Exploring the Deserts of Australia: Size, Popularity, and Tourist Attractions

Australia, the second driest continent in the world, boasts an impressive 1.37 million square kilometers of desert land, primarily located in the central and western parts of the country. Only 70% of its territory is considered arid or semi-arid, receiving less than 500 mm of rain annually.

Introduction to Australian Deserts

Despite harsh living conditions, around 3% of the Australian population calls these deserts home, with only approximately 600,000 residents living in desert communities. Thunderstorms, also known as dry storms, are common, as the rain evaporates before it hits the ground. However, the annual monsoon seasons bring much-needed water, causing beautiful native flowers to bloom.

The Extent and Notable Deserts

Compared to other world deserts, the ones in Australia receive higher amounts of rain, with the driest parts receiving between 100mm to 140mm annually. One of the driest locations is around Lake Eyre in South Australia.

A List of 10 Notable Deserts in Australia

The following table outlines the size, location, and significance of these deserts:

Australian Desert Name Size (km2) State/Territory Great Victoria 348,750 WA and SA Great Sandy 267,250 WA Tanami 184,500 WA and NT Simpson 176,500 NT QLD and SA Gibson 156,000 WA Little Sandy 111,500 WA Strzelecki 80,250 SA Qld and NSW Sturt Stony 29,750 SA Qld and NSW Tirari 15,250 SA Pedirka 1,250 SA

Four major deserts, the Great Victoria, Great Sandy, Tanami, and Simpson, combined cover almost 12% of the mainland. The Great Victoria Desert alone occupies 4.5% of Australia, while the others cover 3.5%, 2.4%, and 2.3%, respectively. The significant size of these deserts contributes to their prominence as tourist attractions.

The Best-Known Deserts in Australia

Among the best-known deserts in Australia is the Great Sandy Desert, home to iconic landmarks such as Ayers Rock (Uluru) and the Wolfe Creek crater. These sites attract numerous visitors and are celebrated for their natural beauty and historical significance.

Conclusion

Australia's vast deserts, while challenging, offer a unique and captivating landscape for both residents and tourists. Despite the harsh conditions, they provide a rich tapestry of natural wonders, making them valuable and fascinating territories in the heart of this vast country.