11 of the Most Famous Waterfalls in the World

Waterfalls are some of Mother Nature’s most spectacular creations. Whether hiking in the jungle or exploring the deep gorge of a canyon, waterfalls can be found everywhere on earth. However, there are a few famous waterfalls that should be added to every traveler’s itinerary. Here are our top picks for the most famous waterfalls in the world.

Angel Falls, Venezuela

With a drop of over 3,200 feet, Angel Falls is the tallest waterfall in the world. But due to its remote location, reaching this natural beauty takes a considerable amount of effort. After taking a propeller plane to Canaima, you’ll need to embark on a 3-hour boat ride through the Venezuelan jungle.

Gullfoss, Iceland

The rugged landscape is only one reason to visit Gullfoss in Iceland. The mighty thunder of its plummeting cascade makes it one of the most powerful in the world. Although it’s not particularly tall, it’s noteworthy because of its unique color. On a sunny day, the sun reflects the glacial sediment in the water. As a result, the falls turn a beautiful shade of golden yellow. In fact, Gullfoss even translates to “Golden Falls” in Icelandic!

Ruby Falls, Tennessee

Located inside the middle of Lookout Mountain, Ruby Falls is America’s largest underground waterfall. It’s over 145 feet high and surrounded by limestone stalagmites, stalactites, and cavernous rock formations. The cave is illuminated by a series of colorful lights, making the entire experience even more mesmerizing. 

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Sutherland Falls, New Zealand

If you’re up for the hike, then you’ll want to add Sutherland Falls to your waterfall bucket list. You’ll cross rivers and pass steep canyons until you reach the top of this 1,904-foot gem. It’s beautiful and lush practically every month of the year. However, more daring trekkers might choose to visit in winter (rainy season) when the falls are at their most powerful.

Kaieteur Falls, Guyana

Very few waterfalls can compete with the beauty and power of Kaieteur Falls. With a flow rate of 23,400 cubic feet per second, it’s one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. And if that wasn’t impressive enough, just take a look at the surrounding landscape. The lush green rainforest and sandstone gorge are equally as stunning as the falls themselves.

Erawan Falls, Thailand

Serene and tranquil are just a few words to describe the peaceful Erawan Falls. This 7-story waterfall is set in the middle of a quiet deciduous forest. As the streams flow into one another, they collect in small emerald pools that glisten in the sun. You can even dip your feet in the pools to enjoy a nibbling fish spa experience!

Nohkalikai Falls, India

The mystical Nohkalikai Falls is the tallest waterfall in all of India. It plunges off the face of a cliff and drops over 1,115 feet into a sparkling pool at the bottom. The color of the water is starkly contrasted with the surrounding landscape. With a mix of dark forest greens and vivid emerald blues, Nohkalikai is an awe-inspiring sight you have to see to believe.

Havasu Falls, Arizona

Havasu Falls is a hidden gem right in the middle of the Grand Canyon. It’s part of the Havasupai Indian Reservation, which only gives out several hiking permits a day for visitors. But if you’re lucky to snag one, you’ll get to see this beautiful natural wonder up close and personal. Where else will you find milky blue waters in the middle of a red rock canyon?

Plitvice Falls, Croatia

Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to 90 different waterfalls. They’re fed by interconnecting terraced pools, which shimmer in shades of emerald green and sapphire blue. While most travelers come in summer, the Plitvice Falls are even more beautiful in winter. The lakes have frozen over, and the waterfalls have crystallized into bright blue icicles.

Niagara Falls, USA & Canada

Straddling the border between USA and Canada, Niagara Falls is arguably one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. There are three separate sections – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Each one is worth visiting, especially on a boat ride down the Niagara River.

Iguazu Falls, Brazil & Argentina

Iguazu Falls has not one, not two, but over 270 individual waterfalls. But what’s even more impressive is that most of them are over 200-ft in height. They can be accessed from both Brazil and Argentina, although most cascades are on the Argentinian side. Don’t miss Devil’s Throat. It’s the tallest and arguably most impressive waterfall in the park.   

For many people, seeing a waterfall is the highlight of their trip. While some are easy to reach, others are located in remote destinations that are hard to reach. But trust us – it’s worth the effort once you arrive and see the most famous waterfalls in the world with your own eyes!