5 Bodies of Water That Are Saltier Than the Ocean

The world’s oceans have an average salinity (salt level) of about 3.5%, yet saltier bodies of water are spread across the earth. Some of the world’s saltiest lakes, in fact, have several times the salinity level of the ocean's average. From vibrant pink hues to an otherworldly stillness, these bodies of water defy the conventional characteristics of aquatic environments and serve as laboratories of nature, repositories of vibrant mineral deposits, and serene oases in inhospitable landscapes. This article profiles five of the world's most fascinating hypersaline bodies of water, each markedly more salty than the ocean's average, promising an unforgettable experience for the intrepid traveler.

5 Bodies of Water That Are Saltier Than the Ocean

Gaet'ale Pond, Ethiopia

Considered to be the saltiest body of water on Earth based on average salinity, Gaet'ale Pond in Ethiopia's Danakil Depression is a true marvel of extreme geology. Its high salinity, recorded at an incredible 43.3%, makes it more than 12 times saltier than the average ocean. This small, super-heated pond is part of a series of geothermal springs, heated by volcanic activity beneath the surface. The high temperatures and extreme mineral concentrations create a harsh environment that is virtually devoid of complex life, presenting a stark, beautiful, and somewhat eerie landscape.

The inhospitable location and the potential for toxic gas releases make visiting Gaet'ale Pond an unlikely prospect for most travelers, which is a shame since it sits in one of Earth's most otherworldly regions. This tiny lake’s record-breaking salinity and location within one of the most geologically active and unique places on the planet solidify its place as a must-include example for illustrating the extremes of hypersaline lakes.

Don Juan Pond, Antarctica

Don Juan Pond in Antarctica's McMurdo Dry Valleys offers unparalleled fascination for those seeking the truly extraordinary. This small, shallow lake is remarkable for its extreme salinity, which can exceed 40%, and because it rarely freezes, even in the bitter Antarctic cold. Its hypersaline nature significantly lowers its freezing point, allowing it to remain a liquid brine when surrounding freshwater bodies are solid ice. This makes it a significant site for astrobiological research, as scientists study it for clues about potential life on other planets, particularly Mars, which has similar briny environments.

Visiting Don Juan Pond means venturing into one of Earth's most desolate and scientifically significant landscapes, making it an unrealistic journey for most travelers. That said, its inclusion on this list emphasizes hypersaline lakes' geographical diversity and scientific importance, showcasing an environment that pushes the boundaries of life and chemistry.

Lake Retba (Lac Rose), Senegal

Lake Retba, or Lac Rose, is a spectacular natural phenomenon near the Atlantic shore in Senegal. Its distinctive pink coloration is not due to pollution or a trick of the light, but rather to the presence of Dunaliella salina algae, which produces a pinkish pigment to help it absorb light. This vibrant hue is particularly intense during the dry season. The lake's salinity rivals (and often exceeds) that of the Dead Sea, reaching up to 40% in some areas.

Local salt harvesters laboriously collect salt from Lake Retba’s bed, a tradition that has sustained communities for generations. They often rub shea butter on their skin to protect themselves from the salt's caustic effects. Lake Retba's visual splendor, combined with the fascinating human activity around it, offers a captivating and culturally rich travel experience. Its striking appearance ensures it stands out as a unique and memorable destination on this list.

Dead Sea, Israel and Jordan

Perhaps the most famous of all hypersaline lakes, the Dead Sea is an iconic natural wonder straddling the borders of Israel and Jordan. Its legendary buoyancy allows visitors to float effortlessly upon its surface, a sensation unlike any other swimming experience. This phenomenon directly results from its incredibly high salt concentration, averaging around 33.7%, making it nearly 10 times saltier than the ocean. The Dead Sea is also the lowest point on Earth's land surface, approximately 1,410 feet (430 meters) below sea level, adding another layer to its unique allure.

Beyond its recreational appeal, the Dead Sea is renowned for its mineral-rich mud and waters, which have been sought after for centuries for their purported therapeutic properties. Ancient civilizations recognized its healing potential, and it remains a popular destination for wellness tourism. Its dramatic desert landscape, historical significance, and unique physical properties make it an unmissable destination for any traveler.

Great Salt Lake, USA

The largest saltwater lake in the Western Hemisphere, the Great Salt Lake in Utah, is visually beautiful and ecologically vital. Its salinity fluctuates significantly depending on water levels, but the north arm, separated by a railroad causeway, can reach a salinity slightly above 31%. This makes it several times saltier than the ocean. The lake is a terminal basin, meaning water flows in but only leaves through evaporation, concentrating its minerals and salts over millennia.

Despite its high salinity, the lake supports a thriving ecosystem of brine shrimp and flies, which feed millions of migratory birds that flock to its shores. The vast salt flats on its western edge are also famous for land speed records. This lake offers accessible extreme environments, majestic views of the Wasatch Mountains reflected in its calm waters, and a unique natural history that makes it a prime example of North American hypersaline wonders.

Hypersaline bodies of water are not just scientific curiosities but dynamic landscapes that capture the imagination and challenge our perceptions of what is possible in nature. From the therapeutic muds of the Dead Sea to the vibrant pink water of Lake Retba, the scientific enigma of Don Juan Pond, the vastness of the Great Salt Lake, and the record-breaking extremes of Gaet'ale Pond, each body of water profiled here offers a distinct and unforgettable experience. They are potent reminders of Earth's incredible geological diversity and the enduring beauty found even in its most inhospitable corners.