Iran's Central Desert: Dasht-e Kavir (The Great Salt Desert)

The Iranian Desert, primarily known as Dasht-e Kavir (دشت كوير, "Low Plains" or "Salt Desert"), occupies the central plateau of Iran.

Location & Boundaries

• North: Alborz Mountains (separating it from the Caspian Sea).
• South: Central Iranian Range (Karkas, Shir Kuh mountains).
• East: Extends toward Dasht-e Lut (another major desert).
• West: Approaches the Zagros foothills.
• Coordinates: Roughly 34°–36° N, 50°–56° E.

Characteristics

• Area: ~77,600 km² (30,000 sq mi).
• Surface: Salt crust (kavir) over mudflats; seasonal salt marshes (playas).
• Climate: Hyper-arid, extreme temps (-5°C winter nights to 50°C+ summer days).
• Hazards: Treacherous salt crust conceals deep mud (quicksand-like); flash floods in wadis.

Notable Features

• Kavir National Park (4,000 km²): Protected area, Persian onager, Asiatic cheetah (critically endangered), goitered gazelle.
• Rig-e Jenn ("Demon's Dunes"): Vast dune field, historically feared, now explored.
• Caravanserais: Ancient Silk Road stations (e.g., Deyr-e Gachin).

Distinction

Dasht-e Lut (southeast) is hotter, sandier, holds the record for Earth's highest surface temperature (70.7°C). Dasht-e Kavir is saltier, flatter, more central.

Both deserts cover much of Iran's interior, making the country one of the world's most arid.