The Sahara is the largest hot desert in the world, spanning 9.2 million square kilometres (3.6 million square miles) – an area almost as large as the United States or China (both around 9.8 million square kilometres). The desert spreads across 11 countries in North Africa, including Morocco, Egypt and Algeria. In Algeria, the sand dunes of the Sahara can reach up to 430 metres (1,411 feet) high. Reptiles include the Sahara sand viper and the horned desert viper, which sidewinds to navigate the hot sand efficiently. Each colony is ruled by a single breeding queen capable of pumping out dozens of babies several times a year.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 16, 2026 08:51 UTC