Top 5 Beautiful Waterfalls Around the World

On June 16th, nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers around the world come together to celebrate International Waterfall Day—a day dedicated to honouring and appreciating the majestic beauty of waterfalls. 

International Waterfall Day is not just about experiencing the physicality of waterfalls but also about recognising their importance in environmental conservation. This day encourages us to be mindful of our actions and their impact on the environment, promoting sustainable practices that ensure the longevity of these precious natural resources. 

Let’s explore the most beautiful and some of the highest waterfalls in the world, where the forces of nature have carved spectacular masterpieces that leave us spellbound. Join us as we dive into the world of waterfalls and learn about some of the largest waterfalls in the world, their heights, and the best time to witness their awe-inspiring displays.

Khone Phapheng Falls (Southern Laos)

Khone Phapheng Waterfall, rightfully hailed as the jewel or pearl of the Mekong, holds a special place in the hearts of locals in Laos and beyond. It is known as the largest waterfall in Southeast Asia. Millions of litres of water descend over a set of cascades making it one of the most spectacular sites in Southern Laos. The falls have an impressive width of nearly 6.7 miles creating a mesmerising spectacle. Located in Champasak Province, Southern Laos, along the Mekong River, Khone Phapheng Falls are a natural wonder and an opportunity to immerse oneself in the tranquillity of the surrounding area. Exploring the nearby islands and riverine landscapes further adds to the charm of this remarkable destination.

Location: Southern Laos, near the Cambodia border

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Khone Phapheng Falls is during the rainy season, when the falls are at their most impressive.

Victoria Falls (South Africa)

Victoria Falls is a majestic natural wonder that commands attention with its sheer size and awe-inspiring beauty. Considered the largest waterfall in the world based on its combined width and height, Victoria Falls is a testament to the incredible power and grandeur of nature.  

Locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, meaning "The Smoke That Thunders," the falls live up to their name. During the peak of the rainy season, Victoria Falls showcases an incredible sight. From a distance, one can observe towering columns of mist rising into the sky. This extraordinary phenomenon occurs because of the massive volume of water that cascades over the falls. With a staggering flow rate of over five hundred million cubic meters (or 17 billion cubic feet) per minute, the water plunges over the edge, spanning a width of nearly two kilometres (over a mile). The tremendous force propels the water down into a deep gorge, with the drop measuring over a hundred meters (or 300 feet).

Location: On the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Victoria Falls is from February to May. During this period, the Zambezi River swells with water, and the falls are at their most impressive. 

Angel Falls (Venezuela)

Standing tall at a staggering height of 3212 feet, Angel Falls holds the distinction of being one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. Named after the American aviator Jimmy Angel, who was the first to fly over the falls in 1933, this majestic waterfall is a sight that leaves visitors in awe of its sheer magnitude. To witness Angel Falls in all its glory, you must embark on an adventure through the lush and pristine Venezuelan rainforest. The falls descend from the summit of Auyán-Tepuí, a towering Table Mountain, in a single uninterrupted plunge, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. 

Location: Canaima National Park in Venezuela. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its vast wilderness, towering table mountains, and stunning landscapes.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Angel Falls is during the wet season, from May to November. This period ensures a more substantial water flow, allowing you to witness the falls at their most powerful.

Iguazu Falls (Argentina & Brazil)

With its thundering cascades and lush surroundings, Iguazu Falls has rightfully earned its place as one of the most spectacular waterfalls in world. At the heart of this natural masterpiece lies the iconic Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat), a U-shaped cascade that stands as the focal point of the falls. As the water plummets into the abyss, it creates an awe-inspiring display of mist, rainbows, and the rhythmic sound of thundering water. The height of Iguazu Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in the world is a staggering 82 metres.  

To truly appreciate the majesty of Iguazu Falls, it is recommended to explore it from both the Argentine and Brazilian sides. The Argentine side offers an up-close and personal encounter with the falls, providing a network of trails that wind through the surrounding rainforest and lead to various viewpoints. On the Brazilian side, a panoramic view awaits, showcasing the expansive beauty of Iguazu Falls. 

Location: Iguazu Falls are in the South American continent, on the border of Argentina and Brazil. The city in Argentina where the Iguazu Falls are located is called Puerto Iguazu, and in Brazil it is called Foz de Iguazu.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit the Iguazu Falls is from April to May and from September to October. During these months, the weather is usually milder, and the heat is not as intense. Additionally, these periods fall outside of the major tourist seasons, so the number of visitors in the park tends to be lower, resulting in a more serene and enjoyable experience.

Niagara Falls (Canada)

Niagara Falls is undoubtedly one of the world's most iconic and recognisable waterfalls. It is one of the top 5 biggest waterfalls in the world. Comprising three distinct falls—the Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls—Niagara Falls offers a mesmerising display of natural splendour. The most impressive of the three is the Horseshoe Falls, which stretches approximately 2,590 feet wide and drops nearly 173 feet down into the Niagara River below. 

To experience the grandeur of Niagara Falls, various viewpoints and attractions are available on both the Canadian and American sides. On the Canadian side, Queen Victoria Park offers unobstructed views of the falls, allowing visitors to witness the majesty of the Horseshoe Falls up close. Boat tours, such as the famous Maid of the Mist, take you on a journey into the misty embrace of the falls, providing an up-close encounter with the sheer power and awe-inspiring beauty of Niagara.

Location: Niagara Falls, the most popular and best waterfall in the world, is located on the border between the United States and Canada. It straddles the international boundary between the state of New York in the United States and the province of Ontario in Canada.

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Niagara Falls is during the months of June to August, when the weather is pleasant, and the falls are most spectacular. However, visiting during the spring and fall shoulder seasons can also be rewarding, as less crowd means more serene and immersive experience. 

The world is graced with an abundance of breathtaking waterfalls that will leave you in awe. From the mighty Victoria Falls, where columns of mist rise into the sky, to the serene and otherworldly beauty of Khone Phapheng Falls, these natural wonders offer a glimpse into the raw power and elegance of nature. 

Exploring these largest waterfalls in the world is an opportunity to connect with the Earth's forces, to witness the eternal dance of water and rock, and to be humbled by the grandeur of our planet. Whether it's the thunderous roar of Niagara Falls or the hidden gems tucked away in remote corners of the globe, each waterfall holds its own charm and allure. So, pack your bags, embark on a journey, and immerse yourself in the magic of these beautiful waterfalls that remind us of the wonders that lie in the heart of nature.