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Simpson Desert, Australia

From series “Top 11 Most Unusual Deserts on the Planet”
Sand dunes of red color can be seen in Australia, in the Simpson Desert. Still, it has lots of other amazing features. This Australian desert can boast the longest parallel sand dunes in the world. Among them, the Big Red is considered the most famous; its height is 40 meters. The Simpson Desert may seem absolutely lifeless only at a first glance. On its territory, you can see unique plants and rare species of animals. There are more than 180 bird species alone. Different kinds of lizards and marsupials also live in the wilderness.

Simpson Desert, Australia The area of the Red Desert is quite impressive; it's about 143 thousands square km. Charles Sturt is considered to be its discoverer. He found these places in 1845. Extensive geological investigations of the desert began only in the first half of the 20th century. The first European who crossed the desert, was Medigo. That significant event happened in 1939.

Since the 60s of last century, the Simpson Desert began to attract industrialists, as large oil deposits were discovered  on its territory. However, by the 80s, they were fully developed. Since then, the desert of red sand attracts interest of tourists only. Great ride tours across the desert are held there. Tourists can even take a walk in the most picturesque areas. Experienced travelers are advised to visit the desert in the autumn, when it’s not that hot and long-distance tours are more comfortable. Next - Badain Jaran Dunes


White Sands National Monument, USA White Sands National Monument, USA
  White Sands National Monument, USA   Badain Jaran Dunes, China  
Badain Jaran Dunes, China Badain Jaran Dunes, China

Simpson Desert - interactive map

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