Affiliate Disclaimer: The editors at Sleepy Globetrotter handpick all recommendations. If you make a purchase or book a hotel through our affiliate links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no additional cost to you.
Waterfalls—nature’s way of showing off. There’s something about the sight of water plunging over cliffs, surrounded by mist and lush greenery, that feels both majestic and humbling.
You’ll probably stand there, entranced, wondering why no one ever told you that waterfalls are basically the rockstars of the natural world.
🗓️ Whether you like to book hotels and flights months in advance or at the last minute, Expedia is a great place to explore your options. You can compare prices on hotels, flights, cars, bundles, and cruises all in one spot. Give it a look and start planning your next trip! See what’s available on Expedia >>
From thunderous cascades to serene, hidden gems, the world is filled with some seriously jaw-dropping waterfalls that should be at the top of your bucket list.
Get ready for a tour of the most stunning falls on the planet—your camera will thank you later.
1. Iguazu Falls – Argentina/Brazil
Iguazu Falls is not your average waterfall. This beast, located on the border of Argentina and Brazil, is a collection of around 275 separate falls stretching across 1.7 miles of jungle. It’s the sort of place where you’ll stand, mouth agape, thinking, “How is this even real?”
The falls are massive—actually, the largest waterfall system in the world—and the roar of water crashing down is something that should probably be heard to be believed. You’ll be drenched by the mist, but you’ll likely be too mesmerized to care. A solid reminder that the world has a few surprises up its sleeve.
2. Niagara Falls – USA/Canada
Ah, Niagara Falls. It’s the classic showstopper that pops up in every conversation about waterfalls. But don’t be fooled by its popularity—it still delivers. The power of the water plummeting 167 feet into the river below is enough to make anyone stop in their tracks.
You can take a boat ride right into the spray (and get absolutely soaked in the process, but it’s totally worth it), or stand at the observation deck and watch as millions of gallons of water roar over the edge. Whether you’re in the U.S. or Canada, it’s impossible not to be impressed by this North American icon.
3. Victoria Falls – Zambia/Zimbabwe
Victoria Falls is often referred to as “The Smoke That Thunders,” and it’s easy to see why. The sheer size and force of the falls create a mist so powerful it can be seen from miles away.
Standing at the edge of this UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll feel the vibrations of the water crashing down. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a dip in the Devil’s Pool right on the precipice of the falls, where you’ll get a front-row seat to nature’s raw power. Just make sure you’re ready for the adrenaline rush!
4. Angel Falls – Venezuela
Angel Falls holds the crown as the tallest uninterrupted waterfall in the world, plummeting a mind-boggling 3,212 feet in a single drop. It’s tucked away in Venezuela’s Canaima National Park, which means you’ll need a bit of an adventure to get there—think jungle treks and boat rides through remote rivers.
But once you see the falls in all their glory, you’ll agree that the journey is well worth it. The mist rising from the base of the falls creates a dreamy, ethereal atmosphere, making it feel like something out of a fairytale. If you’re the type to chase big adventures, Angel Falls is a must.
5. Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls – Croatia
Plitvice Lakes National Park is basically what happens when nature gets a little too excited. The park features a series of cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes, surrounded by lush forests and a kaleidoscope of colors.
With wooden boardwalks winding through the park, you’ll feel like you’re walking through an enchanted forest. The most iconic waterfalls here are the Veliki Slap and the smaller cascades around the park, each offering their own unique charm. It’s a peaceful spot to take in nature at its finest—and you’ll have the opportunity to snap some seriously Instagram-worthy shots.
6. Sutherland Falls – New Zealand
If you find yourself in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, do not—repeat, do not—leave without visiting Sutherland Falls. This 1,904-foot waterfall is a true spectacle, especially when viewed from the famous Milford Track, a world-class hiking trail.
The falls are tucked in a remote, rugged landscape that can only be fully appreciated on foot. When the wind picks up, the water sprays in all directions, making for a particularly dramatic display. The overall isolation of the falls adds to their allure, making it a hidden gem for nature lovers and hikers alike.
7. Dettifoss – Iceland
Dettifoss is arguably the most powerful waterfall in Europe, and its sheer force of nature is enough to make even the most seasoned traveler pause in awe. The waterfall, located in Iceland’s Vatnajökull National Park, drops 144 feet with an intensity that shakes the ground beneath your feet.
It’s surrounded by a landscape that’s as raw and rugged as the falls themselves—think volcanic rocks and a barren, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The falls may be loud, but they have an undeniable beauty that’s hard to match. A definite must-see for any adventurer with a love for dramatic landscapes.
8. Ban Gioc – Vietnam/China
Ban Gioc Falls, straddling the border between Vietnam and China, offers a more tranquil kind of beauty. Surrounded by green hills and bamboo groves, these falls feel like they belong in a painting.
The water cascades over the rocks in three distinct levels, creating a serene but still powerful spectacle. Unlike other waterfalls that are busy tourist hubs, Ban Gioc offers a sense of peaceful solitude, making it the perfect place to relax and reflect in nature’s embrace. The backdrop of the falls, with mist rising and the surrounding mountains, is simply unforgettable.
9. Kaieteur Falls – Guyana
Situated in the heart of Guyana’s rainforest, Kaieteur Falls is an off-the-beaten-path gem that doesn’t get nearly as much attention as it should. It’s one of the world’s tallest single-drop waterfalls, measuring 741 feet, and the surrounding wilderness is untouched and wild.
The falls are an oasis of nature, offering a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The surrounding rainforest provides plenty of wildlife to spot, and the sense of solitude makes it feel like you’ve discovered a true hidden treasure.
10. Bigar Waterfall – Romania
Bigar Waterfall is the kind of place you’d expect to stumble upon in a fairytale. Located in Romania’s Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park, the falls have a unique, almost otherworldly charm.
The water flows over moss-covered rocks and into the river below, creating an effect that’s both magical and mesmerizing. The surrounding forest adds to the fairy-tale vibe, and the sound of the water trickling over the rocks provides a calming soundtrack to your visit. It’s a small but enchanting spot that might just make you believe in magic.
Final Words
Waterfalls: they’re big, they’re loud, and they’re some of the most awe-inspiring spectacles nature has to offer. If you’re looking for a little bit of adventure (and maybe a little wetness), these falls should be at the top of your list.
And remember, don’t just stand there—go ahead and get drenched by the spray, snap that perfect shot, and stand in awe of these marvelous creations. After all, you only live once, and these waterfalls will make it worth it. Now go, and may your camera be forever full of magic.