Best for Otherworldly Scenery: Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
Part of Bolivia’s Uyuni salt flats, shallow Laguna Colorada sits amongst hot springs, volcanoes, and twisted rock formations. Its rust-red waters are dotted with bright white pools of sodium, magnesium, and borax. The effect is more Mission to Mars than Planet Earth, creating a scene made all the more bizarre by massive crowds of lurid pink flamingos.
Also Great: Lake Natron, Tanzania
Remote and desolate, Tanzania’s caustic Lake Natron turns any dead animals that find their way into its waters into eerie ‘mummified’ statues.
Best for Winter Activities: Lake Louise, Canada
Turquoise, glacier-fed Lake Louise, encased by the snowy peaks of the Canadian Rockies, is spectacular in summer; however, it truly shines in winter when it transforms into one of the most beautiful ice rinks globally.
If skating isn’t appealing, experience world-class skiing and sleigh rides, plus stunning ice sculptures at the Ice Magic Festival. The crisp night air is perfect for stargazing, and the après-ski scene in the resort town of Banff offers fondue and hot chocolate to warm you up after a day of fun.
Also Great: Lake Åresjön, Sweden
Sweden’s Lake Åresjön becomes a giant frozen lake in winter, enabling fantastic skiing around the historic mountain town of Åre.
Best for Beach Bums: Lake Malawi, Malawi
Malawi may seem unlikely for tropical island fantasies, but the chilled beach life and golden sands around the country’s namesake lake exist in abundance. The shores of Lake Malawi are lined with laid-back villages and pristine coves, where the clear, calm waters teem with vibrant cichlid fish.
Various accommodations are available, ranging from backpacker resorts in Cape Maclear and Nkhata Bay to full-blown eco luxury at Kaya Mawa and Nkwichi Lodge. Adventurers can cruise the lake on the vintage MV Ilala ferry, sleeping on the deck beneath the stars.
Also Great: Bacalar Lagoon, Mexico
Tranquil Bacalar Lagoon in Quintana Roo, Mexico, is perfect for camping, swimming, kayaking, and simply relaxing.
Best for Architecture Buffs: Lake Como, Italy
Indeed, Italy’s Lake Como features snow-topped mountains and deep green hills; however, the true draws here are chic homes, lakeside palaces, and delightful towns filled with historic architecture. Among the highlights are the renowned Bellagio, with winding stone staircases, red roofs, and flower-filled gardens, and the 18th-century Villa Balbianello, featuring an elegant façade and exquisite gardens with stunning lake views.
To explore, rent a car, hire a bike, or, during peak season, take a boat to hop between enchanting towns.
Also Great: Lake Pichola, India
India’s Lake Pichola is surrounded by the forested Aravalli Hills and the stunning palaces and temples of beautiful Udaipur.
Best for Wildlife Watching: Lake Nakuru, Kenya
While you cannot dip a toe into the waters of Kenya’s Lake Nakuru, one of the Rift Valley’s salt lakes, the surrounding wildlife is the major attraction. Although many flamingos have departed, animal enthusiasts can rejoice in sightings of lions, leopards, black and white rhinos, and endangered Rothschild giraffes in the nearby grasslands and forests.
To get up close and personal, hire a jeep or join an organized safari, available in nearby Nakuru town or through lodges surrounding the National Park.
Also Great: Lake Clark, Alaska
Wild, remote, and beautiful, Lake Clark in Alaska offers fantastic opportunities to see brown and black bears in their natural habitat.
Best for Adventure Sports: Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
If you’ve ever wanted to throw yourself out of a plane or jump off a mountain, then Lake Wakatipu in Queenstown—the self-proclaimed adventure capital of New Zealand—is the place to go. Experience bungee jumping from Kawarau Bridge or take in views while tandem skydiving from 15,000 feet. Additional activities include jet boating, zip-lining, and for those less adventurous, scenic hiking along the lakeshore. Finally, unwind in one of Queenstown’s lively bars after an adrenaline-filled day.
Also Great: Lake District, United Kingdom
Visit the UK’s Lake District for mountain biking, abseiling, and kayaking adventures.
Best for Culture: Lake Titicaca, Peru
Deep blue Lake Titicaca, dotted with golden islands and framed by snow-capped mountains, is steeped in myth and legend, offering insight into local highland cultures. On the Peruvian side, you’ll find the renowned reed islands of the Uros Indians, easily accessible by ferry from nearby Puno. Alternatively, consider an overnight stay in the reed huts of Uros Khantati.
Across the border in Bolivia, the tranquil islands of Isla del Sol and Isla de la Luna boast traditional communities, pre-Columbian ruins, and the captivating religious center of Copacabana.
Best for Walking: Loch Lomond, Scotland
The epitome of Scottish natural beauty, Loch Lomond is particularly enjoyable off-season when the tourist crowds have dispersed, allowing visitors to appreciate its haunting splendor. The iconic West Highland Way runs along the loch’s eastern shores, while Luss Heritage Path meanders through the scenic countryside, encompassing the charming village of Luss.
To the west are the steep Arrochar Alps, and to the east are the Trossachs—a stunning landscape of forest, lakes, and hills. This variety offers routes for everyone, from gentle strolls to intensive multi-day hikes.
Also Great: Gokyo Lakes, Nepal
At Gokyo Lakes, located in Nepal’s Everest region, traverse dramatic scenery at an altitude of 5000 meters (with the option to cool down with a dip, if you’re brave enough).
Best for Urbanites: Lake Michigan, Chicago
Venture along Chicago’s 18-mile lakefront trail where you can jog, walk, bike, or rollerblade alongside the blue waters of Lake Michigan, framed by a blend of parkland and striking skyscrapers.
If you prefer driving, enjoy the panoramic views from Lakeshore Drive, which follows alongside the trail, concluding in the diverse lakeside community of Edgewater. The beaches along the lake become bustling with sunbathers during the summer months, while on the water, visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, jet skiing, or boating.
Also Great: Lake Kandy, Sri Lanka
Nestled in Sri Lanka’s second city, surrounded by lush hills and colorful architecture, Lake Kandy is an ideal spot for a city stroll.
This article was first published on January 12, 2018, and updated on January 31, 2022.
