5 top waterfalls in the world
It is next to impossible to say which waterfalls are the most impressive or most beautiful because every person will have a different opinion about the falls and which ones are their favourites. One thing is indisputable though—waterfalls are amazing natural wonders of the world that deserve all the superlatives given to them. To watch massive amounts of water free-form tumble over massive cliffs is absolutely mesmerizing. Tourists who travel to see these waterfalls can stand for hours watching the falls and feeling the soft mist of water hit their skin. We can’t blame them—the spectacle is worth the time and energy it takes to see them in person. Here’s a list of some of the top waterfalls in the world and why they remain sought-after tourist destinations.
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe/Zambia
Unlike others on the list, Victoria Falls in Africa doesn’t take home any accolades like the tallest waterfall or most voluminous waterfall, but it is widely regarded as the largest waterfall in the world. It measures a massive 1,708 metres across and has an average speed of 1,088 cubic metres per second. The falls are so immense that more often than not, the mist from the falls create rainbows that can be seen from the viewing platforms. Speaking of the mist, a Kololo tribe that lived in the area in the early 1800’s referred to the falls as 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' or, 'The Smoke that Thunders.' The name is appropriate because of the noise the falls create, but also because of the 'smoke' or columns of mist that can be seen from miles away. Today, Victoria Falls is known as the largest curtain of falling water in the world and the path along the edge of the forest that takes you to the falls will give visitors an unparalleled series of views of the Victoria Falls’ grandeur.
Iguazu Falls, Argentina
Iguazu Falls is a little different from Victoria Falls. Instead of one interconnected series of waterfalls with a giant sheet of water tumbling over the cliffs, Iguazu Falls in Argentina is actually made up of about 275 individual waterfalls and cascades. It is significantly shorter than most waterfalls on the list, but it has been voted one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World and is one of the most popular destinations in Argentina. 'Iguazu' translates to mean 'great waters' and was discovered back in 1541 by Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca. Since then, there have been footbridges added and visitors can head from the visitor centre on trails around the area or they can take a picturesque train ride through the lower or upper paths around the waterfalls.
Niagara Falls, USA./Canada
Niagara Falls is located in USA. and Canada and measures in at 51 metres. Niagara may not be the tallest waterfall by a long shot, but it is considered North America’s most powerful waterfall. The sheer volume of water that moves through this Ontario, Canada and New York, USA. landmark is astounding—an estimated 7,000 cubic metres per second. Head to Horseshoe Falls for the most powerful falls in sight. Niagara attracts 12 million visitors annually and in addition to being a natural wonder, it is also a natural borderline between Canada and the US There are viewing platforms in both countries although both sides offer spectacular views of this top waterfall. If a viewing platform isn’t enough action for you, try taking in the falls by boat, helicopter or foot.
Plitvice Falls, Croatia
The Plitvice Falls in Croatia stand out from the rest of the waterfalls on this list because instead of being a singular attraction with one major waterfall, the Plitvice Waterfalls are really a huge network of lakes and waterfalls. It is one of the more memorable waterfall attractions in the world and when you visit, you can walk along—and sometimes over—the lakes and waterfalls that feed into each other and keep the water on its ever-moving journey. The colour and clarity of the water is another thing that is guaranteed to catch your eye at Plitvice as the vibrant and variable blues and greens change from lake to lake. Visitors can easily spend a day experiencing the falls in any number of ways by using the well-maintained public transport from the upper lakes to the lower lakes and everywhere in between. This is one place where you won’t want to rush the experience.
Sutherland Falls, New Zealand
Right in your backyard is one of the most well-known and sought-after waterfalls in the world. It is one of the tallest permanent waterfalls in the world with a 580m drop from the top. It is very difficult to get to this waterfall logistically as there is a four-day hike along Milford Track (54km) to access the falls. The plus side to pushing through to see the Sutherland Falls is that along with your arduous and adventurous journey you’ll be treated to plenty of other smaller, but just as beautiful waterfalls to whet your appetite.
Seeing waterfalls in person can be a breathtaking experience and if you have the opportunity to see any of these magnificent waterfalls during your travels, take the trip. With quality adventure sports travel insurance plan you can adventure and discover and explore your new surroundings without hesitation. If you find yourself in trouble, you need a travel insurance provider who is ready to spring into action anywhere and anytime, and with Cover-More you’ve got it. Our emergency assistance hotlines are available 24 hours a day, so if your waterfall activities hit an unexpected snag, you’ll have help when and where you need it.
Image courtesy of Flickr user Gary Bembridge