9 of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world

There are hundreds of thousands of different waterfalls across the world in many different countries, both in prominent locations, and secret hideaways. All of the waterfalls I am going to describe are spectacular, exhilarating, beautiful, and often a popular tourist attraction in that area. Some waterfalls are better known than others, but whether it’s a planned trip or an added gem to your itinerary these breath taking waterfalls are a must. Gullfoss, Iceland Gullfoss waterfall is located in the canyon of the Hvita River in the southwest of Iceland. It is also known as Golden Waterfall, as due to when the sun shines the waterfall takes on a golden brown colour. Gullfoss is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iceland; it has two cascades before reaching the 2.5km crevasse below, the first which is 36 feet and the second which is 69 feet. The waterfall is the largest in Europe and is part of an eponymous nature reserve, to ensure it is protected for all to enjoy its natural beauty. Angel Falls, Venezuela Angel Falls is located in the western sector of Canaima National Park in Venezuela. Angel Falls is the highest waterfall in the world, falling from a height of 3230 feet. There are many different ways to observe the falls; fly, canoe or hike. Should one wish for a bit more adventure, abseiling down the falls is a real thrill, but involves some rock climbing first! Although this does take two days, the views and adrenaline rush are worth every second. Iguazu Falls, Brazil Igauazu Falls, also known as Iguassu Falls and Iguacu Falls, are located on the border of Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. There are 275 individual cascades making it one of the natural wonders of the world. The falls stretch out over 2.7 km and a height of 200-269 feet. The best way to see the falls in their natural beauty is through the special walkway, which has been built around the falls which allows tourists to see it up close. The falls are so incredibly beautiful that they have been used as the backdrops for many different films. If one allows a couple of days to see this incredible waterfall, it is worth viewing from both the Brazilian side and the Argentinian side. They both offer unique and jaw dropping experiences and of course both countries will claim their side is better! Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia Victoria Falls is located on the Zambezi River, forming the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. With a width of 1.6 km and a drop of 354 feet, it’s not a surprise that the spray of water can be seen from miles away. One special vista is from the Knife-edge Bridge, as visitors can enjoy the best view of the Main Falls as well as the Boiling Pot (where the river parts and heads down the Botoka Gorge). Falls Bridge, Devils Pool and the Lookout Tree offer panoramic views across the Main Falls. Niagara Falls, US and Canada One of the worlds most well known falls, Niagara is a shared name for three individual waterfalls, which make up part of the international border between Canada and the US. The individual falls are; Horseshoe Falls, America Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. As there are three cascades, Niagara Falls has the highest flow rate of any waterfall in the world. Located on the Niagara River, the falls have a drop of 177 feet. Although it may not be the tallest waterfall in the world, the combination of the width of the three falls and the volume of water make it a truly spectacular sight. Take a boat trip – the ‘Spirit of Niagara’ into the falls and see the mesmerising power of the water up close along with the spectacular sight of the falls from a different perspective – it’s a really fun and must do experience. Huangguoshu Waterfall, China and East Asia Huanggushu Waterfall, which translates to Yellow Fruit Tree it is the largest waterfall in China and Asia, located on the Baishui River in Huanggushu Waterfall National Park. It is 243 feet high and altogether there is an impressive 18 falls. Make sure you plan your visit around the morning sunrise, as this is when rainbows appear, which create a truly magical moment not to be missed. A path has been cut into the cliff behind the fall, which gives visitors a beautiful view of the water-curtain and the flowing river below. Plitvice Lake Waterfalls, Croatia Plitvice Lakes National Park is the largest National Park in Croatia and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Register. The national park is world renowned for its beautiful collection of lakes and their distinctive colours. There are two waterfalls, Veliki slap, which is 255 feet, and Galocaki buk, which is 82 feet. Both waterfalls contribute to the beautiful 16 lakes. Mackenzie Falls, Victoria, Australia Based in Grampians National Park, Victoria, the waterfall is 114 feet, and there is a beautiful area at the top of the falls – a lookout point where visitors are able to see down the falls and appreciate the views of the higher drops which cannot be seen from below. The falls are year round flowing, unlike some other falls in the national park, due to the humid weather and droughts throughout the year. The waterfall is beautiful, with two tiers and both with pools that link them – this is definitely a fall to see while in the National Park. Sgwd Clun-Gwyn, Wales Meaning the Fall of the White Meadow, based in the Brecon Beacons National Park (on the Western side). There are spectacular waterfalls of all different sizes, colours and beauty in the National Park, but one which really stands out is the Sgwd Clun-Gwyn waterfall. There are two cascades in the waterfall that can be viewed from above by following the footpath, or from the river below. It may only be 40 feet, but the sheer beauty of this waterfall should not be missed. Mike Kelly is Director at Oxford Private Travel. If you would like to be a guest blogger on A Luxury Travel Blog in order to raise your profile, please contact us.