13 Places on Earth With Seriously Otherworldly Scenery

13. The Frozen Majesty of Lake Baikal, Russia

Lake Baikal in Siberia is the world’s deepest and oldest freshwater lake, holding about 20% of the planet’s unfrozen fresh water. In winter, the lake’s surface freezes into a sheet of ice that cracks and shifts, creating patterns that resemble the surface of an alien world. The clarity of the ice allows for a view into the depths below, adding to the lake’s otherworldly allure. The unique biodiversity of Lake Baikal, with species found nowhere else, mirrors the potential for life in extraterrestrial oceans. The frozen majesty of Lake Baikal, with its pristine beauty and ecological significance, makes it a destination that captivates scientists and travelers alike.