The Tabernas Desert in Spain—where the 2016 film Last Days in the Desert was shot—holds one of Europe’s most arid landscapes, baked by the sun at an elevation of just 150 meters above sea level.
Where exactly is the Tabernas Desert located?
Nestled in the province of Almería, the Tabernas Desert sits between the Sierra Nevada and the Mediterranean coast, forming a natural barrier that has sheltered human settlements for millennia. Its dry, rocky terrain and sparse vegetation have made it a favored filming location since the 1960s spaghetti westerns. The area’s stark beauty and reliable sunlight also drew the crew of Last Days in the Desert, which used the natural light to emphasize the film’s spiritual and psychological themes. Because of its proximity to the coastal city of Almería (about 35 kilometers to the southeast), the desert became an accessible yet otherworldly set for a story set in the Judean wilderness.
What makes this desert a good filming location?
Its dry, rocky terrain and sparse vegetation have made it a filming favorite since the 1960s. The Tabernas Desert’s extreme conditions—like the 250mm annual rainfall and temperatures that can hit 40°C—create a backdrop that feels both ancient and timeless. (Honestly, this is the best place in Europe to shoot a desert scene without leaving the continent.)
When was Last Days in the Desert filmed?
| Feature | Data | Source Year |
|---|---|---|
| Primary filming location | Tabernas Desert, Almería, Spain | 2016 |
| Filming period | Autumn 2016 | 2016 |
| Secondary filming site | Rodalquilar (a nearby mining village) | 2016 |
| Elevation | 150 meters (492 feet) above sea level | 2020 |
| Annual rainfall | ≈250 mm (10 inches) | 2020 |
| Distance from Almería city center | 35 kilometers (22 miles) | 2020 |
Where else was the film shot besides the Tabernas Desert?
That said, the Tabernas Desert was the main stage. The mining ruins in Rodalquilar added texture to the film’s setting, giving it that extra layer of historical grit. (You’ll recognize the vibe if you’ve seen other desert-set films from the region.)
How did the Tabernas Desert form?
The Tabernas Desert formed over millions of years as sediment from the Sierra Nevada eroded and settled into a basin. Unlike most deserts, it isn’t the result of global aridity but rather a rain-shadow effect: the Sierra Nevada blocks moist Atlantic winds, leaving the area parched. By the 20th century, it had become a microclimate refuge for endemic species like the Spanish ibex and the sand lizard.
Why is this desert so dry compared to others?
Here’s the thing: the Sierra Nevada acts like a giant wall. Moisture from the Atlantic hits the mountains and drops on the western side, leaving the Tabernas side bone-dry. That’s why you won’t find many places in Europe this arid—it’s all thanks to that mountain range.
What’s the desert’s elevation?
That’s shockingly low for a desert. Most famous deserts sit much higher, but the Tabernas is practically at sea level. Makes you wonder how it stays so dry down there, doesn’t it?
How much rain does the Tabernas Desert get each year?
That’s roughly a quarter of what London gets in a year. No wonder it looks like Mars here sometimes. The dryness is what makes the landscape so perfect for films—no unexpected showers to ruin a shot.
How far is the desert from Almería city?
You could drive there in under 40 minutes if traffic’s light. That’s why filmmakers love it—close enough to the city for supplies, far enough to feel like another planet.
Can you visit the filming locations today?
As of 2026, the Tabernas Desert remains accessible to visitors, though infrastructure is minimal. The nearest town, Tabernas, offers basic accommodations and guided tours to filming locations. Visitors should pack plenty of water and sunscreen, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C (104°F). The Andalusian Regional Government maintains two protected areas in the region: the Desierto de Tabernas Natural Area and the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park to the southeast. While no commercial flights serve the desert directly, Almería Airport (LEI) operates daily connections to Madrid and Barcelona, making it the most practical entry point. Guided tours can be booked through local operators like Tabernas Desert Tours, which include visits to film sets and the Rodalquilar mining ruins.
What should visitors expect when touring the desert?
Don’t expect fancy resorts or paved walkways. This place is raw—just like the films shot here. Bring water, wear a hat, and maybe hire a guide. The tours will take you to spots from Last Days in the Desert and other classics. (Pro tip: go in spring or fall. Summer’s brutal.)
Are there any protected areas in the Tabernas Desert?
That’s great news for conservation. The desert’s unique ecosystem—home to species like the Spanish ibex—needs that protection. The natural park to the southeast is especially stunning if you want to pair your desert visit with some coastal scenery.
How do you get to the Tabernas Desert from Almería?
No direct flights to the desert itself—Almería Airport (LEI) is your best bet. From there, it’s a short drive or a booked tour away. Most visitors combine a desert visit with time in Almería city, which has plenty of history and great tapas. (You’ll want to rent a car if you’re exploring independently.)
What films have been shot in the Tabernas Desert?
Spaghetti westerns practically defined the desert in the 1960s. Since then, it’s been a go-to for films needing that rugged, sun-baked look. Last Days in the Desert fits right in with that legacy—using the desert’s “magnificent desolation” to mirror the film’s spiritual themes.
