20 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the World

Last Updated on July 22, 2024

A round up of  some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world: from the impressive Iguazu Falls to the rumbling Mosi-o-Tunya.

Nature has been known to create an ethereal masterpiece every now and then. The earth surface cracks open and millions of gallons of water tumble down in gargantuan motion: waterfalls are the creation of Mother Nature, designed to enhance our surroundings. The world’s famous waterfalls have a way of capturing our hearts (and our Instagram feeds). From the cascading beauty of Niagara Falls to the icy waters of the Gulfoss in Iceland, we bring you some of the biggest and most beautiful waterfalls in the world.

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World’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls

1. Iguazu Falls, Argentina/Brazil

The Iguazu Falls is my personal favorite on this list of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The Iguazu Falls features 275 drops of different heights and widths making it a waterfall fanatic’s paradise. The falls stretch across the border of the Brazilian State of Paraná and the Argentine Province of Misiones. I’ve seen the Iguazu Falls from the Argentinian and Brazilian sides, and honestly they offer such different perspectives and experiences that you gotta see them from both sides! Read my Argentina itinerary and Brazil travel guide.

The name “Iguazu” comes from the Guarani or Tupi words, meaning “big water”. Legend has it that a god planned to marry a beautiful woman named Naipí, who fled with her mortal lover Tarobá in a canoe. In rage the god sliced the river, creating the waterfalls and condemning the lovers to an eternal fall. Book this affordable full-day tour to Iguazu Falls, where you’ll visit the stunning Argentinian side of the falls before exploring the breathtaking views from the Brazilian side.

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2.  Yosemite Falls, USA

When most people think of California, they think of the celebrities and the Hollywood sign, beaches full of beautiful people and glitzy Los Angeles. But California is also home to several national parks and Yosemite is one of the most popular parks of all. If you want to explore not only Yosemite Falls but also Yosemite Valley and the breathtaking Sierra Nevada high country, consider this 2-day Yosemite National Park tour departing from San Francisco.

Many visitors to the park are there to see the Yosemite Falls, but besides that, you can also go on a multi-day hike, go skiing in winter and camp out in the wilderness. In Spring you can expect the waterfall to thunder as it tumbles down the 2391 feet (729 meter) drop to the bottom of the lower falls. Read my California road trip itinerary.

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3. Gullfoss, Iceland

One of the most popular waterfalls in Iceland (out of the thousands it has), Gullfoss is a great day out if from the capital city of Reykjavik. The entire width of the Hvítá River tumbled over the jagged crack, creating the Gullfoss Waterfall. From certain angles the Hvítá River appears to just fall off the edge of a cliff which makes this waterfall immensely spectacular.

These falls form part of Iceland’s popular tourist route, the Golden Triangle, along with Silfra and Geysir. Gulfoss is also conveniently located along the Iceland Ring Road, making an essential stop in your road trip! You can enjoy this day tour from Reykjavik, where you’ll have the chance to marvel at stunning waterfalls, bubbling hot springs, and the impressive Strokkur geyser, among other spectacular sights.

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4. Angel Falls, Venezuela

They don’t get any higher than this. With a height of 3212 feet (979 meters), Angel falls is the highest waterfall in the world. Although it lacks width, Angel falls is a thing of beauty whether you visit in the dry or wet season. The drop comes over the edge of the Auyantepui Mountain in Venezuela and is a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Gran Sabana region of Bolívar State of Venezuela. The waterfall was named after Jimmie Angel, a US aviator who was the first to fly over the falls in a plane.

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5. Niagara Falls, Canada

Niagara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world, located on the border between the Canadian province of Ontario and the U.S. state of New York. The falls consist of three main waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls, the American Falls, and the Bridal Veil Falls. The Horseshoe Falls, also known as the Canadian Falls, is the largest and most recognizable. It stands about 54 meters (177 feet) high and spans approximately 670 meters (2,200 feet).

The majority of the water flow from the Niagara River passes over the Horseshoe Falls, creating a breathtaking spectacle of cascading water and mist. The best way to drink it all in and experience the Niagara at its best is to take the Maid of the Mist boat trip which takes you right into the horseshoe of Niagara Falls.

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6. Plitvice Waterfalls, Croatia

These gorgeous looking waterfalls and lakes are somewhat a hidden secret in Croatia. Located in the Plitvice Lakes National Park, these series of turquoise-colored falls are found amidst the mountainous karst area of central Croatia, at the border to Bosnia and Herzegovina. The massive Plitvice Lakes National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

It features a series of interconnected lakes and waterfalls, with vibrant turquoise waters and lush green surroundings. Sadly it’s not allowed to swim in the pools or falls as they’re highly protected. Take this guided tour of Plitvice Lakes, bypassing the lines for an effortless visit. Let an expert guide lead you through the spectacular scenery of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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7. Victoria Falls, Zambia / Zimbabwe

It takes a moment to catch your breath after witnessing the Victoria Falls in all its glory. Known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, ‘the Cloud that Thunders’, in local Tonga dialect, this monster of a waterfall sprawls across two countries, spreading across the border that divides Zambia and Zimbabwe.

We went gorge swinging over the Victoria Falls in the Zambia side and had a blast! While it is neither the highest nor the widest waterfall in the world, it is claimed to be the largest singular waterfall in the world spanning a width of over a mile! Need I say any more about just how impressive this waterfall is? If you’re up for an adventure and want to snag some stunning photos (perfect for Instagram), this affordable Victoria Falls helicopter tour with hotel pickup is just what you need!

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8. Jog Falls, India

The Jog Falls in India are unlike any other waterfalls in the world. Its appearance large differs depending on which season you visit. During the monsoon season, you will experience Jog Falls at its loudest and proudest when it thunders down in a single drop. Located in Sagar, in the Karnataka state of Western India, this 830 foot (253m) high waterfalls itself is a reason worth venturing to this underrated part of the country. Read my 2-week India itinerary for some inspiration.

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9. Ouzoud Falls, Morocco

Waterfalls in Morocco don’t get any better than the Ouzoud Falls. Surrounded by olive trees, the setting of Ouzoud Falls is poetic, further enhanced by the soothing sounds of the gushing water. With Morocco being hugely popular with travelers these days, I would strongly recommend a day trip away from Marrakech to visit the Ouzoud Falls, located 150km north east of the city. Check out my guide to traveling Morocco with kids.

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10. Havasu Falls, USA

To experience the paradise that is Havasu Falls you have to earn it, as it’s located in a remote canyon in Grand Canyon National Park. One of the most remote places in the US, the Havasupai Native Reservation can only be accessed via a 10-mile hike or ride on horseback. You’ll also need to apply for a permit to visit the Havasu, so make sure you plan that in advance. The mineralized water plunge down from a height of 120 feet (36m) into pools of aqua blue water. It’s a must-see on any Arizona road trip.

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11. Seljalandsfoss, Iceland

Located in south Iceland, Seljalandsfoss is a breathtaking waterfall with a 196-foot (60-meter) cascade. Although the cascade is relatively narrow, it plunges from a tall cliff that once marked Iceland’s coastline. This famous waterfall offers a unique experience with a path weaving behind its curtain of water.

As you step behind the famous waterfalls, you’ll marvel at the South Coast from an entirely new perspective. However, be prepared to get damp thanks to the perpetual mist from the falls. Also, wear sturdy shoes because the rocks here are slippery.

For a magical nighttime experience, floodlights were installed in 2001 when the falls became a staple for many of the country’s visitors. These illuminate the waterfall when the midnight sun is not shining, enhancing its allure as a must-visit destination. If you planning on seeing the falls and Iceland in general, I recommend you take this small group tour from Reykjavik. Be sure to read my complete Iceland travel guide to get a full understanding of what to expect in this stunning destination.

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12. Kawasan Falls, Philippines

This stunning series of three waterfalls on Cebu Island is the perfect blend of natural beauty and interactive fun. Located about a three-hour drive southwest of Cebu City, these falls cascade into natural swimming holes and lagoons. The first waterfall is the largest and often the most crowded, but a fifteen-minute uphill climb leads to the second, and then another a little further.

For a unique experience, you can rent a raft 300 PHP ($5.10) to explore the pool or enjoy a “shower massage” under the falls. If you want to spend the night here, cottages are available for rent. They start from 1500-2500 PHP ($25.50 to $42.50). For an unforgettable adventure, I recommend this guided tour from Cebu.

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13. Dudhsagar Falls, India

Located in Goa about 60 kilometers from Panjum, Dudhsagar Falls is one of nature’s greatest masterpieces. The falls spill its milky-white waters gracefully across a lush green hillside. Dudhsagar earned its nickname “sea of milk” due to the white gush created by the powerful cascade.

The spectacular waterfalls plunge over 1,000 feet in four tiers, spanning nearly 100 feet wide. The force and speed of the water as it dips into the Mandovi River, is simply mesmerizing. But the true adventure is on the train that chugs right through at the waist of the mountain. It’s a front-row view of the breathtaking falls for the lucky passengers.

To revel in this experience, board a train from either Vasco De Gama or Madgaon station. Most trains have stopovers next to the famous waterfalls and charge only 50 rupees ($0.60) per ticket. However, if you want to see other parts of Goa, I recommend you take this 10-hour guided tour.

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14. Kaieteur Falls, Guyana

Kaieteur Falls is so dizzyingly vast and powerful, the water looks as if it’s falling from the edge of the world. This sprawling beauty is located on the Potaro River in Kaieteur National Park, within Guyana’s Amazon rainforest. Kaieteur’s water drops from a vertical rock face four times higher than that of Niagara Falls at 23,400 cubic feet per second.

Reaching Kaieteur Falls takes some serious effort, as it is hidden deep in the Amazon rainforest, but the reward is absolutely worth it. The falls can be accessed via regular flights on small planes from the capital city of Georgetown. From the airstrip landing, it’s a 15-minute walk to the top of the falls.

However, some of the best views are seen flying in and out. For a seamless transfer from the capital, I recommend you take this 8-day guided tour. It is the perfect adventure for those looking to see other hidden spots dotted across the beautiful country. Discover more by diving into my comprehensive guides on packing, exploring my detailed Guyana travel guide, and following my exciting 10-day itinerary for an unforgettable journey through Guyana.

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15. Bản Giốc Waterfall, Vietnam and China

Also known as Detian Falls, Bản Giốc Waterfall is a breathtaking series of cascades straddling the border between China and Vietnam. At these falls, water tumbles down the lush green landscapes in three tiers. The falls display a stunning show of power and grandeur as the water flows endlessly through pools and over cliffs in a unique horseshoe shape.

On the Chinese side, the drop exceeds 70 meters and spans an impressive 200 meters in width. The falls are fed by the Quay Son River, which divides the two countries. Bản Giốc Waterfall’s thunderous roar can be heard from afar, captivating all who visit. For an unforgettable adventure, I recommend you take this 2-day guided tour from Hanoi.

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16. Tugela Falls, South Africa

Perched within the Drakensberg Mountains, this awe-inspiring waterfall is Africa’s highest and the second-highest in the world. The falls plunge 3,110 feet over a series of five seasonal cascades dramatically from the cliff face of the Amphitheatre in Royal Natal National Park.

The famous waterfalls are primarily fed by the Tugela River, giving them an impressive burst of power for most of the year. The best scenic viewpoint is on the challenging Sentinel trail that leads to the top of the falls. You can also glimpse the falls on the much easier and shorter Tugela Gorge trail.

The falls are an absolute must-see but require some impeccable planning if you are to go by yourself. For a seamless experience, I recommend you take this Overnight hike Sentinal Peak and Tugela falls. It entails hotel pick-up and drop-off, lunch, and detailed narration from an expert.

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17. Kuang Si Falls, Laos

About an hour’s drive south of the culture-rich city of Luang Prabang lies Kuang Si Falls (Kuang Xi Falls). This natural marvel features three-tiered cascades that tumble into inviting pools of milky blue water; attracting swimmers, photographers, and social media influencers. The falls also offer serene swimming holes complemented by several hiking trails and benches to catch your breath.

However, Kuang Si is impassable during the wet season (May to September) due to flooding. The dry season (March to April) brings acrid conditions making it also unfavorable. For the best experience, plan your visit during the cool and dry months of October to February. This location is perfect for kids! If you’re planning a trip, make sure to read my guide on exploring Laos with children.

During this window, the falls are at their most tranquil and inviting. You’ll pay a fee of 25,000 kip ($113) before accessing the falls. If you’re planning to visit other areas in Luang Prabang, I recommend you take this 5-hour guided tour from the city.

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18. Murchison Falls, Uganda

Murchison Falls is the purest embodiment of raw power and stunning beauty of nature. They are located north of Butiaba, where the Albertine Rift Valley begins its gradual fade into the expansive landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park. Here, the mighty Nile River funnels through a narrow gorge, plunging over a 40-meter drop with a thunderous roar.

Whereas the construction of the dam curtailed the Nile’s once fierce and unruly roar, the falls remain a beautiful spectacle. The sight of the water crashing down, creating a misty spectacle that dances in the sunlight, is nothing short of mesmerizing.

One of the perks of visiting these famous waterfalls is that you can always sneak in a safari trip. The national park has diverse wildlife, including hippos and crocodiles basking along the riverbanks of the Nile. For a seamless adventure in the national park, I recommend this 3-day Murchison safari adventure. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, check out my guide on Gorilla Trekking in Uganda.

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19. Jim Jim Falls, Australia

Plummeting 656 feet over ancient, weathered cliffs into a deep plunge pool, Jim Jim Falls is the epitome of natural grandeur and rugged beauty. Located in Kakadu National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, the falls are one of Australia’s best-kept secrets.

Sadly, these famous waterfalls are accessible only during the dry season (May to October). During the window, you can hike through monsoon forests and over boulder-strewn paths to reach its awe-inspiring base. In the wet season, the falls transform into an even more formidable spectacle visible only by scenic flight.

Nevertheless, the sheer cliffs, lush surroundings, and crystal-clear waters make Jim Jim Falls a quintessential Australian outback adventure. If you’re planning a trip to Australia, be sure to check out my Two Weeks in Australia guide. You can also explore my top recommendations for the best road trips in Australia! For an unforgettable experience in this part of rural Australia, I recommend you take this 3-day adventure.

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20. Yumbilla Falls, Peru

Yumbilla Falls in northern Peru has lately become a global magnet for adventurers, and it’s easy to see why. Ranked as the world’s fifth-tallest waterfall, Yumbilla descends an impressive 2,940 feet in a flawless display of strength and energy. Cascading over four tiers, each segment of the falls carves its way through the dense forest, creating mesmerizing plunge pools with the occasional rainbow.

From afar, it appears as a slender ribbon of silver cutting through the tranquil greenery, exuding a sense of serene beauty. Yet, up close at one of its plunge pools, the true intensity of Yumbilla reveals itself as an unstoppable force crashing against rocks. While this is definitely one of Peru’s most incredible attractions, there’s so much more to explore. Dive into my 10-Day Peru Itinerary to uncover even more exciting experiences, or if you’re traveling with kids, don’t miss my guide to Peru with children.

The famous waterfalls are located within a dense forest, so I recommend you take a guided tour or a local guide from Chachaoyas. Most local guides charge around 30 soles ($8) for a trip. But for an immersive experience in the Amazon, I recommend you take this 9-hour adventure to the falls.

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Enjoy Your Trip to These Famous Waterfalls!

Are you ready to explore the best waterfalls in the world? Hope you found my guide useful! Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. Read more of my articles to get ideas for your next trip:

• Plitvice Lakes Croatia in Pictures
• Least Visited Countries in the World
• Europe’s Best Yachting Destinations
• The Best Wildlife Destinations in the World
• Most Remote Places in the US
• Cool Things to do in Monteverde, Costa Rica
• Two Weeks in Australia
• Highlights of the Spanish Pyrenees

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links i.e. I’ll get a small commission when you book anything through my links, at NO extra cost to you. I only recommend companies I have personally used and enjoyed.

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