There’s just something about waterfalls that pulls you in—the thundering roar, the shimmering mist, and the way they make everything around them feel a little more magical. Whether they’re tucked away in lush jungles or cascading over dramatic cliffs, waterfalls have a way of turning any adventure into an unforgettable experience. From iconic American falls to hidden gems across the globe, these 16 jaw-dropping waterfalls offer more than just falling water—they deliver epic scenery, thrilling adventures, and a serious dose of wanderlust.
Niagara Falls
Visit the famed Niagara Falls for a fantastic view and even more family-friendly fun. Hike along the scenic riverfront trails or score tickets to the Aquarium of Niagara to see local lake species and exotic sea creatures. Outside, descend down to Cave of the Winds, where you’ll get the closest view of the roaring falls and feel the mist on your face from the Hurricane Deck. Don a poncho and join a 150-year tradition as you voyage into rock formations and white water on the Maid of the Mist.
Iguazu Falls
Located right on the border between Argentina and Brazil, this UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views of 275 separate waterfalls. In Argentina, stop at the platform by Devil’s Throat to see the most popular attraction in the park. Spot vibrant tropical birds like scarlet macaws and toucans, tree frogs, tapir, monkeys, and coatis. Take the 2-hour journey through the Brazilian circuit for endless views of the falls, or take a helicopter tour to see the rainforest from above.
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is one of the largest waterfalls in the world, earning the nickname “The Smoke That Thunders” from its misty spray and powerful sound. Cross the Knife-edge Bridge and watch the river change course at the Boiling Pot. Enjoy sweeping views of the cascades from the Lookout Tree. Visit in the summer to see the falls at their peak or during winter months for close-up views of the cliffs from a raft in the “float of angels.”
Angel Falls
Head to Venezuela’s Canaima National Park to see the world’s tallest waterfall, Angel Falls, coming in at 3,212 feet of water streaming from the top of Devil’s Mountain. Take an intense day trip to hike through the jungle to see the remote waterfall from a spectacular viewpoint, or join a multi-day excursion and explore the park at a slower pace while you camp in the jungle and sleep in hammocks. Or, book a flying tour for a panoramic view of the flat-topped mountains and towering falls.
Seljalandsfoss
Want to view a waterfall from behind a curtain of mist? Iceland’s Seljalandsfoss is the ideal destination for a quick day trip. Spend a leisurely hour hiking around the lush falls, stopping in the cavern set into the cliff for spectacular photos of the sun setting through the waterfall. Stop by the gift shop for locally-made souvenirs or grab light bites from the on-site café. Rent a campervan and “rough it” at the campsite next to the falls for an overnight adventure.
Plitvice Waterfalls
Choose your own adventure at Croatia’s Plitvice Waterfalls National Park. Take one of 8 different routes to see the multitude of waterfalls and idyllic lakes throughout the park. Cruise across the grand Kozjak Lake on an electric boat or row across to see the Upper Lakes. Hike to the Lower Lakes and through the solemn limestone canyon to the largest waterfall in the park, Great Waterfall. Visit in the winter to see frozen falls and rent skis, snowboards, and sleighs from the Mukinje Ski Resort.
Yosemite Falls
Though Yosemite Falls is sublime all year round, spring is the best time to see the wild water rippling off the rock, when rising temperatures thaw the snow and melt the large cone of ice that appears at the base of the falls in the winter. Meander the one-mile loop to the base of the falls on the valley floor, or challenge yourself with a rigorous 8-hour hike to the top of the falls for a rewarding view. Or, fly over the falls and various other Yosemite landmarks on a whirlwind aviation tour.
Gullfoss
Traverse Iceland’s famed Golden Circle to see the stunning two-tiered Gullfoss waterfall plunge more than 200 feet into a large canyon, and pause on the viewing platform where the two cascades meet. Take a self-guided hike or join a group excursion to see waterfalls, national parks, volcanic craters, and geothermal geysers along the Golden Circle. Hop on a snowmobile and glide over an ancient glacier. Warm up with hot soup in the Gulfoss Visitor Center and take home a handmade wool sweater!
Havasu Falls
Load up on hiking supplies and pack a bathing suit to see shimmering turquoise pools and falls flanked by Arizona’s iconic red canyon formations at Havasu Falls. Apply for a permit in February to ensure availability, then prepare to march across flat canyons, cling to chains as you trek up and down steep switchbacks, climb ladders, and swim in pristine pools on the taxing Havasu Falls Trail. Pitch a tent at the nearby campground to rest or stay at Havasupai Lodge in the nearby Supai Village.
Kuang Si Falls
In Laos, water cascades through the lush green trees and spills over tiered jewel-colored pools to form the mystical Kuang Si Falls. Drink in the view of the falls and the countryside from the lookout point, or dive into the waters at one of the many pools scattered throughout the area. Visit the bears at the on-site sanctuary. Jump into the main pool from a large overhanging tree limb, try out the rope swing, and then dry off and take in the scenery from one of the local restaurants.
Tugela Falls
Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg Mountains stands tall at a whopping 3,110 feet, making it the second-highest waterfall in the world. These isolated streams are only accessible by hike, so strap on some rugged hiking boots and start down the 7-mile out-and-back trail. Keep your eyes peeled for endangered bearded vultures, sentinel rock thrushes, and malachite sunbirds on the way. Or, take the Chain Ladder Route and climb into the clouds around Sentinel Peak to peer down the falls from the top.
Sutherland Falls
Featured in The Hobbit, Sutherland Falls in New Zealand was carved into the side of a mountain thousands of years ago by moving ice. Today, rent a camper to explore the Fiordland National Park and see the falls at your leisure. Start a 90-minute hike from the Quinton Public Shelter and climb a stretch of the renowned Milford Track to get a magnificent view of the nearly 2,000-foot falls and surrounding forest. For the best views, take a plane ride over Milford Sound’s sensational skyline.
Ban Gioc-Detian Falls
On the border between Vietnam and China, the Ban Gioc-Detian Falls sprawl across a picturesque section of the tropical Dam Thuy Commune. Take a raft tour to feel the mist of the two falls on your face. Visit the ornate Phat Tich Truc Lam Pagoda at the foot of the mountain and pay respects to the ancestral shrine. Stop outside the gate for an expansive view of the azure oasis. From there, head to nearby caves to see shimmering stalactites or visit Khui Ky Village to experience local culture.
Multnomah Falls
Multnomah Falls draws millions of visitors to Oregon every year. Stop at the Visitor Center for a trail map, then begin a steep hike up the historic Benson Bridge and stop for a must-have photo op. Continue up to the top of the falls for another splendid perspective of the roaring ribbon of water. Then, head back to the Visitor Center to dine at the restaurant or continue on the Columbia River Highway to access six more scenic falls.
Jog Falls
Traveling through India during monsoon season may not initially sound ideal, but it’s the perfect time of year to see the dramatic plunge of Jog Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the nation. Hire a taxi or take a bus to the view site across from the falls’ four beautiful split cascades, Raja, Roarer, Rocket, and Ranee, and enjoy street food from vendor stalls near the bus stop. Alternatively, rent a bungalow on the riverbank to see the tremendous 830-foot falls from below.
Rhine Falls
For a truly enchanting experience, check out Switzerland’s Rhine Falls, Europe’s largest waterfall by volume. See two ancient castles, get up close to the thundering waterfall, and navigate around a millennia-old rock in the midst of the rapids of the Rhine Falls Basin by boat. Rent a canoe and bravely paddle solo through the river landscape. Bring the family to explore the visitor’s center and learn the history of the falls through interactive exhibits.
