Map by Visual Capitalist
Ever wondered how the Great Lakes would look if placed next to Lake Baikal?
This fascinating map visualization arranges the world’s 25 largest lakes side by side, creating an eye-opening comparison that reveals just how dramatically these water bodies differ in size and scope.
The Caspian Sea Dominates the Scene
The most striking feature of this comparison is the sheer dominance of the Caspian Sea, which technically qualifies as a lake despite its name.
This massive body of water dwarfs everything else on the map, covering an area larger than many countries. Its presence immediately puts the scale of other large lakes into perspective.
North America’s Great Lakes Shine
The Great Lakes region is well represented in this collection, with Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie all making appearances.
When viewed together like this, you can really appreciate why this system represents such a significant portion of the world’s freshwater supply. Lake Superior stands out as particularly impressive, holding its own among the global giants.
Hidden Gems from Around the Globe
Beyond the familiar North American and European lakes, this map introduces viewers to some lesser-known but equally impressive water bodies.
Lake Balkhash in Kazakhstan, Great Bear Lake in Canada, and Lake Vostok in Antarctica represent the diverse geographic spread of these natural wonders. Each tells a unique story about regional climate, geology, and hydrology.
Size Isn’t Everything
While this visualization focuses on surface area, it’s worth noting that size alone doesn’t capture the full story of these lakes.
Lake Baikal, for instance, may appear modest compared to the Caspian Sea, but it contains roughly 20% of the world’s unfrozen freshwater due to its incredible depth.
Similarly, some of these lakes are saltwater bodies, while others are crucial freshwater resources for millions of people.
Geographic Distribution Tells a Story
Looking at the origins of these 25 lakes reveals interesting patterns about global geography.
Many cluster in regions that experienced significant glacial activity, particularly in northern North America and northern Europe. Others, like the Caspian Sea and Lake Victoria, represent unique geological formations that have persisted for millennia.
A Window into Our Planet’s Water Wealth
This side-by-side comparison serves as a powerful reminder of the incredible diversity of water bodies our planet hosts. From the vast inland seas of Central Asia to the pristine wilderness lakes of Canada, each represents a unique ecosystem and plays a vital role in regional and global water cycles.
The next time you’re standing beside your local lake, take a moment to imagine how it might stack up against these aquatic giants. The perspective might just change how you view the water world around us.
Help us out by sharing this map: