For nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, visiting waterfalls should be on their bucket list. The force and beauty of cascading water can awaken our senses and instill a sense of appreciation for the natural world. This article lists ten must-visit waterfalls around the world, ranging from the tallest, Angel Falls in Venezuela, to the widest, Iguazu Falls on the border of Argentina and Brazil. Other notable waterfalls include Niagara Falls, Victoria Falls, Yosemite Falls, Plitvice Falls, Gullfoss, Sutherland Falls, Krimmler Waterfalls, and Detian Falls. Each waterfall offers a unique experience and charm, making them all worth adding to a travel bucket list.
10 Must-Visit Waterfalls Around the World
If you’re a nature lover or an adventure enthusiast, visiting waterfalls should be on your bucket list. There is something about the force and beauty of cascading water that awakens the senses and instills a sense of appreciation for the natural world. Some waterfalls are easily accessible, while others require a bit of hiking or a helicopter ride. From the tallest to the widest, here are ten must-visit waterfalls around the world.
1. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Angel Falls is the tallest waterfall in the world, measuring 3,212 feet (979 meters) in height. Located in the Canaima National Park in Venezuela, Angel Falls is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in South America. The waterfall drops from a tabletop mountain called Auyán-tepui, and its natural beauty attracts thousands of visitors each year.
2. Iguazu Falls, Argentina, and Brazil
Iguazu Falls is a collection of 275 waterfalls that straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil. The falls are spread across an area of 1.7 miles (2.7 kilometers), and the highest drop is 269 feet (82 meters) tall. Iguazu Falls is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination.
3. Niagara Falls, Canada, and the United States
Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, located on the border between Canada and the United States. The Niagara River drops 167 feet (51 meters) over the falls, and the waterfall’s beauty has drawn tourists for centuries. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as boat tours, observation platforms, and hiking trails.
4. Victoria Falls, Zambia, and Zimbabwe
Victor Falls is one of the world’s largest waterfalls, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are over one mile wide and 354 feet (108 meters) tall, with a volume of water flowing at up to 1088 cubic yards (800 cubic meters) per second. The falls’ beauty and power leave visitors in awe of nature’s beauty.
5. Yosemite Falls, California, United States
Yosemite Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, located in Yosemite National Park. The waterfall consists of three separate falls that drop a total of 2,425 feet (739 meters), making it the fifth tallest waterfall in the world. Yosemite Falls is a popular hiking destination, with trails leading to the base and top of the falls.
6. Plitvice Falls, Croatia
Plitvice Falls is a series of 16 interconnected waterfalls located in Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia. The waterfalls vary in height and volume, with the tallest measuring 256 feet (78 meters) high. The falls’ beauty lies in their turquoise-colored waters, which flow through numerous picturesque lakes and forests.
7. Gullfoss, Iceland
Gullfoss is a waterfall located in the southwest of Iceland, in the canyon of the Hvítá River. The waterfall drops a total of 105 feet (32 meters) into a distinctive curved three-step “staircase” formation. Gullfoss is a popular tourist attraction due to its beauty and accessibility.
8. Sutherland Falls, New Zealand
Sutherland Falls is one of the tallest and most beautiful waterfalls in New Zealand, located in Fiordland National Park. The falls drop a total of 1,904 feet (580 meters) into the Arthur Valley, making it the fifth tallest waterfall in the world. Visitors can enjoy the epic views by hiking the Milford Track, one of the most scenic hiking trails in the world.
9. Krimmler Waterfalls, Austria
Krimmler Waterfalls is the tallest waterfall in Austria, located in the Hohe Tauern National Park. The waterfall drops a total of 1,246 feet (380 meters) in three stages, surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. Visitors can hike the Krimmler Waterfall Trail to explore the natural beauty.
10. Detian Falls, China, and Vietnam
Detian Falls is a waterfall located on the border between China and Vietnam, split into two parts by a large rock. The right part is in Vietnam, while the left part is in China, and together the falls measure 197 feet (60 meters) high and 98 feet (30 meters) wide. Visitors often enjoy boat tours to explore both sides of the falls and witness the stunning landscapes.
In conclusion, these ten must-visit waterfalls around the world offer a unique and memorable experience for any traveler. From the tallest to the widest, each waterfall has its unique character and charm, making them all worth adding to your travel bucket list.