Some roads cross deserts, but each one offers a very different experience. Here is what travelers can really expect on the road.
United States – U.S. Route 50 (Nevada)
U.S. Route 50 crosses small mountain ranges and dry basins, not endless sand. You drive through long empty valleys, then reach small towns every 100–150 km. Fuel stops are limited but predictable. The road is paved, straight, and easy to drive. Expect silence, big skies, and classic American roadside motels.
Australia – Stuart Highway
The Stuart Highway is a fast, paved road with very long stretches without services. Road trains are common. Heat is intense in summer, and wildlife often crosses at night. Expect red soil, flat land, and strong sunlight. This road feels remote, but it is well maintained.
Chile – Atacama Desert Roads
Roads in the Atacama Desert are mostly paved and in good condition. The challenge is not driving, but altitude and dryness. You pass salt flats, volcanic landscapes, and mining areas. Days are bright and clear, nights are cold. Services are centered around towns like San Pedro de Atacama.
Mongolia – Gobi Desert Tracks
In the Gobi Desert, many routes are dirt tracks, not real roads. GPS is often more useful than road signs. You may drive for hours without seeing a building. Expect rough surfaces, river crossings, and sudden weather changes. This is self-reliant travel.
North Africa – Sahara Desert Roads
Sahara roads are paved near cities and oases, especially in Morocco and Tunisia. Between them, traffic can be very light. You drive across gravel plains more often than dunes. Expect military checkpoints, strong heat, and long straight sections. Guided travel is common outside main routes.