10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls in the World
Last Updated on May 19, 2023
A round up of some of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world: from the impressive Iguazu Falls to the rumbling Mosi-o-Tunya.
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. Waterfalls come in many different shapes and sizes but no matter how big or wide they are, you can’t deny the magical power of the tumbling waters. 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.
Table of Contents
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.
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. 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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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?
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.
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.
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.
What do you think of our curated list of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world? Which have you been? Did we miss out any? Leave a comment below to let us know!
The Comments
Jeremy Branham
I've seen a few of these. I really love waterfalls. Plitvice is amazing and Gullfoss in Iceland makes me want to visit. In photos, that's one f the most impressive waterfalls that I've seen.
Last weekend, I went hiking and hiked to an 800 foot waterfall here in California. I posted some photos and my first video of my hike. I love the outdoors and waterfalls are one thing I love to see in the spring. I am inspired to go hiking a lot more this year – and definitely have more places I need to see nw!
ayngelina
I haven't been to all of these but I can attest that Iguazu makes Niagara look like a leaking tap.
Vicky
Have not been to any of these but would love to go and see ALL of them!
Noah Lederman
Another spectacular fall is in Laos called the Kouang Si falls. Definitely worth the trip and it's just outside of the spectacular city of Luang Prabang.
Josh Martin
Absolutely gorgeous! The one from Croatia took my breath away. Time to add some waterfalls to my bucket list.
Isaac
great shots, i have only been to Victoria falls and its amazing, am looking forward to visit Niagara falls in the future.
Journeys and Travels
I agree! These are indeed the best waterfalls in the world and one, which I will dream to see in my lifetime :)
Simon
34 countries in and I've yet to visit any of these incredible waterfalls! My future is very looking bright indeed
Peter
Great post and images! Id have to add Kakadu waterfalls during the wet season to this list as well – just mesmerizing!
Miranda
I've always wanted to visit Angel Falls and Victoria Falls, I think now I will have to add a few more to the list.. very beautiful!
Kali
These are such beautiful places to travel to. I always wanted to go to Niagra Falls since it is the closest one to me. Having Snoqualmie Falls here in Washington allows for such a gorgeous site but I'm sure doesn't compare to these. The blue waters in Havasu falls is amazing. It's incredible the different enviroments these different waterfalls are in. Thanks for sharing!
Mellisa Turner
I have been to Gullfoss and Niagara falls. If one is wilder the other is wildest. Nature has amazing ways to surprise and is filled with unlimited wealth. Great list there! I have either heard or read about other water falls mentioned from fellow travelers.
Mike@globaltravelblog
These waterfalls are world class. I think I’ll start visiting local waterfalls here in the UK first then visit these. :D I am thinking to visit first Gullfoss which a bit near from us.
Mike
My dad is really inspired to go to Niagara Falls. We've been like to 20 countries across the globe. Still, we have gone to this magnificent waterfalls. My dad has promised to go here by the end of the year. I am so excited!
Traveling Ted
I have always regretted going to the Grand Canyon, but not making it to Havasu. The only one I have seen on this list is Angel Falls. I have some work ahead of me.
Ryan
Awesome post, New Zealand has some gnarly and stunning waterfalls as well, a few of which I’ve jumped off of!
Oscar
10 amazing places and I have only been in Plitvice, but I agree that they're gorgeous.
Susan
I have been there in GullFoss falls, it's the fall where you could feel the same water energy with winds like a person feels nearby Niagra fall. Awesome collection , great!
EJ Juen Jr
The landscape surrounding the Plitvice Waterfalls looks very nice. :)
davidwilliam7854
I really love waterfalls. Plitvice is amazing and Gullfoss in Iceland makes me want to visit. In photos, that's one f the most impressive waterfalls that I've seen. The one from Croatia took my breath away. Time to add some waterfalls to my bucket list.
Paul Krol
All of these are spectacular! Since i'm in Toronto, i've only seen Niagara Falls a bunch of times, but would love to visit any of these other ones!
Stephen S.
Great list. I am glad you included Plitvice. I am going there this summer and I can't get enough pictures of it.
Kori
These are some amazing waterfall. I specifically like Plitvice in Croatia. The world is full of great waterfall, all it take's to see them is to book a trip. Great Picutres