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Deserts

Guide to the most beautiful deserts in the world

A practical guide to the most beautiful deserts in the world, focused on timing, logistics, and real conditions for your next trip.

10 places3 min readUpdated 27 September 2026
Choosing the most beautiful deserts in the world to visit
The short answer

Selecting the most beautiful deserts in the world depends entirely on your tolerance for heat and your specific travel dates. You must prioritize locations based on their peak weather windows to avoid dangerous extremes and overcrowding.

This list focuses on ten distinct locations that offer unique terrain and climate profiles. Each entry highlights the best months to visit and the reality of getting there.

1

Rugged Atlantic cliffs

Faroe Islands·Denmark
Skálavík is a village on the islands Sandoy in the Faroe Islands.
Photo: EileenSanda, CC BY-SA 3.0

The Faroe Islands are a series of islands located between Iceland and Norway. The terrain is defined by steep fjords and cliffs with very little tree cover. Visit during June, July, or August for the most stable weather. You will experience perpetual twilight during the summer nights, which is useful for long days of hiking.

Suits
Hikers who prefer cooler temperatures over heat.
Worth knowing
Expect very short days if you visit during the winter months.
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2

An integrated resort in Singapore

Marina Bay Sands·Singapore
The elevation view from the west of Marina Bay Sands, Singapore
Photo: This Photo was taken by Supanut Arunoprayote. Feel free to use any of my images, but please mention me as the author and, CC BY 4.0

Marina Bay Sands is a large resort complex in Singapore. It includes a massive shopping mall, a hotel with 1,850 rooms, and a famous casino. Plan your trip for February, March, April, or May. These months generally offer the best balance of weather for navigating the city and visiting the local attractions.

Suits
Travelers who want luxury shopping and city amenities.
Worth knowing
The resort is massive and can feel overwhelming due to the sheer volume of visitors.
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3

Coastal city in Brazil

Rio !
Photo: Rafael Rabello de Barros, CC BY-SA 3.0

Rio de Janeiro is the second-largest city in Brazil. It has a long history as a seat of government and maintains a population of millions. March, April, September, October, and November are the best times to go. These periods avoid the height of the summer heat while maintaining pleasant conditions for sightseeing.

Suits
People interested in urban culture and coastal views.
Worth knowing
The city is very large and traffic can be significant between major districts.
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4

The highest peak on Earth

Mount Everest seen from Gokyo Ri
Photo: Rdevany, CC BY-SA 3.0

Mount Everest sits on the border of Nepal and China. It reaches a height of 8,848.86 metres above sea level. Visit in April, May, October, or November. These months provide the necessary windows of visibility and safety for those approaching the base or trekking the region.

Suits
Experienced climbers and high-altitude trekkers.
Worth knowing
The mountain requires significant preparation and physical fitness.
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5

The capital of Scotland

Edinburgh·United Kingdom
A ScotRail Saltire-liveried Class 334, no 334038, sits at Edinburgh Waverley having just completed a North Clyde Line run from Helensburgh Central.

Edinburgh is situated in southeast Scotland. It is home to the Scottish Parliament and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. May, June, August, and September offer the most comfortable weather for walking the city streets. You can explore the history of the area without the harsh cold of winter.

Suits
Visitors interested in history and architecture.
Worth knowing
Be prepared for sudden changes in weather regardless of the season.
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6

A massive waterfall on the Zambezi

Aerial view of the Victoria Falls of the Zambezi River, border between Zambia (left side) and Zimbabwe (right side). The Victoria Falls is the largest sheet of falling water in the world based on its
Photo: Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0

Victoria Falls sits on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the largest waterfalls in the world by width. Try to visit between February and May. The water flow is heavy during these months, which provides the most impressive view of the cascades.

Suits
Those who want to see powerful natural phenomena.
Worth knowing
The spray from the falls is immense and will soak you quickly.
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7

Thermal springs and ancient ruins

Pamukkale, Denizli 2026
Photo: Biologg, CC BY-SA 4.0

Pamukkale is a natural site in Turkey known for its white travertine terraces. The ancient city of Hierapolis sits directly on top of these formations. April, May, June, September, and October are the ideal months. You get mild temperatures that make walking on the limestone terraces comfortable.

Suits
History enthusiasts and those who enjoy thermal baths.
Worth knowing
It is a long distance from major cities, so plan your transit accordingly.
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8

Large mountain park in Canada

Mount Andromeda at dusk, towering over the rocky trail leading to the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield, Jasper National Park.
Photo: Ethan Sahagun, CC BY 4.0

Jasper National Park covers 11,000 square kilometres in the Alberta Rockies. It contains significant glaciers, springs, and lakes. June through September is the prime time to visit. The snow has mostly cleared from the trails, allowing for better access to the interior of the park.

Suits
Outdoor lovers looking for vast wilderness areas.
Worth knowing
The park is very large and you will need a vehicle to see most of it.
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9

Silica sand beach in Australia

Whitehaven Beach·Australia
Whitehaven Beach on Whitsunday Island, Queensland
Photo: Slug69, CC BY-SA 2.0

Whitehaven Beach is located on Whitsunday Island in Queensland. It is known for seven kilometres of fine white silica sand. June, July, August, and September provide the best climate. The temperatures are lower than in the summer, making the beach time more manageable.

Suits
Beachgoers who prefer bright white sand and turquoise water.
Worth knowing
Access is only possible by boat, seaplane, or helicopter.
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10

Volcanic islands in the Atlantic

Azores·Portugal
en:Lajes Field, en:Terceira Island, en:Azores, en:Portugal KC-135, KC-10 and F/A-18 aircraft on the tarmac. The 65th Air Base Wing is the American unit stationed at Lajes Field and it is the largest U

The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands belonging to Portugal. They are located far out in the North Atlantic Ocean. Plan your visit for June, July, August, or September. The islands are more accessible during these months, and the chance of fog covering the views is lower.

Suits
Travelers who enjoy remote, volcanic landscapes.
Worth knowing
Transportation between the islands can be difficult if the weather turns bad.
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What people wish they had broughtFor the places on this page

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Researching your destination beforehand ensures you avoid the worst weather or peak crowds. Use these windows to plan your timing effectively.

Questions people ask


What is the best time of year to visit the most beautiful deserts in the world?

It depends on the location. Most desert regions are best visited in the shoulder seasons to avoid extreme heat.

Do I need a permit to visit these locations?

Some parks and remote areas require permits. Always check the official site requirements before you travel.

Are these places expensive to visit?

Costs vary widely. Remote islands and high-altitude mountains are usually more expensive due to transport logistics.

Is it safe to travel to these destinations alone?

Safety depends on the specific country and region. Research local conditions and transport safety for each site individually.

How long should I spend at each place?

For most of these, three to five days is sufficient to see the highlights. Larger national parks may require a full week.

Somewhere to stay on this trip

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