Desert Vivariums should be hot and dry. Sand or corn cob substrate are good for this vivarium type, although gravel can some times be better as sand tends to stick to food and can cause digestive upsets.  The substrate should be deep as desert dwellers tend to be burrowing creatures by nature.

Desert creatures are very hardy but damp conditions will not suit them, however water should always be provided in a shallow dish.

Basking areas of up to 104°F (40°C) (depending on species) are vital with temperatures falling at night to around 58°F (14°C) (depending on species).

Ultraviolet light is essential to provide the same benefits as the hot desert sun, providing vitamin D₃.

The desert vivarium can be decorated with securely placed rocks and slabs of wood. Plants can be provided but plastic ones may be more beneficial as living plants may be eaten or destroyed by the occupants.