Situated in the central part of the Iranian Plateau, Isfahan Province features a diverse and contrasting physical geography. It shares borders with nine other Iranian provinces, making it a critical geographic crossroads. The province serves as a transition zone between the fertile, mountainous western regions of Iran and the arid, desolate eastern deserts.
To the west and south, the province is dominated by the foothills and peaks of the Zagros Mountains. These ranges dictate the region's watersheds and influence its climate. To the north and east, the landscape flattens out into the Dasht-e Kavir (Great Salt Desert), characterized by arid plains, salt flats, and sand dunes.
The lifeblood of the province has historically been the Zayandeh Rud (the "Life-giving River"). Originating in the Zagros Mountains, it flows eastward through the capital city before emptying into the Gavkhouni wetland. However, in recent years, severe droughts and extensive upstream water diversion have caused the river to frequently run dry, presenting major ecological and agricultural challenges.