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Lake Lemuria, Ukraine
In this list, it's impossible not to mention Lake Lemurian, also known as the "Dead Sea" of Ukraine. Located west of Syvash Bay in the Kherson region of Ukraine, the lake is famous for its unique pink water.
The combination of high salinity, algae, and bacteria has given Lake Lemuria its stunning pink color.
The uniqueness of Lake Lemurian stems from its high salt concentration, which allows a unique type of algae called Dunaliella salina to thrive. When exposed to sunlight, this algae produces beta-carotene, an antioxidant found in carrots, transforming the lake's water into a captivating pink hue. The warm tropical climate further enhances the lake's unique and alluring color.
In the summer, as the water evaporates, salt crystals formed from the brine combine with the sand on the shore, creating bizarre shapes like "stalactites." Lake Lemurian also becomes an interesting destination for tourists seeking relaxation and healing, thanks to the high mineral content of the water.
Marrakech, Morocco
Marrakech, located in southwestern Morocco, was once the official capital of Morocco and played a crucial role in the trans-Saharan trade route. The pink hues of the bricks create a unique landscape in Marrakech, permeating every corner, from houses and city walls to even the small streets, all adorned with this distinctive orange-pink color. Stepping into the medina (a walled complex of the old town), one feels transported to a world straight out of "One Thousand and One Nights," with its diverse cultural blend, from mysterious market stalls to exquisite craft villages.
Nowhere else is the color red so prevalent as in Marrakech; houses, city walls, and even the pavements of the streets are painted pink or red.
At night, this place transforms into a "sanctuary" for exploring local cuisine with its street food.
One unmissable highlight is the Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa, the largest Quranic school in North Africa, boasting a glorious history dating back to the 16th century and preserved to this day. Here, the sophistication of the design is evident in the pinkish-orange walls covered with intricate patterns, and especially in the magnificent playground with its marble and cedar wood paving, creating a luxurious and opulent space.
Ali Ben Youssef Madrasa, the largest Quranic school in North Africa, boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century and has been preserved to this day.
Las Coloradas, Mexico
In Spanish, Las Coloradas literally translates to "red" or "reddish." The name doesn't simply refer to the pink-colored lakes, but is also associated with a small fishing village located in the area.
Originally salt fields, Las Coloradas has become a unique pink lake located at the northern tip of the Yucatan Peninsula, in southeastern Mexico.
Located on the Yucatan Peninsula (Mexico), Las Coloradas shines with surreal beauty, like a sprawling paradise. Originally salt flats formed during the ancient Mayan civilization, plankton, such as red algae and crayfish, thrive in the salty environment, causing the lake water to gradually turn shades of orange and pale yellow. Viewed from above, Las Coloradas resembles a poetic oil painting.
Under the sunlight, the lake water shimmers with unusual, captivating colors.
Jaipur, India
Known as the "pink city," Jaipur has been the subject of many theories regarding the origin of its distinctive color. One popular story is that in the 19th century, the Maharaja ordered all buildings in the city to be painted pink, expressing his love for his wife. Another account claims the city chose pink to welcome Prince Albert Edward, who later became Emperor of India in 1876. Therefore, the main streets remain covered in vibrant pink, creating a unique and iconic image of Jaipur.
Hawa Mahal is one of the most beautiful palaces in India, built in 1799 to resemble the crown of the goddess Krishna, glittering in the sunlight.
The influence of pink is still present today, highlighting the beauty of the gardens, courtyards, and city architecture. All of this creates a subtly pink-tinged space, making Jaipur one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.
A building with the distinctive pink color of Jaipur city.
Jaipur is considered the capital of the state of Rajasthan in western India and is also the largest city in the state.
Lake Nakuru, Kenya
Located in central Kenya, in the heart of East Africa, Nakuru – Kenya's largest natural salt lake – sits at an altitude of 1,754 meters above sea level. Nakuru is also listed among the eight lakes of the Rift Valley that were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.
Nakuru Lake National Park is a popular tourist destination in Africa.
The striking pink hue of Nakuru doesn't originate from the water or surrounding landscape, but is created by the harmonious blend of millions of flamingos, forming a vibrant tapestry on the lake's surface. Dubbed the "flamingo paradise," it boasts one of the world's third largest flamingo populations, alongside other rare bird species, showcasing the diversity and vibrancy of its animal life.
Known as a "paradise" for flamingos, the lake can house tens of thousands, even millions, of them.
The abundant and diverse algae in the lake are the "weapon" that attracts and retains this rare and beautiful bird species.
