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Things to Do in Anaheim & Buena Park

Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Anaheim & Buena Park

Lake Fagnano

Lake Fagnano sits directly above the Magallanes-Fagnano Fault, which marks the boundary between the Scotia and South American tectonic plates. The 98km long lake also sits upon the Chile/Argentina border; however, the majority of the lake belongs to Argentina. It’s also the largest lake on Tierra del Fuego.

Lake Fagnano is surrounded by virgin Patagonian forest but there is still a striking landscape change between the south and north shores. The south is marked by the steep Fuegian Andes, while the northern shore is much gentler as Tierra de Fuego transforms into rolling steppe. While boat trips and sport fishing are popular on the lake, most visitors still opt to visit Lake Fagnano the same day they visit Lake Escondido, on a lengthy daytrip from Ushuaia.

The small town of Tolhuin sits on the lake’s easternmost point. Although little more than a stopping point between the two larger cities of Ushuaia and Rio Grande, the Panaderia La Union bakery has become famous. Its walls are lined with autographed photographs of Argentinean and international celebrities who’ve visited as they traveled through the area.

Practical Info

Lake Fagnano is located just 100 km north of Ushuaia, Argentina, along Ruta Nacional 3.

Tierra del Fuego Province, Argentina

From $ 61

Lake Titisee

Southeast of the lovely medieval city of Freiburg in the scenic region of Baden-Württemberg, Lake Titisee is located in the Black Forest National Park amid thick forest in the foothills of Feldberg and Hochfirst. Formed by glaciers in the last Ice Age some 10,000 years ago, the lake is a popular vacation destination surrounded by the pretty town of Titisee-Neustadt, which is packed with shops, restaurants and spa hotels where many people go to take the waters. The town has a romantic lakefront promenade and is also home to the famous German cuckoo-clockmaker, Hönes, and no visit is complete without a tour of the historic factory.

At two kilometers (1.25 miles) in length and up to 40 meters (131 feet) in depth, Titisee is the highest lake in the Black Forest and can be strolled around in 1.5 hours; in summer it is a magnet for sailors and swimmers as well as pleasure-boat cruisers. In winter the lake freezes and the sports switch to skating and ice hockey, while – thanks to its altitude at 850 meters (2,790 feet) – there is skiing and boarding in the surrounding mountains as well as ski jumping at Hochfirstschanze, site of the World Championships in 2005.

Practical Info

Lake Titisee borders the Black Forest resort town of Titisee-Neustadt, 30 km (18.75 miles) from Freiburg, about 1.5 hours south of Zurich in Switzerland and under two hours from Strasburg in France.

Titisee-Neustadt, Germany

From $ 631

Lake Manyara National Park

Ernest Hemingway called Lake Manyara National Park the most beautiful place in all of Africa. Today, the same winding roads, lush jungles, grassy floodplains and blue volcanic mountaintops that left this famous author with lasting memories, make it one of the most picturesque destinations in all of Tanzania.

Hundreds of species of birds glide through the air above Lake Manyara National Park, making it the ideal stop for international birders looking to check the rare and exotic off their life list. Travelers in search of bigger beasts will find wild buffalo, zebra and other African mammals wandering the grounds of this concentrated safari wonderland. Its compact size and close proximity to the Rift Valley escarpment mean Lake Manyara National Park offers plenty of wildlife for time-crunched travelers.

Practical Info

Dry season runs from July to October. The scarcity of water makes it ideal for viewing large mammals. Travelers who venture to Lake Manyara between November and June will have the best chance of spotting rare birds and enjoying the waterfalls and canoeing during rainy season.

Tanzania

Camping: Daily 24/7

Fees vary

From $ 305

Lalbagh Fort

Travelers who want to experience the beauty and stoicism of the Mughal Empire can step back in time on a visit to the Lalbagh Fort. Built in 1677, this stunning structure was never actually completed, since the sudden death of the builder’s daughter was considered bad luck. It stands as a stark reminder of Old Dhaka’s past. A stunning red façade and tiny reflecting pool offer up a quiet escape from the energy of the old city. Travelers can wander the peaceful grounds—which include the Mausoleum of Pari Bibi, the Audience Hall (Diwan) and the beautiful Quilla Mosque—or explore the halls of the impressive museum that’s filled with artifacts that date back to the Mughal Empire.

Practical Info

Foreigner entry to the fort is Tk 100. The fort is open October through March from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. and April through September from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. The fort is closed Sunday and Monday morning.

Bangladesh

Oct-March 9 a.m.-5 p.m., April-Sept 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday mornings

Tk 100

From $ 75

Lake Neusiedl

Lake Neusiedl, called the Neusiedler See in German, is Europe’s second largest steppe lake.The lake is an ideal breeding ground for hundreds of bird species, as it’s ringed by a wetland area of reed beds where the birds make their nests. The lake’s water is relatively shallow, meaning it gets warm quickly in the summer when it is enjoyed by birds and people alike. During the summer months, thousands of tourists come to the lake for sailing, swimming, and windsurfing. The best swimming beaches are on the eastern side of the lake, and the reedy western shores are best for birdwatching. The Neusiedler See is not just popular among watersport enthusiasts – the area is also wonderful for cycling, too. In addition to the athletic attractions, some of Austria’s best wines are made in this area, and the Neusiedler See National Park’s flora and fauna can be accessed and admired through solo exploration and guided tours.

Practical Info

Neusiedl am See is the region’s largest town, the most accessible from Vienna, and a good springboard into the lake area. A bike path goes around the entire lake, the ferry boats that cross the lake will carry bicycles, and the hotels around the lake are almost all cyclist-friendly (some of them even have thermal spas!).

Austria

From $ 315

Lake Nicaragua (Lake Cocibolca)

Nicaragua’s largest lake goes by many names: Lake Nicaragua, Lake Cocibolca, Lake Granada and even “Mar Dulce,” or “Sweet Sea.” The official name is Lake Nicaragua, but since it’s right next to the city of Granada you can see how “Lake Granada” might also seem appropriate. The lake is a major source of activities in the area, both for visitors and residents, and its sheer size means that there’s plenty of room for everyone who wants to get on or in the water.

You can take boat or kayak tours on Lake Nicaragua to explore Las Isletas (the archipelago of tiny islands), take a day trip to Isla Zapatera or spend a night on the lake’s biggest island, Ometepe. This enormous lake is home to some larger-than-you-might-expect creatures, including bull sharks. Weather conditions can make the lake surface choppy (and boat trips unpleasant for anyone with seasickness) - you might rightfully wonder how Lake Nicaragua got its “Sweet Sea” nickname. If you’d prefer to stay on solid ground, you can still enjoy the lakeside atmosphere in Granada, sharing the beach with local families.

Granada, Nicaragua

From $ 55

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens

Spread across 240 acres (97 hectares) full of plants and flowers, not to mention dozens of types of birds, the sprawling Lalbagh Botanical Gardens is one of Bangalore's best green spaces and a big part of how the city got its nickname: the Garden City. It's as popular with locals and tourists alike and is a great place for a morning jog.

The Basics

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens offers much more than just plants and flowers. Popular attractions within the palace include the greenhouse; a replica of South London's Crystal Palace and Lalbagh rock, a granite hillock with a tiny temple at its precipice. Many group and private tours of the city stop in the gardens, and visitors willing to wake up early Sunday mornings can join a local naturalist, Vijay Thiruvady, to learn about the flora in the park.

Things to Know Before You Go

The gardens are great for families with young kids.
Don’t forget sunscreen, bug spray, and comfortable shoes.
The gardens are not suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

The gardens are located in the southern part of Bangalore and can be accessed via four different entrances at Lalbagh Road, Double Road (where there's also a parking lot), Jayanagar, and Basavanagudi. The Lalbagh metro station is located on the western side of the garden, near the lake. It’s about a 10-minute ride to the Krishna Rajendra Market stop, near Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace and Bangalore Fort.

When to Get There

The garden is open from sunrise to sunset every day and is a popular year-round attraction, though visitor numbers peak during the biannual Lalbagh Flower Show held on Republic Day (January 26) and Independence Day (August 15). If you do come in August (or at any point during the June–September monsoon season), make sure to bring a raincoat and some shoes that you don't mind getting muddy.

Lalbagh Flower Show

Held twice a year on Independence Day and Republic Day, the Lalbagh Flower Show features all sorts of floral displays both within the greenhouse and out in the main part of the garden. The shows often have themes, ranging from the local film industry to the Indian Armed Forces, while various musical and educational events complement oftentimes grandiose botanical displays.

India

Varies

From $ 33

Lamanai

Meaning "submerged crocodile" in Yucatan Mayan, Lamanai is perhaps the most mysterious Maya site in Belize, because it is not yet completely uncovered. See history in the making as you visit the excavation site, where some temples still remain buried underground. Exposed structures that rise from the jungle floor offer plenty to explore.

The Basics

Lamanai consists of ceremonial pyramids, open-air plazas, a ball court, and other remnants of an ancient Maya civilization. Most tours of the archaeological complex start at the on-site museum to learn about the history of the Maya civilization before heading to the Jaguar Temple, part of which is carved into the shape of the jungle cat. Squint hard enough and you might be able to spot it.

Next is the High Temple, which rises above the treetops and offers panoramic views from its summit. Finally, visit the Mask Temple, which is adorned with a 13-foot (4-meter) limestone mask of an ancient Maya king. Much of Lamanai still remains concealed under dense jungle growth, with the restoration and evacuation of the site focused on these three large structures.

Things to Know Before You Go

Nature lovers will enjoy spotting exotic birds and howler monkeys at the archaeological site.
The High Temple features a wooden staircase that winds around the back of the pyramid, making it easier to climb to the top.
Many tours combine a trip to the ruins with a riverboat ride along New River, providing more opportunities to spot local wildlife.

How to Get There

From Belize City, you can hop a bus from the local station to Orange Walk. From there, you’ll need to grab a taxi because Lamanai is located about 30 miles (48 kilometers) from the town of Orange Walk. An easier option: Tours from Belize City offer transportation directly to the site or to the New River in Orange Walk, where you’ll take an hourlong boat ride up to Lamanai.

When to Get There

Lamanai is open from 8am to 5pm daily. When cruise ships dock in Belize City, Lamanai can get crowded, so check the schedule and plan accordingly if your dates are flexible. Keep in mind that the rainy season (typically from June to November) may interfere with the riverboat ride. Late November to mid-April is dry season in Belize, and that’s when you’ll experience the most pleasant weather.

Altun Ha

Another Maya archaeological site in Belize, Altun Ha is located a little more than two hours away from Lamanai and is divided into Plaza A and Plaza B. In Plaza B, the Temple of Masonry Altar is believed to have been the main religious center of the civilization. It’s also home to a giant piece of jade carved into the shape of the head of the Maya sun god Kinich Ahau.

Belize

From $ 100

Lake Nakuru National Park

Made up of the lake itself and the rocky caves and bushy grassland that surrounds it, Lake Nakuru National Park especially draws visitors looking to see pink flamingos, as there may be as many as 2 million lesser and great flamingos seen around the edges of the lake at a given time. The birds are drawn here by their favorite food, cyanophyta spirulina plantensis, a type of blue-green algae that fills the lake.

In addition to the flamingos, more than 400 different bird species have been spotted in the park, which is on a migration route for many European birds. This is one national park where you definitely want a bird-watchers' guide in hand to identify all the feathered creatures and ensure the species you need for your life list are expected to be in residence when you visit. The park is also home to many water-loving animals such as hippos and waterbucks, and among other mammals found in the park, visitors who get lucky will also be able to spot lions, leopards, giraffes, hyenas, buffalo, baboons, monkeys and gazelles. In addition, once simply a bird sanctuary, the Lake Nakuru National Park has since become a national rhino sanctuary and is the best place in Kenya to see protected black and white rhinos.

Practical Info

Lake Nakuru National Park is located about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from Nairobi and is connected to the city via the main A104 road. The most commonly used route into the park is by way of the main gate, which is about 2.5 miles (four kilometers) from Nakuru town center.

Kenya

Daily 6:30 am-6:30 pm

Adult: $80, Children/Student: $40 (non-resident rates)

From $ 69

Lake Walen (Walensee)

Lake Walen is a lake in eastern Switzerland separating the cantons Glarus and St.Gallen. It is part of a region known as Heidiland, named after the famous Heidi story by Johanna Spyri and represents these corresponding values of unspoiled nature, warmth and simplicity. The mountains rise almost vertically on all sides of the lake and nestled on little plateaus and along the shores are several traditional Swiss towns. Below the steep south face of the Churfirsten, the small village of Quinten is a car-free paradise. It can only be reached by boat from Murg or on foot and due to the protected location, excellent grapes, figs and kiwis are grown here.

To the west of Quinten, the mighty Seerenbach Waterfalls gush from a cave system and tumble in three cascades almost 600 meters down the cliffs. The waterfalls are especially impressive in spring, when the melting snow turns them into a torrent. Located high up on a sunny plateau and overlooking the northern shores of Lake Walen is the town of Amden. The village, its adjoining ski slopes as well as the hiking trails are often above the clouds and thus, it’s a popular holiday destination throughout the year. On the other side of the lake, another highlight awaits at Flumserberg, the biggest winter sports area in the region consisting of several villages and a huge network of slopes, trails and cycling paths.

Practical Info

Lake Walen is located in eastern Switzerland, roughly an hour away from Zürich. There are direct trains from Zürich to Walenstadt, but to get to Weesen, a change from train to bus is necessary in Ziegelbrücke. The boats on Lake Walen run throughout the year, although in winter the service is limited to the route from Murg to Quinten.

St Gallen, Switzerland

From $ 88

Lambeth Palace

Lambeth Palace, built in the 13th century, has been the official London residence of the Archbishop of Canterbury and his family for 800 years. Today it is also the center of his ministry, an events venue, and home to the Lambeth Palace Library, which is the second-largest religious library in the world after the Vatican.

The Basics

Visitors can enter the palace by prebooking a guided tour, which explores the rooms, chapels, and crypt. Volunteer tour guides discuss the in-depth history of the Archbishop of Canterbury as well as the architectural history of the palace, with its intricate stained glass, vaulted chapels, and other features. The palace’s exterior is included on many historical and architectural walking tours of London.

Things to Know Before You Go

Lambeth Palace is ideal for history and architecture enthusiasts.
The palace is open to the public via prebooked tours only.
Admission is free for visitors under 17 years old.
A small on-site gift shop sells palace guidebooks and other souvenirs.
The palace is accessible to wheelchair users and has one wheelchair available to borrow during a guided tour.

How to Get There

Lambeth Palace is located on the south bank of the River Thames in central London, across from the Houses of Parliament. The nearest tube station is about a 15-minute walk from the palace. A number of buses—including C10, 507, 77, 344, and 3—run to the palace from Waterloo, Victoria, and Vauxhall stations. Driving and parking in central London are not recommended.

When to Get There

Interior tours of the palace are held on weekdays year-round, though must be booked in advance online. The palace garden is open in the warmer spring and summer months. A number of seasonal events are held at the palace throughout the year, such as the annual North Lambeth Parish Fete in June; check the website for a current schedule.

Garden Open Days

The Lambeth Palace gardens are open to the public on the first Friday of the month from April through September. The manicured garden, founded in 1197, stretches across more than 10 acres (4 hectares). It is home to native English plants as well as species from all over the world, reflective of the wider Anglican communion. Visitors are treated to entertainment and refreshments from 12pm to 3pm. Entrance is free for children, and dogs are welcome.

SE1 7JU, London, England

Varies

From $ 34

Lake Guatavita

The Legend of El Dorado, the “Golden Man,” once inspired the Spanish conquistadors to historic acts of bravery, blunder, and bloodshed. Those stories of outrageous wealth and waste almost certainly started here, with the glittering pre-Columbian ceremonies that once took place at this small crater lake. (Which is really the lake’s first mystery; though geologists speculate that a meteor made this scenic spot, no one knows for sure.)

The rumors that captivated the cold-hearted conquistadors told of Muisca shamans and chiefs completely covered in gold and draped with every sort of gem and precious metal. These gleaming and godlike figures would then be carried out on ceremonial rafts to the center of pretty little Lake Guatavita, where they would pour their riches into the water to appease some monster, perhaps a serpent god, hiding below its deceptively serene surface.

While there was apparently some truth to this story and new political figures were indeed painted with gold dust as some sort of initiation, thus far the truth hasn't justified so many fool’s errands into the feverish jungles.

The conquistadors were but the first to try draining and dredging Lake Guatavita for its bounty; but all they found were a few gold pieces. In 1580 enterprising businessman Antonio de Sepulveda cut a wedge deep into the lake rim, deepened in 1912 by British engineer Harley Knowles. They, like their forebears, found only a few glittering artifacts worth far less than their investments. As if to taunt future prospectors, the lake finally gave up its famed Muisca Raft in 1968, a tiny, beautiful, cast-gold depiction of Ceremony of El Dorado.

The tour of the tiny lake located 55km (34mi) northeast of Bogota, takes less than an hour and swimming is strictly off limits. Plan to spend some time in the pretty whitewashed town of Guatavita, a charming colonial gem worth a stroll for its souvenir shops and attractive little eateries.

Guatavita, Cundinamarca, Colombia

From $ 50

Lake Mutanda

Located in the Kisoro District of southwestern Uganda, scenic Lake Mutanda sits in the shadows of a string of misty volcanoes and is a popular base camp for gorilla trackers, bird watchers and volcano trekkers taking excursions into Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or Mgahinga National Park.

Due to its remote location and limited accommodation options, Lake Mutanda remains pristine and tranquil. Located in a region aptly nicknamed “Little Switzerland,” the freshwater lake attracts a wide variety of birds to its shores, including Uganda’s national bird, the grey-crowned crane. Birdwatching boat trips often encounter pelicans, Hadada ibis, African spoonbill, sacred ibis, kites, hawks and buzzards. The unique African clawless otter also calls the lake home.

Lake Mutanda is also one of only a few lakes in Uganda safe for swimming (no bilharzia, hippos or crocodiles to worry about), as well as canoeing or paddling in a traditional dug-out canoe.

Practical Info

You can reach Lake Mutanda by hiring a local taxi, called a boda-boda, in Kisoro.

Uganda

From $ 3,050

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is host to hundreds of species of animals, from rare birds to zebras and hippos. A haven for nature enthusiasts, a trip here is the perfect way to discover Uganda’s rich yet fragile wildlife. The park is part of a wetland system spanning 50 kilometers and linked by a swamp, making it an integral part of the country's ecosystem.

With more than 350 bird species, Lake Mburo National Park is the perfect place for birdwachers to observe, among others, the rare Red-faced Barbet from popular spots such as Rubanga Forest. However, all animal and nature lovers are rewarded at the park; the lake itself offers a great spot for wildlife watching, while for those who enjoy hiking, Rwonyo Rest Camp is the best place to start. For the adventurous, quad biking and game drives are also available.

The best way to visit Lake Mburo National Park is to book a tour from Kampala with an early morning start. As Uganda is situated on the equator, the journey offers the opportunity to stop and stand over both the north and southern hemispheres. A day trip consists of a guided safari drive through the park, with a stop at one of the lakes for lunch. You can also add a guided nature walk, or perhaps a boat ride for a chance to see the crocodiles up close. Lake Mburo National Park can also be visited as part of a week-long night safari or as part of a cultural tour of Uganda. For the bravest embarking on a trek across the Rwenzori Mountains, visiting Lake Mburo will come as a pleasant and well-deserved break at the end of your trip.

Practical Info

If staying in Kampala and planning a visit, it is strongly recommended to book a tour as Lake Mburo National Park is a three-hour drive away. If staying on-site, the options for navigating the park are by vehicle, on foot, by boat, or even on horseback. The best time to visit is from October to March when wildlife congregates around the few remaining waterholes.

Did You Know? Twenty percent of the entrance fee into the park is used to fund local community projects, such as building clinics and schools.

Lake Mburo National Park, Kampala, Uganda

Adult: $40 / Child: $20. Other activities are extra.

From $ 348

Lake of Sainte-Croix

Set between the dramatic landscapes of the Verdon Gorge and the Valensole plateau, the man-made Lake of Sainte-Croix is among Provence’s most popular vacation spots. With sandy lakeside beaches, water temperatures rivaling those of the Mediterranean Sea, and fewer crowds than the French Riviera, it’s the ideal summer destination.

The Basics

Whether hiking through France’s “Grand Canyon,” swimming in the lake, or just taking in the views, a visit to the Verdon Gorge (Gorges du Verdon) and Lake of Sainte-Croix (Lac de Sainte-Croix) is a popular inclusion on tours of Provence.

Private tours are the most convenient option, allowing ample photo stops along the way. Tours depart from Marseille, Nice, and Cannes along the French Riviera coast, and Provencal towns including Aix-en-Provence and Avignon. On the way to the lake, take in highlights of the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence region, from magnificent lavender fields to the medieval villages of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and Valensole.

Things to Know Before You Go

The three villages around the lake—Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, Bauduen, and Les Salles-sur-Verdon—all offer various accommodation and dining options.
Summer temperatures regularly reach 80°F (27°C), so be sure to bring sun protection.
Booking tours and accommodation in advance is highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season.

How to Get There

Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon is the main entry point to the lake, located 58 miles (94 kilometers) northeast of Aix-en-Provence, or about a 1.5-hour drive. There is little public transport in the area, so it’s best to drive your own car or participate in a guided tour. The closest international airport and cruise port are in Marseilles, less than a 2-hour drive away.

When to Get There

The most popular months to visit the lake are July and August. To avoid the crowds but still benefit from summer temperatures, opt to visit in June or September. For hiking the gorge, the cooler months of May and October can be ideal.

Outdoor Activities at Lake of Sainte-Croix

As France’s third-largest lake, the Lake of Sainte-Croix offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, sailing, and water sports. Motorboats and sailboats depart from the harbor at Sainte-Croix-du-Verdon, while most of the lake’s beaches have pedal boats and kayaks for hire. Other popular activities include windsurfing on the lake, rafting or canoeing along the Verdon River, and canyoning in the gorges.

Lake of Sainte-Croix, Aix en Provence, France

From $ 127

Lakeside Promenade Fleuri

The beautifully tended Lakeside Promenade Fleuri winds its way for 6.25 miles (10 kilometers) along the Swiss northwestern shoreline of Lake Geneva from Vevey to Villenueve, taking in the stylish town of Montreux and the fortified lakeside Château de Chillon. The pathway is lined

with cacti, palms and plane trees as well as numerous funky sculptures, including one of Freddie Mercury in the center of Montreux; there are benches from which to contemplate the delightful alpine views and neatly planted parks full of exotic flowers. On summer evenings it seems the whole of Montreux gathers along the promenade to take the air, chat, jog, rollerblade or simply admire the spectacular views.

There are plenty of bars and restaurants scattered along the sparkling lakeside, and kids will love the little train that chugs up and down the prom in Montreux during the summer. An easy section of the walk for families to follow runs from Montreux to the 11th‐century Château de Chillon, perched on a rocky islet just south of the town. This gentle stroll takes around 45 minutes amid glorious panoramas; from the castle it is possible to take an old‐fashioned steamer back up the lake to Montreux.

Practical Info

The promenade is open all hours, no admission charges. Accessed on foot from the town center.

Lakeside Promenade Fleuri, Montreux, Vaud 1820, Switzerland

From $ 163

Lake Mummelsee

Lake Mummelsee, located along the Black Forest High Road scenic route, is the largest of seven mountain lakes remaining in the Black Forest. Perched 3,400 feet (1,036 meters) above sea level, the lake gets its name from the white water lilies, called ‘mummel’ in German, than float on its surface.

According to local lore, a bevy of water sprites live with their king in a glorious crystal palace far below the surface of the water, coming out only at night to dance in the moonlight. Mermaids aside, Lake Mummelsee is circumnavigated by a boardwalk for lakeside strolls, while paddle boats ply the surface. A short trail leads up to a lookout tower atop Hornisgrinde, the highest peak in the area, where visitors can take in panoramic views of the Black Forest.

Practical Info

Lake Mummelsee is located along B500 between the villages of Unterstmatt and Ruhestein.

Northern Black Forest, Germany

From $ 237

Lake Naivasha

Situated at an altitude of 1884 meters, Lake Naivasha is a freshwater lake in Kenya located around 100 kilometers northwest of Nairobi and near the town of Naivasha (formerly East Nakuru). The lake is part of the Great Rift Valley and its name comes from the Maasai word, Nai'posha – which translates as "rough water" – on account of the storms that can suddenly arise here.

This vast lake is surrounded by a swampland and fringed by papyrus plants. Among the residents of the lake are over 400 species of birds, including fish eagles, ospreys, lily-trotters, black crakes, and herons, and it’s also home to a large community of hippos. A number of other mammals are also drawn here and it’s not uncommon to see zebra, impala, buffalo, giraffe, and kongoni grazing in the areas surrounding the lake.

Practical Info

Lake Naivasha is a popular spot for day trips and weekends away from Nairobi. There are two roads connecting Nairobi and Naivasha; the A104 and the B3. The A104 is the starting route for many safaris, which means most visitors will get their first glimpses of Kenya’s rural landscape as they drive along it.

Naivasha (East Nakuru), Kenya

From $ 60

Lake Taupo

Lake Taupo is the largest lake in New Zealand, at over 230 square miles (596 square kilometers). Formed by a prehistoric supervolcanic eruption, the lake now sits in the volcano’s dormant caldera. Walk the pristine shores of this natural taonga (treasure), kayak or waterski, or enjoy the trout fishing for which the lake is famous.

The Basics

This massive lake is calm and picturesque—the perfect landscape for relaxing with friends and family. You can kick back at Acacia Bay, or avoid the crowds and head across the lake to quieter Dog Beach and Fish Beach. There’s plenty for adventurous travelers to do as well. The 6-mile (10-kilometer) Great Lake Walkway is a popular walking and cycling route, from Taupo Harbour to the end of Five Mile Bay. Swimming and kayaking are big here too, plus tour operators all around the lake offer jet boating, windsurfing, skydiving, bungee jumping, and other adventure sports. No matter your activity, you won’t help but notice the geothermal activity—there are giant steam plumes all over the place.

Things to Know Before You Go

Lake Taupo is a must for outdoor enthusiasts and waterbabies.
Accommodation is available all around the lake: backpackers might want to look into holiday parks at the lake’s south end, while families and others should head to Taupo, a town at the lake’s northern tip.
Other attractions in the area include nearby Huka Falls and the Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park, which gets you up close and personal to Taupo’s geothermal activity.
If you fancy fishing, you can enter the Lake Taupo International Trout Fishing Tournament, which happens each year on April 25.

How to Get There

Lake Taupo is located in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Rotorua, about an hour’s drive away. From Auckland or Wellington, you can catch a daily flight to the town of Taupo, or drive along State Highway 1.

When to Get There

Lake Taupo and its surroundings are beautiful at any time of year. If you’re interested in getting on or in the water, summer is the best time to visit—though it’s also the lake’s busiest time, as it’s a popular New Year destination. Try visiting in November or February, when the beaches are less crowded.

Cruise Around Lake Taupo

If you’re looking to relax in style, take a cruise around the lake. These boat trips often include a visit to Mine Bay, where Maori Master Carver Matahi Whakataka-Brightwell carved a series of towering sculptures into the rock, each one telling a story about the local iwi (tribe) and their ancestors.

Taupo, New Zealand

From $ 33

Lake Titicaca

Lake Titicaca, glistening atop the Andes Mountains, is a tourist attraction, spiritual oasis, and cultural hub all in one. It is also South America’s highest (at 12,507 feet/3,812 meters) and largest (at an astounding 3,230 square miles/8,366 square kilometers) lake, as well as the highest navigable lake in the world.

The Basics

The best way to explore Lake Titicaca is on its famed waters. Ride a boat out to the Uros Floating Islands to learn how the Uro people have lived on Lake Titicaca for generations; Taquile and Amantani Islands are particularly well known for their well-preserved cultural traditions and handicrafts, and they offer lodging and homestays. Active travelers can explore the lake on a kayak or paddleboard for a more adventurous outing. Most Lake Titicaca tours cover the basic attractions, while a private tour gives you more opportunity to customize your itinerary. Trips to Titicaca National Preserve, a protected section of the lake, offer opportunities to see 60 species of bird, such as the endemic Titicaca grebe, as well as fish and amphibians, including frogs weighing up to seven pounds (three kilograms). If you have more time in the region, multi-day tours often include visits to Machu Picchu, Lima, and Cusco.

Things to Know Before You Go

Lake Titicaca is a must for nature enthusiasts and those wanting to learn more about native cultures.
The lake is split between Peru and Bolivia, and is accessible from both sides.
Be prepared for altitude sickness if you are not acclimated before arrival.
Dress in layers with sun protection for fierce sun, chilly afternoons, and cold nights.

How to Get There

The lake is divided between Peru and Bolivia, which bookend its beauty with the small cities of Puno and Copacabana, respectively. Both are fine bases to explore the lake’s amazing islands, replete with hotels and restaurant. Most travelers reach these cities by bus, though flights are available to the Inca Manco Cápac Airport in Juliaca, roughly an hour from Puno, and a train runs between Puno and Cusco. A few of the islands also offer lodging, though some are available only to travelers on tours.

When to Get There

For the most warmth and sunshine, visit Lake Titicaca from May through September, though temperatures are still chilly at night. Expect rain almost daily from October through March.

Sacred Waters

Lake Titicaca is thought to be the birthplace of the Andean peoples, where the Creator God Viracocha summoned the sun, moon, and first human beings from what is now called Isla del Sol. The Incas, Aymaras, Uros, and countless other indigenous nations thus hold this lake sacred.

Puno, Peru

From $ 26