Eco-tourism and everything connected with it is experiencing an incredible rise. Now it is not so difficult to get to almost anywhere in the world, and the usual entertainments no longer seem so interesting to travelers. Among natural attractions, waterfalls are one of the first places in popularity.
They are beautiful in themselves, and a unique ecosystem often develops around them, pleasing to the eye and giving a lot of impressions. Waterfalls vary in size, are scattered all over the world, and many legends are associated with them, both with a factual basis and absolutely fantastic. Seeing at least a few is a good vacation goal.
The largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the world
Iguazu
Not one waterfall, but a whole complex. Most of its parts have separate names. Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina. They are located on the river of the same name and are included in the national parks of both countries. The maximum height is 82 meters, the width is 2,700 meters. The waterfalls are separated by islands. Tourism in the surrounding area is flourishing. Guests are offered a shuttle service, souvenirs and waterproof clothing.
Kaieteur
Located in Guyana on the Potaro River. It is not so far from here to the border with Venezuela. Height - 226 meters, width varies from 90 to 105 meters. Belonging to a national park made it possible to preserve the waterfall almost intact. Location also played an important role in this: it is difficult to get to it. Near the foot of the waterfall it is constantly cloudy, and there are endless waves on the water.
Victoria
Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. Located on the Zambezi River. Height - 120 meters, width - about 1800 meters. It is unique in the ratio of these two indicators. The name was given in honor of the Queen of England. It is part of two national parks. Tourists come to both admire the views and raft along the numerous rapids, which are also suitable for beginner rafters.
Angel
Located in Venezuela. The approximate height is 979 meters, which makes it a world record holder. Width - 107 meters. Located in a national park surrounded by tropical forests. Water falls from the top of Auyan-Tepui into the Kerep River. Because the height of the fall is so impressive, the water below splits into small particles and forms a fog. You can get here by plane or by river. There are special tours.
Gokta
Located in Peru. Its height is 771 meters. It has an extremely small pool, so the volume of water when falling fluctuates depending on the amount of precipitation and the season. Surrounded by wet jungle. Rare species of birds and animals live here, some on the verge of extinction. The waterfall can only be visited with a local guide, you have to pay for it. There are many sugarcane plantations nearby.
Virginia
Located in Canada in a national park. It is part of the South Nahanni River Basin. The height of the mountain peak on which the waterfall is located is about 500 meters. The height of the fall of the water is 96 meters. The width fluctuates around 260 meters. The rainbow is a frequent occurrence here, it is formed from the so-called "water dust". There are many viewing platforms nearby, there are thermal springs.
Hanging Glacier Falls
Located in Chile. There are about two thousand glaciers of different sizes in the area. On one of them - the only one hanging in the world - the waterfall is located. The name is unofficial. Water falls down after melting. The intensity depends on the season. The height is about 550 meters. Refers to the territory of the national park. It is almost impossible to get close, but a beautiful view of the waterfall opens up from the nearby lake.
San Rafael
Located in Ecuador on the Quihos River. Massive rocks, densely covered with greenery, form something like a relief depression, from where the water falls down. The cascade is double, so the height is divided into two sectors: 50 and 100 meters, respectively. The width is about 14 meters. A thick fog lies at the foot. It also raises a lot of splashes and is very noisy. It is part of the national park, there is an observation deck.
Niagara Falls
A complex of waterfalls in the United States and Canada. Each of the waterfalls has its own name. The total height is approximately 53 meters and the width is 792 meters. Used to generate energy. Tourism is developed to the maximum. There are all kinds of excursions, various souvenirs. Observation platforms are made both close and at a sufficient distance to provide guests with the opportunity to see the entire panorama.
Jog
It is located in India on the Sharavati River. It has several names associated with both origin and pronunciation: Gersoppa, Yogi and others. Height - 255 meters. Such an impressive size is explained by belonging to the Western Ghats mountain system. Consists of four stages. It is used to generate electricity, generating power in the range of 891 MW.
Helmcken Falls
Located in the Canadian Provincial Park. Height - 42 meters. The wall behind the waterfall is partially frozen for the winter. Icicles of various sizes and some semblance of a glacier appear here. Climbers in especially cold periods come here for ascents. There are several viewing platforms nearby, picnic areas and other types of outdoor recreation.
Takakkau
Located in Canada in a national park. The name is derived from the Aboriginal language and is translated as an expression of delight. The height from the top to the bottom is more than 380 meters. The intensity of the fall of water is different and varies depending on the season. The waterfall feeds a lake located on a glacier and flows into the Yoho River. A rainbow can often be seen at the base on fine days.
Dettifoss
It is located in Iceland on the Jökülsau-au-Fjödlum River. Part of the national park. Height - about 44 meters, width - about 100 meters. Its capacity exceeds that of other European indicators. Not a typical tourist destination, but attracts travelers familiar with the topic. There are other waterfalls within a couple of kilometers.
Odegaard Falls
Located in Canada. It flows smoothly from the rocky terrain into the valley. At the same time, the height remains impressive from the top to the bottom. The waterfall has many steps and rapids. The area around is perfect for hiking, there are prepared "islands" for tourist camps. It will take a long time to get there by car. Transport will not go everywhere - in the end you will have to walk.
Calandula
Located in Angola on the Lucala River. Height - more than 105 meters, width - 400 meters. Heterogeneous: there are many watersheds in the form of boulders, rocks and other things. The drive to the waterfall is long, although the roads are good. This explains the low popularity of the attraction. The area is home to dense mixed forests. At the bottom, landslides occur due to sediment eroding large stones.
Gullfoss
Located in Iceland on the Hvitau River. The name translates as "golden waterfall". Height - 32 meters. The volume of water varies with the season, increasing in the summer. There are two steps, and they are located at an angle of ninety degrees to each other. Gullfoss was on the brink of destruction due to attempts to build a power plant here. Now there is a popular tourist route.
Sutherland
Located in New Zealand, the highest in Oceania - 580 meters from the top to the bottom. The waterfall is not wide, especially when viewed from a distance and correlated with the height. It has several steps, the largest is located almost in the center. The place is very picturesque: from a height you can see the reservoir, from which the waterfall is formed, splashes rise below. The rocks are heterogeneous covered with greenery.
Langfossen
Located in Norway on the Vaula River. Height - 612 meters, width - 76 meters. Its base fits directly onto a modern track. For this reason, the waterfall is often visited: someone on purpose, since it is easy to get there, someone passing through, even initially not knowing about this attraction. Langfossen consists of flowing cascades that distinguish most of its waterfalls. The power of the stream is unchanged.
Gaganachukki Falls
Located in India. In fact, there is a lot of confusion associated with this waterfall. Sometimes it is referred to as a separate natural segment, and sometimes as part of a complex. It is located in close proximity to the Barachukki waterfall and, according to some sources, is a component of Shivanasamudra. It has numerous rapids. The total height is within 90 meters. A power plant has been built here.
Mardalsfossen
Located in Norway. The name is given in honor of the valley where it is located. Height - in the range from 645 to 705 meters (different measurement methods due to the heterogeneity of the waterfall). Width - 24 meters. There are several ledges, and two large, visible to the naked eye even from a distance, they break the waterfall into parts. A power plant has been built nearby. Disputes about the expediency of its work are still ongoing.
Wettisfossen
Located in Norway in the Utla river valley. The height of the free fall of water is about 275 meters, the width is about 23 meters. At the bottom, the power of the jet is reduced due to the dispersion of water, which makes the waterfall quite quiet. It does not freeze for the winter, the speed and strength of the flow also do not undergo any special changes. Unlike other large waterfalls in the country, Wettisfossen is not used for energy.
Ruacana
Located in Namibia on the Kunene River. Located almost on the border with Angola. Height - 124 meters, width - 695 meters. Since the rainy season is followed by the dry season in this area, the level and thickness of the water in the falls are very variable. There is also a hydroelectric power station, which not only provides the region with energy, but also stores part of the water for irrigation and sanitary needs.
Augrabis
Located in South Africa on the Orange River. The height is about 146 meters. Located in the gorge. It is part of the national park, and it was formed precisely to preserve the waterfall and its surroundings. Several species of rare animals live here, including black rhinoceroses, which were re-settled here artificially. There are several observation decks and comfortable climbs.
Hafragilsfoss
Located in Iceland on the Jökülsau-au-Fjödlum river. It is the "neighbor" of Dettifoss. Height - about 27 meters, width - varies within 91 meters. In terms of power, it is inferior to other waterfalls in the area, but it has the best panoramic view. Thanks to the built observation deck, tourists can see well not only Hafragilsfoss, but also the surrounding area.
Søtefossen
Located in Norway on the Kinso River. Above - bare rocks with ice, below - dense forests with moss-covered soil. The maximum height is within 246 meters. The waterfall is multi-stage, has a pronounced division into segments. The nature around is included in a specially protected area. It is not easy for tourists to get there, but the view is worth it. Human intervention is minimal.
Hunlen Falls
Located in Canada. The maximum height to the foot is 365 meters. Continuous water drop less - 260 meters. You can get to this natural attraction by plane - about 20 minutes from the nearest settlement. On foot - about half an hour from the road to the observation deck. There are many scenic spots nearby, including Lonely Lake.
Gokak
Located in India. The height of the fall of the water is 50 meters, the width is about 177 meters. The water level changes with the season. Gokak feeds the hydroelectric power plant and supplies energy to the entire district. A dense fog constantly lies at the foot, which is formed due to drops of moisture breaking into fractions. The waterfall can be observed from several equipped points. It's always very noisy there.
Twin (Twin Falls)
Located in Canada. The height is about 180 meters, but the height of the continuous fall of water is less. Width varies from 18 to 30 meters. There is a railway line not far from the foot. There are not so many convenient points for a panoramic view of Twin, so tourists cannot fully enjoy the local beauty. Part of the national park.
Basaseachi
Located in Mexico on the river of the same name. The second largest waterfall in the country. The height is about 246 meters. The fall of the water is absolutely vertical: from the mountain to the valley. The stream is narrow, but widens near the ground, forming foam and numerous splashes. The cliffs of the canyon are covered with vegetation only at the top and at the foot.
Tjørnadalsfossen
It is located in Norway near the Sandvinvatnet Lake. The total height is about 500 meters, the width is about 60 meters. For the most part, the water does not drain sharply, there are many rapids and steps of different sizes. The slopes are partially covered with vegetation, but it is not uniform. You can approach the very base of Tjørndalsfossen, as there is a road and numerous hiking trails nearby.
Nevada
It is located in the United States and is part of the Yosemite National Park - one of the most popular in the country. Water falls from a height of 181 meters. A tourist route has been laid, allowing you to get acquainted with the waterfall in detail. Its length is slightly less than four and a half kilometers. Parking spaces and several observation platforms have also been equipped.
Lower yellowstone falls
It is located on the territory of the most popular national park of the same name in the United States. There are many waterfalls here, but this one stands out from the general background. Water falls down in a powerful stream directly from the canyon from a height of 94 meters. There is fog at the foot. The width is modest, especially when compared to Niagara. Observation platforms are equipped from different sides, some are close, others provide an opportunity to admire panoramic views.
Shoshone
Located in the USA on the Snake River. The height is 65 meters, the width is heterogeneous - about 300 meters. Here, numerous rapids and steps divide the waterfall into separate factions. This makes the picture even more picturesque, but reduces its integrity. The season affects the flow rate and water level. The rainbow constantly appears at the foot on sunny days.
Barron Falls
Located in Australia on the river of the same name. Height - 256 meters. The stream is not uniform, water flows down the gorge in separate streams. Especially a lot of water during the rainy season. If you look from a specially equipped platform, the picture looks almost frightening. Foamy, slightly beige-brown streams rush down, and fog envelops the green rocks on the sides.
Snoqualmie
Located in the United States on the river of the same name, between two mountains. Height - 82 meters. The natural landmark is popular with tourists; about one and a half million people visit it annually. Even a working power plant is a historical asset of the state. It is convenient to get there, there is a parking lot, trails, there are several equidistant observation platforms.
Wöhringsfossen
Located in Norway on the Børeiu River. The height is 182 meters, but the water falls freely from 145 meters. The flow is not too intense, influenced by seasonality and the nearby power plant, among other things. At the same time, there are restrictions on the production of energy and the use of water in order to prevent negative impact on the environment and not to damage the local microclimate.
Alexandra (Alexandra Falls)
Located in Canada on the Hay River. There are many other natural beauties nearby, hiking trails have been laid, two observation platforms are equipped from different sides. The stream is powerful and wide. The height is about 32 meters. A highway has been built within a few kilometers. In the lower reaches there are many well-passable rapids that attract kayakers: from beginners to pros.
Krimmler
Located in Austria. Also called - Krimml. In fact, this is not one waterfall, but a cascade. They are located on the river with a similar name - Krimler-Ahe. The total height is within 380 meters. The course changes depending on the season, and significantly. The same thing happens with the water level. In some places the stream is violent and falls almost vertically, in others it is weaker and flows down the rapids and ledges smoothly.
Yosemite falls
It is located in the United States on the territory of the national park of the same name - the most popular and most visited in the country. Height - 739 meters. It is noteworthy that a beautiful view opens up both from the lowlands, directly from the road, and from the observation platforms above. The rock from which the water falls is almost completely sheer. The noise from the waterfall spreads throughout the valley: this is not only because of its power, but also because of its special acoustics.
Skogafoss
Located in Iceland on the Skogau River. Height - 60 meters, width - 25 meters. Previously, it came directly to the coastline, now the sea has receded, making the waterfall very convenient for viewing. Popular with tourists, there are viewing platforms, souvenirs, convenient approaches, and parking lots in the district. At the foot you can see a rainbow, sometimes double.
Waterfalls of Plitvitskie lakes
They are located in Croatia in a national park. The total number of waterfalls is about thirty. The numbers are inaccurate due to the difference in approaches to assessment: some researchers combine waterfalls into cascades, while others name them separately. Among the waterfalls one can distinguish: Batinovachki, Galovachki, Velike cascade, as well as Sastavtsi - the most beautiful one, whose height is 72 meters.
Huangoshu
Located in China in the mountainous province of Guizhou. Since there are many mountains and bodies of water, waterfalls are also not uncommon. Huangoshu stands out among its neighbors. Its height is 78 meters, width is about 101 meters. The force of the stream is not uniform, there are several separate channels separated by small rocky ledges. The waterfall can be viewed from several angles, including from a cave hidden behind a water wall.
Blue Nile Falls (Tis-Ysat)
They are located in Ethiopia on the river of the same name. Their height and width are difficult to measure. The top point is about 45 meters from the foot, and the individual streams form a line within 400 meters. Nearby there is a stone bridge, which was built in the 17th century by the Portuguese. The cascade of waterfalls is surrounded by picturesque mountains and a green valley.
Detian
Located in China and Vietnam. During floods, the waterfall looks like a single whole, in the rest of the period - the watershed line is clearly visible. In the lower reaches there is a lake that attracts tourists no less than Detian. Nearby you can also explore caves, a forest of water rocks and other natural attractions. Excursions here are popular routes for visitors.
Dunns river
Located in Jamaica in a natural park. The total height is 180 meters. Moreover, the current here is not stormy, there are many rapids and steps. The water flows directly into the Caribbean Sea. Tourists hike right along the waterfall. Park staff and hired guides help you navigate convenient routes. At the foot, you can swim or spend time in the shade of abundant vegetation.
Rhine Falls
Located in Switzerland on the river of the same name. Height - 23 meters, width - 150 meters. Refers to the type of lowland waterfalls. The strength of the flow in winter and summer is significantly different. You can get to the observation decks for a fee, it is different, depending on the convenience and viewing angle. There are historical and architectural landmarks nearby, which add to the experience of the trip.
Ouzud
Located in Morocco in the High Atlas Mountains. The height is about 110 meters. The water flow is heterogeneous and stretched, and part of the cascade is located at an angle of ninety degrees to the main flow. At sunset, monkeys come to the waterfall. Watermills were built at the top, which are still functioning. You can get to Ouzud through olive tree plantations.
Multnomah
Located in the USA in the Columbia River Canyon. Divided into two sections. Since the width of the threshold allows, a bridge is built across it. The total height is 189 meters. The waterfall is fed from several sources, including underground and melted snow. Therefore, the water level is practically unchanged from season to season. However, Maltoma can partially freeze.
Montmorency
Located in Canada. For Quebec and the entire country, it is a popular tourist route. For this reason, the infrastructure here is perfectly developed to the smallest detail. Detailed climbing routes have been developed, but it is rather difficult. There are special bridges and tiled crossings. The total height is 84 meters. The stream of water is swift, foaming with the speed of the current and falling, a rainbow and fog are formed below.
Marmore (Marble)
Located in Italy. The total height of the three tiers is 165 meters. The name comes from the rocks, which in some places are very similar to marble. Water flows down in cascades. Since the slopes are covered with dense vegetation for part of the year, moreover, diverse, both in shape and in color, the picture gets picturesque. It is easy to get here, there are quite a lot of observation platforms, both natural and built.
