Lakes come in all shapes and sizes, and many claim a spot on the list of the largest in the world—whether by surface area, volume, or depth. But when it comes to sheer expanse, some bodies of water stand out above the rest.
In this article, we’ve ranked the world’s largest lakes by total surface area, from the smallest to the biggest. From the icy depths of Canada to the massive Caspian Sea, these lakes are among the most impressive water sources on Earth.
10. Great Slave Lake (27,000 km²) – Canada’s Deepest Lake
Great Slave Lake is the second-largest lake in Canada’s Northwest Territories, following closely behind Great Bear Lake. It’s also North America’s deepest lake, plunging over 600 meters (2,000 feet) into the earth.
Why is it so remarkable?
Stretches nearly 300 miles long and over 100 miles wide
Freezes completely in winter, allowing locals to build an ice road across it
A hotspot for fishing—pike, trout, and Arctic grayling thrive in its waters
Whether frozen solid in the winter or teeming with anglers and sailors in the summer, Great Slave Lake is an awe-inspiring wonder of the natural world.
9. Lake Malawi (29,500 km²) – Africa’s Most Biodiverse Lake
Straddling Tanzania, Malawi, and Mozambique, Lake Malawi—also called Lake Nyasa—is one of Africa’s Great Lakes.
What makes it special?
Home to more fish species than any other lake on Earth—especially cichlids
The 4th largest lake by volume and 2nd deepest in Africa
Parts of the lake are protected as marine reserves, preserving unique aquatic life
Not only is Lake Malawi an ecological marvel, but it’s also a stunningly scenic place to explore—whether by boat, snorkel, or simply gazing at the crystal-clear waters.
8. Great Bear Lake (31,000 km²) – Canada’s Largest Freshwater Lake
Located just above the Arctic Circle, Great Bear Lake is the largest lake entirely within Canada’s borders.
Why visit Great Bear Lake?
Its deep, crystal-clear waters are framed by boreal forests and tundra
One of the best places for trout fishing in North America
One of Canada’s least populated and untouched natural areas
Despite its size and beauty, Great Bear Lake remains one of the least disturbed lakes on Earth, making it a pristine escape for adventurers.
7. Lake Baikal (31,500 km²) – The Deepest and Oldest Lake on Earth
Lake Baikal, located in Russia, is an absolute giant in terms of depth and volume.
What makes Lake Baikal legendary?
Holds more water than all the Great Lakes combined
Plunges to an incredible 1,632 meters (5,354 feet) deep
Estimated to be over 25 million years old, making it the oldest lake on Earth
Extremely clear water—visibility can reach up to 39 meters (128 feet) below the surface
Often mistaken for a sea, Lake Baikal is home to hundreds of unique species and remains one of the world’s most fascinating natural wonders.
6. Lake Tanganyika (32,600 km²) – The Longest Freshwater Lake in the World
Lake Tanganyika, stretching across Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia, is one of the most unique lakes in the world.
What makes it stand out?
The world’s longest freshwater lake—measuring 676 km (420 miles)
Second only to Lake Baikal in depth, reaching 1,470 meters (4,820 feet)
Nile crocodiles lurk beneath its waters, making swimming risky in some areas
This massive African lake eventually flows into the Atlantic Ocean, making it a crucial part of the region’s ecosystem and economy.
5. Lake Michigan (58,000 km²) – The Largest Lake Entirely in the U.S.
As part of North America’s Great Lakes, Lake Michigan is a freshwater giant.
What makes it unique?
The only Great Lake entirely within the United States
Stretches across Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, and Wisconsin
Dangerous currents and deep drop-offs make swimming hazardous
Lake Michigan may be a stunning natural wonder, but its treacherous waters have earned it a reputation as one of the most dangerous lakes to swim in.
4. Lake Huron (59,600 km²) – Shipwreck Capital of the Great Lakes
Connected to Lake Michigan, Lake Huron is one of the largest and most historically significant lakes in North America.
Why is Lake Huron famous?
Features over 30,000 islands, including the world-famous Manitoulin Island
More shipwrecks than any other Great Lake, making it a top diving destination
Boasts the longest coastline of all the Great Lakes
With thousands of sunken ships beneath its surface, Lake Huron is a paradise for explorers and history buffs alike.
3. Lake Victoria (68,870 km²) – Africa’s Largest Lake
Lake Victoria, spanning Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya, is Africa’s largest freshwater lake and the second largest in the world.
Why is Lake Victoria remarkable?
The main reservoir for the Nile River
Home to over 200 fish species, including Tilapia
Infamously dangerous—prone to crocodile attacks and sudden storms
Named after Queen Victoria in the 1850s, this vast lake is as beautiful as it is unpredictable.
2. Lake Superior (82,100 km²) – The Largest Freshwater Lake in the World
Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake on Earth by surface area and one of the deepest and coldest of the Great Lakes.
Why does Lake Superior stand out?
Borders Canada and the U.S., spanning Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan
Plays a key role in North America’s shipping industry
Extremely cold and prone to riptides, making swimming risky
With its dramatic shorelines, deep waters, and treacherous waves, Lake Superior lives up to its grand name.
1. Caspian Sea (371,000 km²) – The World’s Largest Lake
Despite its name, the Caspian Sea is technically a lake—the biggest enclosed body of water on the planet.
Why is the Caspian Sea unique?
Borders five countries—Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Iran
Partially salty due to its ancient connection to the Paratethys Sea
A major center for caviar production and oil drilling
With its sheer size and salty waters, the Caspian Sea challenges traditional definitions of a lake—but by technicality, it remains the largest one on Earth.
Final Thoughts
From the icy depths of Russia’s Lake Baikal to the sun-soaked waters of Lake Victoria, these lakes are more than just bodies of water—they are natural wonders that shape the world around them.
Which of these massive lakes is at the top of your travel list?
