Incredible Waterfalls

Waterfalls are enchanting, and people travel the globe to experience the sheer majesty of gallons of water gushing over the edge of a huge cliff. Many people will hike hours into remote areas, or plan whole holidays around, seeing specific incredible waterfalls. Below is a small selection of incredible waterfalls around the world, some of which I have been to and others which are on my bucket list!

Iguazu Falls – Argentina/Brazil

I was meant to visit this colossal combination of 275 waterfalls on the border of Argentina and Brazil in 2011 when I was touring South America, but all flights to Iguazu were cancelled that day. I still feel a little bitter about it as it was the end of my trip so I had no way to push it to a later date, however it’s just an excuse to go back to this fabulous destination!

A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is recommended that you visit Iguazu from both the Argentinian and Brazilian sides to take in the full splendour of these incredible waterfalls. There are different ways to witness the falls too, from hikes and viewing platforms, to boat safaris for a close up view of the cascades. The most challenging hikes can be found on the Argentinian side, whilst you’ll find views that take in the beauty of the falls as a whole on the Brazilian side. The jewel in the waterfall crown here is the Garganta Del Diablo (the Devil’s Throat), a deafening cascade of water which roars down a descent of 269 feet (82 metres).

Niagara Falls – Canada/USA

My first touring holiday with my three children took us to Canada and the USA, including a trip to see the incredible Niagara Falls. Whilst nowhere near the tallest waterfall to be found, what makes Niagara so impressive is the sheer volume of water which flows over the cliff edge, and it is truly breath-taking.

I visited the falls from the Canadian side, and an absolute must here is the Hornblower tour to the base of the falls. Don’t forget your poncho though otherwise you will get soaked! The closer you get to the falls the more deafening they become, but it is an extraordinary experience to witness the power of Niagara. I would also highly recommend taking the walk behind the sheets of water as an alternative way to experience the falls. You feel close enough to touch them, and standing behind these incredible waterfalls is somehow magical.

Sutherland Falls – New Zealand

The highest waterfall in New Zealand at 580m, and an absolute must see, Sutherland Falls makes you work for it. The only way that you can see the falls in person is by walking the 4 day Milford Track, although there is the option to take a scenic flight if you have the budget and don’t want to undertake such a long hike. One of New Zealand’s Great Walks and also one of the greatest walks in the world; as well as these spectacular falls you will see valleys carved by glaciers, ancient rainforests and even more cascading waterfalls.

What I loved about this walk was carrying my own belongings, staying in basic but comfortable lodges amongst the nature, and the sense of comradery with other walkers. The highlight of the whole walk was the side trip to see the Sutherland Falls and Lake Quill, which is highly recommended and well worth the effort.

Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe/Zabia

Another one on my bucket list, people travelling to this part of Africa will make a point of adding Victoria Falls to a Botswana or South Africa safari itinerary because they are so inspiring. Although located in both Zimbabwe and Zambia, the Zimbabwe side is considered by many to offer the best vantage point for viewing the falls, particularly in the low water season.

One of the most incredible waterfalls in the world, what makes Victoria Falls so special is that it is the world’s biggest curtain of falling water, measuring one and a half kilometres wide and falling down a 100m vertical chasm half way down the Zambezi River. I would love to take a sunset boat cruise on the river, or walk the footpaths of Victoria Falls National Park, and really experience this natural wonder.

Gocta Falls – Peru

For anyone who read my Peru blog post you will know that I love the Gocta Falls in Peru, as much for the wonderful day hike as for the falls themselves. Set amid jungle sheltering monkeys and toucans, and a staggering 771m high, they are a wonderful find off the Peruvian beaten track. Consisting of only two drops, the second at 540m is the world’s fourth tallest free falling drop. If you stand too close to the bottom of the falls you will get pretty wet from the spray as it hits the ground. I went in the dry season and there was still enough water to get me suitably soaked! There are so many reasons to visit this lesser travelled part of Peru, and the incredible Gocta Falls is definitely one of them.

Jim Jim Falls – Australia

Situated in the fabulous Kakadu National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory, I was lucky enough to be able to see these falls by 4WD as I was there in the dry season. They are completely inaccessible in the wet season, although arguably more impressive! You can however visit them during the wet season by scenic plane.

Although the falls were a mere trickle when I visited them the setting is spectacular, and it was worth the 900m walk across rocks, through a large anbinik forest, to take a dip in the clear plunge pool waters. For a little trivia fact, the name Jim Jim comes from andjimdjim, an Aboriginal name for the water pandanus that line the creek leading to the falls.

Khone Phapheng Falls – Laos

Located in the Champasak region on the Mekong River in Laos, I can still remember these incredible waterfalls as if it were yesterday. Measuring 10,783m, this is the widest waterfall in the world and the largest falls in southeast Asia. What makes these falls extra special is their setting within thousands of islands, rapids and waterways, known as Si Phan Don (4000 islands).

I visited the falls early in the day and was lucky enough to see the rainbows form in the mist coming off the falls. It was also quiet at this time of day and a magical experience. Whilst a little off the beaten track, usually accessed by a ferry boat ride from Don Det to Nakasong followed by a tuktuk ride, those who like to explore on their holidays and discover all the world has to offer will be happy that they made the journey.