The largest hot desert on land is the **Sahara Desert**, which spans across North Africa. Covering an area of approximately 9.2 million square kilometers (3.6 million square miles), the Sahara is characterized by its vast stretches of sand dunes and arid landscapes. It has extreme temperature variations, with scorching daytime heat and cooler nights. The desert is home to unique flora and fauna adapted to its harsh conditions, including cacti and various animal species like camels and foxes. The Sahara plays a significant role in the climate and ecology of the region and is rich in cultural history.