The world's largest waterfall. The largest waterfalls in the world

Everyone loves to make lists. Forbes magazine annually publishes a list of the wealthiest people. Children make up New Year list of gifts, sending it to Santa Claus or Father Frost. The music industry constantly creates lists of the best singles, and there are many nature-themed lists too. In this article we will describe the largest waterfalls in the world. But in this case it is not the size that is meant, but their height.

A waterfall is a river that goes around a rocky outcrop and creates a cascading stream. Surely you have already seen this magnificent spectacle. And the higher the waterfall, the more beautiful it is. So let's get closer to the topic. Let’s make a rating called “The Largest Waterfalls in the World.” Photos of these giants will be attached to the article. So you can see these natural masterpieces at least in the picture.

1. Angel

Its height of 986 meters gives it the title of “The Largest Waterfall in the World.” This miracle of nature is located in South America on the Carrao River. The waterfall is hidden from everyone by a dense tropical forest and is not easy to get to. Additional difficulties are created by the complete absence of roads. Tepui is what the natives call the flat mountain from the top of which Angel falls. Its full name is Auyan Tepuy (translated as “Devil’s Mountain”), and it takes its place among hundreds of similar mountains.

The main characteristics of these dormant rocks are flat tops and vertical slopes, which are continuously eroded due to the effects of heavy rains. In 1910, the Spanish explorer Sanchez La Cruz discovered it, but this event did not receive wide publicity.

The official discovery was made by the American gold miner and pilot James Angel, after whom this miracle of nature was named. In 1935, he flew over Mount Tepuy and landed on its flat top in search of gold. But James' monoplane fell into the swampy jungle, and the gold miner had to go in search of civilization on foot. It was then that he noticed this impressive giant and soon told the world about it.

2. Tugela

This is the second largest waterfall in the world. This is evidenced by its height of 947 meters. The Tugela is located in the Natal Drakensberg National Park ( South Africa) and consists of five falling waterfalls. It can be seen in its brightest colors after rain. To do this, you just need to walk along the main excursion road.

This giant got its name in honor of the source of the river of the same name, located near the cliff in By the way, the water in the river above the waterfall is clean and suitable for drinking. During the winter months the cliff is covered with snow. At the same time, the entire surrounding area becomes like a postcard depicting a magical winter country.

The Drakensberg is a separate world of solitude and majestic landscape. Tourists are treated to a landscape of cliffs, farmland, river valleys and vast areas of untouched wilderness. Anyone can find a vacation to their liking. For adherents active rest There is hiking, mountain biking, mountaineering and canoeing. And those who like passive pastime can choose scenic tours, day walks, bird watching or fishing.

Two paths lead to the foot of the waterfall. The first is to the top of Mount-Aux-Sources, starting at the car park at Witsishoek and then on to Futujabu, from where there is a short climb to the top of the Amphitheater. The total travel time (round trip) is 10 hours. Another path to the Tugel leads from national park. The seven-kilometer climb up the gorge winds through the local forest. Any tourist visiting the Drakensberg should definitely visit this wonderful creation of nature.

3. Three Sisters Waterfall

It is no coincidence that this beautiful Peruvian waterfall, located in the Ayacucho region of the country, received this name. It consists of three separate tiers. The top two are clearly visible from the air, and the third is a huge pool into which water flows.

“Three Sisters” were discovered by a group of photographers who came to photograph a completely different waterfall - Katarata (267 meters). Needless to say, how happy they were with the find. "Three Sisters" is almost completely surrounded by forests with more than 30-meter trees. The creation of nature itself rises to 914 meters.

4. Olupena Waterfall

This beautiful waterfall is located in the USA, but you have to walk a lot to see it. All this is because its location is the most remote Hawaiian island of Molokai. Most people have never heard or seen this waterfall. Even among enthusiasts, a significant part of the visual information about this giant was obtained using aerial photography.

Olupena Falls is surrounded on both sides by huge mountains. Despite the fact that the giant does not have enough water to discharge, it is considered the highest waterfall in the United States (900 meters). The Olupena waterfall is multi-level and extremely delicate. Therefore, in general classification it is registered as tape.

5. Yumbila

The fifth is located in Peru, in the region. The height of this giant is still disputed. According to the National Institute of Peru, it is 895 meters. Other sources indicate a height of 870 meters. Yumbila is a multi-level system with 4 descents.

Previously, Gocta with its 771 meters was considered the highest waterfall in Peru. Therefore, the discovery of Yumbila greatly delighted the Peruvian government. And this event prompted the Ministry of Tourism to develop a 2-day excursion during which you can see all the largest waterfalls in the country. Tourists should take note of this.

6. Vinnufossen

This Norwegian giant is not the largest waterfall in the world. But the total height of 860 meters gives it the title of the highest in all of Europe. It is located in the municipality of Sunndal. Vinnufossen is cascading. 420 meters is the size of the largest step. The maximum height of water fall is 150 meters.

To feel Vinna on your body, you just need to walk five minutes in its direction from the nearest highway. This giant is especially beautiful in summer and spring, when the river is filled with water from melted glaciers. As it falls, Vinnufossen splits into parts and flows through the trees.

21.09.2013

There are many joys in nature. One of the many joys provided by nature - for example big waterfalls.. Stories at the waterfalls are happy and sad. Some of them remained untouched, far from tourist excursions, while others were destroyed in the name of human interest. With that said, here are the ten largest tall waterfalls in the world, great ones and some of the ones that still survive:

No. 10. Niagara Falls

What list of waterfalls would be complete without Niagara Falls? Many waterfalls are impressive in their height. But that's not about Niagara Falls. At only 167 meters high, it is not even included in the top 100 tallest waterfalls. Niagara Falls is actually famous for another reason; that it is the world's largest waterfall by volume. Niagara Falls is actually a combination of three waterfalls that form the end of the Niagara Gorge. Every second, more than 2,407 cubic meters of water overflows the crest line, making it number one among all non-flooded waterfalls. To give you a little perspective, Dettifoss ranks 9th among waterfalls in terms of flow speed, with an average of 193 cubic meters per second. This means that Niagara has a flow rate almost 13 times that of Dettifoss. All other waterfalls on this list rank well below Dettifoss in terms of flow speed. And it is not at all surprising that Niagara is one of largest waterfalls in the world, and also one of the most visited.

No. 9. Dettifoss


This waterfall is not very high, only 45 meters. But don't let this fool you. This Icelandic waterfall is considered the most powerful in Europe, its flow speed is 193 cubic meters per second. The falls were extremely difficult to reach until 2011. However, with the advent new road, You can just drive by and admire.

No. 8. Yosemite Falls

This gem of Yosemite National Park is highest waterfall in North America with a height of 739 m. This multi-level waterfall is divided into three: upper falls, middle cascades and lower falls. The upper waterfalls reach a height of 440 meters. The middle cascades are 206 meters. Lower waterfalls - 98 meters.

No. 7. Keitur

This big waterfall is located in the little-known South American sovereign state of Guyana. The speed of falling water is about 633 meters per second. He ranks 123rd in the ranking highest waterfalls, its height is 226 meters. According to the World Waterfall Database, it is ranked 26th among the most scenic waterfalls in the world. If you ever visit this waterfall, try to get to the middle cascades. It is in this part of the waterfall that a beautiful view of the miracle of nature opens up.

No. 6. Waihilau Falls

It is a popular tourist attraction for those visiting Hawaii. This waterfall is 792 meters high. This valley was abandoned in the 1940s. Thus, the valley became one of the few natural sites on the island untouched by man. If you are ever in Hawaii, you should definitely visit this place, especially if you are a tourist who appreciates beautiful scenery.

No. 5. Langfossen

Langfossen is another one big waterfall in Western Norway. At no more than 600 meters high, it is not as tall as Rämnefjellsfossen. However, many argue that its beauty far surpasses Rämnefjellsfossen. In fact, CNN chose Langfossen as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. This waterfall is located near the European highway E134; you can just arrive, park your car on the side of the road and enjoy. Simply by virtue of its beauty, it deserves to be on this list.

No. 4. Utigard

It is located in Norway and is considered the third of tallest waterfalls in the world among famous publications. However, this is not official, since according to other sources he is even outside the top ten. Whether he ranks third or not, Utigard certainly deserves a mention on this list. This waterfall has three rapids (the largest reaches 600 meters), it is located on the Jostedalsbreen glacier and flows into Lake Lovetnet. To admire the falls up close, you will have to pay a nominal fee for a ticket to the observation deck. This small contribution will go towards maintaining observation deck waterfall

No. 3. Kukenan Falls

It is the second highest waterfall in Venezuela (after Angel Falls), and is regarded as one of the tallest waterfalls in the world. It has one rapid, 674 m high, and flows down the Kukenan Tepui mesa. Although it is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, it is not as popular as Angel Falls.

No. 2. Tugela Falls

This is South African big waterfall 948 m high, it is the second highest waterfall in the world. The longest rapid is just over 400 meters. Even though the waterfall is in a relatively accessible location, getting to it is a different story. Depending on your level of training, you will spend from 4 to 8 hours on the road. However, the good news is that you will be hiking through the Amphitheater cliff face, one of the most imposing geographic features on Earth. But to begin your hike, you will have to drive at least an hour to get to the trailhead. After all, getting to the falls is a full day of adventure.

No. 1. Angel Falls

If only height is considered, Angel Falls is largest waterfall in the world. Angel Falls reaches a height of 979 meters. The highest threshold (out of 47) is at an altitude of 807 meters. Although the falls are located in Venezuela, they are named after American aviator Jimmy Angel because he was the first to fly (accidentally) over the falls in 1933. Before this, he was relatively unknown outside of Venezuela. As you can imagine, the waterfall is now a famous tourist attraction in the country. But if you want to visit it, you must be warned; There may be some minor problems with this. Because it is in the jungle, in undeveloped areas, and you will have to fly to Puerto Ordaz or Ciudad Bolivar to get to where the raft leading to the waterfall will be waiting for you.

What is the tallest waterfall in the world? The most high waterfalls peace.
Top 10 highest waterfalls in the world:

  1. Angel Falls or Kerepakupai Meru, Venezuela (Angel Falls, Venezuela) - 979 (1054) m.,
  2. Tugela Falls, South Africa - 948 m.
  3. Three Sisters Falls, Cataratas las Tres Hermanas, Peru - 914 m.
  4. Olo'upena Falls, United States - 900 m.
  5. Umbilla Falls, Peru - 895.4 m.
  6. Vinnufossen Waterfall, Norway - 860 m.
  7. Balaifossen Waterfall, Norway (Balaifossen, Norway) - 850 m.
  8. Pu'uka'oku Falls, USA, Hawaii (Pu'uka'oku, United States) - 840 m.
  9. James Bruce Falls, Canada - 840 m.
  10. Brown Falls, New Zealand(Browne Falls, New Zealand) - 836 m.

Countries with the highest waterfalls in the world

If you select the highest waterfalls in the world (10 above 800 meters), then it is easy to count the countries that hold the record for the number of gigantic highest waterfalls on their territory. The leader is Norway, in which four tallest waterfalls in the world, all of which are above 800 meters: Vinnufossen (860 m), Balaifossen (850 m), Strupenfossen (820 m), Utigard (818 m). 2/3 of Norway's territory is located at an altitude of more than 500 meters above sea level. In terms of the total height of the world's tallest waterfalls, small Norway has surpassed one of the highest large countries USA world. IN THE USA 4 tallest waterfalls in the world: Oloupena (900 m), Puukaoku (840 m), Waihilau (792 m), Colonial Creek (788 m). Geologically, the United States has been greatly helped by its distant state of Hawaii, which has three of the highest waterfalls in the United States on the slopes of volcanoes. In a small country, Peru is located two of the tallest waterfalls in the world: “Three Sisters” (914 m), Yumbilla (895.4 m).

  1. Norway: 4 of the world's highest waterfalls, totaling 3348 meters.
  2. USA: 4 highest waterfalls in the world, only 3320 meters.
  3. Peru: The 2 highest waterfalls in the world, only 1810 meters.

The highest waterfall in the world - No. 1 Angel, Venezuela

What is the tallest waterfall in the world? The highest waterfall in the world - Kerepakupai-meru or Angel was discovered in 1933 in Venezuela by the American pilot James Angel. He flew in the tropical forests of Venezuela in search of either ore or diamonds. In 1937, James Angel wanted to land a plane on the Auyantepuy plateau (the peak of Mount Auyantepuy), where pieces of quartz sparkled, which from afar he mistook for the shine of diamonds. During landing, the plane was damaged, the landing gear burst and the pilot, his wife Marie and two companions spent 11 days going down. Their difficult journey made the world's largest waterfall famous.

Angel Falls ( Salto ?ngel in Spanish ) was named after him, which is how the name Angel is pronounced in Spanish ( Angel in English). In 1994 the list World Heritage UNESCO has added the world's tallest Angel Falls, along with Canaima National Park, where it is located. Recently, under the pretext of fighting cosmopolitanism, the world's highest Angel Falls was renamed Kerepakupai-meru ( Kerepakupai-mer?). Kerepakupai-meru is one of its local Indian names. So in 2009, Venezuelan President Hugo Rafael Chavez Frias took revenge on the Americans. Indeed, back in 1912, Ernesto Sanchez La Cruz, who explored Venezuela, mentioned this waterfall, although he did not officially publish its discovery.

All of the world's tallest waterfalls are topped by Angel Falls, which is renowned for its beauty. The water of the world's largest waterfall begins its fall directly from the clouds, because its height is 979 meters (in 1949, today other data is 1054 m), that is, a kilometer. It is fed by the waters of the Carro River (a tributary of the Carroni River). Free-falling water flows from the largest mountain in Venezuela, Auyantepui (“Devil’s Mountain”). Because the mountainside is made of soft red sandstone, the river has cut it and the water falls from crevices 50 meters below the edge of Mount Auyantepui. And the water completes its fall into the Kerep River, breaking into a tiny fog that lasts for several kilometers around.

Is it worth seeing the world's tallest waterfall?


For those wondering whether to visit Angel Falls, all I can say is “the tallest waterfall in the world”! When you look at this miracle of nature, you understand how small a bug a person is in comparison with the power of gravity. Being near the majestic Venezuelan Angel Falls, you understand that your life, your descendants, will end, and the water of this waterfall will also rush down madly, regardless of the progress of mankind, war and destruction.

The world's highest Angel Falls is free to visit by tourists and is one of the main attractions of Venezuela. Angel Falls is located in a wild area and you first need to take a scheduled plane to get to it. You can enjoy the beauty of the world's largest Angel Falls from below, arriving along the river, using the services of numerous guides. And you can see the world's highest waterfall from a bird's eye view on a sightseeing helicopter. This sight literally takes your breath away, you won’t regret it!

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 2 Tugela Falls (South Africa)

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 2 Tugela Falls South Africa

The second highest waterfall in the world is the waterfall Tugela 914 meters high on the eastern cliff of the Drakensberg Mountains. Drakensberg translated from German means “dragon mountain”, it is located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The waters that give strength to the waterfall are the purest and you can drink them. The total length of the Tugela River, which gives power to the world's second highest waterfall, is 512 km. Its source is just a few kilometers from the Tugela Falls. The cliff at the source of Tugela Falls in winter (our summer) is often covered with snow, and the waterfall itself can turn into ice. Unlike other tallest waterfalls in the world, Tugela Falls has five stages, which looks very unusual and attractive up close. The highest cascade is 411 meters high.

Second in height only to the world's largest Angel Falls, Tugela Falls looks beautiful at any time of the year and in any weather, even glistening in the sun. It is best to watch it after heavy rain, when the 15-meter stream becomes more noticeable and shimmers with all the colors of the rainbow. There are two main routes available to tourists. The first is shorter and takes 5 hours on foot: from the parking lot with a short climb to the top and further along two suspension bridges. The second route begins with a seven-kilometer climb up the gorge, then a suspension bridge will lead curious tourists to the foot of the world's second highest waterfall.

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 3 Three Sisters Falls in Peru

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 3 Three Sisters Falls in Peru

The third highest of the "Top 10: The World's Tallest Waterfalls" is named "Three sisters" (Three Sisters Fall) due to its unusual construction. The third highest waterfall in the world, "Three Sisters" (in Spanish) Cataratas las Tres Hermanas) hid deep in the dense forests of a small country. The Ayacucho region in Peru can boast of its presence. The Three Sisters waterfall was hidden from civilization for a long time. World science has only recently been enriched with information about this highest waterfall in Peru. The photographers discovered it as a group when they were doing a photo shoot of another Peruvian waterfall - Catarata, which is located nearby and three times lower (267 meters high). The waterfall flow consists of three separate tiers, with a total height of 914 meters. Moreover, two of them (the upper ones) are visible only from the air, and the lower one, the third one, splashes out into a huge pool, hidden among 30-meter tall trees.

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 4 Olopena, Hawaii

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 4 Olopena Falls in the USA

Waterfall Olopena (Olo'upena Falls in English) is the tallest waterfall in the United States and the fourth tallest waterfall in the world. Olopena Volcano is located on the northern coast of the island of Malokai ( Moloka'i). A 900 meter high waterfall flows down the almost vertical slope of Mount Haloku ( Haloku), although water usually flies freely from a height. Olopena waterfall was hidden from people for a long time, because... lies within an isolated volcanic island mountain range and is surrounded by high mountains. Even now, when Olopena Falls is widely known among tourists, it is more convenient to get to it by helicopter. Until now, the Olopena waterfall is inaccessible to hikers. Except by air, it can only be approached from the sea, where it directs its waters.

The best time for tourists to visit Olopena Falls is from November to March during the rainy season. One of the world's highest waterfalls, Oloupena is available for guided tours from boats, yachts and helicopters. Numerous tourists are treated to a breathtaking spectacle of water smoothly flowing into the sea along a vertical wall. And tourists in windy weather see another phenomenon: the waters of the Olopena waterfall literally fly up, lifted into the air by the pressure of the air flow. Just 500 meters away is the eighth highest waterfall in the world: Puukaoku Falls, which is only 60 meters lower. And even closer, 300 meters away: the Haloku waterfall, 700 meters high.

Fake photos of Olopena Falls.

World's Tallest Waterfalls: Wrong Photo of Oloupena Falls, It's Actually Papalaua Falls!

Very often photographs are published on the Internet called Olopena Falls, showing a picturesque valley with streams of waterfalls surrounded on three sides by mountains. This photo is not from Olopena Falls, but rather from the picturesque Papalua Falls ( Papalaua Falls) with a height of only 500 meters. The real Oloupena waterfall pours down the outside of the mountain directly into the sea.

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 5 Umbilla, Peru

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 5 Umbilla, Peru

The second highest waterfall in Peru and the fifth highest in the world Yumbilla(Umbilla, in English Yumbilla, and in the language of the Quechua Indians Yumbillo). Umbilla Falls is located in the Selva region of Peru. The height of the waterfall is 870 meters. However, the Peruvian National Geographic Institute insists on the figure - 895.4 meters. The flow of water from one of the world's largest waterfalls begins from underground. Its source: the cave of San Francisco, the length of the studied part of which is about 250 meters.

This waterfall is a multi-level system with four major drops. True, many photographers were able to capture 5 cascades of Umbilla Falls. Yumbilla is being considered by the Peruvian government as one of the sites that will be included in a two-day excursion to the largest waterfalls in this country. While the excursions are accompanied by unofficial guides, providing pleasure from the visit wildlife with fantastic views. Within a 7-mile radius of Umbilla Falls is another waterfall, Gocta, which is 771 meters high.

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 6 Vinnufossen, Norway

The highest waterfall in Norway and Europe, Vinnufossen

The highest waterfall in Norway and Europe Vinnufossen is located on the Vinnu River, which determined its name (in Norwegian Vinnufossen means waterfall on the Vinnu River). The Vinnufossen waterfall is located near the village of Sunndalsøra (to the east of it). Overall height the highest waterfall in Europe 860 meters. Vinnufossen waterfall has several levels. The source of water supply for the Vinnufossen waterfall is the Vinnufon glacier ( Vinnufonna). This glacier gives rise to the Vinnu River, which flows down Mount Vinnufielle ( Vinnufjellet) in the form of the Vinnufossen waterfall. It is interesting that in modern Norwegian there is no word Vinnu, which is included in the names of the glacier, mountain, river and waterfall. Linguists are inclined to believe that the word vinnu comes from the old Scandinavian word work. In modern Norwegian, work means arbeid.

The highest free fall of water from the largest waterfall in Norway and Europe, Vinnufossen, is 420 meters. Further on, the waters of the Vinny flow into the Driva River ( Driva). Tourists prefer the more famous and spectacular Mardalsfossen waterfall ( Mardalsfossen), which is 200 meters lower, but deeper. It is a classic waterfall flowing into a U-shaped valley to form Lake Eikesdalsvotn ( Eikesdalsvatn).

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 7 Balaifossen, Norway

The highest waterfalls in the world: No. 7 Balifossen Falls

Norway's second highest waterfall Balaifossen (Balai Fossen, Balaifossen Falls) is located near the Osafjord fjord ( Osafjord or Osafjorden) in the municipality of Ulvik ( Ulvik) in Huralan county ( Hordaland). The Balaifossen waterfall is 850 meters high and consists of 3 cascades with the highest being 452 meters high. The source of water supply for the Balaifossen waterfall is the Bala stream, replenished with meltwater. At the edge of the valley, where the waters of the mountain waterfall Balaifossen descend, the town of Osa was founded. A normal stream of up to 6 meters wide in a warmer than usual year can turn into a sluggish trickle, exposing the rocky bed of one of the tallest waterfalls on the planet.

Balaifossen waterfall is not favored by tourists because of its low water flow, which can practically stop on the hottest days. During the warmer months, the narrow cascade of Norway's second-highest waterfall, Balaifossen, turns into an imperceptible trickle. The changing nature of Balaifossen waterfall is due to its weak source. The waterfall is filled with melting snow from the surrounding high mountains. Consequently, the appearance, flow rate and overall impression of the Balaifossen waterfall are not constant and change from season to season, from year to year. Visit this waterfall in July and you can spend your trip looking at the dry rock bed of the huge waterfall. The existence of one of Europe's highest waterfalls is alarmingly dependent on a warming climate. A systematic decrease in snow cover below the level necessary to replenish the waterfall by the autumn months can lead to its complete disappearance.

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 8 Puukaoku, USA

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 8 Puukaoku, USA

Waterfall Puukaoku (Pu'uka'oku) at 840 meters (2,756 feet) is not the tallest waterfall in the world, but is ranked among the world's ten tallest waterfalls at number 8. Puukaoku Falls is a natural wonder on Hawaiian island volcanic origin Molokai ( Moloka'i). This island is interesting because it has 12 (!) waterfalls, two of which are in the Top 10: The highest waterfalls in the world. The tallest waterfall on the island of Molokai, Olopena is the first tallest in the United States and the fourth tallest in the world. The smallest waterfall is Haha on this small island, only 240 meters high. The water of Puukaoku Falls does not fall freely, but flows evenly along slopes located almost vertically. The waterfall is rarely photographed because the slopes around it are inaccessible to people. The densely growing thickets hinder climbers and do not adhere tightly enough to the loose volcanic soil to support the weight of a person and equipment.

The falls can be observed from the sea by taking advantage of boat excursions offered by numerous travel companies. You can get so close to the waterfall that you will be immersed in the fog from the water falling from this delightful natural monument. Helicopter excursions offer an even more impressive sight. During strong winds, the water of Puukaoku Falls does not reach the ocean, but rises up. This spectacle is missed by many tourists, who can only observe Puukaoku Falls from boats and helicopters. Traveling on them is too dangerous in this weather.

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 9 James Bruce, Canada

Tallest waterfalls in the world: Tallest in North America James Bruce, Canada

The tallest waterfall in Canada and North America is the Falls James Bruce (James Bruce Falls) 840 meters (2,755 ft) high. James Bruce Falls, number 9 in the world's top ten tallest waterfalls, is just one foot (31 centimeters) lower than Hawaii's Puukaoku Falls. The waterfall is named after the great traveler, the Scot James Bruce, who was the first to find the sources of the Blue Nile. James Bruce Falls is located in Canada. In British Columbia, James Bruce Falls is a top viewer in Princess Louise Marine Provincial Park. The small width of the waterfall (only 5 meters) is explained by the fact that, like all the highest waterfalls in the world, it is formed by melt water. The largest waterfall in North America is fed by snow on a high plateau clearly visible in the photograph.

All the highest waterfalls in the world are very similar to each other. however, James Bruce differs from most of them in that he has not one, but two parallel origins. Due to the fact that one of them is created by a lower-lying and weaker glacier, its stream is weaker and dries up in the summer. James Bruce Falls is also distinguished by the fact that it constantly twists and turns its direction among rocky mountain faults. The source of water supply for James Bruce Falls is small in terms of the overall catchment area, but it is located at an altitude of almost two kilometers, so the total flow does not vary much, depending on seasonal changes.

James Bruce Falls is most suitable for tourists to visit in rainy winter or autumn; it looks the most full of water. It is difficult to see it entirely from the lower part, where tourists usually sail by boat. It is more convenient to view and photograph James Bruce Falls from the nearby hills. in addition, here in the Princess Louise Park, tourists can see more than a dozen lower waterfalls. Of course, even this cannot attract as many tourists as come to see Canada’s most famous waterfall on the Niagara River. Niagara Falls is visited by 25 million people annually.

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 10 Brown, New Zealand

Tallest waterfalls in the world: No. 10 Brown, New Zealand

New Zealand's tallest waterfall Brown (Browne Falls) was discovered on South Island by Victor Carlile Brown in 1940. The discovery of the tenth largest waterfall in the world occurred during aerial photography and immortalized the ordinary pilot. Today this waterfall is part of National Park Fiordland, located on the South Island, New Zealand. The source of Brown Falls is a small mountain lake (by the way, also discovered by Brown and named after him) in the southern part of the island. The waterfall itself is surrounded by a subtropical evergreen forest, consisting mainly of kauri trees 50 meters high and 6 meters wide. The width of the waterfall is 12 meters. It is not surprising that the spillway of this powerful waterfall reaches up to 14 cubic meters of water per second. But this is in those months when its filling with water is maximum. And the usual water flow is about 3 cubic meters per second. Water itself big waterfall in New Zealand it calms down in the fjord of Arm Bay.

Brown Falls is the only one of the ten tallest waterfalls in the world that is formed by a mountain lake, and not by melting glaciers, snow or streams. This is what determines the largest overhang among tall waterfalls. The water falling from Brown Falls flies vertically 836 meters, and horizontally as much as 1130! Water pressure from mountain lake Brown allows the water not to fall at an angle close to 90 degrees, but to fly forward at a forty-two degree angle. The features of the mountain range are such that Brown Falls is a single-cascade. The highest drop of Brown Falls is 244 m long.

Our beautiful planet amazes not only with the diversity of the animal world, but also with the beauty and grandeur of its natural landscapes. For example, waterfalls, the contemplation of this grandiose spectacle remains in the memory for a long time. The loud roar of the stream falling from a great height is breathtaking, and the jets are crystal clear clean water play in the sun with bright reflections. Find out which waterfalls are considered the largest in the world.

The grandiose miracle of falling water is hidden behind the wall tropical forests Venezuela, is under the protection of UNESCO. The discovery of the tallest waterfall in the world happened by accident in 1935 during a government expedition searching for new ore deposits. While flying over the jungle, pilot James Angel was lucky enough to fly over a future world landmark with impressive characteristics:

  • the total height of the mighty giant is 986 meters;
  • a continuous fall of water occurs from a height of 807 m;
  • the volume of the falling mass is 300 cubic meters per second.

No less famous mountain range Tepluy, from which huge streams of water lava erupt. This rock, called Devil's Mountain, is a type of flat top mountain called a mesa. The translation of the name of the giant “Angel” from the language of the local residents (Pemon tribe) can be associated with the designation of the deepest place.

Interestingly, it is not so easy for tourists to admire the tallest waterfall in the world. You can only get to the rock rising from the wild jungle by air, since there are absolutely no roads in the dense tropical forest.

Handsome Tugela

The second highest waterfall in the world is the Tugela Cascade, located in South Africa in the Natal National Park. The beautiful landmark of the African south owes its name to the river of the same name, and the amazing beauty of the spectacle to the five cascades of water falling down.

The main cascade of the most beautiful of the world's large waterfalls has the following parameters:

  • overall height water complex– 947 meters;
  • the maximum height of the main threshold is 411 meters;
  • The width of the water stream is 15 meters.

To see the cascading miracle, you will have to travel on foot, without turning off the main excursion path, which can be reached by transport. On shortcut It will take 8-10 hours to get to the top and descend from it. But you can choose another trail starting in the national park. While climbing through the forest area to a height of seven kilometers, you have the opportunity to admire the amazing creation of nature - the cliff of the Amphitheater cliff.

Lovely Three Sisters

Among the largest high-altitude cascades in the world, the third position is given to the Three Sisters Falls. An unusual water complex is located in the most picturesque area of ​​Peru. The cascade of streams was accidentally discovered by photographers who came to do a photo shoot of a completely different waterfall.

The uniqueness of the Three Sisters complex, surrounded by 30-meter trees, is a three-tiered drop of water, which reflects the name of the water miracle with the following characteristics:

  • water falls from a height of 914 m;
  • The width of the water flow is 14 m.

The three-tiered creation of nature is best admired from the air, when a full view of all three separately located tiers opens. The rapid flight of two branches of the cascade from a dizzying height ends in the third section - a huge pool.

The third of the largest waterfalls in the world is located in the Otishi National Park (Ayacucho region). It is quite difficult for tourists to get to this magnificent spectacle, but scientists are actively researching unique places, not forgetting the stunning photography of the area.

Waterfalls: the most famous of the widest streams

Iguazu Falls complex

Among picturesque nature Iguazu National Park, on the border zone between Brazil and Argentina, stretches the cascade of the world's deepest Iguazu Falls. A large two-stage system of falling water mass was lucky enough to be discovered in 1541 by a Spanish conquistador who went in search of gold.

Local Indians from the Guarani tribe call the water miracle of nature “Great Water”. And this is quite consistent with the grandiose spectacle when millions of tons of water fall down with an eerie roar, raising water dust up many tens of meters. The complex of strongly seething streams surprises with the power of its size:

  • roaring lava falls from a maximum height of 80-82 meters;
  • the width of the water complex reaches 4 kilometers;
  • The volume of ejected water mass is up to 6000 cubic meters per second.

It is assumed that the Iguazu Falls were formed at least 20 thousand years ago, and its discoverer called the falls the Devil's Throat because of its horseshoe shape natural phenomenon. It is no coincidence that Iguazu is called the deepest; about 270 independent sections have been recorded in the kingdom of waterfalls. The championship in width and size belongs to the water stream, designated by the Spaniard as the Devil's Throat.

Tourists who want to admire the rumbling monster can make their dream come true from the territory of each of the countries that own the deepest elements. There are special viewing areas equipped for viewing, where you can see other large waterfalls that are part of the Iguazu system, and the Devil's Throat appears in all its glory.

Waterfall in honor of the Queen - Victoria


The cascading complex of waterfalls, located on the expanses of the Zambezi River, belongs to two states - Zimbabwe and Zambia. The water attraction on the border of two African countries was discovered by David Livingstone, who in 1855 set out to convert the aborigines to Christianity.

The researcher gave the waterfall the name of the reigning queen - Victoria. However local residents a natural cascade, the flow of which is shrouded in a fog of wet spray, is known as Thundering Smoke with the following parameters:

  • bubbling streams fall down from a height of 108 meters;
  • Victoria's water branches stretch 1800 meters wide.

Not at all times of the year the waterfall amazes tourists with the overflow of wet lava. If during the rainy season a large wall of water becomes solid, then during the dry season the powerful Victoria streams dry up and become less swift. In the vastness of the legendary river, tourists are offered extreme sports.

The crashing waters of Niagara Falls

To contemplate the majestic power of the falling jets, inspiring genuine fear due to the roar and fog, it is not necessary to storm the tropical thickets. It's easier to go to North America. There you can admire the most famous and mega-promoted object in the world - Niagara Falls.

The name itself, translated from the dialect of local Indians, corresponds to roaring water, since the element can be heard much earlier than seen. The location of the world-famous attraction is the Canadian province of Ontario, where the Niagara River gives tourists the contemplation of a water complex 53 meters high and 1200 meters wide, consisting of three large streams:

  • The American Falls is 323 m wide;
  • the width of the section called Horseshoe is 792 m;
  • Fata is the smallest and rather narrow stream.

Niagara Falls is rightly called the most powerful stream North America with a volume of falling water of more than 5700 cubic meters per second. The existence of the American miracle was told to the world by a traveling priest who discovered the waterfall in 1677.

The unusual color of the water of Niagara Falls is surprising. It sparkles with a greenish tint due to its enrichment with salts. The falling stream raises clouds of foam, the brown color of which is due to the clay soils at the foot of the complex.

The smallest miracle of nature is the Sarkyrama waterfall, located in the western part of Kazakhstan. Near the forest, nature erected a miniature water attraction with a height of only four meters. It is not difficult for tourists to get to the complex, since there is a small settlement nearby.

Since ancient times, waterfalls have delighted people. Powerful streams of water, fog and splashes are a spectacular, impressive phenomenon. Near some popular waterfalls, entire resort towns have already been built to attract more tourists.

What is the largest and highest waterfall on the planet?

Many are sure that Niagara Falls is the largest in the world, but this is not entirely true. There are still tall waterfalls on Earth that are superior to Niagara in terms of the vertical length of the flow.

Angel

The first place is taken large waterfall Angel, whose height is 979 meters, located in Venezuela. The discovery occurred in 1933 by pilot James Angel. A person can only get there by air or river. The height of the water fall is very high, so it is sprayed into small particles, turning into fog. A person can encounter fog several hundred kilometers away.

The place is not only very beautiful, but also mysterious. It makes a strong impression on travelers.

Tugela

Tugela Falls is slightly inferior to Angel. It is amazing because it consists of five cascades. It is also very long, the height of Tugela is 948 meters. The localization of this attraction is South Africa. To get to this place you need to walk. There are two routes that take at least six hours to complete. The adventure takes a lot of energy, so only the strongest and strongest travelers take advantage of the excursion.

Three sisters

Third place in the ranking belongs to the Three Sisters attraction. Location: Peru. The name comes from three tiers of water. Its height is 914 meters. This place is surrounded on all sides by forest, so it is very difficult to get to. Not all tourists decide to take on this adventure, so few people know about this attraction.

What is the widest drop in water called?

Typically, experts estimate the power of the waterfall's water flow, its height and width. Next, we will consider the most attractive waterfalls in terms of width.

Khon

The widest waterfall is Khon. It is located on the Mekong River. This is the border between two states: Kampuchea and Laos. The water passes through a deep gorge, at the exit the river floods a huge plain, forming an incredibly wide waterfall. The granite ledge in the river bed stretches for 12 kilometers. The sight of this phenomenon is mesmerizing, causing peace and tranquility. Travelers love this attraction very much.

Guaira

In South America there is an equally impressive waterfall - Guaira. Its width is 4800 meters. Localization - border of Paraguay and. The waterfall was flooded during the construction of the reservoir. A powerful stream of water is still in this place.

The authorities are trying to restore the landmark, but managing so much water is almost impossible.

Victoria

Victoria Falls is also incredibly wide. Width - 1800 meters. The landmark was named after the queen in the mid-nineteenth century. It is located in South Africa.

When the rainy season comes, this place turns into rain stream, there is fog, so you can’t see the waterfall. People who love come here extreme species sports. This place is very popular and there are regular excursions.

Full-flowing arteries - photo

A huge stream of water rushes down, this sight cannot but surprise. The largest water flows on our planet occur in Iguazu and Niagara falls.

Iguazu

In first place was Iguazu Falls. It is located on the border between Brazil and Argentina. It was not by chance that Iguazu Falls received the status of the deepest waterfall. It consists not of one waterfall, but of several. This is real kingdom of waterfalls, there are 270 of them in total.

Brazil and Argentina attract travelers from all over the world. According to researchers, the Iguazu River erupts on average 1700 cubic meters of water per second. In the presence of such power, people often feel fear. However, its popularity is not decreasing.

Niagara

Well-known Niagara Falls is also incredibly deep. It is located between and Canada. In fact, this is not one waterfall, as many people believe, but several at once. The place fascinates tourists and attracts people from all over the world.

There is so much water in this place that hydroelectric power stations were built under the waterfall, whose total capacity can reach 4.4 gigawatts.

Little miracle of nature

The smallest waterfall in the world Sarkyrama. Its location is Western Kazakhstan. Features of the attraction:

  • Located near forest area;
  • Water drop height does not exceed 4 meters;
  • Before 2008 called Red Falls.

The waterfall is located next to a small settlement, so tourists often visit its foot and it is not difficult to get to it.

There are many on the planet amazing places. Waterfalls have always attracted people. Their greatness and strength are frightening, but at the same time mesmerizing. Much time will pass, but these sights will not lose their grandeur. More and more people are interested in excursions to such places.