Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the world (2022 Tourist guide)

Top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the world (2022 Tourist guide)

Waterfalls are are mother natures’ most soothing and beautiful creations in the world. Watching water tumble off a rock face into a pool or raging river beneath while on vacation with friends or family is a dream come true and on most people’s bucket lists.

It is also advisable to get a tourist SIM card while going on vacation to avoid roaming fees and to stay connected with your loved ones at very low rates.

1. Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil)

Iguazu falls
Source

Iguazu Falls is not only among the biggest waterfalls in the world, but also the most captivating waterfalls. It is formed by the Iguaza River and is a collection of approximately 275 distinct waterfalls, arranged in a horseshoe shape. The visual and sound effects of all this water tumbling down 70 meters is truly like nothing else in the world.

Though Iguazu is only 269 feet (82 meters) tall, its curtain of water extends for over 5,249 ft (1,600 meters). The surrounding environs of jungly rainforest are equally beautiful, creating a magical memory you won’t ever forget.

2. Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe)

Victoria falls
Source

Victoria Falls is easily one of the most famous waterfalls in Africa. It is a World Heritage site shared between Zambia and Zimbabwe and it stretches 1.7 km across and drops 108 meters at its highest, creating a scene that draws people from around the world.

Though technically not the tallest (at 355ft, or 107 meters) or widest, Victoria Falls is commonly known as the largest in the world for its impressive sheet of rapidly falling water. The temperate year-round weather around Victoria Falls only adds to its popularity although summers can be hot and too dry to see the falls in full form. Victoria Falls’ popularity has only grown in recent years, and will likely continue to grow in the years to coming.

Further reading: Best places to visit in summer

3. Angel Falls (Venezuela)

Angel falls
Source

Angel Falls is world’s highest and tallest singular waterfalls in the world, at a staggering 979 meters or 3,212 feet which makes it 15 times higher than Niagara Falls in comparison. Angel Falls is a must see attraction for those who visit Venezuela.

The waterfall starts at the top of the tabletop mountain of Auyán-tepui and its source is the remote Churun River in Canaima National Park. Angel Falls also considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. To reach the site, you will have to first catch a small plane to the town of Canaima, and then it is a one-day boat ride to the falls.

4. Niagara Falls (USA)

Niagara falls
Source

The Niagara Falls sits on the border between Canada and the U.S.A. where the Niagara River connects Lake Erie with Lake Ontario. There are many ways to experience the power of Niagara Falls, from viewpoints in both countries to cruises that take you out to the bottom of the waterfalls.

The falls are impressively high at 167 feet but equally impressively long, and while the Canadian side boasts a touristy town to spend the weekend, the American side trades mostly in natural, scenic views. For blue skies and high waterfall rainbow visibility opportunity, visit between May and September.

Further reading: Best places to visit in winter

5. Kaieteur Falls (Guyana)

Kaieteur falls
Source

Kaieteur Falls is considered to be one of the many priceless treasures of the rainforest, and of South America. It is hidden deep in the Amazon rainforest in Guyana and is the world’s highest single-drop waterfall at 226 meters or 741 feet.

Kaieteur offers a great glimpse into the dramatic splendor of nature as well as a little bit of awe-inspiring adventure. The weather in this region can be unpredictable, making it hard to determine when to best see the falls. Dry season in Guyana runs from March to June, making it an appropriate time to plan your adventure.

6. Yosemite Falls (USA)

Yosemite falls
Source

Yosemite National Park is the most popular national parks in USA, with the majestic Yosemite Falls to see. The waterfall drops 2,425 feet, split across three stages: the Upper Yosemite Fall, Middle Cascades, and Lower Yosemite Fall.

The waterfall is seasonal and rarely flows during summer or autumn, so to see the Yosemite Falls at its best, visit in late spring. Yosemite Falls is, plainly put, massive and absolutely beautiful although the hike to the upper falls may be strenuous, it’s worth the experience.

7. Dudhsagar Falls (India)

Dudhsagar falls
Source

Dudhsagar Falls is one of the most impressive falls in Asia, which cascades across four tiers for a total plunge of 310 meters, and with an average width of 30 meters. The speed and force with which the water falls and sprays also gives Dudhsagar Falls its “sea of milk” nickname.

Flowing through the mountains of the Western Ghats, the waterfall is surrounded by amazing mountains and forests that showcase the beauty of India’s nature, creating an unforgettable postcard moment. The falls are at their most powerful during Goa’s rainy season.

Further reading: Best places to visit in fall

8. Gullfoss Falls (Iceland)

Gullfoss falls
Source

Gullfoss means “golden falls” and gets its name from the glacial sediment in the river that makes the falls glow gold in the sun. Gullfoss Falls is Iceland’s most iconic waterfall and a true indication of the natural, ice-toned beauty which offers a dramatic sight.

With the cascade of just 104 ft (32 metres), the sheer force of the rushing water is what makes Gullfoss a touristic must-see. Summer’s warmer weather and breathtakingly long days make for the best time to see the falls. It is a magical sight set against Iceland’s lush, velvet-green landscape.

9. Sutherland Falls (New Zealand)

Sutherland falls
Source

The amazing Sutherland Falls is tucked away on New Zealand’s South Island. Although found not too far from Milford Sound in South Island, Sutherland Falls are somewhat remote but are worth the effort. It’s one of the most dramatic waterfalls in nature you could find.

It consists of three separate cascades that together stretch an impressive 580 meters and is New Zealand’s tallest falls, at a stately 1,904 ft (580 metres). Hikers usually visit during the summer.

10. Jog Falls (India)

Jog falls
Source

The Jog Falls, at its highest measure of 253 meters are one of the highest waterfalls in India, and are nearly unrecognizable during the rainy season compared to the rest of the year. For most of the year this segmented waterfall in the state of Karnataka is quite a modest sight with each of its four segments a gentle trickle. 

Though pleasant throughout the year, Spring to early Summer (April to July) is the best time to go for a great balance between high water levels and low heat, as the temperatures tend to stay between 23 and 32 degrees celsius, so that makes it the best time to visit the falls.

Further reading: Best places to visit in April

Beautiful waterfalls FAQs

1. Which country has the best waterfalls?

The country that has the best waterfalls is Venezuela.

2. What is the most visited waterfall in the world?

The most visited waterfall in the world is the Niagara Falls in USA.

3. What is the most beautiful waterfall in Europe?

The most beautiful waterfall in Europe is Skogafoss in Iceland.

4. What is the most beautiful waterfall in South America?

The most beautiful waterfall in South America is the Iguazu Falls.

5. What is the most beautiful waterfall in Asia?

The most beautiful waterfall in Asia is the Detian Waterfall.