The world’s highest waterfalls are a breathtaking natural wonder that have fascinated and inspired people for centuries. These towering cascades of water are formed when rivers or streams flow over steep cliffs or rock formations, plunging hundreds or thousands of feet to the ground below. The sheer height and power of these waterfalls make them a popular tourist attraction and a favorite subject of photographers and artists around the world.
There are several contenders for the title of the world’s highest waterfall, each with its own unique features and beauty. Some of the most well-known waterfalls include Angel Falls in Venezuela, Tugela Falls in South Africa, and Yosemite Falls in the United States. While each of these waterfalls is impressive in its own right, the title of the world’s highest waterfall is often awarded to Angel Falls, which boasts a staggering height of over 3,200 feet.
Despite their beauty and allure, waterfalls can also be dangerous, and visitors are advised to exercise caution when exploring these natural wonders. Nevertheless, for those who are willing to take the risk, the world’s highest waterfalls offer a thrilling and unforgettable experience that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Contents
- List of World’s Highest Waterfalls
- World’s Highest Waterfalls
- Angel Falls, Venezuela – 3,212 feet (979 meters)
- Tugela Falls, South Africa – 3,110 feet (947 meters)
- Cataratas las Tres Hermanas, Peru – 3,000 feet (914 meters)
- Olo’upena Falls, United States (Hawaii) – 2,953 feet (900 meters)
- Yumbilla Falls, Peru – 2,937 feet (895 meters)
- Vinnufossen, Norway – 2,822 feet (860 meters)
- Balåifossen, Norway – 2,788 feet (850 meters)
- Pu’uka’oku Falls, United States (Hawaii) – 2,756 feet (840 meters)
- James Bruce Falls, Canada – 2,755 feet (840 meters)
- Browne Falls, New Zealand – 2,744 feet (836 meters)
List of World’s Highest Waterfalls
Here is a list of some of the world’s highest waterfalls:
- Angel Falls, Venezuela – 3,212 feet (979 meters)
- Tugela Falls, South Africa – 3,110 feet (947 meters)
- Cataratas las Tres Hermanas, Peru – 3,000 feet (914 meters)
- Olo’upena Falls, United States (Hawaii) – 2,953 feet (900 meters)
- Yumbilla Falls, Peru – 2,937 feet (895 meters)
- Vinnufossen, Norway – 2,822 feet (860 meters)
- Balåifossen, Norway – 2,788 feet (850 meters)
- Pu’uka’oku Falls, United States (Hawaii) – 2,756 feet (840 meters)
- James Bruce Falls, Canada – 2,755 feet (840 meters)
- Browne Falls, New Zealand – 2,744 feet (836 meters)
Please note that the height measurements of waterfalls can vary depending on the method used for measurement and the source of the information.
World’s Highest Waterfalls
Angel Falls, Venezuela – 3,212 feet (979 meters)
Angel Falls, located in the Canaima National Park in Venezuela, is widely regarded as the world’s highest waterfall. It stands at a height of 3,212 feet (979 meters) and is named after American aviator Jimmy Angel, who was the first to fly over the falls in 1933. Angel Falls is formed by the waters of the Rio Kerepacupai Meru, which flows over the edge of a tabletop mountain and into a deep canyon below.
Visitors to Angel Falls can take a guided tour to see the falls up close, although the journey can be challenging and requires a fair amount of physical exertion. The best time to visit Angel Falls is during the rainy season from May to November when the falls are at their most impressive, although the heavy rains can also make the journey more difficult. Despite the challenges, Angel Falls remains a popular destination for tourists and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a breathtaking glimpse into the power and beauty of one of the world’s most impressive natural wonders.
Tugela Falls, South Africa – 3,110 feet (947 meters)
Tugela Falls is the second highest waterfall in the world, located in the Drakensberg mountain range in South Africa. It is composed of five distinct tiers, with a total height of 3,110 feet (947 meters), making it a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The falls are fed by the Tugela River, which flows through the Royal Natal National Park before cascading over the edge of the escarpment in a series of breathtaking drops. The surrounding scenery is also spectacular, with rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and lush vegetation creating a stunning backdrop for the falls.
Visitors can reach the base of Tugela Falls by hiking a challenging route that takes them through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Drakensberg range. The hike is demanding, but the reward is worth the effort, as hikers are treated to stunning views of the falls and the surrounding landscape.
Tugela Falls is an important natural landmark in South Africa, and its beauty and majesty continue to attract visitors from around the world.
Cataratas las Tres Hermanas, Peru – 3,000 feet (914 meters)
Cataratas las Tres Hermanas, also known as the Three Sisters Waterfalls, is a group of three waterfalls located in Peru’s Ayacucho region. The falls are among the highest in the world, with a total height of approximately 3,000 feet (914 meters).
The Three Sisters Waterfalls are fed by glacial meltwater from the towering Huaytapallana mountain range, which creates a stunning contrast between the icy blue water and the lush, green surroundings. The falls are also surrounded by diverse plant and animal life, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.
To reach the falls, visitors must embark on a challenging hike through the rugged mountain terrain, which can take several hours. Once there, they are rewarded with breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape, as well as the opportunity to swim in the cool, refreshing pools at the base of the falls.
Cataratas las Tres Hermanas is a natural wonder that showcases the beauty and power of nature, and its remote location and challenging hike only add to its mystique and allure.
Olo’upena Falls, United States (Hawaii) – 2,953 feet (900 meters)
Olo’upena Falls is one of the world’s highest waterfalls, located in Hawaii’s Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui. With a total height of 2,953 feet (900 meters), it is a breathtaking sight to behold.
The falls are fed by the Wai’anae River, which flows through the lush tropical landscape of Haleakala National Park before plummeting over the edge of the rugged cliff face. The falls are surrounded by dense vegetation, which adds to their natural beauty and makes them a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
Visitors can view Olo’upena Falls from a variety of vantage points, including a popular overlook that provides a panoramic view of the falls and the surrounding landscape. There are also several hiking trails that lead to the base of the falls, although these are considered challenging and should only be attempted by experienced hikers.
Olo’upena Falls is a testament to the power and beauty of nature, and its remote location and stunning vistas make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Hawaiian Islands.
Yumbilla Falls, Peru – 2,937 feet (895 meters)
Yumbilla Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the world, located in the northern Peruvian region of Amazonas. The falls are formed by the Catarata del Yumbilla, a tributary of the Utcubamba River, and have a total height of approximately 2,938 feet (895 meters).
The falls are surrounded by lush tropical forests and are a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers. Visitors can access the falls via a challenging hiking trail that winds through the rugged mountain terrain, offering breathtaking views of the falls and the surrounding landscape along the way.
Yumbilla Falls is considered a natural wonder and is one of the highlights of the Amazonas region. Its remote location and challenging hike make it a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists, but those who make the journey are rewarded with a stunning display of nature’s power and beauty.
Vinnufossen, Norway – 2,822 feet (860 meters)
Vinnufossen is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, located in the Sunndal municipality in Norway. The falls have a total height of 2,822 feet (860 meters), making them the sixth highest waterfall in the world.
The falls are fed by the Vinnu River and are situated in a narrow, steep-sided valley surrounded by rugged mountain peaks. The surrounding area is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, with several hiking trails leading to the base of the falls and offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Vinnufossen is an impressive natural wonder that is considered a must-see destination for anyone visiting Norway. Its remote location and challenging hiking trails make it a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists, but those who make the journey are rewarded with breathtaking views of one of the world’s highest waterfalls.
Balåifossen, Norway – 2,788 feet (850 meters)
Balåifossen is a majestic waterfall located in the Hordaland region of Norway. With a total height of approximately 1,971 feet (601 meters), it is one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
The falls are fed by the river Balåi and are situated in a narrow valley surrounded by steep cliffs and dense forests. Visitors can access the falls via a steep hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the waterfall itself.
Balåifossen is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers who are looking for a challenging adventure in the heart of Norway’s beautiful countryside. Its remote location and rugged terrain make it a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists, but those who make the journey are rewarded with a truly breathtaking display of nature’s power and beauty.
Pu’uka’oku Falls, United States (Hawaii) – 2,756 feet (840 meters)
Pu’uka’oku Falls is a magnificent waterfall located in Hawaii, USA. With a total height of approximately 2,756 feet (840 meters), it is one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
The falls are fed by a stream that flows through the rugged terrain of the Waimea Canyon, which is often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” The falls drop in multiple tiers, with the uppermost tier being the tallest and most impressive.
Access to Pu’uka’oku Falls is limited and requires a strenuous hike through challenging terrain, so it is not a heavily visited tourist destination. However, those who make the journey are rewarded with breathtaking views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
Pu’uka’oku Falls is a truly awe-inspiring natural wonder that highlights the beauty and power of nature in its purest form.
James Bruce Falls, Canada – 2,755 feet (840 meters)
James Bruce Falls is a stunning waterfall located in British Columbia, Canada. With a total height of approximately 2,755 feet (840 meters), it is one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
The falls are fed by the Conrad Glacier and are situated in a remote area of the province, surrounded by pristine forests and mountainous terrain. Visitors can access the falls via a challenging hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the waterfall itself.
James Bruce Falls is a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts who are looking for an adventure in the heart of Canada’s rugged wilderness. Its remote location and stunning natural beauty make it a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists, but those who make the journey are rewarded with an unforgettable experience and breathtaking views of one of the world’s highest waterfalls.
Browne Falls, New Zealand – 2,744 feet (836 meters)
Browne Falls is a majestic waterfall located in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park. With a total height of approximately 2,744 feet (836 meters), it is one of the highest waterfalls in the world.
The falls are fed by a glacier and are situated in a remote and rugged area of the park. Visitors can access the falls via a scenic boat trip across Doubtful Sound, followed by a challenging hike through dense forests and steep terrain.
Browne Falls is a hidden gem that is often overlooked by tourists due to its remote location and challenging access. However, those who make the journey are rewarded with stunning views of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape, which includes towering mountains, deep fjords, and lush forests.
Browne Falls is a testament to the incredible natural beauty of New Zealand and is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors and is looking for an adventure in one of the world’s most stunning natural environments.