Seven Wonderful Waterfalls – Witnessing the Natural Wonders of the World
Some of the most enduring experiences of our lifetime arrive by being immersed in dramatic scenery. No words are necessary at such moments; indeed, words may often fail us at such times. Travelling in order to experience the spectacular power and beauty of a waterfall can lead you to some of the world’s most amazing places. Here is a list of seven waterfalls that genuinely offer the visitor something special.
Niagara Falls
Why not start with the world’s most famous waterfall? Iconic in both movie form and in real life, Niagara remains one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations. When presented with the sheer immense power of these falls, and on such a grand scale, it easy to understand why. Perhaps less known, is the fact that Niagara is actually three different falls: the American falls, and the Bridal and Horseshoe falls of Canada. Hotels are a plenty here, as are boat trips and other entertainments.
Victoria Falls
Africa’s iconic falls are perhaps the biggest rival to Niagara’s fame. The local name of the falls, ‘The Smoke That Thunders’, probably gives a better impression of how these magnificent falls appear to the visitor. Almost twice the height of Niagara and being 1.7 kilometres wide, Victoria Falls is easily, almost, the biggest water fall in the world. Located between Zimbabwe and Zambia, there are many accommodation options close-at-hand.
Iguacu Falls
Another giant waterfall located on the border of two countries, Iguacu Falls is seriously impressive. The waterfall system of Iguacu is actually made up of some 275 falls that appear along the Iguacu River, the most famous one being ‘The Devil’s Throat’: a stunning u-shaped waterfall. Fortunately, there are many viewing platforms for visitors to really get a view of these immense falls.
Angel Falls
The world’s highest waterfall in the midst of natural isolation. Shifting away from the three giants, Angel Falls offers the visitor a beautifully, stunning alternative. Falling from the summit of the Auyen Tepuy, the waterfall drops 978 metres. Reaching the falls is quite an adventure too: in the midst of Venezuelan jungle, the falls can only be visited by air.
The Detian Falls
Tropical beauty. The Detian Falls, although not the largest in the world, are incredibly pleasing on the eye. Located on the border between Vietnam and China, they emerge from lush jungle and stunning green peaks, almost as giant steps. Well worth a visit, these falls will live long in the memory.
Plitvice Falls
Another natural landscape of wonder, the area that forms the Plitvice Lakes National Park, is genuinely a treasure to behold. Situated in the forests of Croatia, this is a great place for family exploration, all of which has been made easy by paths, bridges and plank walks. Free boat rides are also on offer.
Yosemite Falls
The tallest waterfall in the United States set in one of the great national parks of the world. Surrounded by the splendour of Yosemite National Park, Yosemite Falls offers the visitor wonderful views, following a day’s hike to its peak. However, be aware that in times of drought, the falls may cease to flow. With this is mind, to experience the falls at their most powerful, plan to visit this beautiful part of the United States in spring.
