm sleeping bag or quilt (ideally rated to 20 degrees or below), midlayer top and bottom, and an insulated jacket at minimum. These other tips on how to keep warm while backpacking will help with those chilly nights.

Key tip: Sleep with your water filter (if using a hollow fiber filter) if there’s any chance temps could dip below freezing. A filter that’s been frozen may not do its job and you’ll have no way of knowing until you end up sick.

Clothing for Desert Backpacking

Your current backpacking clothes probably work for desert hiking too. But to be as comfortable as possible, consider these three issues that are especially prominent in the desert: big temperature swings, cold nights, and extreme sun exposure.

Temperature Swings

Because sandy soil and dry air don’t retain heat very well, variations in temperature can be extreme in the desert. You might not expect a 30 degree F night following an 85 degree afternoon, but it’s not uncommon. Changes in elevation, wind, and cloud cover can also lead to big swings in perceived temperature.

This makes it hard to get that “just right” feeling. You’ll sweat hiking uphill in the sunshine and then shiver while sitting down to snack as a cloud passes in front of the sun.

To help regulate your body temperature, use a flexible and breathable layering system and keep your layers easily accessible. A breathable layer, like the Icebreaker Merino 260 midlayer ( women’s , men’s ) or Patagonia Houdini wind shirt, will have a wider comfort range than a rain jacket or puffy.

Nights in the desert can be downright frigid. If you’re used to camping in the mountains you might not expect such cold temperatures at relatively low elevations.

Keep in mind that if you’re hiking in spring or fall, when deserts are at their best, you’re also dealing with cooler shoulder-season temperatures. On top of that, days are shorter so you’ll have fewer hours of sunlight to keep you warm.

To pack : If cold nights are expected, be sure to bring your full set of backpacking layers for around camp and sleeping: a warm insulated jacket, midlayer top, midlayer tights, gloves, hat, and thick socks.

Sun Exposure

Unless you count huddling in the shadow of a lone cactus, it’s often hard to find shade in the desert. Even if you love sunshine as much as I do, it can quickly start to feel relentless.

I like to wear shorts and a t-shirt for comfort but cover my arms and hands with sun sleeves to reduce the risk of sunburn and skin cancer. Some people prefer long pants and long sleeves, with sun gloves for their hands (which get a lot of sun if you’re using hiking poles). Light colored clothing reflects sunlight better than dark colors and will keep you a smidge cooler.

Hats normally bug me, but I always wear one when hiking in the desert. I even recommend the kind with full coverage, not just a brim in front. Sunday Afternoons has some great hat options .

To pack : Remember plenty of sunscreen lotion, SPF lip balm, a hat, and sunglasses with big lenses and good side coverage.

Desert Clothing Recommendations

Here are a few personal favorites from my desert packing list:

Hat : Sunday Afternoons Ultra Adventure : Good coverage without obscuring peripheral vision or interfering with top of backpack.

Sun sleeves : Outdoor Research ActiveIce : Good coverage for arms and hands, grippy upper prevents slipping down.

Neck gaiter: Buff headwear is a must-have for any backpacking trip, but especially useful in the desert where it helps with sun protection, warmth, and even the occasional dust storm.

Midlayer : Icebreaker Merino 260 ( women’s , men’s ): Breathable and stink-resistant, adds warmth without clamminess.

Gaiters : If you hike in trail running shoes (which I recommend), Dirty Girl Gaiters prevent desert sand and grit from getting in and causing blisters. Plus they’re stylish.

Related : My Arizona Trail Gear List

Desert Critters

Some people worry about snakes and scorpions, but I actually find desert critters to be fairly low-stress. No bears, wolves, or cougars (mostly) to worry about here! In the American southwest we’re mostly just dealing with annoying rodents, harmless coyotes, and cute bunnies.

Here are a few desert critters that sometimes concern people:

Snakes and scorpions : They won’t bother you if you don’t bother them. Avoid sticking your hands or feet into places you can’t see (between rocks, into your rolled up tent flap, into your shoes without shaking them out first etc.) and you’ll be fine.

Coyotes : The sound of a pack calling out in the night can be unsettling at first, but once you realize they pose no danger you can learn to enjoy the music.

Rodents : These little guys can be a real pest. Since bears aren’t an issue in the desert it’s common to sleep with your food, but tarp sleepers and cowboy campers may find their food bags thoroughly gnawed in the morning. An Ursack Minor critter bag may be worth it for those without a tent.

Toiletries and Personal Care

Backpacking is always a little rough on the skin, but the dry air, gritty soil, and aggressive foliage of the desert can be extra challenging.

Sand, Grit, and Dry Air

If you hike in trail running shoes, gaiters are extremely helpful for keeping sand out of your shoes where it can cause blisters.

In certain types of desert environments that are prone to sand storms, a buff makes a convenient face covering among many other uses.

If you’re prone to dry skin or dry eyes, backpacking in the desert might make it worse. Consider adding small containers of these soothing items to your lightweight toiletries kit :

• Extra-dry skin lotion
• Carmex lip balm
• Lubricant eye drops

First Aid for Cactus Spikes

It seems like every time I hike in the desert, I or someone in my group gets attacked by a cactus! As my husband says, spikes are just how desert plants say hello. Jumping cholla are his nemesis, and I’ve had a couple ugly run-ins with agave plants.

Aside from learning to be careful where you step and swing your arms, I recommend adding these to your desert first aid kit:

• New Skin Liquid Bandage (keeps small cuts from getting infected)
• Tweezers (for removing cactus spikes)

I’m not usually too uptight about staying squeaky-clean when I backpack. A quick splashdown on arrival at camp is all I need, plus rinsing out my socks and underwear every couple days on a “wear one, wash one” alternating schedule.

But in the desert where water is precious, my usual quarter-liter hygiene allotment is too much to waste.

When backpacking in dry areas where my water capacity is already stretched, I make these additions to my packing list:

• 1 additional pair of socks, for total of 3 pairs: one for hiking, one for sleeping, and one for extra warmth and/or for hiking if the first pair becomes too dirty and I can’t wash it.
• 1 extra pair of underwear, for total of 3 pairs: wear one, ideally wash one, plus one extra if washing isn’t an option
• Baby wipes: 1 per day, helpful for cleaning up without using extra water.

Trails and Lack Thereof

When thinking of a hiking trail, most of us picture a narrow ribbon of human-built tread winding intentionally through the landscape. You’ll find plenty of these trails in deserts, but thanks to particularities of desert topography you’ll often find other types of walking paths.

Washes and canyons : Dry waterways make convenient hiking paths and fun scrambling opportunities . Whether walking along a sandy wash or squeezing through a slot canyon, many popular desert hiking routes follow the path of water rather than trail crews.

Safety tip : Never hike in canyons when there’s rain in the forecast, even if it’s many miles away. You don’t want to be caught in a dangerous flash flood!

Cross-country travel : Thanks to open sight lines, relatively flat ground, and sparse vegetation, walking “cross-country” (without a trail) is a feature of some desert routes. Sometimes you can navigate by sight – “head across the alluvial fan toward the mouth of the canyon” – but most people should have a GPS navigation system to be safe.

Road walking : Sometimes the most efficient way to traverse a large expanse of desert is to follow rugged ranch roads and other existing vehicle tracks. Large sections of the CDT in New Mexico in Wyoming, for example, are dirt road walks through desert landscapes. The going can be faster, but also sometimes monotonous, and unmarked junctions can make navigation a challenge.

Important : A GPS navigation app is essential for safety when traveling cross-country, following a branching canyon system, or navigating a maze of unmarked dirt roads.

One final tip about desert trails: Deserts are NOT always flat! Anyone who has hiked through the “sky islands” of southern Arizona, the Grand Canyon of northern Arizona, or the basin-and-range country of Nevada can confirm.

Freezing nights, filthy water, dangerous plants, and relentless sun… Is a desert backpacking trip really worth it?

In my opinion, absolutely! Dry desert nights are perfect for sleeping out beneath gorgeous starry skies, the kind that beg for contemplation of the universe. Desert sunsets are especially gorgeous, and wide open spaces are soothing for the soul.

Plus, no bears (yay for breakfast in bed) and no mosquitos! If that doesn’t convince you, I don’t know what will.

Desert Backpacking Trip Ideas

If you’re craving desert expanses after reading this post, here are a few trip ideas to whet your appetite:

• Death Valley National Park (Marble Canyon, Bighorn Gorge )
• Arizona Trail : 780 miles from Mexico to Utah
• The Grand Canyon, Arizona
• Southern California section of the Pacific Crest Trail
• Southern Utah’s canyon country (many wonderful options)

More Backpacking Resources

If you love backpacking, you might like these too:

• Colorado Trail: Essential Thru Hiking FAQ
• Backpacking Gear: My Personal Favorite Items
• Thru Hiking vs Backpacking: Differences and Similarities
• Packing Tips: Handling the Gear Explosion
• John Muir Trail: What I Wish I’d Known

For much more, visit the hiking and backpacking resources page .

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of hiking the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and countless shorter amazing trails throughout the US and abroad. I love solitude, big views, and a good lightweight gear setup. Learn more here .

Excited about backpacking but need help getting started? The Backpacking Trip Planner Workbook will help you start off on the right foot.

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The World’s Best Desert Vacation Destinations

Think deserts are deserted? Think again! Here are a few ideas for a perfect desert vacation destination that’s full of life and fun!

While the entire world is full of amazing destinations, there’s something very special about visiting the world’s deserts. Far from being the empty spaces that you often see in movies, deserts host an incredible array of biodiversity and some other world’s most unique geological formations. Whether you’re in the inhospitable terrain of Death Valley or the vast dunes of Namibia, you’re sure to have a spectacular desert vacation in these incredible places. 

Dive into your desert adventure!

Here at Let’s Roam , we are big fans of exploring the unique landscapes of the planet. That’s why we’ve created a huge selection of one-of-a-kind experiences in the world’s most breathtaking places. Our fun-filled scavenger hunts are a laugh a minute! We also offer cool bar crawls to keep you cheerful, scary ghost tours to keep you mysterious, and awesome art walks to keep you sophisticated. Download the app today and start the next adventure !

Close to Home

Palm springs, california.

Lying less than 150 miles from both San Diego and Los Angeles in the Sonoran Desert, Palm Springs is one of the most easily accessible destinations on this list, making this pastel-colored desert a paradise for last-minute vacationers. The name of the game here is relaxation and you can spend your day hopping between golf courses, spas, hot springs, and high-end hotels surrounded by stunning scenery. This is one of the few spots on Earth where you can be working on your tan next to an outdoor pool or lounging in a hot tube surrounded by a backdrop of snow-covered mountains. 

While Palm Springs is a hot spot for retirees, there’s also plenty to do here with kids thanks to the plethora of museums, hiking trails, and more located both in the city and in the surrounding area. Some of the most popular of these is the Palm Springs Art Museum, home to artwork by Henry Moore, Helen Frankenthaler, Robert Motherwell, and local artists as well as the Aerial Tramway which whisks visitors up the canyon to get fantastic views of the Coachella Valley and the Colorado Desert down below. This is also a great spot for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding if you’re up for a little more adventure. 

Joshua Tree National Park

Just an hour-long drive from Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park is a popular place for visitors who want to get a taste of California’s wild side. Spread across 800,000 acres of pristine land, the park is characterized by craggy peaks, magnificent boulders, and, of course, the unique Joshua Tree that gives it its name. It was recently classified as an International Dark Sky Park, making it a great destination for stargazing and camping under a sea of shimmering stars but if you’re short on time, you can always fit it in as a day trip from Palm Springs, LA, or San Diego. 

One of the highlights of the park is a family-friendly hike around the Hidden Valley where you can enjoy sweeping vistas of the park. Alternatively, you can join one of the free ranger-led walks where you can learn a lot about this unique landscape and the two ecosystems that converge here. 

Sedona, Arizona

Located in Red Rock Country between Phoenix and Flagstaff, Sedona looks like it could be straight out of a fairytale. This small city is nestled between rolling red hills and surrounded by a magnificent landscape and oodles of geographic oddities. During a visit, you can climb to the top of Cathedral Rock for sweeping views of the surrounding landscape, do a loop around the Airport Mesa, which features a family-friend trail that gives you a bird’s eye view of Sedona or hike deep into one of the nearby canyons. 

Interestingly, Sedona is also famous for its spiritual side and energy vortexes. Due to this, it has also become a popular case for wellness vacations and many people visit to absorb the healing energy and spend time doing self-reflection. You can find many accommodation providers that provide wellness sessions or you can even join a desert retreat here. 

Sedona is located within just a few hours’ drive of both Phoenix and Las Vegas, both of which often have affordable flights to destinations across the country. Accommodation is surprisingly affordable considering how upscale the town is and you can snag some great deals if you visit mid-week when schools are in session. 

Great Sand Dunes National Park, New Mexico

While you can find sand dunes all over the world, nothing quite compares to a visit to the Great Sand Dunes National Park. This relatively small park sees a fraction of the visitors as other parks in the southwest which makes it a great dessert destination if you want to escape the crowds and go off the beaten track a bit. It’s located just a two-hour drive from Taos and a three-hour drive from Santa Fe.

Great Sand Dunes National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert which is nearly four times the size of the Mojave Desert. The park stretches 275 square miles and is home to more than 700 different animals, including an endemic fish that can only be found in the desert’s springs and creeks. Although the park was formally established in 2019 which makes it the newest national park in the United States, it was upgraded from the national monument status that it had been given in 1933. 

Going to Great Sand Dunes National Park is like walking through millions of years of history. This land was once covered by a prehistoric sea which today has been replaced by 60-foot-tall dunes that flow here from the adjacent Lake Lucero. The park is full of geological wonders and is a perfect spot for hiking and sand surfing. When you’re out exploring, make sure to keep an eye out for the flora and fauna there and don’t forget your sunglasses. The glare off of the sand can be insanely bright. 

Arches National Park, Utah

With the highest concentration of natural arches in the world (2,000 arches within 75,000 acres), Arches National Park certainly lives up to its name. The park has a lot more to offer than arches, you can also find balancing boulders, dramatic pinnacles, and enormous sandstone fines. 

The best way to see the park is by driving along the Arches Scenic Drive, an 18-mile-long scenic drive that connects the main areas of the park. When you need to stretch your legs, you can hike out to the Delicate Arch, the highest arch in the park standing at an impressive 52-feet-high. The hike is around three miles round trip and is very family-friendly.

The park is located just five miles from the town of Moab which provides a great base to explore the park and its many trails. Keep in mind that during the high season months from April to October, Arches has a reservation system in place to help control visitor volume. If you plan on visiting in 2023, you can reserve your spot at Recreation.gov .

Death Valley National Park

Known as being one of the most inhospitable places in the world, Death Valley National Park is full of fascinating wildlife and a unique desert landscape. The park is located in eastern California and is one of the lowest and driest places in the country. There are more than 100 miles of roads that cross through the park, allowing visitors to get a closer look at the mind-boggling diversity of the park. Inside, you’ll find the salt flats of Badwater Basin, “moving rocks” at Racetrack Playa, the breathtaking vistas of Zabriskie Point, and a handful of ghost towns that it seems like time has forgotten. 

If you want to be a bit more active, you can go for a long hike or a bike ride on the many miles of trails and you can even spend the night in the park to experience the magic of the desert night. Hikers must make sure to bring plenty of water as the desert sun and high temperatures can quickly lead to dehydration.

As you make your way through the park, you may find yourself wondering if you have seen some of these places before. You actually may have! The otherworldly landscape of Death Valley has been the filming location of many different movies and TV shows so make sure to keep your camera ready while you’re there just in case!

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

One of the most enduring symbols of the desert is the stately saguaro cactus. These massive plants can only be found in a small corner of the United States and the Saguaro National Park n just outside of Tucson is home to many of them. The park is small and easily manageable even if you’re a bit short on time. It’s divided into two parks. The Rincon Mountain District offers some of the most impressive landscapes while the Tucson Mountain District has the highest concentration of cacti.

One of the best ways to see the park is by driving along the Bajada Loop Drive, a six-mile-long scenic drive that gives access to many of the most impressive attractions. You can also take a walk on the Valley View Overlook Trail, a .8-mile long family trail that takes you past Saguaro cactus, prickly pears, and ironwood trees before eventually reaching an overlook where you can get great views of the park. History lovers should make sure not to miss the Signal Hill Petroglyphs which were drawn by the Hohokam people more than 800 years ago and are easily accessed via the Bajada Loop Drive. 

Further Afield

If you want to go off the beaten track, below you’ll find a list of great desert getaways around the world. Many of these destinations have been overlooked as desert vacation spots but are up-and-coming on the travel circuit as geopolitical situations have made them more easily accessible and safety and security have improved both in these and in neighboring countries.

As always when you travel internationally,  it’s important to check what the most recent entry requirements are to get into all of the countries listed below. You can find the most up-to-date information on the state department website which will link you to various country websites where you can apply for visas if necessary. Alternatively, you can go through third-party websites that specialize in handling visa applications. However, please be aware that these are often much, much more expensive applying directly to a foreign government. 

Saudi Arabia

After recently opening up to tourism just a few years ago, Saudi Arabia has quickly become a go-to destination for experienced travelers. The vast desert is dotted with geological and historical treasures. There are frequent flights into both Jeddah and Riyadh, both of which offer easy access to the country’s three major deserts that cover the majority of the peninsula. The region is so vast and empty that it’s named the “Empty Quarter” which gives you a little bit of an idea of what you’ll experience there. 

However, Saudi Arabia isn’t all deserts and along the western coast, you’ll find amazing Red Sea snorkeling and diving and the Hijaz Mountains where you can find charming villages full of friendly and welcoming people and gorgeous mountain views The country has come a long way in recent decades and today, women are no longer required to wear headscarves and can travel freely throughout the country. It’s an incredibly safe destination with very low crime rates, especially compared to many places in the United States. Most nationalities need to obtain a visa before traveling to Saudi Arabia but this can be done quickly and easily through their efficient e-visa process. 

Socotra Island, Yemen

Lying off the coast of the Arabian Peninsula, Socotra offers some of the most unique flora and fauna in the entire world due to its interesting, and very long, history. As many as ⅓ of the island’s plants and animals can only be found here and intrepid travelers have been traveling here for decades to experience this diversity. This small island is most famous for its desert-like landscape and rolling dunes, Blood Dragon trees that look like giant umbrellas, and its stunning beaches where it’s not uncommon to see pods of dolphins and even whale sharks gliding by. 

Although the island is technically part of Yemen,  it’s under the control of the UAE and requires a separate visa from Mainland Yemen. Although the region has largely escaped the instability that has plagued its “cousin”,  it’s still relatively difficult to access. At the time of writing, the only way to visit Socotra is via a guided tour, and the only way to get there’s on weekly flights via Abu Dhabi. 

Huacachina, Peru

Located in the Ica Desert in the foothills of the Andes Mountains, Huacachina is a desert oasis that feels a little bit like a secret hideaway for weary backpackers. When you approach this small village, it almost feels like a mirage rising out of the desert landscape. It’s surrounded by dunes that provide a playground for thrill seekers who can spend hours dune surfing and dune “bashing” in 4x4s. There is plenty of accommodation for all price ranges and Huacachina is easily accessible from the Peruvian capital of Lima. 

White Desert, Egypt

While many visitors flock to Egypt to explore the ancient ruins of Luxor and Cairo, the White Desert is often overlooked. However, this desert is truly spectacular and should be high on every traveler’s list of things to do in Egypt. The desert is a protected area and is famous for its impressive white chalk rock formations that rise dramatically from the desert floor. The rocks have been eroded over thousands of years by wind and sand and the result is very impressive. You can also find cliffs of the Farafra Depression, dunes, and the oasis towns of Ain El Maqfi and Ain El Wadi. 

The White Desert can be reached on two to three-day overnight trips from Cairo, allowing visitors to see the desert’s most beautiful attractions and spend the night in a Bedouin camp sleeping under the stars. Although these trips can be quite expensive if booked online, you can find much cheaper deals by walking into one of the many travel agents located around Tahrir Square and the National Museum in Cairo. 

Situated on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula, Oman is a relatively small country that packs in a big punch when it comes to tourist attractions. The country’s desert is characterized by its many wadis (gorges) full of sparkling, emerald-colored water where you can cool down after spending time under the hot Arabian sun. Some of the highlights of any trip are Wadi Shab, located just 1.5 hours from the capital city of Muscat, and Wahiba Sands, where you can “glamp” in the middle of the desert. 

Oman is an extremely safe country to travel to, especially for solo females. Public transportation is limited so it’s best to explore by car. The roads are well-maintained and it’s very easy to find your way from one place to another. There are frequent flights to Muscat from many Middle Eastern cities or you can take a bus there from Dubai. 

Namibia 

Lying on the southwestern corner of Africa, Namibia offers an incredibly unique desert landscape where you can climb dunes, camp under the stars next to breathtaking rock formations, or go on a safari in Etosha National Park to see the country’s diverse wildlife. The country is also home to interesting German architecture and a sea of delicious beer which makes it unique to many of the other international destinations on this list.

Traveling through Namibia can get pretty expensive if you’re a solo traveler but there are tours that you can join which take you to the most popular sites. If you’re traveling as part of the group, you can rent a 4×4 that can take you deep into the desert to explore the vast desert landscape. Namibia is one of the safest destinations in Africa so this is a wonderful place for first-time visitors to the continent who want to experience the beauty of nature relatively stress-free.

Atacama Desert, Chile

Covering the northern section of Chile and stretching over 600 miles, the Atacama Desert is located on a plateau nearly 4,000 meters above sea level. The plateau is covered in geysers, deep blue lagoons, ravines, rugged mountains, and salt flats, creating a unique, and very picturesque landscape that’s just waiting to be explored. It’s one of the driest coastal deserts in the world.

San Pedro de Atacama provides the perfect base for exploring the desert and is full of museums and archaeological sites where you can learn more about Chile’s indigenous population. A trip to the Atacama Desert can easily be included as part of an overland trip through South America or a hiking trip to Patagonia. 

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

This spectacular salt flat is located in a high-altitude desert in the South American country of Bolivia. Like the Atacama Desert, its southern neighbor, Salar de Uyuni is characterized by its massive salt pan, interesting rock formations, cacti-studded islands, and frolicking pink flamingos. 

The Uyuni salt flat can be visited as part of a multi-day guided tour that allows you to spend the night surrounded by this remarkable scenery. Tours leave from the small dusty town of Uyuni as well as San Pedro de Atacama. At the time of writing, Americans are required to obtain a visa to enter Bolivia which can be obtained on the Chile-Bolivia border or by going to your local consulate. 

Uluru, Australia

Located in the heart of Australia’s Red Center, Uluru has been a spiritual home for Aboriginals for centuries. It’s a large sandstone formation dramatically plopped down in the middle of the desert. While you can no longer climb to the top of it out of respect, there are places that you can explore around it. If you’re an early riser, you’ll certainly want to get up and watch the sunrise while you’re there to witness the massive rock formation seemingly change “colors” as the sun’s rays hit it.

The closest city to Uluru is Alice Springs, a quiet little place that provides a great place to relax for a few days. There are frequent flights from Alice Springs to many east coast cities. Alternatively, you can take one of Australia’s long-distance trains. Known as “The Ghan”, this train travels from Darwin to Adelaide. Tickets can get pretty pricey but they do offer a backpacker-friendly option. It’s a good idea to book well in advance if you plan on grabbing one of these seats as they are limited. 

Keep in mind that Alice Springs is nearly 300 miles away from Uluru so “close” is a relative term and you’ll likely need to book a guided tour or hire a car to get to the actual site itself. The tours are usually good value for money and include a night camping out in the desert under an ink-black sky and dazzling stars. 

Located in the northwestern corner of Africa, Morocco is an intriguing country full of unique desert landscapes, fascinating towns, and the soaring High Atlas Mountains. The country is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, the Mediterranean Sea, and the sweeping Sahara Desert and is characterized by its unique blend of Berber, Arabian, and European cultures. Some of the highlights of any trip to this desert country are the ancient walled city of Fes, the kasbahs of Marrakech, and the port city of Essaouira where you can easily access the nearby desert. 

Morocco has long been one of the most stable and safest countries in Northern Africa and can be easily accessed by frequent ferries from southern Spain (ferry schedules change based on the time of year so make sure to check online for the most up-to-date information). Many nationalities, including Americans, Australians, and EU citizens, can enter the country visa-free, making Morocco one of the best desert vacation spots in Africa. 

Ready to roam?

We hope that this list has left you eager to plan your next desert getaways. As always, we would love to hear your feedback and please let us know if there are any desert hideaways that we may have missed! 

If you need more information about any of these destinations, make sure to download the Let’s Roam app . From the best vacation rentals to restaurants, the app is full of great user-generated content that will help you plan an amazing vacation. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are looking for a desert vacation , look no further than the southwestern United States! From Death Valley to Sedona, this region is full of great vacation spots.

If you are looking to combine international travel with a desert vacation , you may want to look at Peru, Bolivia, or Chile in South America or Egypt and Namibia in Africa.

If you are looking for great things to do during a desert vacation, make sure to download the Let’s Roam app , it’s full of user-generated content from around the world!

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22 Rockin Tips to Master Desert Camping

• November 20, 2019
• By foxintheforest

Last Updated on November 5, 2021 by foxintheforest

Sandstone monoliths and strange canyons rise and fall from the horizon. You’re miles from civilization with nothing but a tent and a few close friends, maybe a dog. Are you prepared to survive in this desolate landscape? Take a look at this ultimate list of desert camping tips and tricks that will make your experience one for the history books.

As a full-time freelance writer for the outdoors and avid climber, I spend a lot of time camping in the desert. In fact, I’ve even written about the topic for major outlets like the REI Co-Op Journal.

I travel to the American Southwest at least six times a year for a desert camping adventure. Throughout the years I’ve learned a few things about how to comfortably safely camp in this unforgiving landscape. So here’s a look at a few exlcusive tips to make the most of your desert getaway.

About this Guide to Camping in the Desert

Camping in the desert, especially without any amenities (called disperesed camping) is a bit of an art form. In this list of tips for desert camping we’ll cover:

• How to leave it better than you found it
• Safety tips for camping off the grid in the desert
• What to pack in your car 
• How to navigate in the desert without cell service

1. Count Your Miles While Desert Camping

Most of the BLM land in the southern US involves vast distances between gas stops. The San Rafael Swell offers some of the most remote areas in the Lower 48. After Green River, there’s a sign that reads, next services 204 miles, and they aren’t kidding. Be sure to keep tabs on how far gas stops are between destinations and plan accordingly. You can reset the mile counter on your vehicle so you know just how far you’ve driven and how far you have until empty.

2. Bring Plenty of High Quality H20

You drink more in dry environments, if you travel during the heat of the day, you’ll want even more water. Depending on the season, plan on budgeting between four liters to one gallon per day per person out here. Aim high during the summer months. This includes cooking, washing and drinking water.

3. Pack that Gas

Whenever you head into the desert it’s always a good idea to pack an extra gas can (make sure it’s full!). If you run out of juice, you’ll want that can. Be sure to keep it away from passengers in the vehicle to avoid any unwanted smell. You can purchase an external carrier for your vehicle, and some gas cans can even strap to the roof of cars.

4. Find Free Camping

One of my favorite desert camping tips is never to pay to camp! It’s one of my favorite budget-friendly desert road trip hacks. Anyone who pays for camping in the desert simply isn’t doing it right. Free camping is EVERYWHERE.

BLM land even has established camp areas (with toilets) that are free of charge. Simply type in your destination (trailhead, national park, what have you) and use Google in terrain view to find spots. Be sure to camp ONLY in previously established sites. For fun sites, look for camping with a rock feature or a point of interest nearby. Always have a few backup coordinates just in case.

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5. Source Firewood Locally

Firewood is at a premium in a land where nothing grows. However, there are juniper trees and other vegetation out here that you can scavenge. Check in washes or dried river beds for viable firewood. Never cut live trees or try to dig a tree up (even if it looks dead, it likely isn’t). Always have a few bundles of locally-sourced wood as a backup.

6. Check Your Tires

Be sure you know how to change a spare in a jiffy. Often times, rocky roads can cause serious problems to your vehicle. Understand how to change a tire, otherwise, you’re looking at a long, lonely walk to the nearest busy road.

7. Have a Plan

Be sure to tell someone where you are going. Write down a personal description, vehicle description and rough idea of where you are headed and when someone should hear back from you (don’t forget to check in!). Leave your point person a description on who to call (local sheriff) in case you don’t return.

For more info on how to create a comprehensive trip plan that will get you rescued, check this out.

8. Never Travel in the Rain

If you haven’t experienced the desert in the rain, it’s a magnificent butterfly. Waterfalls appear out of nowhere, rivers rage from nothing and the entire landscape changes. However, it’s extremely dangerous to get caught in the desert rain. Avoid slot canyons, washes cliffs (think falling rocks) and other areas during the rain. If you do get caught, seek high ground immediately to stay out of harm’s way.

Driving becomes nearly impossible over many desert roads for days after a big storm. Plan accordingly. If you do get caught in the wild for a brutal storm, plan on staying put for several days. Roads need to dry before they become passable again.

9. Watch for Washes

Don’t set up camp in low spots. Sandy areas or washes come to life with weather, and you don’t want your tent to become flotsam in a rainstorm or be inundated with a hidden waterfall. Seek high ground when it comes to setting up the tent.

10. Explore Your World

One of the best parts of the desert is exploring cross-country. With some navigation know-how, you can head to a prominent rock formation or explore around camp. Remember, what goes up must come down, and down climbing is always harder. Never ascend a rock you aren’t certain you can get down.

11. Give Your Adventure Vehicle a Once Over

Before you embark on an off-the-grid expedition, give your vehicle a little TLC. Check your oil level, battery life, coolant, power steering, and wiper fluids. Examine your tires. Make sure your first aid kit is up-to-date. Give the girl a good grooming before you head into the wild.

12. Download the Maps

Cell service in the desert is next to none. Be sure to save any waypoints, camp spots or trailhead locations to Google Maps and your GPS prior to heading out. Download both the Google Maps for your region (downloads usually stick around for 30 days) and your GPS app or device. Stay prepared out there!

13. Bring on the Dust

So big surprise here I know, but deserts are dusty. Dust often acts as an irritant for your lungs, sinuses, eyes, and nose. Always pack some nasal spray, allergy medication, and eye drops. You can thank me later.

14. Keep Camp Cozy

A cozy camp is a happy camp. Bring an extra pair of footwear, tons of socks and any other creature comforts to make camp great. My personal favorite is my bouldering pad, which I lean against my cooler for a camp couch. Whatever it is for you, bring it and be merry!

15. Wear Layers

Weather changes on a dime in the desert. A sweet, warm day quickly turns into a frozen wasteland at night. Temperature swings can vary up to 30 degrees a day in the desert so be sure to pack accordingly and layer up.

16. Watch the Sun

The sun both kills and saves in the desert. If you’re adventuring during the hotter months, seek shade. Apply sunscreen regularly and wear a hat. If you’re super ambitious, you can even wear a sun layer to protect yourself from the mighty UV rays.

17. Tool Up

One worthy desert camping tip: keep a healthy too box. Don’t leave home without a few things to help you MacGyver something in a pinch. I never leave home without the following:

• electrical tape
• needle nose pliers
• bailing wire
• ratchet set
• screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
• allen wrench set
• medium sized channel locks
• Tent repair kit
• 4 – 6 pieces of accessory cord (3-5mm) various lengths

18. Bury (or Pack Out) Your Human Waste

Human waste is simply unsightly. Always bury your waste (and pack out your TP). In the desert, the hole should be a bit smaller, think four inches instead of six. This is because waste takes longer to break down here. I’ll also bury grease waste from cooking. Do so at least 200 feet (70 adult steps) from camp.

Pro Tip: If you can, use bathrooms at campgrounds. Poo is a problem in the desert and one of the biggest camping tips is to properly deal with your deuces. Always travel with a wag bag if you’re out hiking or backpacking and dispose of your waste properly.

19. Leave It How You Found it

The desert is filled with many wonders, including artifacts and relics from ancient cultures. It is illegal to remove these items. In order to preserve the tales of history, you can examine these items, but leave them where you found them. The same goes for any geological features that may be tempting to pick up and take home (this includes Moeraki boulders, the little pebbles that look like musket pellets).

Related: Learn to Leave No Trace

20. pack it out, pack it in.

So let me begin (see what I did there?), nothing ruins the desert landscape like trash. Pick up any and all trash from this pristine landscape. Animals will dig up your waste (especially TP…gross!) so be sure to put it in a trash bag and bring the trash bag all the way home.

Don’t overwhelm the rural communities here with your waste, bring it back where you can dispose of it properly. Also, be sure to put your trash in your vehicle at night, unless you want a pack of desert foxes to rip into and scatter it about (speaking from experience here).

21. Wash Up

Dirt, dust, and sweat make for an itchy mess after a few days. Be sure to wash your tender bits (frankly, anywhere where pubes grow) and keep clean. You can either use wipes or some warm water for the job.

22. Don’t Bust the Crust

Be on the watch for cryptobiotic soil. This delicate soil helps break down organic waste in the desert. It takes quite a long time to grow, so take note and avoid any lumpy, black soil. The desert thanks you!

Now you’re ready to rock your next desert camping trip! These desert camping tips are designed to help you thrive on your next rendezvous in this spectacular landscape.

23. BONUS: Search for Shelter

The desert is a brutal place. If it’s not freezing, it’s windy. If it isn’t windy, it’s insanely hot. Look for a place to camp that has some landscape features to protect you from the elements. Nestle yourself on the leeward side of a cliff, find a spot with afternoon shade, or

Plan the Perfect Desert Road Trip

Get the most out of your desert trip with these handy articles:

• Expert Desert Hiking Tips
• Moab’s Best Hikes
• Sedona’s Most Scenic Hikes
• Your Guide to Hiking in Joshua Tree

Meg Atteberry

Meg is a long-time Colorado local and outdoor industry professional. She's spent the last 15 years hiking, climbing, mountaineering, and canyoneering all over Colorado, Utah, Arizona, and Nevada in search of the best views. She's written for Outside Magazine, REI, Backpacker Magazine, and appeared on the Weather Channel.

Let’s connect!

Meg aka Fox is a 30-something who's born to explore. Toddler mom, queer, and neuro-spicy her favorite things to do are climb in the alpine and camp in the desert. Her mission is to get you out on your greatest adventure.

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Fall in Love With the Desert on These 10 Perfect Hikes

Beat the heat by hitting these desert trails early in the year..

Heading out the door? Read this article on the new Outside+ app available now on iOS devices for members! >","name":"in-content-cta","type":"link"}}'>Download the app .

Visit the desert once, and you’ll keep coming back. From the scorching lowlands of Death Valley to the red-rock canyons of southern Utah, the combination of magical scenery and sweeping vistas are something you won’t find anywhere else. The secret to a good desert hiking trip: time it right. You can hit these desert trails throughout the year, but there are few better times than spring, when mild temps keep the experience comfortable. —The Editors

Umatilla Rock Trail, Sun Lakes State Park, WA

Circle the cliffs of solitary Umatilla Rock on this 5-mile loop trail in Eastern Washington’s Monument Coulee, one of the enormous chasms carved 15,000 years ago by outburst floods from Glacial Lake Missoula. Start from the Umatilla Rock trailhead and follow the red-blazed trail northeast, through a tangle of basalt pillars that have fallen away from the narrow fin of Umatilla Rock. The trail winds past Perch Lake before cutting up and over Umatilla Rock itself. It’s a little bit of a scramble, but the view is worth it: From the narrow saddle between the cliff bands you can look down the basin at the scattered basalt towers and sagebrush. See it on Gaia GPS

Star Dune, Great Sand Dunes NP, CO

The colder months is the best time to find solitude on North America’s tallest dune. This hike isn’t the longest, but plan on at least 5 hours round trip—hiking through sand isn’t easy. From the Dunes Parking Lot follow Medano Creek (likely a dry bed at this time of year) along the base of dunes. Star Dune will be visible about 2 miles down the creek bed. Look for a massive pyramid of sand dwarfing the dunes beside it. Leave the creek bed once you’ve spotted Star Dune and pick a ridge to follow to the summit. There isn’t a specific route to the top—the dune field is constantly changing with the wind, so no one ever hikes the same route up Star Dune twice. Bring a good coat to brave the chill at the top while you admire the vista of mountains, creek bed, and sand. See it on Gaia GPS

Hermit’s Rest to Dripping Springs, Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

Dry falls, fossils, and red rock views across countless canyons await on this 6.4-mile roundtrip hike to Dripping Springs. Drop off the rim at Hermit’s Rest, following the Hermit Trail down 1.5 miles and 1,400 feet of elevation to the junction with the Dripping Springs Trail. Beyond the switchbacks (bring microspikes; this spot is notoriously icy when it’s cold, Hermit’s Canyon opens into the vast landscape of the Grand Canyon. Take a few minutes of your descent to look away from the views for something a little closer: After descending through the uppermost limestone layer of this part of the canyon you’ll reach the Coconino Sandstone, where fossilized reptile prints trace the edges of ancient dunes. After reaching the trail junction for the springs, climb 500 feet in 1.7 miles to reach Dripping Springs, a tiny pool surrounded by a burst of unexpected greenery. The springwater needs to be treated before drinking and isn’t considered a permanent water source, though it usually flows all year, so bring all the water you’ll need for the hike (.5 to 1 liter per hour in the summer). Take your time on the climb back out of the canyon to enjoy the same views with a different perspective. See it on Gaia GPS

San Rafael Knob, San Rafael Swell, UT

The highest point in the San Rafael Swell is a bit of a scramble. But that just makes it a better adventure. Start from Justensen Flats (high clearance vehicles can get a little bit farther, but this is the best parking spot for standard cars). Follow the Devil’s Canyon jeep trail 3 miles to its terminus near the base of the 1800-foot-tall Knob. An easily spotted use trail branches off from the end of the road. Follow this up almost 2,000 feet above the sand, turning up along the northwest ridge for a short class 3 scramble. It isn’t difficult to cross, but if the rock is icy turn around here; the scramble is very exposed and should only be attempted by experienced scramblers. Past that short crux, follow the trail around the knob to a class 2 scramble up a chute to the summit and 360-degree views of the San Rafael Swell canyon country and the Henry Mountains. See it on Gaia GPS

Alcoholic Pass, Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, CA

Named for the drinking habits of the early settlers who used this route as a shortcut to Clark Valley, Alcoholic Pass is a short, steep hike through cholla and ocotillo to the pass above Coyote Canyon. Check road conditions at the visitor center before heading to the trailhead in Coyote Canyon. (Those without high-clearance vehicles may need to park at the end of the pavement, adding 2.2 miles to the 2.4-mile round-trip hike.) Follow the trail up the northwest ridge of Coyote Mountain, gaining 784 feet in 1.2 miles. Luckily, the views increase as you climb, providing a great excuse to stop and catch your breath. From above you can see the remarkably straight line of Coyote Canyon where it follows the San Jacinto Fault Zone. From the pass the panorama expands to the San Ysidro and Santa Rosa Mountains, with 8,716-foot Toro Peak peeking from the valley haze amid the Santa Rosas. See it on Gaia GPS

Golden Canyon/Gower Gulch Loop, Death Valley National Park, CA

Wander 7.8 miles through canyons, red-rock cathedrals and fluted badlands on this loop in Death Valley National Park from the Golden Canyon parking lot. The first stretch of trail winds between the canyon’s yellow-hued walls, looping under overhangs and over low ledges. At mile 1 take the half-mile spur trail left to Red Cathedral, a pillar-bound outcrop rising straight from the trail in bright varnished sandstone. Return to the trail and head to the first junction at mile 2.8. Go east on the Badlands loop and continue straight through the next intersection to Zabriskie Point. The point has one of the best views in the park, looking down at the sharply eroded Furnace Creek Formation badlands and across the flats to the highlands on the other side. Return down the Zabriskie Point Spur trail to the last junction and go straight, then at the next junction (mile 6.4) go left to reach Gower Gulch. About .3 mile later, reach the last junction and turn right, following the narrowing canyon back down to the parking lot. See it on Gaia GPS

Rhyolite Canyon, Chiricahua National Monument, AZ

The unusual rhyolite cliffs that give this canyon its name form the core of the Chiricahua Mountains in southeastern Arizona. This inactive volcanic range is filled with hoodoos, pinnacles and narrow canyons, carved by wind and water over the last 25 million years. Sample a few of these geologic features on the Rhyolite Canyon Trail, a 5.2-mile out-and-back in the heart of the national monument. Start from the visitor center and slowly gain elevation through oak woods, emerging into the upper canyon and pale hoodoos scattered over the hillside. The upper levels of the canyon have views out over the hoodoos and the lower stretch of the canyon. The trail gains 1,007 feet on the way to the end of the canyon, where it meets up with the Echo Canyon and Hailstone Trails for those who want to extend their hike. See it on Gaia GPS

Bullet Canyon, Bear’s Ears National Monument, UT

Find hidden desert pools and spectacular ruins on this canyon hike. Find the trailhead 1 mile up Forest Road 251 and follow cairns from the rim, down the slickrock, and to the bottom of the wash. (Stay out of the thickets of willows and tamarisk in the center of the wash, following sandy trails farther up the banks.) Around mile 1, you’ll spot the first pueblo, high on the righthand wall of the canyon. The walls grow taller the farther you go. Drop over several pouroffs (or bypass them on marked routes). At mile 2.4, follow cairns to a high route on the right wall to avoid the boulders and stagnant water at the bottom of the canyon, keeping in mind the climb down can be more difficult than the climb up. Near mile 4.6, follow a cairned route to a south-facing alcove and Perfect Kiva, an incredibly well-preserved ruin kept in good condition by the BLM. Perfect Kiva is a good turnaround point for a dayhike; for a multiday trip, link Bullet Canyon with Grand Gulch. See it on Gaia GPS

Panorama Trail, Kodachrome Basin State Park, UT

The longest of Kodachrome Basin’s hiking trails winds past several major features of the park to views across the Paria River Valley and afield to Bryce Canyon. Start at the parking area .5 mile past the park entrance station. Cross a sandy ravine to reach the first junction, then head left. After briefly crossing some brushy flats, reach a second junction and head right to Panorama Point. Pass between two red rock buttes to the highest point of the hike and views across to the park to the white cliffs surrounding the Paria River. Retrace your steps to the junction and follow the trail to another intersection, then go left towards a sand pipe and a cliff-ringed basin. Continue straight through the next two junctions to reach Cool Cave, a red-rock chamber beneath a dryfall from a slot canyon. Follow the loop past the cave and then go straight through the last junction, taking a left before mammoth geyser to loop through the Secret Passage slot and past Ballerina Spire before heading back to your car to finish the 6-mile series of loops. See it on Gaia GPS

Church Rock Trail, Red Rock Park, NM

Hike through two canyons to a set of sandstone spires on this desert path. Start from the small parking area near the campground and follow signs and cairns across a wash. Cross the canyon to a series of steps carved into the sandstone wall itself, climbing to an intersection with the Pyramid Trail. Bypass the Pyramid Trail and continue on   the Church Rock Trail as it enters a box canyon, then follow more cairns along rolling sandstone with views across the canyon to enormous cliffs of striated sandstone and scattered shrubs. At mile 1.5, reach the foot of the namesake rock formation, a set of red and white pillars that tower over the surrounding landscape. Retrace your path back to your car to finish the 3-mile out-and-back. See it on Gaia GPS

Your Index for The Backpacker’s Trail Calendar for 2022

March: desert hikes, april: waterfall hikes, may: wildflower hikes, june: uncrowded hikes, july: ridge hikes, august: backcountry lake hikes, september: hard hikes, october: ledge hikes, november: leaf hikes, december: winter national parks, popular on backpacker.

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The Only Desert Trip Packing List You will ever Need.

This post contains affiliate links. If you book something through these links I get a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can read more about my disclosure and affiliate policy   here .

Heading into the desert (which should be part of any Morocco itinerary !) and don’t know what you will need? After a few visits to various deserts around the world, I am comfortable putting together a solid desert trip packing list for you. Whether you plan a road trip through the Atacama desert, spend a weekend at Joshua Tree National Park or go on a camel trek to the Sahara desert – this list has you covered!

Important things that belong on any desert trip packing list

What you will need for your desert adventures will mainly depend on the time of year you are going and what kind of activities you have planned.

Driving in the desert

Driving in the desert is something you should not undertake alone. Driving over sand dunes is a skill and not to be taken lightly. When in doubt rather go with a tour guide or experienced driver.

If you prefer to drive yourself you will need a jeep and add some safety measures. Make sure to never drive alone and drive with two vehicles minimum, take walkie-talkies and a GPS (cellphone reception in most deserts is spotty at best and so is Google Maps), a first aid kit (for yourself and your car), and plenty of water.

Sun protection

Regardless of what time of the year you are heading into the desert, you will need sun protection as there won’t be much shade. At the very least you should have:

• A hat with a wide brim (or scarf if you are heading into the Moroccan Sahara)
• Sun lotion and lip balm with at least SPF 30 – I like the one from Aesop & face sticks from Shiseido
• Long pants & a top with long sleeves Depending on your activities this can be loose-fitting cotton clothes or something more practical like hiking pants or leggings. The latter are a better choice if you are going desert hiking, sandboarding, or planning to ride a camel.

Staying a night in the desert

If you are planning to stay in the desert you may need to bring some extra layers as it gets cold at night. Depending on the season it might be actually freezing.

Check beforehand what your accommodation will be like – there are many luxury desert camps these days that provide you with proper beds, duvets, and a fireplace at night. Sometimes though, camping in the desert will be a bit more rustic. If that is the case, make sure to pack:

• A sleeping bag or liner depending on the season.
• Some more long-sleeved shirts that you can change into after a desert hike.
• Warm clothes like a hoodie and some cozy sweatpants to sleep in.

Another good idea when camping in the desert is a day pack with insect repellents, flip flops or good old Birkenstocks (beware of hot sand!), hand sanitizer, wet wipes , and eyedrops. These are especially essential if you wear contact lenses like me. And if you can’t live without shiny hair, dry shampoo will become your best friend in the desert!

It doesn’t matter how long you stay or what you do in the desert, water is your best friend. You may need a gallon of water but you are probably better off taking a refillable water bottle. Chances are there is a water source that you can use to refill your own bottle.

If you are unsure if the water is drinkable get a bottle from Grayl that you can use to filter and purify water before drinking.

Electronics & Camera gear

You probably won’t have much space so the right gear is essential when planning a trip in the desert. Unless you are staying at a very fancy camp taking a power bank to recharge your phone is a great idea.

Make sure that your camera batteries are fully charged and take all the lenses that you may need. Chances are you may want to take pictures of the night sky and with that, a tripod is an essential item that belongs on your desert trip packing list. If you don’t want to carry a big one, a small Gorilla tripod for your phone is a great option for the desert.

Have you been to the desert? What is on your desert trip packing list?

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Sahara Desert Tours & Trips

Find the right tour package for you through Sahara Desert. We've got 410 trips going to Sahara Desert, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 16 days. The most popular month to go is May, which has the most tour departures.

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250+ sahara desert tour packages with 1,212 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

3 Days High Atlas Mountains and Sahara Adventure

Ali was an incredible guide and I would thoroughly recommend booking with Morocco Joy Travel. We travelled with our 2 kids (8 &9) and Ali made it such a wonderful adventure for our family. He was so warm and kind, knowledgeable and thoughtful. We opted for the luxury accommodation and it surpassed our expectations. There was a lot of driving but the vehicle was very comfortable and Ali was so knowledgeable and a pleasure to tour with. We are left with wonderful memories of sunsets, fossil digging, sand dune exploring, camel riding, drum playing, spectacular scenery, delicious meals…thank you Ali…we cannot wait to visit again!

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• In-depth Cultural

4 Days / 3 Nights SAHARA EXPERIENCE

How can I put all these amazing moments only in five sentences! What I can for sure tell you is that Ali is a man of trust, integrity, realbility and knows his country like the back of his hand. So much laugh, so much we learned about Morocco and so many amazing places he took us to. Ali combines the sweetness and kindness of his people coming from the desert with high professionalism. If you want to get to know Morocco, do not miss a trip with Ali! (Five stars is the minumum he should get!)

• Hiking & Trekking

Moroccan Desert Adventure: River Canyons & Camels

Good short trip if you want to experience both the deserts and mountains of Morocco. Obviously lots of driving (unavoidable - as you can't move mountains), but the bus was decent.

5 day trip: Sahara Fun Outdoor Experience

Loved every minute of the trip, such a beautiful country with the most amazing views, the trekking in the atlas mountains and quad in the Sahara was the best but an amazing experience, the host was such a nice friendly guy and could have a laugh, deffo a 10 out of 10 trip and would massively recommend going with this company and doing this trip if your looking at going to morroco

5 days desert trip from Marrakesh

We loved our tour with Mohammed. He was accommodating, knowledgeable, respectful of our needs, and happy with a sense of humor. We loved Riad Omara de Kasbah. We felt part of a Moroccan family. Riad Glamour had a very small room and was more like a guesthouse.The other lodging was beyond expectations. We recommend Morocco Custom Tours

• 5% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Marrakech and the Sahara Desert 6-Day Expedition

We had a great experience. All the guides were knowledgeable, lovely and could speak multiple languages. I would recommend this tour if it's your first time in Morroco. The riad we stayed in was amazing, the host Younes made us feel like we were at home. The desert tour to Merzouga was worth the travel (around 6 to 7 hours drive) . The people at the camp were so welcoming and funny. Amazing experience. Highly recommend.

• Desert Hikes
• Sightseeing

Premium Morocco Explorer with Essaouira (11 destinations)

Imperial Cities & Desert Tour

Thank you for my time in Morocco. It was very good. All my tour leaders were excellent. It would nice if our tour leaders could eat with us so that we could ask them questions and clarify any questions we have. The pace was very fast but I enjoyed everything especially Ait Ben Haddou and watching the sunrise in the Sahara Desert/

Fez & Desert Magical Tour

Excellent. Notre guide Tariq et le chauffeur Abdou ont été à l'écoute des passagers et étaient toujours disponible pour rendre l'expérience agréable. Un seul bémol la route est vraiment très longue et vers la fim le seul désir était d'enfin arriver à Marrakech.

10-Day Kasbahs & Deserts of Morocco - Private tour

Morocco was fantastic, and the tour explored many intriguing areas. The daily travel was a bit lengthy, as mentioned in the initial itinerary, so we were prepared for it. However, I recommend reconsidering some of the accommodations and included meals, as we found ourselves paying tourist prices for varying quality at each stop.

Morocco Dune Buggy Adventure - Off Road & Wild Camps

We had a great dune buggy adventure during our stay in Morocco. Mohamed was an expert desert tour guide. The wild camps were our highlight. I highly recommend it

Best of Morocco

Sahara Mini Adventure

Morocco: Marrakech & The Sahara

Morocco Highlights Casablanca - 8 Days

We were a group of 9 in a minibus, we felt safe, we were taken to places that I would never have been able to go to without local knowledge of the area and people. Our guide Mustafa was very knowledgable and spoke good English. Our driver had a calm temperament and navigated the Atlas Mountains with skill, he was also very pleasant and musical and joined in the many dancing activities as well as played the tabla with the locals. I wish I had the time to stay longer in some of the beautiful places we stayed at. Planning to revisit with a group of family and friends

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Sahara Desert Tours

Ali was an incredible guide and I would thoroughly recommend booking with Morocco Joy Travel. We travelled with our 2 kids (8 &9) and Ali made it such a wonderful adventure for our family. He was so warm and kind, knowledgeable and thoughtful. We opted for the luxury accommodation and it surpassed our expectations. There was a lot of driving but the vehicle was very comfortable and Ali was so knowledgeable and a pleasure to tour with. We are left with wonderful memories of sunsets, fossil digging, sand dune exploring, camel riding, drum playing, spectacular scenery, delicious meals…thank you Ali…we cannot wait to visit again!

I recently returned from a fabulous tour with Morocco Joy.....4days/3 nights Sahara Experience. Never having travelled solo before, I was a little concerned about this new experience. I needn't have worried at all. Ali put me at ease from the first moment I got in his van. He was very knowledgeable and did everything he could to make my tour the tour of a lifetime. He even went so far as to help me take photos of a toy my young granddaughter asked me to bring with me and take photos of as we traveled around the country. We were in fits of laughter when Ali tried to teach the doll how to drive. My granddaughter and I will never forget this trip! Thanks, Ali.

It was an unforgettable tour and the amount of things we could see and do in only one week was unbelievable. Even though we spent a big part of the time driving, there were enough stops in between and I also got this strange feeling that time was passing more slowly on this trip, simply because we experienced so much. In the car, we could watch the scenery from the windows and people when driving through towns and villages. We could also take naps in the car, all in all it was a relaxing trip despite being full of adventure as well. Karim was a great guide, not least due to his humor and smiling. I also saw that he was good at dealing with different people within our group. He seemed to know almost everyone personally wherever we went, chatting briefly with people on our way. A few negatives though, a tiny part of the overall experience. We stopped 2-3 times shops for traditional handicraft (e.g. pottery) which I disliked as I'm not into shopping and found these stops too commercial. A stop at a place for making argan oil products was also too sales driven for my taste although I thought it was interesting to hear about the production process. Some of the women on the group bought something there, so they probably had a more positive view. There was also one stop at the end of the 4x4 excursion in the desert to listen to local music, which I think nobody particularly enjoyed. If you are going to Morocco for the first time, I would highly recommend this tour.

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Legends of America

Traveling through american history, destinations & legends since 2003., tips for traveling in the desert.

Badwater Basin in Death Valley by Kathy Alexander.

Traveling in the desert is a different ballgame than traveling the rest of the American West . To ensure your desert adventure is a success, check out this list of travel tips.

When To Go  – In most cases, spring and fall are the best times to visit the desert. It just goes without saying that it is too hot in the summer. In the Mojave, desert temperatures can be freezing in the winter and consistently over 100 °F in the summer and early fall. In the late winter and early spring, strong winds are common over 25 mph, with gusts of 75 mph or more are not uncommon. In Death Valley , temperatures of 130°F are frequent.

Off-Road Adventures – Make sure you know where you’re going, as getting lost in the desert is easy. Before striking out on backcountry roads or hiking along trails, it’s a good idea to consult with park rangers. Road and trail conditions change quickly and often – they can tell what the current conditions are. Plus, someone will have a general idea of where you are. In hot weather, it is advised to stay on the main paved roads since they are patrolled periodically.

Drinking Water – Carry at least one gallon per day/person of drinking water. Plastic containers work better than metal containers or water bags. While drinking water can be obtained at several places in desert parks, you cannot rely on this, as some water sources must be purified before drinking. If you are relying on a spring that is listed on a map, when you arrive there, it might be dried up. In fact, it’s probably a good idea to follow the minimum guidelines for one gallon/person/day, but it wouldn’t hurt to have a little extra. Don’t ignore this guideline if traveling across the desert by car. Any number of things could happen, and you need a stocked-up water supply.

Sun and Heat Exposure – In the desert, you need to avoid exposure to the sun at all costs. Sunburns can be severe, and heatstroke or heat exhaustion can prove fatal. It is advisable to wear a hat, sunscreen, and dark sunglasses. Even though it’s hot, plan on wearing light, loose long sleeve shirts, and long pants. Remember to reapply sunscreen periodically to any exposed areas. Time your walking in the early morning and late afternoon when the sun is not as intense.

Abandoned Mine, Gold Point, Nevada, by Kathy Alexander.

Stay out of Mines – Dotted throughout the desert, you may stumble upon or see an old mine that is tempting to explore. Don’t!! Areas near mines often conceal deep shafts where the timbers in their tunnels are rotten. One wrong step, and you could wind up at the bottom of one of these deep shafts. Mines and tunnels may also be filled with flammable and poisonous gases. Though authorities are doing their best to fill in these abandoned mines, dozens of people are injured and killed each year by stumbling into these old mines.

Thunderstorms – Quick and violent thunderstorms are not uncommon in the desert. Keep your eye on the sky – even when you can only see the storm in the distance. Flash flooding in canyons, washes, and gullies are frequent. Stay out of these areas if you see lightning or a developing storm anywhere near you.

Insects and Biting Flies – Though generally not dangerous, these pesky critters can be bothersome, and when the flies get to biting, it stings! Carry and use a good insect repellent.

Route 66 east of Peach Springs, Arizona.

Automobile Care – You cannot take too many precautions for your automobile before traveling through the desert. Here is a list of things to think about:

• Car Inspection — Before your trip, have your car thoroughly inspected by a competent mechanic. Carry spare hoses and belts in your trunk.
• Keep tires at standard pressure. Soft tires can generate heat and cause blowouts. If you think the tires are riding hard, stop along the road for a few minutes; you will find that the tires cool quickly.
• Frequently check the gasoline, oil, and water temperature gauges. Service stations can be miles apart in the desert. Carry additional oil and water for your car in your trunk.
• Watch the temperature gauge. Turn off the air conditioner if your vehicle is air-conditioned and the gauge indicates that the engine is close to overheating. If the engine overheats, pull to the side of the road but do not stop the engine. Turn on the heater and, while the car is at fast idle, slowly pour water over the radiator core to cool it. Refill the radiator to its proper level only after the engine has cooled; the motor should be kept running.
• Road grades can be deceptive. On warm days, shift to a lower gear that will allow the car to accelerate on grades and drive slowly to avoid overheating the engine.
• Vapor lock may temporarily disable your vehicle. In that event, wrap a wet cloth around the fuel pump and line to cool them (for carbureted engines only).
• Stay with your car. If your car breaks down, stay in the shade it provides and wait for help to arrive. Do not attempt to walk for assistance.

Saguaro Cactus near Oatman, Arizona. Kathy Alexander.

Beware of the Hantavirus – While there is no evidence to suggest that travel should be restricted in the desert, there have been several reports of the disease in the deserts of the American West. Listed below is a list of useful precautions:

• Avoid coming into contact with rodents and rodent burrows or disturbing dens (such as packrat nests).
• Air out, then disinfect cabins or shelters before using them. These places often shelter rodents.
• Do not pitch tents or place sleeping bags in areas near rodent droppings or burrows or areas that may shelter rodents or provide food for them (e.g., garbage dumps or woodpiles).
• If possible, do not sleep on the bare ground. In shelters, use a cot with a sleeping surface at least 12 inches above the ground. Use tents with floors or a ground cloth if sleeping in the open air.
• Keep food in rodent-proof containers!
• Promptly bury (or–preferably–burn followed by burying, when in accordance with local requirements) all garbage and trash, or discard in covered trash containers.
• Use only bottled water or water that has been disinfected by filtration, boiling, chlorination, or iodination for drinking, cooking, washing dishes, and brushing teeth.
• And last but not least, do not play with or handle any rodents at the camping or hiking site, even if they appear friendly.

Added August 2004, updated in January 2023.

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A Night In The Sahara Desert: Plan A Desert Trip In Morocco

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please see the full  Disclosure  and  Privacy policy  for further information.

Is spending a night in the Sahara Desert on your bucket list? Do you want to know how to make it a reality one day? I’ve got you covered!

During my first trip to Morocco, I had my heart set on spending a night in the Sahara desert. It seemed like this wild crazy adventure that  I just had to experience, and I’m so happy that I was finally able to cross it off of my bucket list!

When I began planning my trip, I felt extremely overwhelmed and stressed about figuring out how to turn this dream into a reality, but I needn’t have worried! Visiting the Sahara desert is surprisingly easy and affordable once you know how to plan it.

In this guide, I’ll share with you my experience in the Sahara, as well as all the travel tips and tricks I learned along the way to make your desert trip in Morocco a memorable one.

Let’s dive in!

Hi, I’m JJ!

I’m a travel blogger with a passion for unique travel destinations, discovering hidden gems, and adventurous solo travel.

I’ve visited Morocco multiple times and planned a trip to the Sahara desert from Marrakech during my first time in Morocco.

I hope you enjoy my free guides and travel tips! If so, please consider supporting my work 💕

Private Atlas Mountains & Sahara Desert Tour

✅ 4-day adventure

✅ Meals & accommodation included

✅ Private tour with driver & guide

Table of Contents

My Experience Of Spending A Night In The Sahara Desert

There’s no arguing that the Sahara desert is a unique travel destination worthy of your bucket list.

Ever since I was a kid, I have wanted to visit the Sahara desert. I think it was because Aladdin was my favourite Disney movie and I had visions of finding my own ‘ Cave of Wonders ‘ hidden amongst the sand dunes! 

I’ll admit I didn’t find any magic caves or genie lamps in the desert but the experience did turn out to be even more magical and beautiful than I ever imagined!

At over 3.5 million square miles, the Sahara Desert is the world’s second-largest desert after Antarctica and the world’s largest hot desert. It crosses the borders of 11 nations , Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Morocco, Niger, Sudan, Tunisia and Western Sahara.

I chose to visit the Sahara from Morocco as it is one of the more tourist-friendly and accessible regions of the desert.

The Journey From Marrakech To The Sahara Desert

I travelled to Morocco with my then-boyfriend. It was his first time travelling outside of Europe so I planned the whole trip for us and he was essentially tagging along for the ride.

Since he was nervous about travelling in Morocco, I wanted to ensure everything was well taken care of and organised and that the trip would go as smoothly as possible. So I decided to book a private driver and guide to transport us to the desert – rather than dragging my anxious boyfriend around on long-distance buses and trains!

We started our trip in Marrakech and explored the Medina and Jemaa el-Fna square for a day before setting out on our desert adventure. After our first experience of Moroccan cuisine and a good night’s sleep in our riad , we were ready to embark on our journey.

Our driver picked us up from the riad in the morning and drove us through the Atlas Mountains towards Ouarzazate .

We stopped along the way at different scenic viewpoints and small villages for a quick break and some delicious mint tea. Then we spent some time visiting a women’s argan oil co-operative in the mountains before passing through the Tizi n’ Tichka mountain pass .

After stopping to take photos at the highest point of the pass (2260 metres above sea level) we headed to Ait  Ben Haddou , a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site. Here we explored the ancient kasbah and learned about its history and significance in Moroccan culture.

Finally, we spent some time in Ouarzazate, known as the “Hollywood of Morocco” due to its role as a filming location for many popular movies and TV shows. We visited the Atlas Studios , where we got to see some of the sets and props used in famous films like Gladiator and Cleopatra.

We then spent the night at a beautiful Kasbah in the Dades Valley, where we enjoyed a traditional dinner and some stargazing before going to bed.

💁🏻‍♀️ JJ’s Top Tip: You can visit Ait Ben Haddou, Ouarzazate and the Atlas Studios on an easy day trip from Marrakech !

Free 3 Day Marrakech Itinerary

Driving to the desert.

The next morning we headed to the Todra Gorge , a breathtaking natural wonder and popular rock climbing spot.

After spending some time hiking in the gorge and taking in the stunning views, we continued our journey to Merzouga , the gateway to the Sahara Desert.

On the way, we stopped at an ancient Khettara , an underground irrigation system that has been used by the locals for centuries.

It was fascinating to learn about this sustainable and efficient method of farming in such a dry region, and going down underground was a great way to beat the midday heat!

Upon arrival in Merzouga, we were greeted with a warm cup of mint tea and a traditional lunch before starting our camel ride into the desert.

Camel Ride In The Sahara Desert

These days I avoid animal tourism at all costs, but at the time I was told that camel riding was no different to horse riding and that using the camels for transportation was an important part of the Berber culture which was only being kept alive by the tourism industry. So I was convinced to take a camel ride into the desert.

Looking back,  I wish I had researched more and made a more informed decision. My friend Nina has a great article on why camel riding is unethical so feel free to go check that out.

That being said, the ride itself was an unforgettable experience. It lasted for about an hour and as we rode deeper into the desert, we were surrounded by towering sand dunes that seemed to go on forever. It looked unreal like we had stepped into a movie scene or postcard!

The Sahara Desert Camp

When we arrived at our camp the guides let the camels wander freely and explained that they wouldn’t go far and someone would go round them up in the morning. I like that they had some freedom.

The camp was a mix of traditional Berber tents and some basic modern amenities to make our stay comfortable.

Our tent was extremely bare-bones, with just a few mattresses on the ground with sheets and blankets. But it was cosy and inviting and felt like we were on a real authentic adventure.

We were given time to freshen up before heading out to explore the nearby dunes.

Sunset At The Dunes

We climbed up to the top of a nearby dune and were greeted with the most breathtaking view of the sunset over the desert. The colours were vibrant and ever-changing as the sun slowly made its descent behind the dunes.

Watching the sunset over the Sahara desert is an experience that cannot be described in words. The sky turned into a beautiful canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples as we sat in awe of the beauty surrounding us.

It was a moment that I will never forget, just sitting on top of the sand dune with our new friends, taking in the beauty of nature.

As it got darker, we made our way back to camp where we were treated to a traditional Berber dinner under the stars. The food was delicious and the atmosphere was lively, with music and dancing around a fire.

Stargazing In The Sahara

After dinner, we were treated to a traditional Berber drumming performance by the campfire. The stars above were shining bright and we could see an endless amount of them due to the lack of light pollution in the desert.

The only other time I have ever witnessed this many stars in the sky was during my time working in the Namibian bush.

As we lay on our backs, staring up at the Sahara night sky, our guide pointed out different constellations and shared stories about Berber culture.

It was a peaceful and humbling experience to be surrounded by the vastness of the Sahara desert and to witness its beauty in both the sunset and star-filled night sky.

Our night in the Sahara desert was one that I will always hold close to my heart. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down, appreciating our surroundings, and connecting with nature.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit the Sahara, don’t pass it up!

Sunrise In The Sahara

The next morning we had another amazing breakfast at our camp before heading out to catch the sunrise. We hiked up a nearby sand dune and watched as the sun slowly peeped over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the desert.

Some of the other people at the camp went on a sandboarding and quad biking experience but my boyfriend and I chose to stay at the camp. We spent our time relaxing and also climbing up the dunes and running back down – which was super fun!

Sandboarding is definitely on my bucket list so hopefully I’ll get another chance to experience it in the future.

After lunch, we rode the camels back to the edge of the desert and then started the long drive back to Marrakech. 

Which Of The Morocco Deserts Should You Choose?

This was my first time in Morocco so I chose to visit the Sahara as it was a big bucket list item for me. However, during my most recent trip to Morocco, I visited the Agafay desert.  While it is not a “true” desert due to its rocky terrain, it still offers a unique and beautiful experience .

Ultimately, the choice between which desert to visit will depend on your personal preferences.

If you’re looking for a more traditional desert experience with sand dunes and remote landscapes, then the Sahara is the way to go. However, if you are short on time or want a more luxurious glamping experience, then the Agafay desert may be a better option for you .

You can also visit the Zagora desert , which is close to Ouzazate. The Zagora desert is another rocky desert like Agafay, but I haven’t personally visited Zagora so I can’t say if it is a better or worse experience than visiting the Agafay desert.

Regardless of which desert you choose, I can guarantee that you will leave with unforgettable memories and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of nature.

Erg Chebbi and Erg Chegaga

If you have decided to visit the Sahara (which if you’re reading this then you probably have 😉) then you have two options for areas to visit. Erg Chebbi and Erg Chegaga .

I visited Erg Chebbi as it has the highest dunes and is the easiest to access.

Chebbi is known for its towering dunes, with some reaching up to 160m. Chigaga, on the flip side, has somewhat shorter dunes, maxing out at around 120m.

Chebbi is easier to access which obviously results in more visitors, Chiaga on the other hand is more remote – a 9-hour drive from Marrakech and close to the Algerian border.

This means that it has a much more rugged and remote wilderness vibe so if you want a more off-the-beaten-path and authentic experience, Chiaga may be the better option for you.

Sahara Desert Tours Morocco – Overnight Trips From Marrakech

The easiest way to visit the Sahara desert from Marrakech is to book a tour . There are a bunch of different Marrakech tours available so you can find one that suits your travel style.

You’ll find everything from group tours with basic accommodation to private luxury experiences and everything in between. You can even charter a helicopter to fly you to the Sahara !

We chose to book a private 4-day tour and I couldn’t have been happier with it.

The tour was surprisingly affordable and our driver/guide Hassan was fantastic!  He made sure we were comfortable and entertained throughout the long drives, shared stories and personal experiences with us, and took us to some hidden gems along the way.

I’ve rounded up some of the best Sahara desert tours below:

Private Tour With Luxury Camp

✅ Luxury camping experience

✅ Sandboarding

3-day Small Group Tour

✅ Small Group

✅ Air-conditioned vehicles

✅ 2 night accomadations

Best Sahara Desert Camps Morocco

Of course, you don’t have to take a tour. If you would rather make your way to the desert independently then that is totally possible too.

As I mentioned earlier, Erg Chebbi is easily accessible once you make your way to Merzouga. To get to the Merzouga desert you can rent a car or take public transport.

💁🏻‍♀️ JJ’s Top Tip: I like to use the Rome2Rio website to plan routes via public transport. It gives you the most up-to-date schedules and pricing so you can plan efficiently without any surprises.

If you do choose to make your own way to the desert, I highly recommend staying at one of the luxury camps in Erg Chebbi. These camps offer a truly unique and immersive experience in the desert, with comfortable accommodations, delicious local food, and opportunities for activities.

Here are some of the best options for desert camps in the Sahara:

Luxury: Erg Chebbi Luxury Desert Camp

Mid-range: Sunrise Sahara Camp

Budget: Desert Life Camp

What Can You Do In The Sahara Desert?

Besides taking in the beautiful landscape and stargazing, there are many other activities you can do while visiting the Sahara Desert. Some popular options include:

Sandboarding : Slide down the dunes on a board for an adrenaline rush.

Quad biking: Explore the desert on four wheels and feel the wind in your hair.

Meet the Berber people :  Learn about the culture and way of life from the locals who have been living in the desert for generations.

Hot air balloon ride:   See the Sahara from a whole new vantage point and take in breathtaking views.

How Far Is The Sahara Desert From Marrakech?

If you’re planning to visit the Sahara Desert while in Morocco, you may be wondering how far it is from the popular city of Marrakech.

The distance between the two varies depending on which part of the Sahara you are going to, but on average it is around 370 miles or 600 kilometres. Erg Chebbi is 553.6km (344 miles) from Marrakech.

While this may seem like a long journey, there are many tour companies and transportation options available to make the trip more manageable. It’s definitely worth the journey to experience the beauty and wonder of the Sahara Desert.

There are also lots of great sights to be seen along the way, so I suggest making a road trip out of it. This is what I did when I visited and it was a memorable and enjoyable experience. Plus, you’ll have plenty of time to take in the changing landscapes and local culture as you make your way to the Sahara.

Other Places To Visit On Your Way From Marrakech To The Sahara Desert 

If you have the time, I highly recommend stopping at some of these places on your way to the Sahara Desert:

Aït Ben Haddou : This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a well-preserved ancient village made up of traditional Moroccan mud-brick buildings.

Ouarzazate : Known as the “Hollywood of Morocco,” this city has been the setting for many famous films and TV shows. Be sure to stop by the famous Atlas Studios !

Tizi n’Tichka Pass : A scenic mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Todra Gorge : Located in the High Atlas Mountains, this beautiful canyon is perfect for hiking and rock climbing. 

Best Time To Visit The Sahara Desert

The best time to visit the Sahara Desert from Merzouga is from October to April when the weather is cooler and more pleasant.

During this time, temperatures can range from 10-25°C (50 – 77°F) during the day and drop to 5-10°C at night. This makes for a comfortable climate for exploring the desert and spending a night under the starry sky.

It is not advisable to visit the Sahara during the summer months (May-September) when temperatures can reach up to 40°C (104°F) during the day and drop only slightly at night. This extreme heat can make it difficult to enjoy your desert trip and may even be dangerous.

There are often thunderstorms during August, which have been known to cause flash floods in the desert , so it’s best to avoid this time of year altogether.

Sahara Desert Temperature At Night

Temperatures in the Sahara desert can vary greatly between day and night. While it may be warm during the day, at night, temperatures can drop significantly due to the lack of humidity and cloud cover.

During my trip, I found that wearing multiple layers was the key to staying comfortable during the chilly desert nights. I also recommend bringing a sleeping bag or heavy blanket to keep you warm while sleeping in the desert.

Tips For Spending A Night In The Sahara Desert Morocco

• Dress warmly: As mentioned before, temperatures can drop significantly at night, so be sure to bring warm clothing and layers.
• Bring a flashlight: The desert can get very dark at night, so having a reliable light source is essential for navigating your surroundings – especially if you need to find your way from your tent to the bathroom in the middle of the night!
• Stay hydrated: It’s easy to forget to drink enough water when you’re busy exploring the desert, but it’s crucial to stay hydrated, especially in the extreme heat of the day.
• Don’t forget sunscreen: The desert sun is strong, so be sure to apply sunscreen before heading out for any desert activities.
• Listen to your guide : If you’re on a guided tour of the Sahara, make sure to listen to your guide’s instructions and advice. They know the area well and can help ensure your safety during any desert excursions.
• Spend at least one night in the desert:   The Sahara desert is an incredibly unique and unforgettable experience. So, make the most of your trip by spending at least one night in the desert to truly immerse yourself in its beauty and mystery.

FAQs: A Night In The Sahara Desert

Are deserts cold at night .

Yes, deserts can be very cold at night due to the lack of humidity and cloud cover. This causes temperatures to drop significantly once the sun goes down.

Can you spend the night in the Sahara desert?

Yes, you can spend a night in the Sahara desert. Various tour companies offer overnight camping experiences in the Sahara desert. However, it’s important to always go with a reputable and experienced company for safety reasons.

What is it like in the Sahara desert at night?

The Sahara desert at night can be an incredible experience. The sky is usually clear, making it perfect for stargazing. You may also hear the sounds of animals and insects that are active during the cooler nighttime temperatures.

What is the temperature in the Sahara desert at day and night?

The temperature in the Sahara desert can vary greatly between day and night. During the day, temperatures can reach up to 120°F (49°C), while at night they can drop down to as low as 40°F (4°C). It’s important to come prepared for these extreme fluctuations in temperature.  So, make sure to pack appropriate clothing for both hot and cold temperatures

When should you not visit the Sahara desert?

August is the worst month to visit the Sahara desert. It is not advisable to attempt to camp there during this time as thunderstorms at this time of year have been known to cause flash floods in the desert.

How cold does it get in the Sahara?

Temperatures in the Sahara desert can reach as low as 40°F (4°C) at night. It’s important to come prepared for these cold temperatures, especially if you plan on camping overnight.

What should you wear in the Sahara desert?

It’s important to dress appropriately for the weather and terrain in the Sahara desert. During the day, lightweight and loose-fitting clothing is best to keep you cool. At night, layers are key to staying warm. It’s also recommended to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes for walking on sand dunes. Additionally, bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Are there palm trees in the Sahara desert?

Yes, there are palm trees in the Sahara desert. They can be found in the oases scattered throughout the desert, which provide a source of water for these trees and create small pockets of greenery among the vast expanse of sand. These palm trees are an important part of the ecosystem.

Is there cactus in Sahara desert?

Yes, there are cacti in the Sahara desert. They are a type of succulent plant that have adapted to survive in arid and hot climates. While they may not be as commonly found as palm trees, they can still be seen in certain areas of the desert.

Does it rain in sahara?

Although the Sahara desert is known for its dry and arid climate, it does experience sporadic rain. The rainy season typically occurs between July and October, but even then, the rainfall is limited and can vary greatly from year to year.

Are there dangerous animals in the Sahara desert?

Yes, there are some dangerous animals in the Sahara desert that visitors should be aware of. These include venomous snakes like vipers and cobras, as well as scorpions and spiders. It’s important to take caution when exploring the desert and to know how to handle encounters with these creatures if necessary.

What is the highest temperature in the Sahara desert?

The highest temperature ever recorded in the Sahara desert was 136 degrees Fahrenheit (58 degrees Celsius) in Azizia, Libya. However, temperatures regularly reach over 120 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius) during the hottest months of the year. It’s important to stay hydrated and take appropriate precautions when visiting the desert during these extreme temperatures.

Who lives in the Sahara desert?

There are a few nomadic groups that inhabit the Sahara desert, such as the Tuareg people and the Bedouin. However, due to the harsh environment and lack of resources, there is not a large permanent population in the desert.

Final Thoughts: A Night In The Sahara Desert

Spending a night in the Sahara was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity and one that I will always cherish.

I learned so much about Berber culture, enjoyed breathtaking views, and had some unforgettable experiences. It reminded me to slow down and appreciate the beauty of our world, and I highly recommend it to anyone who has the chance to visit.

The Sahara desert is easily accessible from popular cities in Morocco such as Marrakech and Fes and there are plenty of affordable tours and desert camps to choose from so planning your trip and making your dream of spending a night in the Sahara desert come true will be easy! 

For more Morocco inspiration check out my 4-day Morocco itinerary or my Atlas Mountains travel guide !

My Favourite Travel Resources

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Ferries: For cheap ferry tickets I use Ferry Scanner

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Travel Insurance: Never travel without proper travel insurance! I always use EKTA

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Sahara Desert Tours & Vacations

Discover sweeping dunes, sparkling night skies and ancient Amazigh culture in the Sahara Desert.

Journey into the heart of the Sahara where a sea of wind-whipped sand stretches for what looks like forever. We like to explore the Sahara the Intrepid way. We're talking sunset camel rides, getting lost in the narrow streets of an ancient citadel, exchanging stories over mint tea with a local Amazigh family and feasting on  Moroccan food in a desert camp. Heed the call of the dunes and join us on a bucket-list North African  adventure.

Sahara Desert highlights

Sahara desert travel faqs, do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Where is the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert is in North Africa. It spans a mighty 3,552,137 square miles across 10 countries, including Morocco, Egypt, Mali, and Libya.

It's the world's largest hot desert and third-largest after Antarctica and the Arctic.

What is the weather like in the Sahara Desert?

As a desert region, the Sahara can experience extreme weather. Winter (December to February) can be very cold, with overnight temperatures dropping to 41°F or lower.

You'll need a sleeping bag, thermals, a scarf, gloves, and a warm jacket for travel in winter.

Oh, and be prepared for cold showers at your desert camp!

Summer (June to September) can be very hot with intense temperatures that can reach the high 104°F. This might be too uncomfortable for those not used to the heat. It's super important to use sun protection and stay hydrated. That said, the desert can still get pretty chilly at night when the sun goes down, so you'll need a fleece to rug up.

Spring (March to May) sees the arrival of strong winds, and there is an increased risk of sandstorms in April – but don't worry, your leader will always check the forecast beforehand to see if it's safe to stay in the desert.

When is the best time to visit the Sahara Desert?

The best time to visit the Sahara Desert is during the spring months between March to May, as well as the autumn months of October and November. During these times, the desert temperatures are hot but manageable and the nights don't get quite as cold. However, one thing to note is that between January to May there is usually a higher number of sandstorms recorded, especially in April.

What clothing should I wear in the Sahara Desert?

What to pack will differ slightly depending on the time of year and the activities you'll be doing. But below are the basics you'll need:

• Light scarf or face mask can be handy for preventing you from inhaling desert dust
• Sun hat – wide-brimmed, ideally, to protect your face and head from the sun's rays and strong winds
• Sunscreen – when you're in the desert, it goes without saying!
• Small daypack for day trips and excursions
• Light, loose-fitting pants
• Joggers or jeans for camel rides
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Fleece – for all seasons
• Warm layers (for winter trips) – you'll need thermals, gloves, a woolly hat and a fleece to rug up as the temperatures can drop to below freezing at night
• Small head torch – handy for going to the bathroom at night
• Thongs (flip flops) for camp
• Hiking shoes or runners

What animals live in the Sahara Desert?

The Sahara Desert is one of the fiercest environments for animal life.

A wide range of mammals live in the Sahara, from cheetahs, dromedary camels, desert foxes, gazelles, ostrich, and hyrax to African wild dogs.

Reptile life includes the desert crocodile, sand viper and the desert monitor.

Other common species include the deathstalker scorpion, the Saharan silver ant, and over 90 species of birds.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travelers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

19 Top Desert Trip Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

There are so many stunning deserts around the world, from New Mexico (where we currently live) to the Sahara and the Australian outback.

Whether you’re headed on a trip to the Chihuahuan Desert of South Texas, or Joshua Tree National Park, don’t let the stress of packing stop you from enjoying your trip.

This desert trip checklist will have you prepped and ready for any kind of desert adventure! At the end we also include a section on  what to wear in the desert , what NOT to bring and other important frequently asked questions.

What to Pack for Desert trip – 19 Essentials

1. cooling towel.

A cooling towel is the best thing you can take with you on a desert adventure, besides water, of course. Before heading out into the heat of the desert, wet the towel, wring out any excess water, and enjoy as it drops 20-30 degrees below the air temperature. Keep the ice-cold towel draped around your neck for a cool relief as you explore the desert.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Camelbak Hydration Pack

If you’re doing any hiking or exploring on foot, you’ll be glad you brought a Camelbak water bottle. This will keep you hydrated during hot days in the desert and you’ll be happy you have it if you plan on trekking under the hot sun. A Camelbak is awesome because you wear it on your back and sip from the straw when you’re thirsty so you don’t have to stop to take a drink.

3. Packing Cubes

Use packing cubes to keep yourself organized and avoid overpacking for your trip to the desert. With separate cases for laundry and shoes, this particular set of packing cubes has everything you need to have a successful and easy trip.

Available on  HeroTravelSupply.com  with an exclusive 15% discount using the coupon code  “HERO” .

Or view them on Amazon.com ➜

4. Tent and Camping Gear

If you’re going to be camping during your desert trip, you are going to need somewhere to sleep. A breezy tent with mesh panels is the ideal option. This one can fit up to two people, and has a wide entrance for easy entry and exit.

5. Neck Wallet

Using a neck wallet is an awesome way to keep your valuables secure and organized during your desert trip. Keep your phone, wallet, map, keys, and anything else you might need safely tucked away in this handy pouch around your neck. It’s a great way to keep your belongings handy and secure during a day of desert trekking!

6. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

Bringing a lipstick-sized portable charger will be especially useful during your desert trip. If you plan to use your camera or smartphone for music, navigation, communication, photos, videos, or anything else, you’ll want to make sure you don’t run out of battery at an inconvenient time. Toss this charger in your pack and always have a backup battery when you need one.

7. Picnic Blanket or Tarp

If you’re camping or spending the day in one spot, you will need to lay something on the ground at your site since there will likely be a lot of sand, dirt, and dust. Invest in a waterproof tarp like this one, which is tried and tested to be durable.

8. Sunscreen

Nothing will ruin your perfect trip like a red hot sunburn. Bringing sunscreen to the desert is almost as important as bringing water. Bring some with major SPF, and apply it every couple hours while you’re in the sun.

9. Sturdy Sandals

These are likely the only shoes you’ll need during a trip to the desert. Especially if you’re doing any hiking, you’ll need sturdy sandals that have good grip and an excellent fit with arch support. These sandals fit the bill, and will stay super comfortable all day long.

10. Water Jugs

First rule of the desert: bring LOTS of your own drinking water. It’s extremely easy to accidentally get dehydrated during hot and dusty desert days. The general rule of thumb is to drink one gallon per day, per person! Fill your trunk with a few huge tanks before you go.

Definitely bring a large cooler to keep all your food and beverages nice and cold during your trip. Pack it with lots of water bottles, ice, and snacks. Stick it in your trunk and you’re ready to go. There’s nothing better than a nice cold drink after a long, hot day in the desert!

12. Insect Repelling Wristbands

Some deserts have bugs, and if you’re not careful, you might be their dinner! Keep away those mosquitoes, ticks, and chiggers with these handy insect repelling wristbands. These are perfect for the outdoors and can provide up to 300 hours of protection against mosquitoes.

13. Desert Travel Insurance

If your desert of choice is more than 100 miles from home, you’ll definitely want to make sure you have reliable travel insurance before you leave for your trip. There’s a lot that can go wrong any time you travel, and you’ll want to be protected in case of emergency. TravelInsurance.com has a ton of great plans to choose from, from top companies and is a favorite of avid travelers.

Compare policies at TravelInsurance.com ➜

14. Bandana

A bandana is a multi-use desert must-have. Use your bandana as a headband, face mask, camp flag, and so much more. This basic bandana comes in several different colors, and will be a welcome addition to your daypack.

15. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

A microfiber travel towel is an absolute essential for any desert trip. Use it as a bath towel, to keep you cool during a hike, or to dry off after a dip in a fresh desert oasis. It’s lightweight, compact, and dries quickly so you can easily toss it in your daypack before and after use.

16. Activated Charcoal

If you’re in the desert in a foreign country and you eat something your body isn’t used to, there may not be too many options for using the bathroom. Avoid the uncomfortable symptoms of food poisoning or an upset stomach by using activated charcoal to quickly absorb and expel the toxins in your body.

17. Solar Shower

During your desert vacation, you’ll likely need a shower at some point! A solar shower will come in very handy, and feel great after spending the day in the hot sun. This one packs down small and is easy to use. Make sure to read the instructions and do a test run at home before you head off.

18. Universal Travel Adapter

If you plan on leaving the country to visit one of the many magnificent deserts around the world, then you’ll likely need a power adapter. It’s always good to buy a universal adapter from the get-go so that you can use it no matter what country you travel to. I really like this one because of the two extra built-in USB ports that allow me to charge multiple devices at once.

19. First Aid Kit

Any time you’re in the great outdoors, it’s necessary to bring along a first aid kit. Whether it’s a scraped knee or a headache, you should be prepared for anything. Keep this compact first aid kit in your car or backpack so that you can easily whip it on in case of emergency.

Other desert packing list items not to forget

• Luggage Locks
• Makeup removing wipes
• Toilet paper

What to Wear in the Desert

Stay cool and dry with clothing that is labeled as synthetic, quick-dry or moisture-wicking. A hat and sunglasses are excellent ideas. Pants are good to protect your legs if you’re prone to sunburning. Wear hiking boots with SmartWool socks if you’re going hiking. Pro tip: wear a wet bandana around your neck when hiking in the intense heat.

What NOT to Take to the Desert

Don’t encumber yourself with stiff, inhibiting jeans, especially in the hot desert! Denim and hiking don’t mix well.

2. Jewelry/ Nice clothing

There’s no need to impress on an adventure like this one.

3. Unnecessary electronics

You definitely will not need your computer, x box or ipad while you’re in the desert

4. Valuables

Unless you’re at a busy national park during peak season, you don’t need to worry about thieves. You do, however, need to worry about the elements ruining anything too valuable.

5. Your whole kitchen

Faqs about going to the desert, 1. what are some good travel reads.

We all have different taste in books, but if you’re in the mood for a juicy but light-hearted vacation read, check out this  list .

2. How do I find a cool desert to explore near me?

Simply google “desert near me.” A map will pop up with locations that are close to you! You can read the descriptions and see if they are part of a national or state park, and if they require an entrance or parking fee.

3. Is there anything special I should bring when going on a desert trip with kids?

Extra snacks are always a good idea. If you’ll be in the water at an point, bring water diapers, a playpen, water wings (floaties), pool noodles, and anything that will keep the kids entertained! Definitely bring an umbrella and plenty of liquids to avoid heat exhaustion, as well.

4. Can I bring my dog to the desert?

Some places are dog-friendly, while others are a little tricky. For example, Big Bend National Park in the Chihuahuan Desert allows dogs, but not on the trails. If the spot you are going to happens to allow dogs, there will most likely be a strict leash policy. Research your particular destination online to get specifics.

49 Camping in The Desert Tips: Camp in the Heat Like a Pro

Camping in the desert brings a unique twist to the idea of camping in the middle of nowhere. not only are you usually far away from amenities and shopping, you are dealing with extreme heat and unusual critters..

The desert is beautiful beyond belief. But it can also be a very dangerous place when you are camping and hiking. It’s a fine line between an amazing desert camping experience and a total camping disaster. That means there’s a lot to learn before your first desert camping trip. So we pulled together our best camping in the desert tips to help you plan your trip.

Although we’ve been camping for decades, we were caught a bit off guard by some things on our first desert camping trip several years ago. You don’t always realize how different camping in the Rockies is from camping in the Utah desert. I have to confess that I became so overwhelmed by the heat on our first desert adventure that we grabbed a last minute hotel one night. Since then we’ve learned to love the desert and have desert camped in a camper van as well as our favorite tent. We’ve accumulated quite a long list of tips to make your desert camping a success.

Let’s Start with Your Camp Site

1 set up on high ground.

You might be surprised to learn that flash floods put you at higher risk of death in the desert than either dehydration or poisonous critter bites ( World Atlas ).

Why? Because between rains, creek beds (often called a wash) are very dry between rains. All the water has soaked into the desert soil. They often look like really great hiking trails. And a dry wash might even have random shade along the higher edges that appears to be the perfect camping site. However, when rain falls those dry beds can fill up in a matter of minutes with raging water. Even a distant heavy rain can quickly fill up the dry wash miles away.

So always set up your tent or camper on higher ground to avoid getting swept away by an unexpected rain. Use designated campsites when available, such as when BLM camping as these have been tested by hundreds of other campers.

2 Find Shade in the Land without Trees

Finding shade in the desert is easier said than done. But if you can capture a bit of shade your day at camp will be much more comfortable. As you select your site take into consideration any features that might create shade. 

For example, we camped on a bluff near Big Bend National Park that continued to rise behind us on the Southwest side. That meant when we returned to camp in the evening, the sun had already dropped behind the higher ground, providing shade while we prepared camp dinner.

If you are lucky enough to find a tree, consider the angle of the sun and place your tent or camper to take advantage of as much shade as possible. You’ll be grateful for the little bit of shade that comes from a Saguaro Cactus or a Joshua Tree in the late afternoon.

3 Can’t Find Shade? Then Make Shade

If you can’t find shade, make shade! If you are car camping or in an RV, you can probably pack a traditional canopy. We really like this lightweight 12ft by 12ft canopy from REI because it is easy to pack.

However if backpacking or if space is tight consider using a lightweight tarp with your hiking poles as supports. 

It’s important to have adequate guy lines to secure your canopy or tarp as desert winds can quickly turn that tarp into a balloon with one desert updraft. Don’t leave your shade tarp or canopy up when you are not at camp to avoid it blowing away.

For Tent Campers: Set Up Your Tent With Desert in Mind

4 start with a desert friendly tent.

The desert is a harsh environment. Not only does your tent need to survive the hot sun, you’ll also find high winds crossing the desert. And don’t forget those little critters that would love to nap in your tent. If you have the luxury of buying a tent just for desert camping, here are the key features to look for:

• Aerodynamic Shape – Obviously so it won’t blow away. But also so you won’t feel it shaking all night if a wind storm hits. Dome shaped tents are great for the desert because the wind will blow around them rather than try to go through them like a flat sided tent.
• Cooling or Heat Shield Technology – Modern designs work to reflect heat and keep the interior of tents cooler. These tents are more expensive, but if you plan to spend much time in the desert well worth the investment. The cooler temps also work well to shade you for afternoon naps.
• Light Colored or Reflective Tent – If you can’t justify the expense of the technology, then at least make sure your tent is light colored so it reflects the heat rather than absorbs it.
• Ventilation – Let that breeze through for natural cooling. Mesh is your friend. A front and back door or window with a mesh lining will allow the breeze to keep you cool.
• Secure Floor to Keep Critters Out – Many backpackers love the lighter weight of floorless tents. However in the desert you’ll  be better off with a tent that seals up completely to keep critters out.

Check out these posts for gift ideas for your favorite campers!

• Incredible Camping Gift Ideas for Women
• Forty Super Fun Camping Gift Ides for Kids
• Best Gift Ideas for RV Lovers that Have Everything

5 Properly Anchor Your Tent in the Desert Sand

A desert windstorm could keep you away all night shaking your tent. The solution is to properly anchor your tent. We’re often lazy about using all the guy lines when camping in the woods to get camp set up quickly. Well, desert camping is not the time to skip securing those lines.

Surprisingly, desert sand is often hard and rocky, not soft and squishy like a beach. If your campsite has firm ground then your regular stakes should hold securely as long as you place them at a 45 degree angle pointing away from your tent. Never put your stakes into the ground straight down because they will pull right out in the wind.

But then, many campsites will have soft sand and that requires a little more work to secure your guy lines. The most common technique is to use a deadman. That means wrapping the end of  your guy line around a large flat object (anything from aluminum foil to a flat rock). Then bury that object by laying it flat in a large hole that 8-12 inches dep in the sand. If possible stack rocks on top of the filled in hole to add extra weight. The weight of the sand and rocks on top of the flat surface will hold your tent securely in the wind. 

6 Let the Breeze Cool You – Position Tent based on Wind Direction

On our recent trip to the deserts of West Texas , we wanted a bigger tent for comfort so took our old reliable triangle shaped Eureka . (We love this tent!) So to avoid fighting the wind, we positioned the tent so the wind could blow right through the mesh front door and out the back window. We also left the rain fly off most nights which exposed more mesh, allowing more air to move through. 

Tips for a Great Night’s Sleep in the Desert

7 pack a usb rechargeable fan.

One of the smartest things I did on our Texas/New Mexico Desert Road Trip was to pack this USB battery powered fan. It’s much bigger than the usb fans you attach to your laptop. The thing could move some air. We hung it in our tent at night and ran it for a few hours until the temperatures dropped. Sweet! 

8 Select a Versatile Sleeping Bag

Night temperatures in the desert can vary greatly. You know it’s going to be a lot cooler than the day, but how much is hard to predict. There are so many environmental variables that effect how much the temperature is going to drop.

As a rule of thumb, your sleeping bag for the desert should be able to keep you warm at least 60 degrees cooler than the expected day time temperatures. But know it probably won’t get that cold so you want to be comfortable at warmer temps too. 

We pack a sheet for covering up when we first go to bed and the temps haven’t dropped much. You’ll find a sleeping bag that vents at the feet will also help you adjust your sleeping temperature.

9 Bring a Sleeping Mask

Ok, you left your rain fly off or your camper windows open to let the breeze through your tent but now that full moon is reflecting off the desert sand lighting up your campsite like mid afternoon. It’s really cool to watch the full moon for a little while… but then you need to go to sleep. So create your own darkness by slipping on a soft sleeping mask. You’ll find it much more comfortable than pulling yesterday’s stinky t-shirt over your face.

10 Consider Camping at Higher Elevations

My favorite trick for hot summer desert vacations is to look for higher elevations to camp. You’ll often find it 10 degrees cooler. For example when we did our 5 Utah National Parks Tour , we camped several nights in the desert mountains enjoying perfect sleeping temperatures in the 60s instead of the hotter night temperatures in Zion NP in the 80s. 

Keep Your Camp Food Safe in the Desert

11 Protect Your Food From Desert Critters

The desert might seem like a desolate place, but animals and rodents come out as the night cools looking for food. Don’t let your food stash be their dinner. We’ve heard stories of javelinas destroying tents to get to the food. Coyotes will sneak into camp at night looking for treats. And rodents will chew holes in your backpack and tent corners if the smell treats.

Here’s a few tips to keep critters away from your food.

• If there’s a bear box in your campsite, there’s a reason why it was placed there. Bear boxes are a great deterrent to aggressive desert wildlife beyond bears, such as the javelina and coyote.
• Reusable odor proof storage bags for toiletries and food items reduces your risk significantly.
• Odor proof coolers are available at a variety of price ranges.
• Store coolers out of site. As crazy as it sounds, animals who learn to search for food in campsites also learn what a cooler looks like. If possible put your cooler in your vehicle and cover with a blanket so they can’t see it.
• Stainless-steel mesh bags will keep rodents from chewing through your food bag. These also keep larger animals from eating your food, but make sure you secure your bag so they don’t carry it away.
• Keep a clean camp. Wipe down tables, pick up dropped food and dispose of dishwashing water well away from your camp.

12 Cooking in the Desert at a Desert Camp Site

Bring a stove for cooking. 

It’s most likely that you will not be allowed an open fire when camping in the desert. We think of the desert as a dry desolate place so it can be hard to image a raging wildfire. According to wildfire specialist Molly Hunter at the University of Arizona: wildfires are common in the desert. During the rainy season grasses and brush flourish. Then that foliage dries out creating fuel for fires. Throw in high winds in the spring and a fire can destroy land for miles. 

13 Plan Mini Meals When Desert Camping

Desert heat can suppress your desire for food. While that might sound like an interesting diet opportunity, not eating in the desert is dangerous. You burn more calories when it’s hot. Dr. John Higgins of the University of Texas Medical School says that’s because your heart is working harder to support your cardiovascular system. To stay healthy you need to eat more calories in the desert. 

Eating many mini meals keeps your energy level even throughout the day. Your body will enjoy those small treats without feeling sluggish or repulsed by food.

14 Put a Reflective Tarp over Your Cooler

Even the best cooler can’t compete against the desert sun. We found putting an insulating blanket over the cooler and then topping that with a reflective tarp improved the life of our cooler.

15 Bring More Water than You Can Ever Imagine Needing

You’ll read a lot of articles that say drink 1 gallon of water per day when in the desert. But really that’s just a guess. How much water you need to stay hydrated depends upon your own metabolism, the level of heat and how much effort your are putting out. There is no magic formula.

That said, when planning your water for camping in the desert 1 gallon per day per person is a good place to start. Then double that number. Then you’ll have what you need for cooking, for strenuous hikes, for cooling down if you overheat, etc. 

16 Carry Water with You Anytime you Leave Camp

NEVER leave camp without water. Even if you are only planning to walk a short distance to check out “that thing” you saw. Dehydration in the desert kills. You never know when that short walk will turn into something more. Just grab a water bottle!

17 Know Where to Get More Water

Before you head out on a desert camping trip, take a minute to research where you can restock on water in an emergency. Packing more water than you can possibly imagine ever needing doesn’t mean something can’t go wrong. 

We never pass up an opportunity, like passing a ranger station, to refill our big water jugs. And it’s common for me to grab that one extra gallon of water in the grocery store just in case. I’d rather come home with full water jugs than run out.

We always have a reserve of water in our coolers. Rather than using gel freezer bags, I freeze large water jugs in advance and use those for cooler ice.

Also remember desert creeks and streams that are shown on maps will probably be dry. So research rivers to determine if they usually have water all year. 

Pack Essential Camping and Hiking Gear

18 carry a navigation device and a plb when backpacking.

Pretty quickly, everything starts to look the same when hiking in the heat of the desert. Rain and wind can quickly obscure a trail. And if you wander off trail there are no clear markers to find it again. So don’t leave camp without a navigation device. And even better, take safety another step and pack a Personal Locator Beacon. The last place you want to be lost and unfindable is in the desert.

19 Pack Extra Batteries or Charger for Your Flashlight

You’re often a long way from any electricity source or store when camping in the desert. Make sure you have extra flashlights, batteries or a remote charger. We prefer to take long life rechargeable flashlights for hiking .

20 Bring a Good Multitool

Something always needs to be fixed when you camping. The only difference with camping in the desert is you are usually far away from everywhere. A great multitool, like a high quality Leatherman , will perform a variety of functions for you while taking up very little space. Check out our guide to the Best Camping Multitools.

21 Bring a Tent and Sleeping Bag Repair Kit

The best way to keep little critters and bugs out of your tent or sleeping bag is to keep it secure. Be ready to patch up your tent or sleeping bag if it gets a little tear.

Avoid Desert House Guests: Scorpions, Snakes and Other Critters of the Desert

22 check your tent, sleeping bag and shoes for little critters.

Maybe I’ve watched too many old westerns, but one of my desert camping fears is to find a rattlesnake in my sleeping bag. So before I go to bed each night I turn the bag inside out to check for any uninvited guests.

I may be a little paranoid, but it really is a good practice to check your tent, sleeping bag and shoes for little critters. Also keeping a clean tent space avoids places critters can easily hide also helps. Most important, keep your tent zipped up at all times so no one wanders in.

23 Store Food where animals can’t reach

I feel like this is so obvious, but them I’m amazed every time I see campers with coolers and food bags just laying around camp. Could you possibly advertise more to all the critters in the desert that you have a buffet waiting for them?

24 Pack out or bury your Poop

Human waste is just as attractive to wildlife as your food. Bring a folding shovel or hiking trowel so you can bury your waste at least 200 feet from your campsite in a whole that is 6 to 8 inches deep. Even better, pack it out with you!

Be Aware of the Weather When Camping in the Desert

25 check the weather report for rain and flash flooding alerts.

We talked a little about this when selecting your campsite. Don’t’ underestimate the danger of flash floods on your hiking plans for the day. 

26 Also Watch for Forecasted High Winds and Sand Storms

Sand storms are hard on your body and on your camping equipment. If you see a forecast of high winds, batten down all your gear. 

27 Be Prepared for Cold Temps at Night

Night temperatures in the desert can drop significantly. According to NASA Earth Observatory , “The temperature in the desert can change drastically from day to night because the air is so dry that heat escapes rapidly at night.” Additionally sand doesn’t hold heat, it only reflects the sun’s heat during the day. So once the sun is gone the ground cools quickly. 

How much the temperature drops depends on a lot of environmental factors but on any one day it can be anywhere between 25 to 60 degree drop. So imagine you are hiking in 95 degree heat all day and then while you are sleeping the temperature drops to 45 degrees.  Check our our guide to How to Keep Warm in a Tent for more ideas.

28 Know the Expected Extreme Hot Temps

There’s hot and then there’s beyond hot. Even in the desert there are days that get hotter than normal. If you watch the weather forecast you can plan your activities around those days. That super hot day might be a good time to explore a river hike or to head into town for supplies.

29 Limit Your Mid-Day activities

The sun between 10 and 2 is intense in the desert. If you are visiting a National Park or camping near a community, early afternoon is a great time to explore museums or go out for a long lunch.  Plan your outdoor activities, like hikes, for early in the morning or late in the afternoon. And, if you are backpacking, find shade or put up a tarp and use the mid afternoon for a quick nap.

Take Care of Your Body in the Desert

30 pack plenty of sun screen.

This should go without saying, but someone always forgets their sunscreen. It’s the reflection of the sun off the sand that catches people unaware. The sand magnifies the intensity of the sun’s UV rays just like water.

31 Take a Hat Made for Hot Weather

As you’d expect, the best hat for the desert has a wide brim to protect your face and neck. However what makes it special is the venting to let heat escape.

32 Shop for UFP/SPF Clothing

Once crazy expensive, you can now find UFP/SPF clothing for hiking at very reasonable prices. These fabrics stop harmful rays from passing through to your skin. 

33 Wear Long Sleeves

Surprisingly covering your arms with light colored loose sleeves will keep you cooler than bare arms. The fabric not only protects from sunburn, it will reflect the sun and keep your skin from overheating. Just make sure you wear a breathable fabric so you are not holding in heat and sweat. 

Personally I like layering a loose white UFP shirt over a tank top when hiking in the desert. Then if we find shade, I can take the outer shirt off for more cooling.

34 Wear Boots (not sandals)

You need good foot support in the desert because sandy ground shifts, causing your foot to twist and turn as you walk. Good support will minimize that action and keep your feet and ankles healthy. Boots will maximize support. 

However, I will confess that I prefer a good pair of hiking shoes over boots even in the desert. The only real downside is that I get a lot more sand in my shoes than you would with the higher ankle coverage of boots.

If you want sandals to wear around camp, look for good hiking sandals, like TEVAS that will provide support. 

35 Pack Baby Wipes to Wash Away Desert Sand

Somehow sand manages to get into every crack and crevice of your body when you are camping in the desert. Your most private body parts will really appreciate a wipe down before you go to bed at night. 

Your Desert First Aid Kit

36 plan for dry sinus relief.

Dry air is hard on your sinus. Carrying an inexpensive bottle of nasal saline spray has been a life saver for me many times, giving relief from that dry sinus pain. Also pack allergy medication for relief if your sinus get inflamed.

37 Protect Your Eyes

Obviously you need a good pair of sunglasses in the desert. But consider a pair that wrap around and protect your peripheral vision also. That sun is intense and you’ll be surprised how much pours in from the side.

Saline drops for your eyes are also a critical piece of my gear. When we were sledding in White Sands National Park , the high winds blew that fine sand right under my sunglasses. My eyes hurt so much from all the fine sand particles that I could hardly see. A few saline drops and you’ll be back in business. 

38 Pack Insect Repellant and Bite Care

Yes, mosquitoes live in the desert. Their little eggs are quite hardy and are buried in sandy dry washes waiting for the next rain. Biting sand flies are among the many other small insects that can bite you while camping in the desert. So don’t forget your insect repellant and something to soothe bites. 

We have a detailed guide on keeping mosquitoes away while camping that will help you avoid those nasty critters.

39 Don’t forget your Basic First Aid Kit

Of course, don’t forget your regular first aid kit for hiking and camping. You never know when you need a bandage, will get a nasty blister, or wake up with a raging headache.

Heat Stroke, Cramps and Exhaustion and Dehydration

40 know the signs of heat stroke when hiking in the desert.

When your body’s natural cooling system fails, you can become seriously ill and perhaps die.

Listen to your body and know the signs that heat stroke is coming on before it gets serious. For me, I start to feel lightheaded and a bit disoriented. If I stop right then and take cooling action I can recover quickly. The worse thing to do is to try to “push through it”.

Here’s a great resource from John Hopkins to help you learn the signs.

41 Know What to Do if You Overheat

It’s important to take actions that will cool your body as quickly as possible. Obviously move to shade if possible. Cool down by placing a wet cooling towel, bandana or even a shirt around your neck. Apply cold water to your wrists, armpits and groin. 

42 Learn How to Avoid Overheating in the Desert

Here’s a few tip to avoid

• If you aren’t used to hot weather, take a few days to acclimatize your body to the hotter temperatures before you start your camping trip.
• Carry a wet bandana or towel in your backpack if you go hiking so you can wrap around your neck in the heat of the day.
• Take the lead of Southwestern US natives and enjoy that afternoon nap avoiding the heat of the day.
• Drink water slowly throughout the day.

43 Travel with a Buddy

Heat stroke can sneak up on you and be completely debilitating. Traveling with a buddy means someone has your back in an emergency.

Camping in the Desert Requires Extra Care of Your Electronics

44 use solar power to recharge.

When you have all the sun you could ever want, go solar! Little solar packs are incredibly successful in the desert.

45 Protect your Electronics from Sand and Dust

Just as sand and dust work their way into your body crevices, it does the same with your electronics. When not in use, tuck your electronics into your bag or tent to minimize the damage those tiny sand particles can do.

Before You Go – Is your Vehicle Ready for the Desert?

46 get a vehicle check up before camping in the desert.

I’m sure you’ve heard the horror tales of someone’s car overheating on a desert road and no one drove by for hours to help. Don’t let that be you. Have your vehicle or camper checked out before you go.

47 Carry Tools, Coolant and Oil for Your Vehicle

Even if you are not mechanically inclined, you can add coolant to an overheated engine. And even if you have no skill, the next car that stops might have a passenger that knows how to help you. Bring the basics with you. 

48 Check Your Spare Tire

Take a few seconds and check the air pressure in your spare tire before you head out to the desert. If it’s low, get that tire checked out too. Dark, desert highways are not the place to wait for road side assistance to drive a 100 miles to help you. That is assuming you have cell service to call them.

49 Fill er up 

Rule of thumb is never let your gas gauge go under ½ tank. Gas stations can be very far apart in desert country. If you are planning an extended desert road trip you might want to carry an extra gas tank for back up. 

Bonus Tip: Bring a Novel Set in a National Park

When trying to beat the afternoon heat, grab a book that is set in a National Park . Relax and explore virtually!

Wrapping Up our Tips for Camping in the Desert

I hope a few of these camping in the desert tips are exactly what you need to turn your trip into an amazing experience. We almost forgot the most important tip, don’t forget your camera. You will have such a great time, see so many unusual things and love the views that you’ll want to fill up that camera with memories of your fantastic desert camping trip!:

The Authors: Hey, we are Ladona and Brad, avid campers and hikers. We are crazy about getting outdoors at every possible moment and have decades of experience exploring nature. Our current goal is to visit all 63 US National Parks and just completed #42. WooHoo! Our mission is to help you plan your own adventures and create memories beyond your imagination!

8 Scenic Desert Road Trips In Arizona

These Arizona desert road trips show the state's otherworldly, Mars-like scenery and red rocks, mostly courtesy of the stunning Sonoran Desert!

• Explore Arizona's diverse desert landscapes on scenic road trips through the Sonoran, Mojave, and Chihuahuan Deserts.
• Plan your desert road trips in fall or winter to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid the scorching summer heat in Arizona.
• Drive to iconic destinations like Sedona, the Grand Canyon, and Petrified Forest National Park for unforgettable experiences in Arizona's deserts.

Arizona’s delightfully diverse desert landscapes are a draw for visitors from all over the world. The expanse of arid terrain, gorgeous scenery, and year-round warm, sunny weather make the Grand Canyon State a road-tripper's paradise. The Sonoran Desert, the Mojave Desert, and the Chihuahuan Desert all cross within Arizona’s border, which gives lots of options for desert road trips through Arizona.

Whether planning one-day Arizona road trips or looking towards spending a longer amount of time on the road, at least one of these Arizona desert road trips will fit the bill and offer amazing scenery. Although the obvious challenge might seem like picking just one, why set limits? Try them all!

Fall and winter are ideal times to visit Arizona, especially when traveling from up north to escape colder weather. If traveling to Arizona during the summer, plan to spend most of your outdoor time very early in the morning to escape the grueling heat.

The average July high in Arizona is 105.9 degrees ! While summer is a popular time to visit Arizona, those who might struggle in the heat may be better off taking any of these scenic road trips in Arizona's deserts in the fall, winter, or spring instead.

10-Day Arizona Road Trip Itinerary With Scenic Stops

8 phoenix to sedona, see red rocks and desert scenery before ending at sedona's sacred vortexes.

This is perhaps one of the most iconic Arizona desert road trip routes loved by tourists, involving one of the truly scenic drives near Phoenix toward the famous red rock-filled town of Sedona. Starting from Phoenix, drivers can catch gorgeous desert views on the way to Sedona, where plenty of fun and unique activities await against a backdrop of stunning red rocks.

Sedona also offers spiritual experiences due to its sacred vortexes and yoga culture, along with some of the most scenic hikes in Arizona , including the iconic Devil's Bridge hiking trail , which has become an Instagram sensation.

7 Phoenix To The Grand Canyon

One of many scenic desert arizona road trips ending at the grand canyon.

The iconic Grand Canyon is just a two-to-four-hour drive from Phoenix, depending on the route and speed. Travelers can also do the route in reverse, going from Phoenix to the Grand Canyon on a road trip !

Start from Phoenix and head north on Highway 17 and Highway 180. Along the way, enjoy gorgeous desert views before arriving at one of the most famous natural wonders in the world.

This Arizona desert road trip itinerary involves entering Grand National Park; a standard vehicle pass to enter the park costs $35 .

6 Phoenix To Petrified Forest National Park

Witness petrified woodlands, fossils, and petroglyphs as well as gorgeous painted desert landscapes.

This unique Arizona road trip is one of the many road trips where the journey is just as (if not more) scenic as the destination , ending with a visit to Petrified Forest National Park .

From Phoenix, take Highway 17 and Highway 180 Northeast. This route passes through the Painted Desert where travelers can observe the brilliantly hued shales and sandstones banded with red, yellow, blue, white, and lavender.

The standard entrance pass to access Petrified Forest National Park is $25 .

This Underrated Arizona National Park Is Set To Be One Of The Most Popular For 2024

5 phoenix to lake powell, drive through the desert to a sparkling created by the grand canyon dam.

From Phoenix, take US-89 and US-160 and explore the scenic road to Lake Powell, which is visually stunning, going through scenic desert landscapes and canyons before reaching Lake Powell’s sparkling clear waters, home to aquatic activities like sailing, boat tours, kayaking, and much more. Lake Powell also has some of the most charming beach towns in Arizona on its shores, like Page.

One of the little-known facts about Lake Powell is that it has over 10,000 miles of shoreline and even offers some of Arizona's beach hikes along its lake shores.

8 Scenic Small Towns Right Next To Major Arizona National Parks

4 tucson to saguaro national park, a short, scenic drive to this underrated arizona national park through the desert decorated by towering saguaro cacti.

The drive from Tuscon to Saguaro National Park might only be short, at around 20 minutes or so, but it doesn't compromise on scenery. On the way, road-trippers can enjoy drive-by views of Arizona's towering saguaro cacti on the way to Saguaro National Park, where even more scenery awaits along its hiking trails .

The park further surrounds visitors with towering saguaro cacti so prevalent in the Arizona desert. There are scenic loop drives in both the East and West areas of the park that offer breathtaking views and photo ops. For any adventurers looking for a short, easy, yet still scenic drive from Tuscon, Saguaro National Park is just a short hop northwest on Interstate 10.

The standard entrance pass for one vehicle to enter Saguaro National Park is $20 .

3 Tucson To Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument

Witness the majestic, unique species of desert cacti along this scenic arizona road trip route.

The under-the-radar Organ Pipe National Monument is accessible from Tuscon via scenic State Route 86, where there are craggy mountains and open sky against a desert backdrop as far as the eye can see. This remote park has unique cactus species and hiking trails, as well as additional scenic drives inside the park’s boundaries.

There's plenty to see at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument , but especially, as its name suggests, the park is where visitors can see towering cacti that resemble organ pipes.

The standard entrance pass to Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument for one vehicle is $25 .

10 Affordable Small Towns In Arizona For A Vacation

2 tucson to chiricahua national monument, looking to go off the grid this remote location offers solitude and beauty.

Drive from Tucson to Chiricahua National Monument in Wilcox via Interstate 10 and State Route 186, enjoying breathtaking desert views along the way.

This remote park is a great day trip from Tuscon and is known for its unique rock formations (hoodoos especially!), hiking trails, and diverse desert wildlife. In the park, there's also an 8-mile scenic drive, which ends at Maasai Point, providing a stunning 360-degree view of the area's mountain range.

An entrance fee is not required to this park, but there is a charge for overnight camping .

1 Scottsdale To Monument Valley

Special, sacred, and often photographed.

Monument Valley is located on the Utah/Arizona border, and while it is a longer trek from the starting point – 325 miles each way – this Navajo Tribal Park is worth the trip. The scenery along the route includes beautiful desert landscapes dotted with towering rock formations that have become iconic scenes of the American Southwest.

There are also plenty of stops and detours on the road trip from Scottsdale to Monument Valley, including Sedona, Flagstaff, Jerome, Prescott, and Glendale. Attractions possible to see en route (with some potential detours) include the Chapel of the Holy Cross , Cathedral Rock , Walnut Canyon National Monument , Montezuma Castle National Monument , and also Sunset Crater . Upon arrival, note that an individual entry fee of $8 per person is payable to access Monument Valley.

Start from Sedona instead of Scottsdale and shave over an hour of drive time off the trip.

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Pair these L.A. road trips with a hike and a lunch

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In April 2020 — only a month or so into the COVID-19 pandemic — my wife and I were running out of things to do. The novelty of Zoom calls with friends was wearing off. We’d watched lots of movies and TV. We were itching to get out of our apartment, but with the virus still raging, we couldn’t risk being around other people. Then we had an idea: Why not go for a drive?

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For our first trip, we drove the length of Little Tujunga Canyon Road in the Angeles National Forest. After that, we were hooked. In the ensuing months, we crisscrossed the Santa Monica Mountains and made trips into Los Padres National Forest and beyond.

My wife bought me a California road atlas, and it became part of our scenic drive ritual: We’d consult its pages for inspiration, looking for two-lane roads and state highways that squiggled through mountain ranges or meandered through deserts. After returning home, I’d highlight our route. Four years after our first drive, the atlas is full of highlights documenting our travels — and there’s still a lifetime’s worth of backroads we haven’t covered yet.

No matter where we go, each drive gives me a deeper appreciation for the incredible range of landscapes in Southern California. And these journeys have led to many rewarding discoveries, from out-of-the-way diners to new trailheads for hiking and biking.

If you’re tired of visiting the same places, it’s time to hit the road. These two trips — all within a three-hour drive of the city — will get you started.

Los Padres National Forest and Carrizo Plain National Monument This route traverses winding mountain roads through Los Padres and spits you out near the southern entrance to Carrizo Plain — a vast preserve of native grassland and a hotspot for wildflowers (at least on some years ) and birdwatching . From Interstate 5, take Exit 205 and head west on Frazier Mountain Park Road. This two-lane road changes names several times as it ascends into the San Emigdio Mountains, passing forested slopes and epic canyon views along the way.

After about 42 miles, you’ll meet California 166. Take a right here and then a left on Soda Lake Road to enter Carrizo Plain National Monument. Drive northwest for 35 miles to the parking lot for the Soda Lake Trail, a short boardwalk that gets you up close to the park’s salt-crusted lake. If you plan ahead, you can also book a guided tour of Painted Rock, a sandstone outcrop with Native American rock art.

Hungry? Head back the way you came, take a right on California 166, and drive west 15 miles to the Cuyama Buckhorn , a renovated ’50s motel, restaurant and bar. The eatery’s Santa Maria-style tri-tip is superb, and if you grab a room, you can turn this scenic drive into a full weekend escape .

Volcan Mountain and Julian This route will take you to Julian , a mountain town famous for its apple orchards and delicious pies. From Interstate 15, take Exit 58 for California 79. Take a right on Pechanga Parkway and head south. The road becomes Pala Temecula Road and emerges into a wide canyon with mountains towering on either side. Take a left at Pala Mission Road and continue east on California 76, which hugs the San Luis Rey River before ascending more than 1,000 feet up a chaparral-covered ridgeline.

After some hairpin turns, the road levels off and skirts Lake Henshaw, a picturesque reservoir. Take a right on California 79, and after 10 miles, take a left on Wynola Road. Follow that road for about 3.5 miles, then take a left on Farmer Road to arrive at Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve. Stretch your legs on the Five Oaks Trail , a 1.2-mile path that ascends the western flank of Volcan Mountain and offers sweeping views of the orchards below.

With your appetite revved up, head south on Farmer Road into Julian and make a stop at the Julian Pie Co . Grab a well-deserved slice of apple pie and some apple cider and rest your feet at a picnic table while you chow down.

3 things to do

1. Race plankton in Manhattan Beach In celebration of Earth Day, the Roundhouse Aquarium will hold a day full of educational activities inside and outside its facilities. Highlights include dolphin spotting, a fish feeding, crafts, games, a “shark shack” and, yes, plankton racing. The festivities kick off at 10:30 a.m. Saturday and go until 4 p.m. The event is free, but be sure to register ahead of time at roundhouseaquarium.org .

2. Go gardening in San Pedro Give back to the land by planting native species, removing weeds, mulching and watering the White Point Nature Preserve’s garden with the folks at Palos Verdes Peninsula Land Conservancy. You’ll also have the chance to enter a raffle and take a guided nature walk. As a bonus, refreshments will be provided by Starbucks to keep you cool and hydrated. The three-hour event begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. All volunteers under age 16 should be accompanied by an adult, and all volunteers under age 18 must have a parent or guardian sign a waiver at the event. Register at pvplc.com .

3. Stretch your legs on Venice Boulevard CicLAvia is back. And this time it’s shutting down a 5.75-mile stretch of Venice Boulevard that connects Palms, Mar Vista and Venice Beach for walkers, joggers, bikers, roller skaters, unicyclers, penny-farthings, pogo sticks — anything as long as it’s completely powered by humans. There will be three local hubs along the route where you’ll be able to partake in family-friendly activities, pump air into your bike’s tires, refill your water bottle and use the restroom. Be sure to reference CicLAvia’s digital map so you can scope out the local businesses you’d like to visit along the way. It all takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. For more information about the event and the area it covers, visit ciclavia.org .

The must-read

The Klamath River in Northern California has turned brown and muddy, but that’s a good thing. As Times writer Ian James reports , it’s a side effect of the largest dam removal project in history, which aims to restore the river to its natural state. Four dams are being removed along the Klamath, and the river is passing freely through tunnels in three of them, draining reservoirs and churning up an estimated 2.3 million tons of sediment that had settled along the bottom of those man-made lakes. Although the turbid water might look ugly, restoration advocates and tribal leaders see it as a sign of healing. The muck is passing out of the Klamath, and new life — everything from salmon heading upstream to native plant seedlings along the riverbanks — will soon take its place.

Happy adventuring,

Want to try birding but don’t have binoculars? Head to the Audubon Center in Ernest E. Debs Regional Park. The center is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday, and you can borrow a free pair of binoculars (as well as a birding guide, backpack and other gear) to help you spot the 140 species of birds that call the park home.

For more insider tips on Southern California’s beaches, trails and parks, check out past editions of The Wild . And to view this newsletter in your browser, click here .

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We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

Michael Charboneau is a freelance writer covering gear and the outdoors, and he’ll be writing The Wild newsletter for the next few months. He has written for a variety of publications, including Men’s Journal, Runner’s World and InsideHook, and he lives in West L.A. When he’s not writing, he can be found running, hiking and biking around Los Angeles and its mountains.

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Take a closer look at the plans for the main regions of Neom, Saudi's epic megacity project

• Saudi Arabia is plowing on with its ambitious Neom project, despite reported setbacks.
• The Kingdom has said "millions of cubic meters of earth and water" are being moved each week.
• Here's a closer look at the main regions that officials plan to build as part of the project.

Saudi Arabia 's futuristic and highly ambitious Neom megacity has been billed by officials as a place where people can "dream big."

First announced in 2017, Neom is being constructed in Tabuk, located on the northern tip of the Red Sea.

In February, the Kingdom released a promotional video sharing updates on Neom's progress. The video claimed the project was "progressing rapidly," adding that "millions of cubic meters of earth and water" were being moved each week.

Denis Hickey, the chief development officer for The Line, said: "We've done a lot of the foundation work literally and figuratively. We are ready to go. I think the construction of The Line is unique in terms of its industrialization and its modularized approach."

"We think there's an opportunity to create a better model for a city to interact with the landscape and nature and the environment and we think The Line is going to be an example to the rest of the world," Hickey said.

The kingdom has been funneling money into the 26,500 km² megacity, with costs projected to reach around $1.5 trillion for the development . The Line — a key part of the project — was planned to be finished by 2030, but recent reports suggest developers may be facing financial difficulties.

In February, The Wall Street Journal reported that Saudi Arabia was borrowing to help fund an array of ambitious projects, including Neom. A month later, Bloomberg reported that the Gulf kingdom has significantly reduced estimates for the number of people expected to settle in The Line .

Neom is the flagship project of the Vision 2030 plan announced by Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi wants its Vision 2030 projects to boost residency, provide better opportunities, and help the nation diversify beyond fossil fuels — but it remains to be seen whether expectations will match up with reality.

Neom is designed to comprise several regions. Here's how officials say the city will be laid out.

The Line is the most well-known section of Neom.

Officials say the city is set to be contained within two 1640-foot-high mirrored skyscrapers positioned 656 feet apart. According to Neom's website, the city will have no roads, cars, or emissions and run on 100% renewable energy.

The city was originally planned to accommodate nine million people by 2030. However, Bloomberg reported that this estimate was recently downgraded to less than 300,000 people by the same deadline.

US studio Morphosis is reportedly working on the glossy city, with several more architects on board to design smaller sections .

Related stories

Several e xperts have raised ethical issues about the city, claiming it could be fitted with Chinese technology to gather data on residents as part of a sweeping surveillance program.

Located on the coast of the Red Sea, Neom officials have announced plans for an octagonal city, which they claim will house a "next-generation" sustainable port.

If completed, the plan is for Oxagon, as it's being called, to spill partly into the sea, with a section set to float above on the shore. Neom officials have made the bold claim the floating part of the city will be the "world's largest floating structure."

Planners have also claimed the city will cover 48km² and house 90,000 people by 2030, as set out in the Vision 2030 plans .

Saudi officials claim Sindalah, a luxury island resort, will be the first region of Neom to be completed.

Developers have said they want the island to act as an "exclusive gateway to the stunning Red Sea," adding that they planned to welcome the global yachting community and luxury visitors.

The resort is set to feature several luxury spots, including a beach club, a spa and wellness center, and a yacht club.

Located in the mountains of the Tabuk region, Trojena has been designed to be Neom's ski and adventure resort.

Neom's website says the region will host 36 km of ski slopes. The site is also aiming to generate 10,000 jobs, per Neom's promotional site.

Saudi plans for Trojena to play host to 700,000 tourists annually by 2030.

The Gulf Of Aqaba

Saudi plans for the Gulf of Aqaba coast include several of Neom's main tourist destinations, including Epicon.

Plans for Epicon include an "ultra-luxury" hotel and resort and include a residential offering. Official statements say it will feature two towers, one 738 feet tall and another 902 feet tall.

If completed, the Gulf of Aqaba will include Leyka, a natural valley with three boutique hotels; Xaynor, an exclusive beach club; Siranna, a "luxury hospitality experience," and Aquellum, a community built inside a 1,476-feet high mountain range.

There are plans for the region to also host several other luxury escapes and wellness retreats.

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Dubai flooding hobbles major airport's operations as "historic weather event" brings torrential rains to UAE

Updated on: April 17, 2024 / 5:57 PM EDT / CBS/AP

Dubai, United Arab Emirates  — The desert nation of the United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Wednesday from the heaviest rain ever recorded there after a deluge flooded out Dubai International Airport, disrupting travel through the world's busiest airfield for international travel. The state-run WAM news agency called the rain Tuesday "a historic weather event" that surpassed "anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949." 

The rains began late Monday, soaking the sands and roadways of Dubai with some 0.79 inches of rain, according to meteorological data collected at Dubai International Airport. The storms intensified around 9 a.m. local time Tuesday and continued throughout the day, dumping more rain and hail onto the overwhelmed city.

Flooding impacts Dubai International Airport

By the end of Tuesday, more than 5.59 inches of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees just 3.73 inches of rain fall at Dubai International Airport, a hub for the long-haul carrier Emirates.

At the airport, standing water lapped on taxiways as aircraft landed. Arrivals were halted Tuesday night and passengers struggled to reach terminals through the floodwater covering surrounding roads.

The airport said in a  series of social media posts  that all operations were halted for about 25 minutes on Tuesday afternoon and that all arrivals would be diverted after that "until the weather conditions improve." Late Wednesday morning, the airport and the flagship carrier Emirates were still warning travelers not to come to the airport unless absolutely necessary, saying all flight check-in was still suspended.

"Flights continue to be delayed and diverted. Please check your flight status directly with your airline," the airport said in a tweet. "We are working hard to recover operations as quickly as possible in very challenging conditions." 

One couple, who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity in a country with strict laws that criminalize critical speech, called the situation at the airport "absolute carnage."

"You cannot get a taxi. There's people sleeping in the Metro station. There's people sleeping in the airport," the man said Wednesday.

They ended up getting a taxi to near their home some 18 miles away, but floodwater on the road stopped them. A bystander helped them over a highway barrier with their carry-on luggage, the bottles of gin they picked up from a duty-free store clinking away.

Paul Griffiths, the airport's CEO, acknowledged continued issues with flooding Wednesday morning, saying every place an aircraft could be safely parked was taken. Some aircraft had been diverted to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central, the city-state's second airfield.

"It remains an incredibly challenging time. In living memory, I don't think anyone has ever seen conditions like it," Griffiths told the state-owned talk radio station Dubai Eye. "We are in uncharted territory, but I can assure everyone we are working as hard as we possibly can to make sure our customers and staff are looked after."

Did "cloud-seeding" contribute?

Rain also fell in Bahrain, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. However, the rains were acute across the UAE. One reason may have been " cloud seeding ," in which small planes flown by the government go through clouds burning special salt flares. Those flares can increase precipitation.

Several reports quoted meteorologists at the National Center for Meteorology as saying they flew six or seven cloud-seeding flights before the rains. The center did not immediately respond to questions Wednesday, though flight-tracking data analyzed by the AP showed one aircraft affiliated with the UAE's cloud-seeding efforts flew around the country Sunday.

The UAE, which relies heavily on energy-hungry desalination plants to provide water, conducts cloud seeding in part to increase its dwindling, limited groundwater.

Flooding closes schools across UAE

Schools across the UAE, a federation of seven sheikhdoms, largely shut ahead of the storm and government employees were largely working remotely if they could. Many workers stayed home as well, though some ventured out, with the unfortunate ones stalling out their vehicles in deeper-than-expected water covering some roads.

Authorities sent tanker trucks out into the streets and highways to pump away the water. Water poured into some homes, forcing people to bail out their houses.

The country's hereditary rulers offered no overall damage or injury information for the nation, as some people slept in their flooded vehicles Tuesday night. In Ras al-Khaimah, the country's northernmost emirate, police said a 70-year-old man died when his vehicle was swept away by floodwater.

Fujairah, an emirate on the UAE's eastern coast, saw the heaviest rainfall Tuesday with 5.7 inches falling there.

Authorities canceled school and the government instituted remote work again for Wednesday.

Rain is unusual in the UAE, an arid, Arabian Peninsula nation, but occurs periodically during the cooler winter months. Many roads and other areas lack drainage given the lack of regular rainfall, causing flooding.

Meanwhile in neighboring Oman, a sultanate that rests on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, at least 19 people were killed in heavy rains in recent days, according to a statement Wednesday from the country's National Committee for Emergency Management. That includes some 10 schoolchildren swept away in a vehicle with an adult, prompting condolences from rulers across the region.

Climatologists have warned for years that human-driven climate change is fueling more extreme and less predictable weather events across the globe.

Parts of southern Russia and Central Asia have also been dealing for days with unusually damaging amounts of rainfall and snowmelt, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate to higher ground and killing more than 60 people in Pakistan and Afghanistan.

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce Spotted Making Out and Singing 'Karma' at Coachella

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Travis Kelce  and  Taylor Swift  are fearless in putting their love on full display at  Coachella .

While the pair may have shown up to support headliner and friend  Lana Del Rey  and Swift's longtime collaborator, Jack Antonoff , who performed with his group Bleachers, the singer and her Kansas City Chiefs tight end boyfriend, both 34, certainly decided to take on a "when in the desert" mentality. 

In TikToks posted over the weekend, the couple was seen happily embracing, dancing and even making out while enjoying what has become one of the most iconic music festivals in the world.

One particular video shows the adorable pair sweetly smooching from what appears to be behind a barricade and whispering sweet nothings to each other during a performance. 

"I think he said 'I love you baby,'" noted one person who attempted to read Kelce's lips during the clip.

The GRAMMY-winning superstar and the Super Bowl champion turned heads as they arrived towards the stage, and according to their outfits, they were ready for the show.

Kelce paid homage to one of his favorite movies, Happy Gilmore , rocking a cap with the film's name, which he paired with blue and white stripped pants, a crisp white T-shirt and a flannel.

For her part, Swift showed some leg in a black 2-in-1 skirt by Halara, which she paired with a black T-shirt and oversized black jacket. In a nod to her man and his brother, Jason Kelce, the "All Too Well" songstress completed her look with a New Heights cap.

The pair were spotted showing some PDA as they danced and kissed amongst the VIP crowd during multiple performances. 

Later in the day on Saturday, the pair was joined by Ice Spice as they watched Antonoff and his band. In another clip, the pair were spotted supporting Ice Spice during her set as the rapper took the stage in a lace catsuit by I.AM.GIA.

In an Instagram post early Sunday morning, Swift was also seen cheesing with Real Housewives of New Jersey star Teresa Giudice , who purportedly watched one of the headlining acts alongside the singer and her three-time Super Bowl-winning boyfriend. 

"Two absolute QUEENS, Taylor Swift and my stunning wife  @teresagiudice  💖  #girlpower ," wrote Luis Ruelas, Teresa's husband of two years. 

The photo -- which sees the Housewife in a pink cowgirl hat and Swift with her New Heights baseball cap turned backwards -- was later reposted to Bravo's own Instagram account with the caption, "Coachella (Teresa's Version)."

Throughout the evening, Swift and Kelce delivered even more sweet moments, including one where he danced behind her as they sung along with Ice Spice as she performed "Karma." According to the clip, Kelce didn't miss a beat as he sang the tune word-for-word with his lady. 

Among the "Shake It Off" singer's other friends who hit the stage during the weekend was Lana Del Rey, who headlined the festival on Friday. Swift's Eras Tour opener , Sabrina Carpenter , also took the stage the same day -- and was supported by her boyfriend, Barry Keoghan .

Other acts performing this year include headliners  Tyler, the Creator ,  Doja Cat  and  No Doubt , as well as Peso Pluma, Blur, J Balvin and Reneé Rapp, among many others. The annual festival presented by Goldenvoice at the Empire Polo Club is scheduled to run April 12-14 and April 19-21. 

@noahbrox Taylor swift & travis kelce vibing to ice spice during her Coachella set 😭 #icespice #spicecabinet #taylorswift #traviskelce #coachella #travisandtaylor #taylorswift #icespicecult ♬ original sound - Noah Brox

Swift and Kelce weren't in attendance during Friday night's kickoff as they were spotted in Los Angeles having a sweet sushi date before heading to the desert. 

The sighting comes on the heels of  Kelce's exclusive interview with ET , in which he revealed the ways that Swift has influenced his own musical taste in recent months. 

"It's definitely been fun to experience her taste in music, for sure," Kelce told ET on April 2. "She's so amazing at what she does. And to find that creativity to see where she likes to pull things from and just, really, how she listens to music is very eye-opening for me. It's been fun to hear her take on it."

Later this month, Swift will drop her own new music as she releases her 11th studio album,  The Tortured Poets Department , on April 19. After that, she'll resume her blockbuster Eras Tour overseas. 

"There won't be a bad show, I promise you that," Kelce teased in his chat with ET, confirming that he will be in the crowd cheering her on at her upcoming shows. 

"We're both very career-driven. We both love what we do, and any chance that I can show my support to her -- and knowing that she's showing me all the support in the world throughout the season -- it's just been an amazing experience getting to know Tay," Kelce said.

It's been a fun offseason for Kelce -- from celebrating a Super Bowl win to  going on vacay with Swift  in the Bahamas  and then Los Angeles . Following those trips,  a source told ET  that "Taylor and Travis are soaking up their downtime together. They are appreciating the here and now and the love they share with one other. When they're able to just chill out, they love to hang out with their friends and family, travel, see new things together, and enjoy their privacy."

The source added, "They are grateful to have each other along for the ride and advocate and support each other across the board. While they're enjoying this moment, they're looking forward to what the future holds too. They want to continue to grow together and be happy and healthy. Their friends and family are still as supportive as ever."

And the fun continues for Kelce, who very soon will host yet again his already legendary  Kelce Jam , Presented by Jim Beam. The festival goes down May 18 at Azura Amphitheater in Kansas City. Some of this year's featured artists include hitmakers like Lil Wayne, 2 Chainz and Diplo.

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World News | United Arab Emirates struggles to recover after heaviest recorded rainfall ever hits desert nation

Skye, a Husky dog, sits near floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

A tanker truck sits abandoned in floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Two men walk through floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The desert nation of the United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Wednesday from the heaviest rain ever recorded there after a deluge flooded out Dubai International Airport, disrupting the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

A woman takes a selfie in floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The desert nation of the United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Wednesday from the heaviest rain ever recorded there after a deluge flooded out Dubai International Airport, disrupting the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

A man sits in a semitruck stuck in floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. The desert nation of the United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Wednesday from the heaviest rain ever recorded there after a deluge flooded out Dubai International Airport, disrupting the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Vehicles sit abandoned in floodwater covering a major road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Heavy thunderstorms lashed the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, dumping over a year and a half’s worth of rain on the desert city-state of Dubai in the span of hours as it flooded out portions of major highways and its international airport. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

An SUV drives through floodwater covering a road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. Heavy thunderstorms lashed the United Arab Emirates on Tuesday, dumping over a year and a half’s worth of rain on the desert city-state of Dubai in the span of hours as it flooded out portions of major highways and its international airport. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

By JON GAMBRELL (Associated Press)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates — The United Arab Emirates struggled Thursday to recover from the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation , as its main airport worked to restore normal operations even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and roads.

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel , allowed global carriers on Thursday morning to again fly into Terminal 1 at the airfield.

“Flights continue to be delayed and disrupted, so we urge you to only come to Terminal 1 if you have a confirmed booking,” the airport said on the social platform X.

The long-haul carrier Emirates, whose operations had been struggling since the storm Tuesday, had stopped travelers flying out of the UAE from checking into their flights as they tried to move out connecting passengers. Pilots and flight crews had been struggling to reach the airport given the water on roadways. But on Thursday, they lifted that order to allow customers into the airport.

Others who arrived at the airport described hourslong waits to get their baggage, with some just giving up to head home or to whatever hotel would have them.

The UAE, a hereditarily ruled, autocratic nation on the Arabian Peninsula, typically sees little rainfall in its arid desert climate. However, a massive storm forecasters had been warning about for days blew through the country’s seven sheikhdoms.

By the end of Tuesday, more than 142 millimeters (5.59 inches) of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees 94.7 millimeters (3.73 inches) of rain at Dubai International Airport. Other areas of the country saw even more precipitation.

The UAE’s drainage systems quickly became overwhelmed, flooding out neighborhoods, business districts and even portions of the 12-lane Sheikh Zayed Road highway running through Dubai.

The state-run WAM news agency called the rain “a historic weather event” that surpassed “anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949.”

In a message to the nation late Wednesday, Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, said authorities would “quickly work on studying the condition of infrastructure throughout the UAE and to limit the damage caused.”

On Thursday, people waded through oil-slicked floodwater to reach cars earlier abandoned, checking to see if their engines still ran. Tanker trucks with vacuums began reaching some areas outside of Dubai’s downtown core for the first time as well. Schools remain closed until next week.

Authorities have offered no overall damage or injury information from the floods, which killed at least one person.

“Crises reveal the strength of countries and societies,” Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, wrote on X. “The natural climate crisis that we experienced showed the great care, awareness, cohesion and love for every corner of the country from all its citizens and residents.”

The flooding sparked speculation that the UAE’s aggressive campaign of cloud seeding — flying small planes through clouds dispersing chemicals aimed at getting rain to fall — may have contributed to the deluge. But experts said the storm systems that produced the rain were forecast well in advance and that cloud seeding alone would not have caused such flooding.

Jeff Masters, a meteorologist for Yale Climate Connections, said the flooding in Dubai was caused by an unusually strong low pressure system that drove many rounds of heavy thunderstorms.

Scientists also say climate change is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme storms, droughts, floods and wildfires around the world. Dubai hosted the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks just last year.

Abu Dhabi’s state-linked newspaper The National in an editorial Thursday described the heavy rains as a warning to countries in the wider Persian Gulf region to “climate-proof their futures.”

“The scale of this task is more daunting that it appears even at first glance, because such changes involve changing the urban environment of a region that for as long as it has been inhabited, has experienced little but heat and sand,” the newspaper said.

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Love Is in the Desert Air! See All the Photos of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce at Coachella

The Grammy winner and NFL pro partied in the crowd during weekend one of the famed California music festival

Gilbert Flores/WWD via Getty

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce spent date night on the Coachella grounds this weekend.

All eyes were on the hot couple during their visit to the SoCal music festival on Saturday. The singer and athlete were seen dancing and kissing throughout performances by pals Ice Spice and Jack Antonoff . Wearing matching smiles and color-coordinated hats, Swift and Kelce made an adorable duo as they packed on PDA in the crowd.

Check out all the photos from Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's festive night out at Coachella this past weekend.

Backstage VIPs

Christina House / Los Angeles Times via Getty 

Taylor Swift supported her longtime friend and collaborator Jack Antonoff and his band Bleachers during their Saturday set at Coachella 2024 in Indio, California. The pop star hung out backstage, where she and her boyfriend Travis Kelce were spotted kissing and dancing together throughout the performance.

Karma Is Her Boyfriend

Jennifer Johnson/Shutterstock for Neon Carnival 

The couple also got to watch Ice Spice take the Coachella stage. The rapper even performed her verse on Taylor Swift's song "Karma," which the two artists remixed together in May 2023 .

The pair shared a passionate kiss while watching a performance from the crowd, as seen in an image first published by TMZ .

Coachella Couture

Both Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce accessorized their festival 'fits with baseball caps. Wearing a green embroidered hat, the "Cruel Summer" singer repped her boyfriend's podcast New Heights , which he co-hosts with his brother Jason Kelce. By her side, the Kansas City Chiefs player paid homage to Adam Sandler's 1996 comedy in a white Happy Gilmore cap.

Feeling Festive

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Throughout the weekend, fan-captured clips of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce hanging out the desert swept across the Internet. One TikTok user shared footage of the stars looking sweet together as they chatted with fellow festival-goers before Ice Spice's set. Later, the A-list duo blended into the crowd alongside Taylor Swift's Eras Tour opener Sabrina Carpenter and her boyfriend, Barry Keoghan .

Quality Time

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Before their PDA-packed appearance at Coachella, Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce enjoyed a far more low-key date night in L.A. They were spotted grabbing dinner together at L.A. hotspot Sushi Park  on Friday prior to leaving town.

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Donald Trump could face prison time if he is convicted in upcoming NY hush money trial

If former President Donald Trump is convicted on all counts in his New York criminal hush money trial that begins April 15, he could theoretically face more than a decade in prison.

But most legal experts who spoke to USA TODAY said such a dramatic outcome is unlikely. Instead, he would likely be sentenced to something between probation and four years in prison. And he would probably still be out, free to campaign for president as the presumptive or actual 2024 Republican nominee, while his all-but-certain appeal was pending.

Trump faces 34 felony counts of falsifying business records to cover up a hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Each count carries a maximum sentence of four years.

While Trump could in principle be sentenced to serve multiple counts consecutively, several experts said that is unlikely because he has no felony criminal record and the charges don't involve allegations of physical violence.

On the other hand, Trump has tested boundaries and feuded with the judge who may determine his fate.

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Trump has antagonized Judge Juan Merchan

Trump's sentence would be decided by Judge Juan Merchan, who has grown exasperated by the former president's pretrial behavior. Merchan expanded a gag order this month after Trump attacked the judge's daughter on social media over her marketing work with Democratic candidates, including posting a photo of her. Merchan said Trump has a history of attacking the family members of judges and lawyers in his legal cases.

"The average observer, must now, after hearing Defendant's recent attacks, draw the conclusion that if they become involved in these proceedings, even tangentially, they should worry not only for themselves,  but for their loved ones as well ," Merchan wrote in his gag order decision .

John Moscow, a New York lawyer who spent 30 years in the Manhattan District Attorney's Office, told USA TODAY that type of behavior could worsen any sentence Trump faces.

"If I were representing somebody in (Trump's) position, I would suggest to him that the judge is the one who imposes sentence and he ought to be careful," Moscow said.

If Merchan did consider a hefty sentence, it wouldn't be the first time he has taken a harsh view about behavior in Trump's orbit.

In 2023, Merchan was forced to sentence former Trump Organization chief financial officer Allen Weisselberg to only five months in jail because Merchan had previously accepted a plea bargain agreement between Weisselberg and prosecutors specifying that jail term. Weisselberg pleaded guilty to tax and record falsification charges and agreed to testify against the Trump Organization at trial in order to get that sentence.

The judge said, however, that he "would be imposing a sentence much greater than that" had he not accepted the plea bargain before hearing all the evidence at the trial. Without the plea deal, Weisselberg could have faced many years in prison.

What is Trump charged with?

Trump has pleaded not guilty to all counts in the case, which focuses on whether he falsified business records to cover up reimbursements to his former lawyer, Michael Cohen, for a $130,000 hush money payment to Daniels. Daniels has said she had a sexual encounter with Trump soon after Melania Trump gave birth to their son, Barron Trump. Trump denies the claim.

In order to secure felony convictions, Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office must convince a 12-person jury that Trump falsified the records in order to commit or conceal another crime. In this case, Bragg argues Trump was trying to conceal a federal campaign finance law violation by falsely recording his reimbursements to Cohen as payments for legal services. The federal violation was a limit-exceeding contribution to Trump's 2016 presidential campaign, as the payment was allegedly designed to keep Daniels' story from hurting the then-Republican nominee's election prospects. Bragg also alleges Trump was trying to conceal a plan to violate New York tax and election laws.

Nothing in the Constitution prevents Trump from becoming president even if he is convicted or sentenced to prison. If he won the election, however, courts may delay any prison time until after his term in office expires .

What is the maximum possible sentence?

The 34 felony counts Trump faces are classified as "Class E felonies" under New York law – the lowest level felony in the state. The maximum penalty on each count is four years of prison, and a judge would have discretion over whether to order Trump to serve sentences on each count at the same time or one after the other. However, New York caps such sentencing for Class E felonies at 20 years .

In addition, New York judges often impose sentencing ranges, where an incarcerated person becomes eligible for parole at the low end of the range. For Class E felonies, the lowest end of a range would be one-and-a-third years per count, while the highest would be four years. Good behavior in jail or prison can speed things up even more.

A sentence limited to probation?

Merchan would also have discretion to order a fixed sentence of less than those ranges, including probation.

That's what Mitchell Epner, a New York lawyer with decades of criminal law experience, expects would happen even if Trump were convicted on all counts. Epner noted the felony charges aren't violent and don't involve drugs.

"With a defendant who has no prior criminal record, my absolute expectation would be a sentence of probation," Epner told USA TODAY.

Epner wasn't alone in thinking that could be the sentencing outcome.

"This is a case that does not involve any physical violence, and it doesn't – there's not sort of a 'named victim,' so to speak – and so the court is going to take that into consideration," Anna Cominsky, who directs the Criminal Defense Clinic at New York Law School, told USA TODAY.

"In addition, I think it is unlikely that he would be sent to prison given who he is, given both the fact that he has no criminal record, and there is no getting around the fact that he is a former president of the United States," Cominsky said.

Incarceration a real possibility

Norman Eisen, a Brookings Institution senior fellow who served as special counsel to the House Judiciary Committee during Trump's first impeachment, thought a sentence that includes some incarceration is likely.

Eisen co-authored a report looking at sentencing for other defendants with no criminal history who were convicted of falsifying business records in New York. There, he noted one construction executive was sentenced in 2015 to spend two days each week in jail for a year for falsifying records to conceal payments in a bribery scheme. In 2013, two corporate executives were ordered to spend four to six months in jail for falsifying records to misclassify their salaries as expenses under their employer's larger bribery and fraud scheme.

"I think he's likely to face a sentence of incarceration if he's convicted," Eisen told USA TODAY.

Cominsky said the evidence Merchan hears at trial could also influence his thinking when it comes to sentencing.

"Often you'll hear judges refer to testimony at trial, evidence that was presented at trial, and say, 'This is why I'm imposing this sentence, because I heard from this particular witness or I saw this particular piece of evidence,'" Cominsky said.

Moscow pushed back against the assumption that Trump's sentences on each count would run simultaneously, instead of being stacked on top of each other. Just as a judge may take into account that a defendant has won a Nobel Peace Prize or lifted orphans from poverty, the judge may look at significant evidence of bad acts, Moscow said.

"When you start attacking the judge's daughter, and making her out to be a target, you have just breached the normal rules," Moscow said.

Trump has also posted a photo of himself wielding a bat, with his eyes directed toward an adjacent photo of Bragg, among other attacks on the district attorney. Bragg's office has received thousands of harassing emails, calls, and texts – including death threats – after Trump's social media attacks, it said in a court filing .

Diana Florence, a New York lawyer who spent decades in the Manhattan District Attorney's office, said Merchan's sentence would need to have some relation to what other white-collar defendants in similar cases have received, and she would be surprised if someone had ever gotten a sentencing range for falsifying business records with a minimum of 10 years or more.

Such a long sentence "would be very, very, very, very unusual, and if Judge Merchan wanted to make a point and do that, I highly doubt the appellate division would allow that to stand," she said. "It's just too much time for the conduct."

However, Florence added that a reasonable sentencing range could include a minimum period of more than a year incarcerated.

Sentencing someone with Secret Service protection?

Contemplating any jail or prison sentence would take Merchan into unchartered territory: Trump is the first former president ever criminally charged, and the Secret Service provides him with around-the-clock security.

But avoiding a sentence of incarceration on that basis risks undermining the idea of equal treatment under the law, Moscow suggested.

"If I were the judge − and I don't know what a judge would do in this case − I would reject out of hand the concept that because he was once president, and because as a matter of policy the Secret Service guards former presidents, that therefore he can't go to jail," Moscow said.

The question would then become how to reconcile equal treatment with ensuring a former president's security, according to Moscow. The judge could get creative, for example by ordering the former president to stay in a hotel wing or at a military base, where he is isolated just like any other prisoner but still has Secret Service protection.

"You can structure things to achieve the proper result without conceding that the defendant has the upper hand," Moscow said.

Chances of immediate prison? 'Less than 1%'

Many convicted defendants are "remanded" pending sentencing, a process in which they are taken into custody while they await their sentence, Florence said.

But Florence didn't expect Merchan to give that order when it comes to Trump, and even if Merchan did, Trump would likely be able to get bail set by an appeals court in the thousands of dollars to stay free during his appeal. That's all the more likely if Trump receives a low sentence, since the appeal could take longer than his actual sentence, she said.

"The chances of him going to prison immediately, even if he's convicted in whatever, six weeks from now or whenever, are I would say less than 1% because he would immediately be released on bail pending appeal," according to Florence.

Eisen agreed Trump probably wouldn't be incarcerated by Election Day, even if he's convicted on all counts.

"I think he's extremely unlikely to be forced to serve that sentence pending appeal," Eisen said.