It’s official: waterfalls are one of the most popular natural wonders in the world. And it’s no wonder why. They are simply mesmerizing, powerful, and beautiful. But with so many waterfalls out there, which ones should you add to your bucket list? Here are ten of the greatest waterfalls in the world, ranging from well-known (but still incredible) falls to hidden gems.
Niagara Falls
1. Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. It is located on the border between the United States and Canada. Niagara Falls is made up of three waterfalls: the American Falls, the Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horseshoe Falls. The Horseshoe Falls is the largest of the three waterfalls and is also known as the Canadian Falls. Niagara Falls is a popular tourist destination and attracts millions of visitors each year.
Iguazu Falls
Iguazu Falls is located on the Iguazu River on the border of Argentina and Brazil. The falls consist of 275 individual waterfalls, with a total height of 82 meters (269 ft) and a width of 2.7 kilometers (1.7 miles). The Iguazu River flows through a large rainforest, which provides a habitat for many different species of animals.
The falls were formed by the erosion of the soft rocks that make up the Iguazu River bed. over time, the river has carved out a series of canyons and gorges, creating the magnificent waterfalls that we see today. The highest waterfall is called Devil's Throat, which has a drop of 82 meters (269 ft).
Iguazu Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in South America, attracting visitors from all over the world. The falls offer a variety of different activities for visitors to enjoy, such as hiking, boat tours, and bird watching.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world. Located on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe, it is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Natural World.
At more than a mile wide and 350 feet high, Victoria Falls is truly an awe-inspiring sight. The best time to see the falls is between March and April when the river is at its fullest. During this time, you can also take part in some of the many activities available, such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, or safari tours.
No matter when you visit, Victoria Falls is sure to leave you speechless.
Angel Falls
1. Angel Falls in Venezuela is the world’s tallest waterfall, with a height of 3,212 feet (979 meters). The falls are located on the edge of the Auyantepui mountain in the Canaima National Park, and they plunge over the side of the cliff into a gorge below. The waterfall is named after Jimmie Angel, an American pilot who was the first person to fly over the falls in 1933.
2. Iguazu Falls is a system of waterfalls that straddles the border between Argentina and Brazil. The falls consist of 275 individual cascades, with heights ranging from 60 to 82 feet (18 to 25 meters). Iguazu Falls is one of the most popular tourist attractions in both countries, and it is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Niagara Falls is located on the border between Canada and the United States. The falls consist of two sections: Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side, and American Falls on the US side. Together, these two sections have a height of 167 feet (51 meters). Niagara Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North America, and it attracts millions of visitors each year.
4. Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. It has a height of 354 feet (108 meters) and a width of 5,604 feet (1,708 meters), making it one of the largest waterfalls
Yosemite Falls
Yosemite Falls is one of the most well-known waterfalls in the world, and for good reason. This massive waterfall is located in Yosemite National Park in California, and it is truly a sight to behold. At over 2,400 feet tall, Yosemite Falls is the tallest waterfall in North America. And, it's not just one waterfall – it's actually made up of three different falls!
The Upper Fall is the tallest of the three at 1,430 feet. It drops over a sheer cliff face and is truly an impressive sight. The Middle Cascades make up the second fall, and at 675 feet, they are almost as tall as the Upper Fall. The Lower Fall rounds out the trio, and at 320 feet tall, it's still an impressive sight.
All three of these falls come together to create Yosemite Falls, one of the most beautiful and iconic waterfalls in the world.
Havasu Falls
Havasu Falls, located in Arizona, is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The falls are about 100 feet tall and flow over red rocks into a blue-green pool of water. The contrast between the colors is breathtaking.
Havasu Falls is accessible only by hiking or horseback riding. The trail to the falls is about 4 miles long and can be challenging in places. However, the views along the way are well worth the effort.
When you reach Havasu Falls, you'll be rewarded with views of one of the most stunning natural wonders on earth. Take some time to soak in the beauty of this place before heading back out on the trail.
Plitvice Falls
Situated in Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park, Plitvice Falls is a series of 16 terraced falls that descend into an aquamarine pool. The waterfalls are formed by the natural damming of the rivers that flow through the park and are a result of centuries of erosion.
The falls vary in height from 3 to 97 feet, and the total drop is around 1,400 feet. The upper lakes are separated by limestone barriers and are fed by small streams. As the water flows over these barriers, it forms the cascades and waterfalls for which the park is famous.
Plitvice Falls is one of Croatia’s most popular tourist attractions, and with good reason. The falls are truly breathtaking, and the surrounding national park is a beautiful example of unspoiled nature.
Takakkaw Falls
Takakkaw Falls is a major waterfall in the Yoho National Park of British Columbia, Canada. It is the second highest waterfall in the park and one of the tallest waterfalls in the country. The falls are fed by the meltwater of the Wapta Icefield and have a total height of 380 metres (1,247 feet). The main drop is 254 metres (833 feet) and there are two smaller drops of 25 metres (82 feet) and 30 metres (98 feet).
The Takakkaw Falls are a popular tourist destination and can be accessed via a short hike from the nearby parking lot. The falls are best seen from the viewing platform at the top of the falls but can also be viewed from below.
Athabasca Falls
Athabasca Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The waterfall is located in the Canadian Rockies in Jasper National Park, Alberta. The falls are created by the Athabasca River as it tumbles over a rock cliff. The falls are about 30 meters high and 100 meters wide.
Athabasca Falls is a popular tourist destination. The falls are easily accessible and there are many viewing platforms and trails in the area. The falls are best seen from the Skyline Trail, which is a hiking trail that runs along the top of the cliff.
Kauai's Wailua Falls
Kauai's Wailua Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The falls are located on the east side of Kauai, and are fed by the Wailua River. The falls flow over a cliff into a pool below, and are surrounded by lush tropical vegetation. Visitors to Kauai can view the falls from several vantage points, including a viewing platform at the top of the falls.