Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
The existence of lakes is from numerous centuries and they tend to be one of the oldest natural wonders. Since their date of existence, these oldest lakes in the world hold a variety of secrets. If you wish to explore them, you can explore the nearby geological places. Over the years, these lakes have undergone numerous climatic shifts and geological transformations. From the coldest Siberia to warm Africa, you can find the oldest lakes in the world across different destinations.
Top 9 Oldest Lakes In The World
Here are some of the top 9 oldest lakes in the world, perfect for a refreshing retreat, holding centuries of secrets with their mesmerising sight:
1. Lake Baikal
Photo: Sergey Pesterev / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in Siberia, Russia, Lake Baikal is said to be the deepest freshwater lake in the world. It is one of the most popular and oldest lakes in the world. This lake is approximately 25 to 30 million years old. It contains about 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater. Biodiversity is one of the most important and fascinating factors here. It supports around 1,700 species of animals and plants. The Baikal seal found here is the world’s only freshwater seal species.
Location: Southeastern Siberia, Russia
Best Time To Visit: July to September, when temperatures are milder, and the lake is accessible
2. Lake Tanganyika
Photo: NsabaNsaba / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Tanganyika, located in Africa, is shared by four countries, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania, Zambia, and Burundi. The lake is around 9 to 12 million years old. It is the second-deepest lake in the world, with a depth of 1,470 meters. The extraordinary biodiversity of the lake has around 350 species, most of which are endemic cichlids. The lake supports the livelihood of local communities through fishing and trade.
Location: Bordering Tanzania, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Burundi, and Zambia
Best Time To Visit: May to October, during the dry season, offering pleasant weather and clearer waters
3. Lake Zaysan
Photo: AkylbekovAS / Wikimedia Commons
Located in eastern Kazakhstan, Lake Zaysan is around 65 million years old. In comparison to other oldest lakes in the world, Lake Zaysan has a relatively shallow depth of 15 meters. It has been one of the top freshwater lakes despite undergoing numerous geological and environmental changes over the years. As a major fishing hub in the region, Lake Zaysan supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The scenic landscape of Lake Zaysan is one of the most prominent ones to look forward to for a scenic retreat.
Location: Eastern Kazakhstan
Best Time To Visit: June to August, when the weather is warm and suitable for outdoor activities
4. Lake Maracaibo
Photo: Wilfredor / Wikimedia Commons
At first glance, Lake Maracaibo might appear to be a bay or lagoon, but it is much more than that. Located in the Gulf of Venezuela, Lake Maracaibo dates back to around 20 to 36 million years old. Due to its unique structure, Lake Maracaibo is one of the most popular and oldest lakes in the world and the largest in South America. It supports unique biodiversity. Furthermore, the lake is also economically significant because it has a very necessary oil-producing region. Although it has undergone severe ecological challenges due to oil production, Lake Maracaibo still stands to be one of the top water bodies in Venezuela.
Location: Northwestern Venezuela
Best Time To Visit: December to April, the dry season, offering more comfortable conditions
5. Lake Ohrid
Photo: Markus Bernet / Wikimedia Commons
Have you ever heard of a lake that forms a border? Lake Ohrid is such a lake, situated between Albania and North Macedonia. It is one of the oldest and deepest lakes in Europe, aging between two to three million years old. Being one of the deepest lakes, the depth is around 288 meters. You can have a wonderful time here witnessing over 200 unique species. UNESCO has declared it to be a World Heritage Site because of its cultural and natural significance. There are human settlements around the lake where you can do all the touristy things. Several major historical sites are located nearby for you to explore.
Location: Bordering North Macedonia and Albania
Best Time To Visit: June to September, characterised by warm weather and vibrant local festivals
6. Lake Malawi
Photo: Joachim Huber / Wikimedia Commons
Often referred to as Lake Nyasa, Lake Malawi is one of the major Great Rift Valley lakes. It is said to be around 8 to 10 million years old. It is situated between Tanzania, Mozambique, and Malawi also making it one of the oldest lakes in the world. Apart from being very popular, Lake Malawi is also the fourth-largest freshwater lake in the world. The lake houses around 1000 different species of cichlids and a variety of fish populations. In Africa, it is used to support the local economy. Despite being millions of years old, Lake Malawi’s waters are very clean, making it a vibrant tourist attraction.
Location: East Africa
Best Time To Visit: May to October (dry season, pleasant weather)
7. Lake Titicaca
Photo: Pedro Szekely / Wikimedia Commons
If you’re exploring the oldest lakes in the world, Lake Titicaca is a must-visit destination. Situated in the Andes mountain, Lake Titicaca is around 3 million years old between Peru and Bolivia. Because of its high altitude, Lake Titicaca holds great cultural and historical significance for local communities. It is believed to be the place of birth for the Incan civilization. The Uros people continue the tradition and respect the ancient traditions around the islands on the lake. You can spot the unique Titicaca water frog upon your visit to Lake Titicaca.
Location: Border of Peru and Bolivia (South America)
Best Time To Visit: May to October
8. Lake Lanao
Photo: Patrickroque01 / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Lanao is one of the oldest lakes in Southeast Asia and a well-known lake globally, approximately 10 million years old. It is located on one of the islands in the Philippines, Mindanao. The lake has earned the reputation of being the largest lake in the country. Lake Lanao is home to a wide range of endangered fish, specifically the endemic fish species, because of environmental changes and invasive species. Economically, the lake is very important for the people, providing a source of fishing, agriculture, and hydroelectric power.
Location: Mindanao, Philippines
Best Time To Visit: December to April (dry season, less rain)
9. Lake Biwa
Photo: Raita Futo / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Biwa is situated in the Shiga Prefecture of Japan. As one of Japan’s oldest lakes, Lake Biwa is also one of the oldest lakes in the world. The estimated age of the lake is said to be around 4 to 6 million years. Over the years, the lake has made a huge contribution to the history and culture of Japan. It has served as the source of food, transportation, and water in the Japanese home for centuries. Biwa trout is one of the most common fish found in this location. Furthermore, the lake also holds a lot of ecological and economic importance as it supports fishing, agriculture, and tourism.
Location: Shiga Prefecture, Japan
Best Time To Visit: March to May (spring) and September to November (autumn)
If you are looking for a comforting and serene environment amidst nature, you must take a trip to these serene destinations. Witnessing some of these oldest lakes in the world is an extraordinary experience in itself. Moreover, there are many cultural sites to explore near these lakes to elevate your trip. These destinations are ideal for exploring natural beauty and relaxation. So, take a break from your hectic schedule and plan with TripXL to unwind on the lap of nature.
Cover Photo: Daniel Msirikale / Wikimedia Commons
