Waterfalls are among the most beautiful natural wonders of the world. From the cascading waters of Niagara Falls, to the mystical beauty of the Angel Falls, the world is full of stunning waterfalls that are just waiting to be explored. So pack your bags, put on your hiking shoes and start your adventure to the ten best waterfalls in the world.
1. Niagara Falls, Canada/USA
Height: 51 meters (167 feet)
Best Time to Visit: May to September
When Not to Visit: November to April when it is too cold and frozen
One of the most famous waterfalls in the world, the Niagara Falls attracts millions of visitors annually. Comprising three waterfalls - the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls - the sheer volume of water that flows over the falls is awe-inspiring. The falls are located on the Niagara River, which forms part of the border between Canada and the United States. Visitors can take a boat tour, hike through the surrounding parkland, or explore the local area, which is packed with restaurants, hotels, and tourist attractions.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- If you want to see the falls at night, visit during the summer months when they are illuminated with colorful lights.
- Bring a rain jacket or poncho as the mist from the falls can be quite heavy.
- Visit the nearby Niagara Glen Nature Reserve for a scenic hike and stunning views of the falls.
- If you happen to be in New York, you can actually plan a day trip from New York City to the Niagara Falls!
2. Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina
Height: 82 meters (269 feet)
Best Time to Visit: November to March
When Not to Visit: June to August, as it is the coldest time of the year
Iguazu Falls is a stunning collection of 275 waterfalls straddling the border between Brazil and Argentina. The falls are surrounded by a lush rainforest which is home to many rare and exotic animals. In 1984, these magnificent falls were given the status of the UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take a boat tour, walk along the various hiking trails, or explore the local wildlife surrounding the Iguazu Falls.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Take the time to explore the local Guarani villages to learn about their culture and traditions.
- Hike through the surrounding jungle to see a variety of rare and exotic wildlife, including toucans, monkeys, and jaguars.
3. Angel Falls, Venezuela
Height: 979 meters (3,212 feet)
Best Time to Visit: June to December
When Not to Visit: January to May when the falls are dry
Angel Falls is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, with water cascading down a towering 979 meters. Located in the heart of the Venezuelan jungle, in in the Canaima National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique geology and biodiversity. Keep in mind that the falls can only be reached by plane or boat.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Hire a knowledgeable guide to navigate the tricky terrain and maximize your experience of the falls.
- Bring plenty of insect repellent as the area is known for its mosquitos and other biting insects.
- Visitors to Angel Falls can also explore the Canaima National Park by taking a boat tour of the surrounding rivers and lagoons, hiking through the lush rainforest
4. Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Height: 108 meters (354 feet)
Best Time to Visit: June to August
When Not to Visit: December to March when the falls are in full flood and the spray is too heavy
Victoria Falls is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. With a width of over a mile and a height of 354 feet, the falls create a stunning display of water. Visitors can take a boat tour, hike through the surrounding parkland, or explore the local area, which is rich in culture and history.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Take a guided tour of the local markets to sample traditional foods and learn about the local culture.
- Visit nearby Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, and lions.
- Take a leisurely walk along the Zambezi River to see a variety of bird species, including the majestic African fish eagle.
5. Plitvice Waterfalls, Croatia
Height: Varies, highest waterfall is 78 meters (256 feet)
Best Time to Visit: April to October
When Not to Visit: November to March when the park is closed due to snow and ice
The Plitvice Waterfalls are a stunning collection of 16 interconnected waterfalls located in Croatia's national park - the Plitvice Lakes National Park. Surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including forests, lakes, and caves, the falls offer a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to explore the local wildlife and soak in the natural beauty.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the park at a leisurely pace.
- Take a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of the national park's largest lake, Kozjak.
- Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy a relaxing break near the falls, surrounded by the beauty of nature.
6. Kaieteur Falls, Guyana
Height: 226 meters (741 feet)
Best Time to Visit: September to November
When Not to Visit: February to March when the water levels are too low
Kaieteur Falls is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world, located in the depths of the Guyana jungle. One of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the world, what makes a visit to these falls is that the Guyanese jungle offers remains relatively untouched by commercial development, allowing visitors to experience its natural beauty and power in a raw and unfiltered way.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Some Amerindian villages that visitors can explore near Kaieteur Falls include the Patamona Village of Chenapou, the Wai Wai Village of Masakenari, and the Makushi Village of Nappi.
- Take the time to explore the local area around the falls, including the nearby Kaieteur National Park, which is home to a variety of rare and exotic wildlife.
7. Gullfoss Falls, Iceland
Height: 32 meters (105 feet)
Best Time to Visit: June to August
When Not to Visit: December to February when the falls are frozen
Stunning with its two-tiered cascade, the Gullfoss Falls sit on the HvÃtá River, and drops a total of 32 meters in two stages. The falls are situated within the HvÃtárgljúfur Canyon, which was formed by glacial flooding during the last Ice Age. The surrounding landscape is characterized by otherworldly geothermal features such as hot springs and geysers.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Visit during the onset of winter to see the falls partially frozen, creating a stunning display of ice and water.
- Bring warm clothing, as the area can be very cold and windy, even in the summer months.
- Be on the look out for the majestic gyrfalcon, the arctic tern and the arctic fox, the Icelandic horse and the reindeer!
8. Sutherland Falls, New Zealand
Height: 580 meters (1,903 feet)
Best Time to Visit: October to April
When Not to Visit: May to September when the falls are often obscured by clouds
Sutherland Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, located in the Fiordland National Park in New Zealand. The falls cascade down three tiers and are surrounded by lush forests. Hiking to Sutherland Falls also offers visitors breathtaking views of the Mount Balloon and Mount Moa.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon to see the falls in the best light for photos.
- Take a hike through the stunning Fiordland National Park and try to spot endangered bird species such as the kea and kaka parrots.
9. Detian Falls, China/Vietnam
Height: 70 meters (230 feet)
Best Time to Visit: March to May
When Not to Visit: June to August, when it is too hot and humid
Detian Falls is a stunning cross-border waterfall located on the border between China and Vietnam. The falls span a width of over 200 meters and drop a total of 30 meters, with multiple cascades and pools that create a stunning natural spectacle. Lush vegetation, including bamboo groves, banana trees, and tropical flowers, dot the landscape around these falls.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Visit during the summer months to see the falls at their fullest and most impressive.
- If you're visiting the Vietnam side, make sure to check out the Ban Gioc Village, located on the other side of the falls, known for its traditional stilt houses and vibrant markets.
- Take a hike along the nearby nature trails to see the local wildlife and stunning scenery.
10. Jog Falls, India
Height: 253 meters (830 feet)
Best Time to Visit: August to December
When Not to Visit: January to July when the falls are often dry
Jog Falls is a four-tiered waterfall located in the Western Ghats of India. Cascading down a height of 830 feet, the falls offer visitors a stunning display of water. Visitors can take a boat tour, hike through the surrounding parkland, or explore the local area, which is rich in culture and history. The falls are especially popular during the monsoon season when the water levels are at their highest. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Sharavati Wildlife Sanctuary, the historic Jog Falls Dam, and the Jogimatti Reserve Forest.
🔥 HOT TIPS 🔥
- Visit during the monsoon season to see the falls at their fullest and most impressive.
- Take a refreshing swim in the nearby Sharavathi River to cool off after hiking to the falls.
- Visit nearby attractions such as the Sharavati Wildlife Sanctuary and the historic Jog Falls Dam.
