What is the largest desert in the world? These desert facts may surprise you The world's largest desert spans approximately 5.37 million square miles, but it’s probably not the one you’re picturing.

For most people, the word “desert” summons images of sand dunes, cacti and snakes. In television and movies, characters typically become sweaty, starved and parched when they’re stuck in the desert.

“From June on to November the Mojave Desert lies hot, still, unbearable … sick … where dust devils dance, whirling up into a wide, pale sky” — Mary Austin ...

What is the largest desert in the world? These desert facts may surprise you. The world's largest desert spans approximately 5.37 million square miles, but it’s probably not the one you’re picturing.