In eastern California, just off of I-40 or I-15, is the Mojave National Preserve, adjacent to the border of Nevada. If you are coming from the east on I-15, hang a left on Cima Road. Otherwise, Kelbaker Road will take you on a vertical journal through this wild desert landscape. Stop in Kelso, California, for information about the many hikes and sites that the Mojave offers. Don't miss sightseeing at Mitchell Caverns (desertusa.com) when it is open.
Stretching between China and Mongolia, the vast Gobi desert offers flat, rocky views regardless of what region you are touring. Fly into the Mongolian capital city of Ulaanbaatar, and from there embark on one of the many guided jeep tours that includes the Yolin Am National Park and Nemegt Canyon. There are ample flora, fauna and oases to quench the thirst of the desert explorer's spirit. Don't miss the hot springs at Shargaljuut Hot Spring Sanatorium.
Adventurous folks will find a desert lover's paradise in one of the many destinations of the Arabian Desert. There is little more than sand and sun in this giant stretch of scorched land. For driving fun, book one of the many jeep tours that will take you careening up and down sandy dunes that will make your stomach lurch while you laugh out loud. For politically stable starting points, start in Jordan, Israel, the United Arab Emirates or Oman.
If you are looking for giant cacti, mesas and sunsets that turn the sky pink and purple, then the Arizona-Sonoran Desert is the perfect driving destination. Hop on I-10 from either the east or the west and bask in the glow of Saguaro cacti, as this is the only place in the world where you can find them. Tucson, Arizona, offers authentic desert lodgings at the Hotel Congress (hotelcongress.com). Spend a day hiking at Saguaro National Park.
