26 Highest Waterfalls in the World By Height

Puʻukaʻoku Falls, Hawaii, United States
Puʻukaʻoku Falls, Hawaii, United States

Each and every person would love to visit a place full of peace, beauty, love, and happiness. Waterfalls add different colors to life. Just viewing them from top to bottom refreshes one’s mind and thoughts start emerging about how high is waterfall would be. Let me end your curiosity here and tell you some of the highest waterfalls in the world which one should definitely visit. Here is the list of the highest waterfalls in the world by height,

Highest Waterfalls in the World By Height

1. Angel Falls, Canaima National Park, Bolívar, Venezuela (Height–979 meters or 3,212 ft)

The world’s tallest waterfall, the Angel Falls is established in the mountains of Venezuela. It is about 3212 feet high and originates from the longest river in South America and is itself the highest waterfall in the World.

You can only view these falls from planes or by boat and due to this exception, it is one of the most loved spots by tourists and people from all over the world who trips over here. One can also fly to Canaima National park and then hire a boat to reach Angel falls. The most appropriate time to capture this beautiful fall is during the rainy season the months of June to December.

Also Read: Top 10 Largest Lakes In The World By Total Area

Angel Falls, Canaima National Park, Bolívar, Venezuela
Angel Falls, Canaima National Park, Bolívar, Venezuela

Image Source: Wikimedia

2. Tugela Falls, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (Height–948 meters or 3,110 ft)

The second highest waterfall in the world is the Tugela Falls with a height of around 3100 feet. It is also the highest cascade not only in the world but on the entire Earth. There is a tough competition between Venezuela Falls and Tugela Falls for rank 1, and it would be thrilling to see who gets the first spot. It is a renowned tourist spot as it is surrounded by the Royal Natal National Park so; there is a lot of exposure, fun, and enjoyment.

Also Read: A List of 10 Beautiful National Parks In The USA

Tugela Falls, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Tugela Falls, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Image Source: Wikimedia

3. Tres Hermanas Falls, Otishi National Park, Junin, Peru (Height–914 meters or 2,999 ft)

Tres Hermanas Falls is the third-highest waterfall in the world by hieght. The beautiful waterfall stands at 914 meters or 2,999 ft located inside Otishi National Park near the northern fork of the Cutivireni River. The unique part is that is a tiered waterfall with three drops or sections and is surrounded by the montane forest.

Also Read: 12 Highest Mountains In The World

Tres Hermanas Falls, Otishi National Park, Junin, Peru
Tres Hermanas Falls, Otishi National Park, Junin, Peru

Image Source: Pinterest

4. Oloupena Falls, Molokai, Hawaii, United States (Height–900 meters or 2,953 ft)

Oloupena Falls is the fourth uppermost waterfall in the world. It is found on the North shore of Molokai, Hawaii United States. It is so an attractive waterfall that anybody can fall in love with it and appears just like a white thread or a stripe forming a connection between the sky and the sea. It has the tallest sea cliffs in the world which are about 3000 feet. During the rainy season, Oloupena falls looks enormously striking and are worth watching.

Also Read: Top 10 Coldest Countries In The World

Oloupena Falls, Molokai, Hawaii, United States
Oloupena Falls, Molokai, Hawaii, United States

Image Source: Wikimedia

5. Yumbilla Falls, Amazonas, Peru (Height–896 meters or 2,940 ft)

Yumbilla Falls is one of the most amazing waterfalls in the world situated near the town of Cuispes, in the northern Peruvian region of the Amazonas. The waterfall has gained popularity across the world after a geographical survey conducted by the Geographical Institute of Peru (IGN) declared it the fifth-highest waterfall in the world. The hieght has been measured with the help of laser instruments and the surroundings have been covered with montane forest vegetation, orchids, palms, and tree ferns.

Also Read: Top 15 Highest Currencies in the World 2022

Yumbilla Falls, Amazonas, Peru
Yumbilla Falls, Amazonas, Peru

6. Vinnufallet, Møre og Romsdal, Norway (Height–860 metres or 2,822 ft)

Vinnufallet is the sixth tallest waterfall in the world with a height of 2822 feet. It is found in the village of Sunndalsora, Norway. Norway is the land of mountains, waterfalls, and lakes and so, undeniably Vinnufallet is the largest fall in Norway having exceptional four diverse types of drops. It starts off from the river Vinnu and unites the river Driva in the base. This waterfall is not much good-looking and fosters a watershed. As the snowmelt diminishes, it also obstructs flowing for quite a long time.

Vinnufallet, Møre og Romsdal, Norway
Vinnufallet, Møre og Romsdal, Norway

Image Source: Wikimedia

7. Balaifossen Waterfalls, Hordaland, Norway (Height–850 meters or 2,789 ft)

Balaifossen waterfalls are one of the highest waterfalls in the world standing at a hieght of 850 meters and situated in the Hordaland region of Norway. The water of the river Balåi drops down over 800 meters and ends in the Osafjorden. The waterfall is just amazing to watch and you will notice that there is more water in the river Balåi than expected.

Balaifossen Waterfalls, Hordaland, Norway
Balaifossen Waterfalls, Hordaland, Norway

Image Source: pinterest

8. Puʻukaʻoku Falls, Hawaii, United States (Height–840 meters or 2,756 ft)

Puʻukaʻoku Falls is the eighth-highest waterfall in the world by hieght that stands at 840 meters or 2,756 ft. It is situated on the north face of the island of Molokai, Hawaii. It is also listed as the second-tallest waterfall in the United States.

Puʻukaʻoku Falls, Hawaii, United States
Puʻukaʻoku Falls, Hawaii, United States

Image Source: Eric Tessmer

9. James Bruce Falls, British Columbia, Canada (Height–840 meters or 2,756 ft)

The James Bruce Falls is the ninth-highest waterfall in the world and the highest-measured waterfall in North America. It is located in the Princess Louisa Marine Provincial Park where it falls from 840 meters (2,760 ft) down to Princess Louisa Inlet. The waterfall did not have consistent water flow throughout the year and usually dried up during the summers. It flows into Loquilts Creek which empties into the inlet via the better-known Chatterbox Falls.

Also Read: Top 10 Most Famous Walls In The World

James Bruce Falls, British Columbia, Canada
James Bruce Falls, British Columbia, Canada

Image Source: Wikimedia

10. Browne Falls, Waterfall in New Zealand (Height–836 meters or 2,743 ft)

Browne Falls is one of the amazing waterfalls situated above Doubtful Sound which is located in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand. This waterfall is one of the two candidates for the highest waterfall in New Zealand. The other one originates from a tarn behind Elizabeth Island which is also in Fiordland. The water was named after an amazing pioneering aerial photographer named Victor Carlyle Browne who discovered Lake Browne and the associated falls on one of his flights over Fiordland in the year the 1940s.

Browne Falls, Waterfall in New Zealand
Browne Falls, Waterfall in New Zealand

Image Source: Wikipedia

11. Strupenfossen Waterfall, Sogn og Fjordane, Norway (Height–820 meters or 2,690 ft)

Strupenfossen is the unofficial name of the highest waterfall in the world situated near Myklebust (Byrkjelo) in the region of Sog og Fjordane, Norway. This is one of the major waterfalls along the Strupen and also the largest meltwater stream originating in the Myklebust Icefield.

Strupenfossen Waterfall, Sogn og Fjordane, Norway
Strupenfossen Waterfall, Sogn og Fjordane, Norway

12. Ramnefjellsfossen, Waterfall in Norway (Height–818 meters or 2,684 ft)

Ramnefjellsfossen is one of the highest waterfalls in the world by height also known as Utigardsfossen or Utigordsfossen. It is located on the mountain of Ramnefjellet situated in Vestland county, Norway. The water is falling from a hieght of 818 meters (2,684 ft) and the avarage width of the fall is 15 meters (49 ft) over the 457 meters (1,499 ft) from top to bottom. The water in the fall comes from the Ramnefjellbreen glacier which is an arm of the great Jostedalsbreen glacier.

Ramnefjellsfossen, Waterfall in Norway
Ramnefjellsfossen, Waterfall in Norway

13. Waihilau Falls, Hawaii, United States Of America (Height–792 meters or 2,598 ft)

Waihilau Falls is a beautiful waterfall situated in the Waimanu Valley of the U.S. state of Hawaii. This is the third-highest waterfall in Hawaii and the thirteen-highest waterfall in the world falling from a hieght of 2,600 feet (790 meters. This is one of the best waterfalls in the world, however, it is not easy at all to reach these falls.

Waihilau Falls, Hawaii, United States Of America (Height–792 meters or 2,598 ft)
Waihilau Falls, Hawaii, United States Of America (Height–792 meters or 2,598 ft)

14. Colonial Creek Falls, Washington, United States (Height–788 meters or 2,585 ft)

Colonial Creek Falls is one of the amazing and tallest waterfalls in the world falling vertically from a hieght of 2,568 feet (783 m) with an avarage incline of 65 degrees. This is the tallest waterfall in the continental United Stateswaterfall in the continental United States and it can be seen from just past the bridge over the Diablo Arm of Ross Lake about 2 miles before the trailhead. The reachability of waterfalls is very easy.

Colonial Creek Falls, Washington, United States (Height–788 meters or 2,585 ft)
Colonial Creek Falls, Washington, United States (Height–788 meters or 2,585 ft)

Image Source: Richard Droker

15. Mongefossen, Møre og Romsdal, Norway, (Height–773 meters or 2,536 ft)

Mongefossen is a waterfall situated in the Rauma Municipality of Møre og Romsdal county, Norway. The waterfall is falling from a hieght of 773 meters (2,536 ft). The beautiful waterfall is located near the European route E136 highway and the Rauma River, which it flows into.

Mongefossen, Møre og Romsdal, Norway, (Height–773 meters or 2,536 ft)
Mongefossen, Møre og Romsdal, Norway, (Height–773 meters or 2,536 ft)

Image source: Wikimedia

16. Gocta Cataracts, Amazonas, Peru, (Height–771 meters or 2,530 ft)

Gocta Cataracts is one of the highest waterfalls in the world by height located in Peru’s province of Bongara in the Amazonas. The waterfall is flowing into the river of the Cocahuayco River. The waterfall can be seen from several kilometers away and is named as Gocta Falls because of the nearest settlement in the area. It is also known as Gocta Waterfalls is a very inspiring waterfall with two drops that are located in the Province of Chachapoyas within the southern part of the Republic of Peru. The waterfall was discovered in the year 2005 with the help of Peruvian researchers in the jungles of the Peruvian Amazon.

Gocta Cataracts, Amazonas, Peru
Gocta Cataracts, Amazonas, Peru

Image Source: Wikimedia

17. Cloudcap Falls (732 m (2,402 ft)

Cloudcap Falls is a lengthy series of cascades that originate from a small glacier located just below Cloudcap Peak on the eastern slope of Mount Shuksan. These falls have a total drop of around 2400 feet across a stretch of nearly 8/10 of a mile. It’s a continuous waterfall over a bedrock surface. However, most of it remains concealed from view because the creek has carved itself into the mountain, much like Sulphide Creek Falls which is close to it. Observing the falls is extremely challenging, as seeing them from the ground is nearly impossible. Even from the air, visibility is limited, and capturing photographs may not be worthwhile as clarity cannot be ensured.

Cloudcap Falls
Cloudcap Falls

Image Source: Wikimedia

18. Cascades de Trou de Fer (725 meters (2,379 ft)

The “Trou de Fer” stands as the tallest waterfall in France and ranks among the world’s highest. It descends in four distinct tiers, with the tallest measuring 305 meters, resulting in a total height of 725 meters. It presents a truly remarkable magical view. Exploring this hike in the heart of Reunion Island takes approximately 5 hours to cover a distance of 8 kilometers. The elevation changes involve both ups and downs totaling 170 meters. Participation in this group hike requires a good command of the French language.

Cascades de Trou de Fer
Cascades de Trou de Fer

Image Source: Wikimedia

19. Avalanche Basin Falls (707 metres (2,320 ft)

Avalanche Basin Falls is the northernmost among the prominent waterfalls that flow from the head of the Avalanche Lake cirque within Glacier National Park. These falls are supplied water by the northernmost section of the Sperry Glacier and multiple small mountain lakes and streams in the basin above. They cascade roughly 900 feet down the headwall. It resembles a horsetail-type waterfall, running parallel to the nearby Sperry Glacier Falls. A bit downstream from this waterfall, the stream takes the shape of Monument Falls. It was initially assumed that Monument Falls was the correct name for the waterfall we now identify as Avalanche Basin Falls.

Avalanche Basin Falls
Avalanche Basin Falls

20. Harrison Basin Falls (707 meters (2,320 ft)

The Harrison Glacier generates a substantial amount of meltwater, particularly during the summer months. It gives rise to as many as six separate streams that flow into Harrison Basin. These streams collectively descend over considerable distances. Among these, the largest and most remarkable stream forms an impressive waterfall, with a total drop of nearly 1,400 feet. This waterfall consists of two distinct sheer drops, one measuring 490 feet and the other 550 feet. It is separated by about 300 vertical feet of cascades. Additionally, smaller streams often join the mainstream, enhancing the waterfall’s grandeur, particularly during the peak of the snowmelt.

Harrison Basin Falls
Harrison Basin Falls

21. Chamberlain Falls (700 meters (2,297 ft)

The Chamberlain Falls run on the North Fork of the American River in California. It provides exciting opportunities for river adventure. You’ll traverse through massive granite boulders, narrow chutes, and challenging technical rapids, all while paddling along with your guides to navigate the tumultuous waters. A break for lunch allows you to unwind by the naturally flowing river, as the North Fork American River remains unobstructed by upstream dams. It offers a truly wild and untamed river experience. It’s important to note that this particular run is only available during the spring snowmelt and high water seasons.

Chamberlain Falls
Chamberlain Falls

22. Kadamaian Falls (700 meters (2,297 ft)

Kadamaian Waterfall is a cascading waterfall, standing at a height of approximately 700 meters (2,300 feet). It is located on the southern side of Mount Kinabalu. It holds the distinction of being the longest waterfall in Malaysia and is visible from the Tamparuli-Ranau road. However, reaching it is a bit challenging due to its remote location. While the waterfall itself may not be incredibly dramatic, its surroundings offer picturesque scenery, and it serves as a convenient spot to refill your water bottles. After completing a mountain climb, many visitors opt to spend a night at the Poring Hot Springs Resort to unwind. This resort is still within the expansive Kinabalu National Park.

Kadamaian Falls
Kadamaian Falls

Image Source: Karunakar

23. Lake Unknown Falls (680 meters (2,231 ft)

Lake Unknown is the water source for a massive waterfall that originates from the lake and forms multiple cascades down to the bottom of the Dart River valley. Although New Zealand topo maps indicate a 150-meter drop. This measurement likely pertains to the uppermost section, as the falls continue nearly continuously to the valley floor. The waterfall originates from Lake Unknown, a weird name that we assume describes its remoteness. It descends along the side of the Dart River Valley, with a total drop of nearly 700 meters. Many tourism companies offer jet boat tours on the Dart River, making it easy for visitors to observe the falls.

Lake Unknown Falls
Lake Unknown Falls

Image Source: Wikipedia

24. Cuquenan Falls (674 meters (2,211 ft)

One of the highest waterfalls in the world by height situated 22 kilometers from San Francisco de Yurani, Cuquenan Falls, or Kukenam, ranks as Venezuela’s second-tallest major waterfall. It is counted among the world’s top ten highest free-leaping waterfalls. These falls originate from the Kukenan Tepui, a mountain with flat, vertical sides, and they plunge dramatically in a single uninterrupted descent from a height of approximately 2200 feet (670 meters) until they gently flow down at the mountain’s base.

Cuquenan Falls
Cuquenan Falls

Image Source: Wikimedia

25. La Chorrera Falls (590 meters (1,936 ft)

Cascada la Chorrera Choachi, standing at a remarkable height of 590 meters is one of the highest waterfalls in the world by height holds the title of Colombia’s tallest waterfall. It is conveniently located just outside the capital city of Bogotá, making it easy to combine a visit to the smaller yet still impressive Cascada El Chiflon, which is nearby. These waterfalls in Bogotá are a definite must-see, but surprisingly, only a few tourists venture here to appreciate the wonders of Mother Nature. Consequently, especially during the week, the waterfall park is wonderfully quiet, often resembling a peaceful ghost town. It’s quite likely that you’ll encounter more wildlife than fellow visitors.

La Chorrera Falls
La Chorrera Falls

Image Source: Wikimedia

26. Kunchikal Falls (455 m (1,493 ft)

Kunchikal Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in the world by height situated near Masthikatte-Hulikal on the border of Shimoga and Udupi in Karnataka. The River Varahi creates this waterfall and descends from a height of 455 meters, forming a cascading spectacle over rocky boulders. Kunchikal Falls holds the distinction of being India’s highest waterfall and is ranked as the 116th tallest waterfall in the world. The River Varahi flows down from a higher elevation, creating this beautiful cascading display near the Hulikal Ghati Temple.

Kunchikal Falls
Kunchikal Falls

Image Source: Wikimedia

These are the highest waterfalls in the world by height. Kindly share and post your comments.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

You May Also Like