Top 21 Largest Lakes In The World That Are Worth Visiting

Posted on Tuesday, March 1st, 2022 by Navneet Kaur Leave a Comment

Lakes have been around for millions of years and have played a significant role in shaping the world. There are many lakes in the world, some big, some small. In fact, there are almost as many lakes on Earth, but which are considered the largest lakes in the world? Or, we can say, the biggest lakes in the world are usually the ones that cover the largest area, rather than being of particularly gigantic size. Well, it really depends on how you want to look at it!

The world is full of natural wonders, and the lakes are surprisingly diverse. There are many shapes and sizes; Water temperatures vary greatly depending on their location and depth. So if you want to enjoy some spectacular views of nature the next time around, the list of the world’s largest lakes below will leave you stunned.

1. Caspian Sea :

The largest lake in the world is the Caspian Sea, located between Europe and Asia, and covers an area of ​​143,550 square miles and (372,000 km2) This full-fledged sea is home to many species and is best known for its caviar and oil industries. It is one of the mysterious lakes between Azerbaijan, Iran, Russia, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan.

From water sports to romantic trips and long weekend parties, the sandy Caspian Sea is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle. The Caspian Sea is one of the best tourist places to enjoy with family or friends. Like other seas, this place also has many beautiful beaches known for their white sand and clear waters.

Location: Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and Western Asia

Surface Area: 371,000 km²

Best Time To Visit: You can visit this place in any season. Or, it depends on the purpose of your trip and when you can get free time quickly. The weather around the Caspian Sea is generally pleasant throughout the year, but there are some differences between the summer and winter seasons. If you are a sports lover, April to June and September to October are the best months to enjoy the sea.

2. Lake Superior :

Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. With a maximum length of 350 statute miles (560 km) and a width of 160 statute miles (257 km), it covers an area of ​​31,700 square miles (82,103 km)! Lake Superior spans Minnesota and Canada, has thousands of islands within its borders, and is the deepest lake in the world. It is one of the 3rd largest lakes in the world by volume and holds 10% of the world’s surface freshwater.

This Great Lakes is home to over 80 species of fish. It is a great place for hiking, birding, kayaking, camping, boating, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. Lake Superior is the best tourist destination to enjoy and offers you the opportunity to witness some of the most beautiful views of nature and experience their positive energy.

Location: African Great Lakes (Canada and the United States)

Surface Area: 82,103 km²

Best Time To Visit: If you are a swimmer, the best time to visit is in August. You can also visit from September to mid-October when the weather is nice, and it is the best time to enjoy yourself with family and friends. It is also the season to enjoy hiking, birding, camping, kayaking, boating, mountain biking, and wildlife watching.

3. Lake Victoria :

Lake Victoria is a freshwater lake in Africa, straddling the equator between Uganda and Kenya. It is one of the African Great Lakes. Lake Victoria is the largest lake in Africa by area and is considered the second-largest freshwater lake in the world by volume. The lake was named Lake Victoria after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, who ruled over its discovery.

Lake Victoria is one of the best tourist places to enjoy with family. The lake area has given birth to many civilizations. The region has a lot to offer to the tourists as it offers beautiful landscapes and historical sites. It is also home to various bird species, making this place an attractive tourist destination.

Location: North America (Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda)

Surface Area: 68,800 km²

Best Time To Visit: Lake Victoria is home to the most popular hiking trails, which boast stunning views and an astonishing amount of wildflowers during the spring and summer months. The month of June is the best time for boating, fishing, camping, and other activities.

4. Lake Huron :

Lake Huron is one of the five Great Lakes of North America. With a surface area of ​​23,007 square miles (59,590 km), Lake Huron is the second-largest Great Lakes in the world, making it the third-largest freshwater lake on Earth. It is home to many rare and endangered plant and animal species, including fish, birds, and plants.

Lake Huron is famous for its beaches, dunes, wetlands, forests, and extensive rivers. The reservoir is a popular fishing spot for local anglers and provides excellent opportunities for both fishing and boating. Lake Victoria is the perfect place for your next vacation!

Location: North America (Canada and the United States)

Surface Area: 59,600 km²

Best Time To Visit: The best time is from late May to mid-September, early spring to summer, and early autumn. Autumn is the best season to enjoy the vibrant red and yellow flowers. Lake Huron also offers some of the most popular recreation spots in the summer.

5. Lake Michigan :

Lake Michigan, one of the five lakes that make up the Great Lakes in the world, is located in North America. It is the second-largest of the Great Lakes by volume (4,900 km) and the third-biggest lake in the world by surface area (58,030 km). It is located on the southeast coast, on the west coast of Michigan, and is globally considered the largest freshwater mound.

Lake Michigan is an important part of the United States and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the United States. It is also home to various fish species and other fauna. The beautiful lakes and Great Lakes shoreline make it the perfect place for tourists to enjoy the pure sunset over Lake Michigan.

Location: United States

Surface Area: 58,030 km²

Best Time To Visit: Lake Michigan in North America gets very cold during winter and is the best time to enjoy the perfect view near the lake. In addition, it’s best to visit during early spring or late fall when the weather is moderate to enjoy sports activities on Lake Michigan.

6. Lake Tanganyika :

Lake Tanganyika is a great lake in Africa. It is the second oldest freshwater lake in the world, the world’s second-largest by volume, and the second deepest lake in the world. It covers an area of ​​32,900 km (12,700 sq mi), a depth of 570 m (1,870 ft), and a maximum depth of 1,471 m (4,826 ft). It covers an estimated 18,900 km (4,500 cu mi).

Located between Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Burundi, and Zambia, it is the longest freshwater lake in the world. Lake Tanganyika is home to at least 250 cichlid fish and other unwanted species. Many tourists come here to enjoy its beauty and scenery. Also, it has been very important throughout the history of World War I.

Location: Burundi, DR Congo, Tanzania, and Zambia

Surface Area: 32,900 km² 

Best Time To Visit: Lake Tanganyika is a beautiful place to visit almost throughout the year. It has a moderate equatorial climate, and June to September is the best time to visit there to make the most of the activities.

7. Lake Baikal :

Lake Baikal is the world’s oldest and deepest freshwater lake in the world with a maximum depth of 1,642 m (5,387 ft). Lake Baikal is one of the clearest lakes in the world, with visibility up to over 100 feet (30 metres). Lake Baikal is the largest lake in the world by volume, with 23,615.39 km3 (5,670 cu mi) of water. 

The lake is located in Siberia, between Irkutsk Oblast to the northwest and the Buryat Republic to the southeast. Lake Baikal is home to over 1,700 species of plants and animals, many endemic. It is also called “the Blue Eye of Siberia” or “the Pearl of Siberia.” It holds about 22-23% of all the fresh surface water on Earth and has more than one-fifth of all the freshwater on our planet.

Location: Siberia, Russia (Mongolia and Russia)

Surface Area: 31,722 km²

Best Time To Visit: October to April is the ideal time, though you can also catch the icy lake in May. Winter is when you can experience the lake at its best. The lake is quintessentially Siberian and perfect in winter.

8. Great Bear Lake :

Great Bear Lake is a lake in Canada’s Northwest Territories, located on the border with Alberta. It is Canada’s deepest and largest lake. It is the eighth largest in the world with a surface area of 31,153 km2 (12,028 sq mi) and a volume of 2,236 km3 (536 cu mi). The area around the lake consists mostly of taiga forest, but there are some boreal forest areas near its southern end.

It is also home to several wildlife species, including fish, seals, and beluga whales. This region offers many opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and canoeing. Also, it’s known for its unique character and pristine natural environment, which attracts many tourists every year.

Location: Canada

Surface Area: 31,153 km2 

Best Time To Visit: Late June to early September is probably the best with warm weather. Swimming in Big Bear Lake during summer is refreshing and fun for everyone. Apart from this, winter is the best place to enjoy snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross country skiing; if you want to do some snow activity, it is also a great destination.

9. Lake Malawi :

Lake Malawi is also famous as Lake Nyasa in Tanzania and Lago Nyasa in Mozambique. Situated between Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania, it is the fifth-largest freshwater lake by volume, the ninth largest lake in the world by area, and the third-largest and second deepest lake in Africa. It covers approximately 29,600 square kilometres (11,400 sq mi) and is 706 metres (2,316 ft) at its deepest point.

This meromictic lake attracts the most significant number of tourists from all over the world as it is home to more species of fish, at least 700 species of cichlids. Lake Malawi is one of the most beautiful and exciting places to visit, including its proximity to many other popular places. It is a major water recreation area, offering visitors boating, fishing, and swimming.

Location: Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania

Surface Area: 29,600 km2

Best Time To Visit:  If you are planning to visit Lake Malawi, the best time is during the dry season between May and October. It’s a more spectacular time of year, with brighter sunshine, bird’s-eye views, and fresh evenings. Also, it is a time to enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming.

10. Great Slave Lake :

Great Slave Lake is the second-largest lake in the Northwest Territories of Canada. It has a surface area of 18,500 km2 (7,100 sq mi) and a volume of 596 km3 (143 cu mi). With a maximum depth of 614 metres (336 fathoms; 2,014 ft), it is one of the deepest lakes in North America. It drains into the Mackenzie River. It is one of the world’s largest lakes between two mountain ranges: the Coast Mountains and Mackenzie Mountains. 

If you are interested in visiting Western Canada, Great Slave Lake is a beautiful place to visit. It has many great attractions that will appeal to tourists. The lake itself is a wonderful attraction, and it offers some of the best fishing in Western Canada and is an important tourist attraction for the Northwest Territories. 

Location: Canada

Surface Area: 27,200 km2 

Best time to Visit: On the heels of summer, which was the hottest on record, July is expected to be one of the coolest months in the Great Slave Lake. It is a great time for boating and fishing when the ice from the shoreline has melted and allows access to the open water.

11. Lake Erie :

Lake Erie is more than just a body of water in Ohio. It’s one of the five Great Lakes, and it’s considered the 11th-largest lake on Earth by surface area. Lake Erie has a surface area of 9,990 square miles (25,874 km2). Ohio bounds the lake on the north, Pennsylvania on the northeast, New York on the east, Ontario, Canada on the southeast, and Michigan and Indiana on the west.

With a reputation for being one of the best freshwater fishing spots in the country, Lake Erie draws visitors from all over. People visit it to boat and fish, but many come to the shores of Lake Erie to take in the magnificent views. Also, It is one of the greatest freshwater lakes in the world as it provides drinking water for millions of people. Visitors can also enjoy the numerous beaches that line Lake Erie’s shoreline.

Location: Canada and United States

Surface Area: 25,667 km2

Best Time To Visit: Whether you are looking for a beach getaway or an adrenaline rush, Lake Erie has it all! Summer is the best time of year to visit Lake Erie and a time to spend your day near the sandy beaches. In addition, it is a time to enjoy the spectacular scenery, boating, and fishing.

12. Lake Winnipeg :

Located in Manitoba, Canada, Winnipeg Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world. With an area of 24,514-square-kilometre (9,465 sq mi), it is the sixth-largest freshwater lake in Canada. Lake Winnipeg has some sandy beaches, large limestone cliffs, and many bat caves in some areas. Apart from this, the lake provides excellent opportunities for both fishing and boating.

Lake Winnipeg provides feeding and nesting sites for a wide variety of birds. Lake Winnipeg offers some great activities for the visitors like hiking, boating, swimming, and fishing. Moreover, it is one of the biggest lakes in the world to enjoy its spectacular beauty and lush green tropical islands.

Location: Manitoba, Canada Canada, and United States

Surface Area: 24,514 km2 

Best Time To Visit: June to October is the best time to enjoy the spectral beauty of Lake Winnipeg. The summer months are the best time for waterbird watch. This is the mildest season to enjoy warm, sunny days and pleasantly cool nights.

13. Lake Ontario :

One of the most beautiful and scenic places in Canada is Lake Ontario. This lake is in the northern part of Canada and forms a significant portion of the border between Canada and New York state in the United States. Lake Ontario has an area that measures approximately 7,320 square miles, making it the largest lake in the world. Lake Ontario has become a central growing area for fruit trees, and in the spring, you can see an abundance of migratory birds in the Lake Ontario region. 

Lake Ontario is one of the most fantastic outdoor attractions in the country. It is a true Canadian gem! From Toronto to Niagara Falls, the relaxing shores of Lake Ontario offer endless opportunities and experiences. Lake Ontario is one of the most fantastic outdoor attractions in the country and has a variety of recreational opportunities for people to enjoy.

Location: Canada and United States 

Surface Area: 19,000 km2

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit Lake Ontario is from May to September. In summer, the freshwater is warm enough to swim in, and you can enjoy various outdoor activities. Besides, more birds are flying, which is the best time to enjoy the beautiful weather.

14. Lake Ladoga :

The land surrounding Lake Ladoga is the most famous of Russian landscapes. It is one of the largest lakes in Europe, the second largest lake in Russia, and the 14th largest freshwater lake in the world. With a surface area of 17,891 km2, this region has been shaped by centuries of human habitation and diverse geology. 

This lake is one of the largest and one of the deepest lakes in Europe. Lake Ladoga is a tourist attraction in Russia. Situated in the Republic of Karelia, it’s the largest freshwater lake in Europe and is considered beautiful. It is rich in varieties of fish and plays an important role in the history of the middle ages. 

Location: Northwestern Russia (Leningrad Oblast and the Republic of Karelia)

Surface Area: 17,700 km2 

Best Time To Visit:  In summer, Lake Ladoga becomes a major tourist hub of the region. June and July are the best times to see the beautiful scenery typical of the region: forests, islands, etc. This is also an ideal time for enjoying swimming and fishing in the lake.

15. Lake Onega :

Lake Onega is located in the northwest of Russia and belongs to the White Sea. It covers a total area of ​​4600 square kilometres. This lake is considered one of the largest lakes in Europe and has a length of about 100 km, a width of up to 37 km, and is 20 metres deep at its deepest point.

Lake Onega is a tourist attraction that has been drawing visitors from Russia and abroad for decades. It is one of the largest lakes in the world, with a surface area of more than 5800 square kilometres. The lake is located along the border between Karelia and Leningrad Oblast, increasing its popularity among tourists.

Location: Russia

Surface Area: 9,700 km2

Best Time To Visit: The lake freezes in January-February every year, with average thickness, and is the best time to enjoy snow sports activities. June is the hottest month in Lake Onega and is considered one of the best times to enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating.

16. Lake Titicaca :

Lake Titicaca is a lake located on the border of Peru and Bolivia with a surface elevation of 3,812 m (12,507 ft). It is one of the highest navigable lakes in the world and the largest lake in South America. The lake holds more than twenty islands, which native people inhabit. Also, it is home to more than 530 aquatic species. 

The lake has an interesting history that dates back to the pre-Incan period. Known for its excellent fishing, it is also popular among tourists who want to go hiking, camping, and boating. Also, its islands, crystal-clear waters, festivals, and archaeological sites are popular among tourists. Lake Titicaca is the best place to experience various natural wonders and ancient culture that still flourishes here.

Location: Bolivia and Peru

Surface Area: 8,372 km2

Best Time To Visit: TThe dry season for Peru is April to October, the best time to visit Lake Titicaca. The weather is temperate and pleasant, with sunny days and cool nights. It is time to expect blue skies and less rain in the region.

17. Lake Nicaragua :

Lake Nicaragua, also known as the Great Lake of Nicaragua, is the largest lake in Central America. This freshwater lake is located on the border between Nicaragua and Costa Rica. The lake has an area of ​​about 8,264 km (3,191 sq mi) and is the 19th largest lake in the world. Lake Nicaragua is home to many bird species and contains numerous plant species, including orchids and bromeliads.

Lake Nicaragua is a freshwater lake in the Caribbean country of Nicaragua. It’s an ideal place for fishing, swimming, boating, and other water sports; a haven for bird watchers from around the world; a popular tourist destination. Lake Nicaragua is one of the great places to visit if you want to see some rare species while enjoying your vacation or business trip.

Location: Southern Nicaragua

Surface Area: 8,264 km2

Best Time To Visit:  For visitors who want to experience the best of Nicaragua outside the bustling capital city, Lake Nicaragua is one of the most popular destinations in the country. The best time to visit Lake Nicaragua is between November and May; the lake’s clear waters give you a chance to admire a variety of birds.

18. Lake Athabasca :

A lake is located in northern Saskatchewan, Canada, and on the border with Alberta. It is one of the largest lakes entirely within Canada and the third-largest lake contained entirely within the North American continent (after Lake Superior and Lake Huron). The lake covers an area of 7,850 km2 (3,030 sq mi), has a length of 283 km (176 mi), and a width of up to 32 km (20 mi).

In addition to its great size, another unique aspect of this lake is its large saltwater area on Canada’s mainland. In fact, it is home to 23 species of fish. This lake has become quite popular and is well known for its scenic beauty. This unique phenomenon is also known for water sports activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, etc.

Location: Canada

Surface Area: 7,850 km2

Best Time to Visit: Summer is the best time to visit Lake Athabasca as there are many ways to enjoy it. You can go swimming, boating, wakeboarding, and fishing. This is the most popular time of year to visit Lake Athabasca with your family or friends.

19. Lake Turkana :

Lake Turkana is a lake in the Kenyan Rift Valley and is the world’s largest permanent desert lake. The lake has a surface area of 6,405 km2 (2,473 sq mi) and an average depth of 30.2 m (99 ft), making it the largest lake in the world. This world’s largest alkaline lake is home to some fish species, birds, reptiles, and mammals. 

In the Northern region of Kenya, Lake Turkana is popular for its white sandy beaches and a variety of water sports activities. It has been attracting both local and international tourists for a long time. The lake is not only famous for its natural beauty but also because of its unique wildlife. 

Location: Ethiopia and Kenya

Surface Area: 6,405 km2

Best Time To Visit: There are various times to visit Lake Turkana; however, spring is considered the best season to visit Lake Turkana and experience some of the best natural scenery around the lake. And, you will get clear skies and maximum sunlight during the dry season, especially in January-March.

20. Reindeer Lake :

Reindeer Lake, located in northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, is one of the 24th largest lakes in the world that remains ice-free year-round. It covers an area of roughly 5,650 km2 (2,180 sq mi) and features some spectacular scenery. The region includes several most admiring spots, ideal for fishing, canoeing or kayaking. 

In addition to its beautiful countryside, Lake Reindeer has rich species, including some important wildlife. It is a popular fishing destination due to its walleye and pike populations. Reindeer Lake provides all the necessities for a family vacation – namely golfing, horseback riding, swimming and boating!

Location: Canada

Surface Area: 5,650 km2

Best Time To Visit: The best time to visit the lake is from May to October. For avid anglers, the best season would be from June to September; and for those who enjoy outdoor activities (boating, kayaking, etc.), July and August are ideal months.

21. Van Lake:

The Van Lake is one of the largest lakes in the world, located in the far east of the country in the provinces of Van and Bitlis. It is one of the world’s few endorheic lakes (a lake having no outlet) of size greater than 3,000 square kilometres (1,200 sq mi) and has 38% of the country’s surface water (including rivers). 

It is a saline lake receiving water from numerous small streams at the country’s centre and sits within a depression surrounded by mountains. The area is rich with a history dating back to ancient times. Due to its geographical location and natural beauty, it has become one of Turkey’s most popular tourist destinations. 

Location: Turkey

Surface Area: 3,755 km2

Best Time To Visit:  The best time to visit this beautiful place is in the mid-year months when the temperature is mild and not too hot or cold, sunny but not too scorching. During this time, Lake Van plays host to several water sports, sailing and coastal powerboat racing events.

Lakes are natural bodies of water that are usually found on land. When we talk about the world’s largest lakes, there are a few that are truly impressive. They offer stunning views and landscapes and provide habitats for unique wildlife. If you want a true holiday experience this summer, forget about the crowds and hot temperatures and plan a trip to any of the places mentioned above!

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