As the summer season approaches, many of us seek respite from the sweltering heat. We dream of cool breezes, refreshing dips in the ocean, and lush greenery. But what if I told you there are places where the heat is so intense, it would make you shiver? These places are not for the faint of heart, but for those who crave adventure and want to experience the most extreme weather conditions on Earth.
So, pack your bags (with heat-resistant gear, of course) and join us as we explore five of the hottest places on Earth, each with its unique climatic challenges
Table of Contents
Death Valley, California, USA
Located in eastern California’s Mojave Desert, Death Valley is renowned for being the driest place in North America. It’s surrounded by four mountain ranges, which create a rain shadow, preventing precipitation and vegetation growth. The highest recorded temperature in Death Valley was a scorching 56.7 °C (134 °F) in 1913, making it the hottest place on Earth in terms of air temperature.
Imagine standing in a vast, arid landscape, the sun beating down mercilessly, and the air so dry it cracks your lips. Death Valley is a surreal and unforgiving place, but its stark beauty is undeniable. Just be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat if you dare to venture here.
Kebili, Tunisia
Located in southern Tunisia, Kebili is the largest salt flat in the Sahara Desert. It holds the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in Africa, with a high of 55 °C (131 °F) in 1931. The town has a population of 156,000, and palm trees provide some respite from the extreme heat.
Kebili is a land of contrasts, with shimmering salt flats juxtaposed against lush oases. The town is a great base for exploring the Sahara Desert, but be prepared for the scorching sun and sandstorms.
Dasht-e Lut, Iran
The Dasht-e Lut, also known as the Lut Desert, is an eastern Iranian desert with no flora or animal life. It holds the record for the planet’s hottest surface temperature, reaching a staggering 177.4°F (80.8°C) in 2018. Despite its extreme conditions, Dasht-e Lut has a growing tourism industry, offering desert safaris and other adventures.
The Dasht-e Lut is a surreal and otherworldly landscape, with sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see. If you’re looking for an extreme adventure, this is the place for you. Just be sure to hire an experienced guide and take all necessary precautions against the heat.
Dallol, Ethiopia
Dallol, in northern Ethiopia, is known for its hydrothermal zone, featuring salt deposits, gas geysers, and acidic springs. It has the highest average yearly temperature of any inhabited location on Earth, reaching an average high of 41.1 °C (106 °F). The area is remote, with camel rides being a common mode of transportation.
Dallol is a colorful and otherworldly landscape, with a palette of greens, yellows, and oranges. However, the extreme heat, volcanic activity, and toxic fumes make it a dangerous place to visit without proper guidance and protective gear.
Tirat Zvi, Israel
Tirat Zvi, located near the Bay of Shen Valley in Israel, has the highest atmospheric humidity in Asia. Despite its harsh climate, the area is naturally fertile, thanks to the Jordan River. It has recorded temperatures as high as 54 °C (129.2 °F) and is a two-hour drive from Tel Aviv and Jerusalem.
Tirat Zvi is a land of contrasts, with the Dead Sea on one side and lush greenery on the other. The high humidity can make the heat feel even more oppressive, but the area is a popular destination for nature lovers and spa enthusiasts.
Heatwaves and Hottest spots
These five places represent some of the hottest and most challenging environments on Earth. While they offer unique experiences, they also serve as a reminder of the extreme conditions that exist in certain parts of the world. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler seeking new experiences or simply curious about the world’s most extreme climates, these destinations are sure to leave a lasting impression.