Biggest Waterfalls In The World
By Janet Benoir | Updated 3 Days Ago
Majestic waterfalls captivate travelers and adventurers with their breathtaking beauty. These stunning natural wonders are a testament to the power and artistry of nature, offering unparalleled views and unforgettable experiences.
From towering cascades that plunge dramatically into deep pools to wide veils spreading their mist over lush landscapes, the world’s biggest waterfalls draw visitors from around the globe, each seeking to witness the sheer scale and splendor of these incredible sights. The allure of waterfalls lies not just in their size but also in the surrounding landscapes, creating picturesque scenes that inspire awe and wonder.
Angel Falls, Venezuela
Our Rating: 9.8/10
Angel Falls, nestled deep in the jungles of Venezuela, is a sight to behold. Plunging from a height of 979 meters, it is the highest waterfall on the planet. The journey to the falls themselves is an adventure, typically beginning with a flight to Canaima, followed by a riverboat ride through mesmerizing landscapes.
Explorers often find themselves enchanted by the surrounding Canaima National Park. Crystal-clear lagoons, dense forests, and unique table-top mountains make every moment Instagram-worthy. Hiking trails offer breathtaking views, and the roar of the falls echoes through the jungle. Swimming in the emerald pools formed by the falls provides a refreshing finish to any expedition. Visitors leave with unforgettable memories and a spirit uplifted by this natural wonder.
Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zimbabwe
Our Rating: 9.5/10
Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke that Thunders,” offers breathtaking scenes as the largest sheet of falling water on Earth. The sheer magnitude of the cascading water creates an awe-inspiring spectacle, captivating visitors with its raw power and beauty. Adventure seekers can explore thrilling activities like bungee jumping from the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge.
For those yearning for a rush, white-water rafting in the Zambezi River offers an exhilarating ride through rapid-filled waters. Nature enthusiasts will delight in guided walking tours, providing up-close views of the dazzling falls and abundant wildlife in the surrounding rainforest. Each step along the trail brings new sights, with rainbows often forming in the mist, creating a magical atmosphere.
Iguazú Falls, Argentina/Brazil
Our Rating: 9.5/10
Iguazú Falls is a breathtaking natural wonder located on the border between Argentina and Brazil. It boasts a stunning network of waterfalls, with up to 300 individual falls creating an awe-inspiring scene. The lush subtropical rainforest surrounding the falls teems with diverse wildlife, adding to the allure of this spectacular destination.
Visitors can explore the falls through a series of walking trails and viewing platforms, offering incredible views from different angles. Adventurers can opt for a boat ride to get up close to the thundering cascades, feeling the mist on their faces. There are also helicopter tours available for those seeking a bird’s-eye view of this magnificent natural spectacle.
Niagara Falls, USA/Canada
Our Rating: 9.5/10
Niagara Falls straddles the USA-Canada border and amazes with three stunning waterfalls: Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. Visitors can get thrillingly close on the Maid of the Mist boat ride, feeling the power of the thundering waters. It’s an exciting adventure that’s sure to be unforgettable.
On the Canadian side, take a journey behind the falls for a unique perspective. The sound of the water rushing nearby is breathtaking. Above, panoramic views from the Skylon Tower offer a sweeping view of the falls and surrounding landscape. The American side offers the Cave of the Winds experience. Visitors don ponchos and experience the falls’ power up close on wooden platforms. It’s an exhilarating and wet experience.
Waihilau Falls, Hawaii
Our Rating: 9.3/10
Waihilau Falls plunges dramatically in the lush Waimanu Valley, making it a top destination for waterfall enthusiasts. At 792 meters tall, it ranks as one of the highest in the world. Its majestic presence and serene setting offer a truly breathtaking experience.
Visitors can embark on picturesque hikes through the valley, enjoying the stunning scenery along the way. The sense of adventure, surrounded by green cliffs and cascading water, is unmatched. Many adventurers enjoy camping in the valley to fully appreciate the natural beauty at sunrise and sunset. For those seeking tranquility, the sound of water rushing down creates a peaceful ambiance, perfect for reflection and relaxation amid nature’s wonders.
Mongefossen, Norway
Our Rating: 8.3/10
Mongefossen in Norway is a remarkable sight, known for its impressive height, plunging 774 meters. Nestled near the Rauma River, the waterfall offers a breathtaking view for all visitors. Travelers can enjoy hiking in the surrounding landscapes, which provide a stunning backdrop for photographs. The nearby European route E136 makes it easily accessible, perfect for those looking to combine nature with adventure on a scenic road trip.
Visitors often explore the charming Rauma Municipality, where they can experience local culture and enjoy activities like fishing or relaxing by the riverbanks. The roar of Mongefossen combined with the serene environment makes it a must-see for nature lovers seeking a unique Norwegian getaway.
Manawainui Falls, Hawaii
Our Rating: 8.1/10
Manawainui Falls cascades dramatically, plunging 719 meters (2,359 feet) into the lush Hawaiian landscape. It’s a sight that captures both the heart and the imagination. Visitors are enchanted by its majestic drop, making it one of Hawaii’s tallest and most breathtaking waterfalls.
Thrill-seekers find adventure hiking the trails leading to this natural wonder. Guided tours introduce them to the rich flora and fauna, painting the landscape with vibrant hues. The sound of rushing water provides a soothing soundtrack to the trek. For those who crave serenity, nearby spots offer perfect picnic spots. Here, one can unwind and absorb the stunning scenery, making memories that linger long after the visit.
Khone Falls, Laos
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Khone Falls in Laos is a breathtaking marvel of nature. Known as the widest waterfall globally, it spans over 10,783 meters. Nestled on the Mekong River near Cambodia, this natural treasure is a must-see for adventurous travelers. Visitors can take boat tours along the Mekong to witness the powerful cascades up close.
The surrounding jungles offer a vibrant backdrop for photography and exploration. Bird watchers can spot unique species in this lush habitat. For those seeking tranquility, the area’s small islands provide serene spots for relaxation. Enjoy a peaceful picnic while listening to the cascading water. Khone Falls is an unforgettable destination filled with awe-inspiring beauty and exciting adventures.
Guaíra Falls, Brazil/Paraguay
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Guaíra Falls, once a breathtaking spectacle, sat where the Paraná River marked the border between Brazil and Paraguay. Before being submerged in 1982 by the construction of a dam, these falls were an incredible sight. Cascading with immense power, they captivated visitors with their dramatic drop and roaring waters.
Though the falls themselves are gone, the area still offers rich experiences. Nearby, travelers can explore the Itaipu Dam, one of the world’s largest hydroelectric plants. The scenic beauty of the surrounding landscape, with lush greenery and flowing rivers, invites adventurers for hiking and exploration. Visitors can also mingle with local cultures, savoring traditional foods and vibrant festivals that bring the spirit of the region to life.
Kongou Falls, Gabon
Our Rating: 8.7/10
Kongou Falls, nestled in Gabon’s Ivindo National Park, is a breathtaking natural wonder. The waterfall spans over 10,000 feet, creating an awe-inspiring sight as water cascades powerfully through the African jungle. Visitors can explore the surrounding lush forest, home to diverse wildlife. Guided tours offer thrilling adventures, with opportunities to observe gorillas and elephants in their natural habitat.
For those who love the serenity of water, canoeing down the river provides a unique perspective of the falls’ beauty. Camping under the stars near Kongou Falls adds a magical touch, letting travelers fall asleep to the sounds of nature. This natural paradise promises an unforgettable, immersive experience for adventurers.
Dettifoss, Iceland
Our Rating: 9.4/10
Dettifoss, located in Vatnajökull National Park in northeast Iceland, is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. Known as the most powerful waterfall in Iceland, Dettifoss captivates with its thundering force and misty spray visible from miles away. Visitors can explore both the east and west sides, each offering unique and breathtaking views of the mighty cascade.
Adventures seekers may opt for a hike along the rugged trails that meander around the falls. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities to capture striking images of this dynamic landscape. The dramatic scenery surrounding Dettifoss also makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful picnic, offering a chance to savor the raw beauty of Iceland’s wilderness.
Sutherland Falls, New Zealand
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park, Sutherland Falls stands as a breathtaking spectacle. Plummeting 580 meters, this waterfall is one of New Zealand’s most stunning natural wonders. Its waters originate from Lake Quill, cascading down dramatic rock faces in three powerful leaps.
Visitors can embark on the famed Milford Track to catch a glimpse of the falls. This multi-day trek through lush greenery and rugged landscapes provides a remarkable journey. Along the way, hikers experience the pristine beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness, with the reward of viewing Sutherland Falls up close. Helicopter tours offer another thrilling way to see the falls, providing awe-inspiring aerial views that highlight their grandeur against the surrounding mountains.
Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls, Croatia
Our Rating: 9.4/10
Plitvice Lakes National Park is a stunning wonderland in Croatia, famous for its captivating waterfalls. Visitors can explore 16 lakes, each linked by a series of picturesque cascades. The enchanting turquoise waters create a magical scene, attracting nature lovers and photographers alike.
Walking trails offer explorers a chance to discover the lush surroundings. Visitors can stroll along wooden boardwalks, with every step unveiling breathtaking views of the waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes. Amidst the rich greenery, the melodies of cascading waters create a relaxing ambiance. Adventurous travelers might enjoy a guided tour or a boat ride on the jade-colored lakes. No matter how long your visit, Plitvice Lakes is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Blue Nile Falls, Ethiopia
Our Rating: 8.5/10
The Blue Nile Falls, known locally as Tis Abay, are a breathtaking sight in Ethiopia. Vast sheets of water tumble over the rocks, creating a mist like smoke. Visitors often hike nearby trails for stunning views.
Bird watchers will enjoy spotting colorful species that thrive in the area. For a deeper experience, boat trips on the Blue Nile river offer a peaceful perspective of the falls and surrounding nature. With its dramatic landscape and natural beauty, the Blue Nile Falls is a gem for adventure seekers.
Tugela Falls, South Africa
Our Rating: 8.9/10
Tugela Falls lands in the majestic Drakensberg Mountains. It is the tallest waterfall in Africa, cascading beautifully over five leaps. The scenery around the falls is awe-inspiring, attracting nature lovers from all over.
Adventurers can embark on an unforgettable hike to experience stunning views. The trails offer a chance to witness breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and plant life. The hike to the top is challenging but rewarding, filled with stunning views at every turn. Many trekkers find this journey to be a highlight of their travels, capturing memorable photos along the way. For those seeking a shorter excursion, nearby trails also provide excellent vantage points.
Ban Gioc–Detian Falls, Vietnam/China
Our Rating: 8.9/10
Ban Gioc–Detian Falls offers a breathtaking escape into nature’s grandeur at the border of Vietnam and China. Tumbling down at a height of 98 feet, the falls are a sight to behold. The sound of water crashing against rocks fills the air, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Visitors can explore nearby trails that offer stunning views of the falls from different angles. Boating right up to the base of the waterfalls provides an exhilarating experience. This unique perspective lets travelers feel the mist on their faces as they approach the rushing water. The area around the falls is ideal for picnicking, photography, and even cycling, making it a great spot for adventure and relaxation.
Yosemite Falls, USA
Our Rating: 9.4/10
Yosemite Falls in California is the tallest waterfall in North America, reaching an impressive 2,425 feet. It captivates visitors with its breathtaking views and powerful cascades. Hiking to the top provides an unforgettable experience. Adventurers traverse the winding trail, surrounded by the scent of pine and the sound of rushing water.
Each turn offers stunning perspectives of the cascading falls. Photographers find endless opportunities to capture its beauty, especially in the spring when the snowmelt boosts the waterfall’s flow. Visitors often enjoy picnicking near the base, feeling the refreshing mist on their faces. Whether hiking or simply relaxing, Yosemite Falls leaves a lasting impression.
Rheinfall, Switzerland
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Rheinfall, located on the High Rhine in Switzerland, is a magnificent display of nature’s power. As Europe’s most powerful waterfall, it plunges dramatically over a width of 150 meters and a height of 23 meters. The roaring sound of 600 cubic meters of water per second is an experience that captivates all who visit.
Visitors can embark on thrilling boat rides that take them close to the cascading waters, providing an exhilarating vantage point. For those who prefer staying dry, there are several observation points and walking paths offering breathtaking views of this natural wonder. Whether on land or water, Rheinfall offers an unforgettable encounter with one of nature’s grand spectacles.
Havasu Falls, USA
Our Rating: 9.1/10
Havasu Falls is a stunning gem found at the bottom of the Grand Canyon. The vibrant turquoise waters cascading over rust-colored cliffs create a sight that seems almost otherworldly. Visitors are drawn to its untouched beauty and the exciting possibilities it offers.
For adventurers, hiking the rugged trails leading to the falls is a challenging yet rewarding experience. The crystal-clear pools are inviting for swimming, and there’s nothing quite like taking a refreshing dip after a long hike. Camping beneath the stars near the falls is an unforgettable experience that connects you deeply with nature. Each of these activities offers a unique way to experience this breathtaking oasis tucked away in the canyon’s depths.
Kaieteur Falls, Guyana
Our Rating: 9.0/10
Kaieteur Falls, located in the heart of Guyana’s lush rainforest, is a breathtaking spectacle. With its vast height and incredible power, this single-drop waterfall roars down 741 feet (226 meters). The sheer power of the water and its stunning natural setting make it one of the most impressive sights you can experience.
Visitors can embark on guided hikes through the dense jungle to reach the falls, where they may spot unique wildlife. The journey offers adventure and the promise of breathtaking views. Tourists can also enjoy small aircraft tours that provide a bird’s-eye view of the awe-inspiring landscape, truly showcasing the falls’ majesty from above.
Salto Ángel (Angel Falls)
Our Rating: 8.9/10
Salto Ángel, the world’s tallest waterfall, cascades gracefully from a towering height of 979 meters in Venezuela’s Canaima National Park. Visitors are often mesmerized by the sight of water plunging down the sheer cliffs. Adventurers can embark on boat trips along the rivers leading up to the falls, getting a view that’s both thrilling and humbling.
The surrounding jungle offers ample opportunities for hiking, with trails that wind through lush forests teeming with wildlife. Tourists can also take scenic flights for a bird’s-eye view of this magnificent natural wonder. These experiences create unforgettable memories in what feels like a hidden paradise. Exploring Salto Ángel is an adventure not to be missed.
Nyang Nyang Waterfall, Indonesia
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Nyang Nyang Waterfall, hidden in the lush jungles of Indonesia, offers an enchanting retreat into nature’s heart. The surrounding area is perfect for trekking, with trails winding through dense forests and offering breathtaking views of cascading water.
Visitors can enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pools at the base. It’s a serene spot for picnics, where the sound of rushing water and the symphony of jungle creatures provide the perfect soundtrack. This spot is also a dream for photographers, with opportunities to capture the vibrant greenery and shimmering waters. Whether exploring on foot or simply relaxing by the water, Nyang Nyang Waterfall promises an adventure filled with natural beauty and tranquility.
MacKenzie Falls, Australia
Our Rating: 8.5/10
Tucked away in Victoria’s stunning Grampians National Park, MacKenzie Falls is a breathtaking spectacle. Visitors can take a leisurely walk to experience the majestic cascade of water. The sound is both powerful and soothing, making it a must-see for nature lovers.
The hiking trails around the falls provide multiple viewpoints, each offering a unique perspective on the waterfall’s beauty. Adventurous souls can explore these paths, weaving through the surrounding forest and discovering the tranquil spots along the way. Swimming is a popular activity in the summer. Despite the less forceful flow during this season, it offers a refreshing escape from the heat. A visit to MacKenzie Falls is a journey into nature’s artwork.
From the thunderous plunge of Angel Falls to the majestic power of Victoria Falls, the world’s biggest waterfalls showcase the raw beauty and scale of nature. Visiting these awe-inspiring giants offers an unforgettable glimpse into the planet’s most spectacular landscapes.