Have you ever wondered, what is the largest lake in South America? If you aren’t aware yet, then you don’t have to worry! As out of the various lakes in South America, we have listed below the five largest ones. Since the continent has a very diverse geography the water from these lakes gets accumulated forming water reservoirs. water reservoirs.
5 Largest Lakes in South America
- Lake Titicaca
The largest lake in South America is also at the highest altitude worldwide. The lake covers a huge area of around more than 3000 sq. miles and can hold tons of water as well. The lake is the largest in the continent by both its area and volume. The two countries connected by this lake are Peru and Bolivia. Many tiny streams end up in this lake along with five of the major rivers. The lake was often thought to have been completely drying up over the years however; recent studies show that it’s a cycle that will continue.
- Mar Chiquita
The name of the lake located in Argentina translates to ‘little sea’ owing to the saline water in it. The second largest lake in the continent increases its size threefold during rainy seasons since the lake is quite small. It is the largest salt lake on the continent which has a natural origin. The lake has several small islands and a wellness resort on the south coast. The lake is eventually shrinking up due to evaporation and it might end up being flat salt.
- General Carrera Lake
The third-largest lake of the continent commonly known as General Carrera Lake is known as Lake Buenos Aires in Argentina. The lake joins Chile and Argentina. This is the largest lake in Chile and is fed by the melting icecaps, Baker River, and Deseado River stem. The water of this lake ends up in the Pacific Ocean. Many tourists and locals fish for trout and salmon here.
- Lago Argentino
As is evident from the name, this lake lies in Argentina as well and is the fourth largest lake of the continent. The lake provides freshwater and is the largest freshwater lake in Argentina. The primary source of water is from the Santa Cruz River, the lake that gets its water supply from the melting icecaps. The water of this lake ends up in the Atlantic Ocean ultimately.
- Viedma Lake
The name of this lake is based on the explorer who roamed across it. Again, this lake is between Argentina and Chile and covers an area of around 50 miles. The melting ice of the Viedma glacier goes into this lake and this lake eventually provides water to River Santa Cruz. This is also the second-largest lake in Argentina.
