Waterfalls have captivated humanity for centuries, inspiring poets, artists, and travelers alike. Their power, beauty, and serenity evoke a deep connection with nature, offering an escape from the mundane. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or simply a lover of breathtaking landscapes, chasing waterfalls is an experience you won’t soon forget.
From towering cascades in lush rainforests to frozen falls in wintry wonderlands, the world is home to some truly awe-inspiring waterfalls. In this post, we’ve curated a list of some of the most scenic waterfalls around the globe—both famous and lesser-known—and provided tips on how to best experience them.
1. Iguazu Falls (Argentina/Brazil)
Why Visit:
Iguazu Falls is one of the largest and most impressive waterfall systems in the world, with nearly 275 individual waterfalls cascading over a series of cliffs. The falls straddle the border between Argentina and Brazil and are surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, making them a UNESCO World Heritage site. The sheer scale and power of Iguazu are unparalleled, with the iconic “Devil’s Throat” (Garganta del Diablo) being a particularly mesmerizing feature.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (March-May and September-November), as the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. However, if you want to see the falls at their most powerful, visit during the rainy season (November to March) when water levels are high.
How to Reach:
The falls can be accessed from both the Argentine side (Puerto Iguazú) and the Brazilian side (Foz do Iguaçu). International flights into both cities are available, and there are well-maintained bus and taxi services connecting them to the falls.
Nearby Attractions:
In addition to visiting the falls, explore the surrounding Iguazú National Park on both sides of the border. In the Brazilian town of Foz do Iguaçu, the Itaipu Dam and the Bird Park are also worth seeing.
2. Victoria Falls (Zambia/Zimbabwe)
Why Visit:
Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and offers a truly awe-inspiring spectacle. The waterfall spans over a mile wide and drops 355 feet into the Zambezi River. The local name, “Mosi-oa-Tunya,” translates to “The Smoke That Thunders,” a fitting description of the mist that rises from the falls, visible from miles away.
Best Time to Visit:
For the most dramatic views, visit during the rainy season (from November to April), when the falls are at their fullest. For those looking to experience a more tranquil visit with a chance to take a swim in the Devil’s Pool, the dry season (May to October) is ideal.
How to Reach:
Victoria Falls is accessible from both Zimbabwe (Victoria Falls Town) and Zambia (Livingstone). You can fly into either town, and there are easy connections via bus or taxi to the falls.
Nearby Attractions:
Explore the nearby Zambezi River on a river cruise or enjoy a safari in nearby Hwange National Park in Zimbabwe or Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park in Zambia. Don’t miss the chance to take a dip in the Devil’s Pool, a natural rock pool right at the edge of the falls.
3. Plitvice Lakes (Croatia)
Why Visit:
While not a single waterfall, the Plitvice Lakes National Park is home to a collection of breathtaking waterfalls set amidst a series of turquoise lakes. The park’s network of 16 lakes, connected by waterfalls and surrounded by lush greenery, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for nature lovers.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal, offering mild weather and fewer tourists. Summer can be crowded, and winter, while less popular, brings a magical snowy landscape.
How to Reach:
The park is easily accessible by bus from Zagreb or Split, with well-marked paths and a shuttle system within the park itself.
Nearby Attractions:
Explore the historic town of Zadar or take a day trip to the coastal city of Split, both of which are within a couple of hours of the park.
4. Yosemite Falls (USA)
Why Visit:
Yosemite Falls in California is one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, with a drop of 2,425 feet. It’s an iconic sight in Yosemite National Park, offering dramatic views surrounded by granite cliffs and ancient sequoias. Yosemite Falls consists of three sections: Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and the Middle Cascades, each providing unique viewpoints and photo opportunities.
Best Time to Visit:
Late spring (May-June) is when the falls are at their peak flow due to snowmelt, though Yosemite is beautiful year-round. Autumn also offers fewer crowds and stunning fall colors.
How to Reach:
Yosemite National Park is accessible by car from major California cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles. The park has a network of hiking trails, including the famous Yosemite Valley Loop Trail, which offers access to the falls.
Nearby Attractions:
Don’t miss the breathtaking granite cliffs of El Capitan and Half Dome, as well as other waterfalls like Bridalveil Fall. The park also has some of the world’s tallest trees in Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias.
5. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls (Vietnam/China)
Why Visit:
Located on the border between Vietnam and China, Ban Gioc-Detian Falls is one of the most stunning and least-known waterfalls in Asia. The falls are framed by a backdrop of limestone karsts, creating a dramatic and otherworldly landscape. The wide cascade spills over a series of tiers, with mist rising and rainbow colors often visible on sunny days.
Best Time to Visit:
The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June to September) when the falls are at their fullest, though the landscape is stunning year-round.
How to Reach:
You can reach the falls by taking a bus or private transport from Cao Bang in Vietnam, or from Daxin in China. It’s a remote area, so be prepared for a long journey.
Nearby Attractions:
The surrounding area is filled with natural beauty, including the stunning Ba Be National Park in Vietnam, known for its picturesque lakes, caves, and hikes.
6. Detian Waterfall (China)
Why Visit:
Detian Waterfall, located on the border between China and Vietnam, is one of the largest transnational waterfalls in the world. With water tumbling down from a height of 70 meters, the falls offer a majestic spectacle surrounded by a lush, mountainous landscape. The sound of the cascading water reverberates through the air, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
Best Time to Visit:
The falls are most impressive during the summer months (June to August), when the water volume is at its peak due to seasonal rains.
How to Reach:
The waterfall can be accessed from the Chinese city of Daxin, located near the border with Vietnam. It’s best to travel by private car or guided tour to reach this remote natural wonder.
Nearby Attractions:
Explore the nearby caves and rivers in the surrounding area, including the Yulin caves or the scenic beauty of the region’s karst landscapes.
7. Sutherland Falls (New Zealand)
Why Visit:
Sutherland Falls, located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island, is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, with a drop of 1,904 feet. The falls are nestled in a remote valley, accessible only by hiking or a scenic flight, making them a serene and relatively untouched gem.
Best Time to Visit:
The summer months (December to February) are the best time to visit, as the weather is mild, and the waterfalls are flowing at their peak after the winter snowmelt.
How to Reach:
The falls are best accessed by hiking the Milford Track, one of New Zealand’s Great Walks. Alternatively, take a scenic flight from Te Anau for aerial views of the falls.
Nearby Attractions:
While in Fiordland National Park, take a cruise through the stunning Milford Sound or visit the nearby Doubtful Sound, both known for their dramatic fjords and lush landscapes.
Whether you’re trekking through remote rainforests or standing in awe of nature’s power, chasing waterfalls is an unforgettable journey. The waterfalls listed above offer a diverse range of experiences—each with its own unique beauty, challenges, and rewards. So pack your hiking boots, grab your camera, and embark on a global adventure to witness some of the most stunning natural wonders the world has to offer.
