Best Waterfalls in the World: Discovering the Top Waterfalls in the World
Waterfalls are one of nature’s masterpieces. They offer some of the most majestic and awe-inspiring views on the planet. Not only are they majestic, but they are a true display of the power of water. That is what this list of the best waterfalls in the world will highlight.
This list of the best waterfalls in the world will highlight a variety of magnificent waterfalls from all over the planet. Whether you are looking for the tallest, the prettiest, the most powerful, or whatever, this list of the top waterfalls in the world will not disappoint.
Don’t be surprised, though, if you read about a few of these waterfalls and then want to plan a trip to one. If you do, make sure that you use our list of the best travel sites to help save time and money. And if you are looking for even more insight into any of these different destinations, our list of the best travel blogs will provide a list of expert travelers that can provide all of the details you will need.
Top 20 Waterfalls in the World:
1. Iguazu Falls
Location: Misiones Province, Argentina
Waterfall Height: 269 Feet
About Waterfall: Located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, Iguazu Falls has been featured in many an action movie. The long narrow drop that approximately half of the falls flows into is known as Devil’s Throat, which provides a particularly spectacular scene. While most of the falls are on the Argentinian side, both sides offer walkways that allow a close-up view.
2. Victoria Falls
Location: Livingstone, Zambia
Waterfall Height: 355 Feet
About Waterfall: Part of the Zambezi River, Victoria Falls is truly an impressive waterfall. Over 500 million cubic meters of water plummet over the 100-meter drop every minute. All this water allows for the spray from the falls to be seen from miles around. Victoria Falls is known as the “greatest curtain of falling water in the world.”
3. Multnomah Falls
Location: Multnomah County, Oregon, USA
Waterfall Height: 620 Feet
About Waterfall: Just a thirty-minute drive from Portland, Multnomah Falls is over 600 feet of roaring, cascading water. The beauty of the falls can be experienced up close, making it great for those looking for the perfect photo op. Be sure also to visit the Multnomah Falls Lodge as well. At the lodge, you will be able to enjoy delicious Northwest cuisine while also taking advantage of the fantastic views of one of the best waterfalls in the world.
4. Skógafoss Waterfall
Location: Skógar, Iceland
Waterfall Height: 197 Feet
About Waterfall: Known for producing rainbows in front of the falls, Skogafass is a famous waterfall along the south coast of Iceland. At over 60 meters wide, the falls are a truly speculator visual experience. And, and if there are favorable sun conditions, be sure to have your camera ready to capture the gorgeous rainbows.
5. Yosemite Falls
Location: Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Waterfall Height: 2,425 Feet
About Waterfall: While Yosemite Falls only flows for part of the year (approximately November through July), the three separate falls of Yosemite combine to make this waterfall one of the tallest in the world. Hiking trails also allow visitors to hike to the top of Yosemite Falls, which provides an impressive viewpoint. And since the falls are in one of the best national parks, you will be able to experience everything else that the park has to offer as well.
6. Ban Gioc Falls
Location: Cao Bang, Vietnam
Waterfall Height: 197
About Waterfall: Situated in North Vietnam, the striking landscape of the region and Ban Gioc Falls provide an otherworldly view. Caves and limestone peaks add to the allure of this waterfall, and the ever-present mist ensures an air of mystery.
7. Nohkalikai Falls
Location: Cherrapunji, India
Waterfall Height: 1,115
About Waterfall: Coming in at the fourth highest waterfall in the world, the water from Nohkalikai Falls drops a staggering 1,100 feet. Best seen during the monsoon season, Nohkalikai Falls is still spectacular throughout the year. Located near Cherrapunjee, India, it was a natural choice for this list of the best waterfalls in the world.
8. Seljalandsfoss Waterfall
Location: Southern Region, Iceland
Waterfall Height: 197
About Waterfall: Fed by melting water from a glacier-capped volcano, it doesn’t get much cooler than Seljalandsfoss. The cliffs that the water cascades over allow for walking behind the waterfall as well. This is going to allow visitors a spectacular viewpoint of the falls and the area around them. In the summer, you will be able to take in different wildflowers that bloom and thrive around the waterfall as well.
9. Jog Falls
Location: Karnataka, India
Waterfall Height: 830
About Waterfall: Jog falls fueled by the Sharavathi River is a combination of several different falls, the Roarer, Raja, Rocket, and Rani. The power of the river and the large amount of water coming over the falls is awe-inspiring to see. During the monsoon season, you can see the true power of the water coming over the different falls.
10. Alamere Falls
Location: Marin County, California, USA
Waterfall Height: 39
About Waterfall: You don’t typically think of seeing a waterfall at the beach, but with Alamere Falls in California, you have precisely that. The water generates from Alamere Creek and ends up falling over the coastal bluffs right onto the beach, an impressive sight to see. There is a 13-mile round trip hike to access Alamere Falls, but don’t worry, though. It will all be worth it when you get to look at the natural beauty of the falls.
11. Shoshone Falls
Location: Twin Falls, Idaho, USA
Waterfall Height: 212 Feet
About Waterfall: Shoshone Falls is the “Niagara of the West.” Located in Southern Idaho, the falls gets its water from the Snake River. At 212 feet, the falls are magnificent to see, especially after the winter snowmelt. The falls also includes a lake that you can swim and boat in as well. Outside of the water, there are plenty of activities like hiking, picnicking, and playing on the playgrounds as well. Shoshone Falls easily rounds out as one of the top waterfalls in the world.
12. Bridalveil Falls
Location: Yosemite National Park, California, USA
Waterfall Height: 517 Feet
About Waterfall: Located in Yosemite National Park, Bridalveil Falls is 617 feet high. The falls are aptly named after a bride’s veil because of the similarity in looks as the water cascades down the falls. With a paved trail leading up the falls, you will be able to easily get up nice and close for excellent viewing and pictures.
Best seen in early spring, Bridalveil Falls is sure to impress. And, being part of a National Park, you will be able to explore all of the other great areas that Yosemite offers, even another falls on this list of the best waterfalls in the world.
13. Staubbach Falls
Location: Bernese Highlands, Switzerland
Waterfall Height: 974 Feet
About Waterfall: It doesn’t get more scenic than Staubbach Falls setting the background over the small Swiss village of Lauterbrunnen. In the summer, the warm winds swirl the waters around and cause the waters to spray in all directions. When this happens, it resembles dust.
Staub translated means dust, and this is where Staubbach Falls gets its name. Also, if you are concerned about getting the most bang for your buck, Staubbach Falls is just one of the seventy-two waterfalls in the Lauterbrunnen Valley.
14. Ouzoud Falls
Location: Azilal, Morocco
Waterfall Height: 246
About Waterfall: Ouzoud means “olives,” which is fitting because of all of the olive trees that line the water’s edge around Ouzoud Falls. The falls are 110 meters high and fall into two smaller drops. These produce hundreds of falls and pools that the water passes through and over on the way down the gorge.
This elaborate display brings in visitors from near and far. With walking paths all around the falls as well, visitors can experience views of the falls from a variety of vantage points.
15. Gullfoss Falls
Location: Southwest Iceland
Waterfall Height: 69 Feet
About Waterfall: One of the most well-known waterfalls in Iceland, Gullfoss, is fed by Iceland’s second biggest glacier. The unique shape of the falls, coupled with the striking two tiers, and regular appearances of rainbows, make Gullfoss a must-see and one of the best waterfalls in the world.
16. Kaieteur Falls
Location: Kaieteur National Park, Guyana
Waterfall Height: 741
About Waterfall: Located in a pristine Guyanese rainforest, Kaieteur Falls is hailed by many as the tallest single-drop waterfall (741 feet). Additionally, when coupled with a series of sheer cascades, the fall’s total height is an impressive 822 feet.
17. Angel Falls
Location: Canaima National Park, Venezuela
Waterfall Height: 2,648 Feet
About Waterfall: A part of Canaima National Park in Venezuela, Angel Falls free falls almost 980 meters. As part of a national park, the falls are the perfect place to enjoy not only dramatic waterfalls, but lakes, rivers, forests, and savannahs. You will get your fill of nature at Angel Falls.
18. Niagara Falls)
Location: Niagara Falls, New York, USA
Waterfall Height: 167 Feet
About Waterfall: Best enjoyed from the Canadian side, Niagara Falls is one of the best waterfalls in the world and is made up of three waterfalls that straddle both the United States and Canada. For a close-up view, walkways lead behind the falls, and in season, boat rides are available. Many restaurants and casinos surrounding the falls also make for a fun-filled time.
19. Sutherland Falls
Location: Milford Sound, New Zealand
Waterfall Height: 1,904 feet
About Waterfall: Near Milford Sound, in New Zealand, the 1,904 foot Sutherland Falls is a dominant mass of pounding energy. To best appreciate the strength and beauty of this fall, a close-up view is a must. Along with the height, what makes this waterfall so unique and beautiful is the three different tiers of the falls. With a tier of 815 feet, 751 feet, and 338 feet, Sutherland Falls is truly unique.
20. Plitvice Lakes National Park Waterfalls
Location: Plitvice Lakes National Park, Croatia
Waterfall Height: 256 Feet
About Waterfall: Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia doesn’t just have one waterfall, but a combination of amazing waterfalls. A series of natural travertine dams create these beautiful, one-of-a-kind waterfalls. The surrounding forests in the park also add to the beauty with a wide variety of animals, including many rare bird species.
Best Waterfalls in the World Conclusion
There is nothing quite like viewing the power and force of water. Combine that with having it fall from hundreds of feet in the air, and you have something truly breathtaking to witness. This list of the best waterfalls in the world will highlight this for you.
Whether you’re looking to experience awe-inspiring beauty and power, the pure rush and closeness to nature, education, fun family time, or some one-on-one time with your significant other or yourself, waterfalls and the places around them provide a one-of-a-kind attraction that is sure to generate one of a kind memories as well. And for those who are value-wise, waterfall attractions provide all the allure, action, and memories of much pricier attractions.
There are a lot of magnificent waterfalls out there, and it was hard to narrow this list down. So if you feel that we left any off, please comment below. Also, if you have been to any of these waterfalls, we would love to hear about it.
Victoria Waterfall seems my favorite so far, thanks for sharing!