Endorheic lakes are unusual lakes that have no natural outlets. Rivers may flow into them, but the water stays trapped in the basin, allowing minerals and salts to build up over time. Many of these lakes form in dry, landlocked regions where rainfall is limited.
As the water cannot escape, these basins often become very salty. They are also sensitive to environmental changes, since even small shifts in climate or water use can affect their size. Some of them were once huge but are now almost gone, while others have maintained their large size despite their fragility.
In this gallery, we explore some of the world's largest endorheic lakes. Click to get started.