12 of the World’s Most Beautiful Waterfalls

Waterfalls hold a special place in the hearts of landscape photographers and nature lovers. There’s just something special and beautiful about waterfalls that captivate our imagination.

While there are thousands of incredible waterfalls around the world, we’ve attempted to select and highlight the best of the best. From tall and towering to small and picturesque, here are our favorite waterfalls.

1. Angel Falls (Venezuela)

Angel Falls, part of Canaima National Park in Venezuela, is the world’s highest uninterrupted waterfall, plunging an astounding 2,648 feet (and a total of 3,212 feet for the entire waterfall). Its sheer drop from the Auyán-Tepuí mountain is absolutely stunning, including the mist and surrounded by lush rainforests.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the rainy season (June to December) when the falls are at their most powerful.

2. Seljalandsfoss (Iceland)

Seljalandsfoss is one of Iceland’s most famous waterfalls, and for good reason. Located along the southern coast, this waterfall drops 200 feet from a cliff with a cavern behind it. Visitors can walk behind the powerful cascade for a unique view.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the long days provide extended photo opportunities. Winter visits provide offer the chance to capture the falls against a backdrop of snow and ice.

3. Bản Giốc Waterfall (China and Vietnam)

Straddling the border between China and Vietnam, Bản Giốc Waterfall is a massive, multi-tiered cascade that stretches 984 feet wide. The lush green landscape and terraced pools create a picturesque scene that almost feels surreal.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the rainy season (May to September), when the water flow is likely to be strong. Photographers will find excellent views from both the Vietnamese and Chinese sides, each offering unique angles and perspectives.

4. Havasu Falls (USA)

Havasu Falls, part of the Havasupai Reservation in Arizona, USA, is famous for its striking turquoise waters, which result from the high mineral content. The waterfall plunges 100 feet into a crystal-clear pool surrounded by red rock canyon walls.

📆 Best Time to Visit

Access requires a challenging hike, so plan accordingly. The best time to visit is in the spring or fall, avoiding the summer heat.

5. Plitvice Falls (Croatia)

Situated within Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia, Plitvice Falls is a series of cascading waterfalls that connect 16 terraced lakes. The park’s lush greenery and clear waters create a fairy-tale setting.

📆 Best Time to Visit

Each season offers its charm—spring for lush vegetation, summer for vibrant colors, autumn for rich foliage, and winter for partially frozen cascades.

6. Gullfoss (Iceland)

Gullfoss, or “Golden Falls,” is a majestic two-tiered waterfall located in Iceland’s Hvítá river canyon. The falls drop an impressive 100+ feet in total, creating a dramatic and powerful sight. Gullfoss is part of the Golden Circle tourist route, making it easily accessible.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is in the summer when the sun often creates rainbows in the mist. Winter visitors can capture the falls surrounded by snow.

7. Yosemite Falls (USA)

Yosemite Falls, located in California’s Yosemite National Park, is the tallest waterfall in North America, with a total drop of 2,425 feet. The falls consist of three sections—Upper, Middle, and Lower Yosemite Falls. Photographers can capture stunning images from various viewpoints, including Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and the base of the falls.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is in late spring when the melting snow leads to higher volumes of water.

8. Iguazu Falls (Argentina and Brazil)

Iguazu Falls, along the border of Argentina and Brazil, is one of the largest and most awe-inspiring waterfall systems in the world. It consists of 275 individual falls whose combined width spans nearly 1.7 miles.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the rainy season (December to March), when the falls are at their most powerful. Both the Argentine and Brazilian sides offer unique perspectives and photo opportunities, with walkways providing close-up views of the cascading water.

9. Niagara Falls (USA and Canada)

Niagara Falls, located on the border between the USA and Canada, is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. The falls consist of three sections—Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the summer months when boat tours, such as the Maid of the Mist, are operational. Photographers can capture stunning views from various vantage points, although the best views are from the Canadian side. Nighttime illuminations and fireworks provide additional photo opportunities.

10. Sunwapta Falls (Canada)

Sunwapta Falls, located in Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada, is a stunning waterfall fed by the Athabasca Glacier. The falls consist of an upper and lower section, with the upper section being the more accessible and photogenic.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is in late spring or early summer, when the melting glacier feeds the falls. Photographers will find the best views from the viewing platforms along the Sunwapta River.

11. Sutherland Falls (New Zealand)

Sutherland Falls, located in Fiordland National Park in New Zealand, is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, with a total drop of 1,900+ feet. The falls are accessible via the Milford Track, a popular multi-day hike.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the summer months when the weather is more favorable. Photographers can capture stunning images from various viewpoints along the track.

12. Multnomah Falls (USA)

Multnomah Falls, located in the Columbia River Gorge in Oregon, USA, is a striking two-tiered waterfall with a total drop of 620 feet. The falls are easily accessible via a short hike from the parking area, and the Benson Bridge offers a unique vantage point for photography.

📆 Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is in the spring when the water flow is strong and the surrounding vegetation is lush and green.

Final Thoughts

Waterfalls are nature’s masterpieces, offering breathtaking views and endless photography opportunities. Whether you’re an avid landscape photographer or a nature lover looking to explore new destinations, these 12 waterfalls should be on your bucket list.