Waterfalls: characteristics and types. The biggest waterfalls in the world

A waterfall is a river, usually originating in the mountains. On the way of the water flow, sometimes there are cliffs and rapids, and then the water falls vertically down, with a roar and a lot of splashes. The greater the height of the cliff and the volume of falling water, the more impressive and bewitching this natural phenomenon looks. The number of waterfalls on Earth has not been accurately calculated, it is known that there are more large waterfalls known to researchers and tourists. But in any mountain system there are thousands of them, small and large, and today scientists still have the chance to make an extraordinary discovery.

The most powerful: how Brazil and Argentina shared it

Brazil and Argentina have been competing for the right to possess the greatest creation of nature since the late 1980s, because the most powerful waterfall in the world is located in two countries at the same time. Iguazu National Wonder is the oldest natural monument, the largest complex of waterfalls, consisting of 275 streams. The height of the water fall varies from 60 to 80 meters (this is a relatively small height), the length reaches 3000 meters.

Two national parks began to grow towards the waterfall from two sides - Argentinean (opened in 1909) and Brazilian (opened in 1939).

Today, Iguazu is the most visited site by tourists. “Dividing” it officially ceased in 1928, laying the border between countries right in the middle. In 1986, the UNESCO Foundation took Iguazu under its protection, approving the status of a conservation site for the complex.

Iguazu - ancient as the creation of the world

Europeans discovered Iguazu in 1541 as a result of exploring the conquered Indian lands and searching for the mythical country of El Dorado. The indigenous people - the Guarani Indians - called this place innocently: I-guasu (Big Water). The conquistadors, however, considered the name not noble enough and immediately began to rename the cascades in their own way. So Iguazu became the Leap of Saint Mary of Our Lady.

In fact, the waterfall demonstrates absolute contempt for any name whatever, because the history of the entire human civilization is negligible compared to it. Studies have shown that it is approximately 140 million years old. It arose at the confluence of the Iguazu River into the Parana River, but over time, basalt deposits - the walls of the waterfall - increased in volume, as a result of which the waterfall "creeped away" from the place of occurrence by 1-2 meters per year. As a result, today the Iguazu complex is located 28 km from Parana.

It is impossible to fully consider the Iguazu complex from one point - the streams are interspersed with sharp rocks and fragments of the jungle. For tourists, a 2-kilometer route was laid from rock to rock, its points are connected by rock-islands sticking out of the water.

There are many legends about the origin of the waterfall, which boil down to one version: the god fell in love with a mortal, but she refused him. The enraged deity took revenge on the girl, and doomed her to an eternal fall in a canoe from a waterfall.

Saint Mary with the Devil's Throat: object description

The largest object in the waterfall complex and the most powerful waterfall in the world is a horseshoe-shaped cliff, which is called the Devil's Throat. Here the greatest power of the falling water is recorded. The width of the "throat" is more than 150, and the length is more than 700 meters, in the very middle of the stream there is a border between Brazil and Argentina. Most of the waterfalls from the complex are located in Argentina, but the most stunning view of the Devil's Throat opens from Brazil. So the choice of a national park to visit becomes a real dilemma for tourists.

Separate waterfalls of the complex (there are 275 of them) are stretched out on a plane of 3000 meters. Of this distance, more than 900 meters are land - rocks sticking out of the water.

The most famous of the secondary waterfalls of the Iguazu complex:

  • "Two sisters",
  • "Adam and Eve"
  • "Three Musketeers",
  • "Salto Escondido" ("hidden fall"),
  • "Salto Floriano" ("flower fall"),
  • "San Martin" ("Saint Martin"),
  • "Ramirez"

Iguazu Power Controversy

Iguazu is higher than Niagara, but much lower than Victoria, and besides, it is unstable: it is known that Iguazu completely dried up in 1978 due to low rainfall.

The debate about the importance of one criterion over another is reflected in the following table, where Iguazu, alas, is not in the first place:

Name A country Average water flow (meter per second)
Boyoma (Livingston Falls) Kinshasa 17 000*
Khon Laos/Cambodia 11 610
Ngaliema Congo 6 550
Niagara USA/Canada 5 936
Grande Argentina 4 500
Paulo Afonso Brazil 2 800
Urubupunga Brazil 2 750
Iguazu Argentina/Brazil 1 700
Maribond Brazil 1 500
Cabalega Uganda 1 200
Victoria Zimbabwe 1 100
Churchill Canada 1 000

Angel Falls is located on the territory of the state of Venezuela in the Canaima National Park on the mainland of South America. It was discovered by the Spanish pioneer Ernesto Sanchez la Cruz, not so long ago, namely in 1910. However, the whole world learned about it even later - in 1935, when it was discovered, flying by plane nearby, by the American pilot and gold digger J.K. Angel. Actually, his name (or rather, his surname) is the name of the waterfall (in Spanish, Angel sounds like Angel).

The height of the Angel Falls is 979 (according to other sources - 1054) meters, which is twenty times higher than Niagara. It falls from the top of Mount Auyantepui. Moreover, falling from a kilometer height, the water does not reach the end, but descends in fog, creeping for many kilometers around the waterfall. It was possible to measure the height of the giant in 1949 by the official expedition of the National Geographic Society.

The discovery was a matter of chance, the monoplane controlled by him was stuck in the impenetrable jungle. This is where Jimmy spotted the giant waterfall. His plane lay at the site of an unsuccessful landing for 33 years, remaining a silent witness to the discovery of its owner, until it was lifted by a helicopter.

In 2009, the late President of Venezuela, guided by anti-imperialist aspirations, renamed the main attraction of his country in Kerepakupai-meru (one of the names of the local population). But for the whole world, it is still better known by its original name.

Oddly enough, the highest waterfall in the world - Angel (full name Salto Angel) - is not the most famous and popular in the world. Much more popular are Niagara Falls in North America and Victoria Falls in Africa. This is largely due to the not very good location of the giant. On all sides it is surrounded by impenetrable tropical forest. You can only get to it by plane or helicopter or along the Kerep River, the final destination of Angel.

Tours to the Salto Angel waterfall are organized by air from the capital of the country, Caracas, and from the city of Ciudad Bolivar, they are sold in sets. The package also includes landing in the village of Canaima, where the entrance to the National Park is located, followed by a water crossing directly to the waterfall, food, as well as all the necessary accessories.

In conclusion, it is worth saying that Venezuela is rich in waterfalls. In particular, not far from Angel is the Acha waterfall, a little further - Arrasin waterfall, on the border with Guyana.

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Eco-tourism and everything related to it is experiencing an incredible rise. This is due to the development of infrastructure and a change in priorities among people. Now it is not so difficult to get to almost anywhere in the world, and the usual entertainments no longer seem so interesting to travelers. Among natural attractions, waterfalls are one of the first places in popularity.

They are beautiful in their own right, and often a unique ecosystem develops around, pleasing to the eye and giving a lot of impressions. Waterfalls vary in size, are scattered all over the world, many legends are associated with them, both those with a factual basis and completely fantastic. Seeing at least some is a good goal for a vacation.

The largest and most beautiful waterfalls in the world

1. Iguazu

Not just one waterfall, but a whole complex. Most of its parts have separate names. Located on the border of Brazil and Argentina. They are located on the river of the same name and are part of the national parks of both countries. The maximum height is 82 meters, width - 2700 meters. Between themselves, the waterfalls are separated by islands. Tourism in the surrounding area is booming. The property offers a shuttle service, souvenirs and waterproof clothing.

2. Kayetur

Located in Guyana on the Potaro River. From here it is not so far to the border with Venezuela. Height - 226 meters, width varies from 90 to 105 meters. Belonging to the national park allowed to preserve the waterfall almost in its original form. The location also played an important role in this: it is difficult to get to it. Near the foot of the waterfall it is constantly cloudy, and there are endless waves on the water.


3. Victoria

Located on the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. Situated on the Zambezi River. Height - 120 meters, width - about 1800 meters. It is unique in the ratio of these two indicators. The name is received in honor of the English queen. It is part of two national parks. Tourists come to enjoy the views as well as rafting through the many rapids, which are also suitable for beginner rafters.


4. Angel

Located in Venezuela. The approximate height is 979 meters, which makes it the world record holder. Width - 107 meters. Located in a national park surrounded by tropical forests. Water falls from the top of Auyan-Tepui into the Kerep River. Because the height of the fall is so impressive, the water below splits into small particles and forms fog. You can get here by plane or by river. There are special tours.


5. Gokta

Located in Peru. Its height is 771 meters. It has an extremely small pool, so the volume of water during the fall varies depending on the amount of precipitation and the season. Surrounded by wet jungle. Rare species of birds and animals live here, some are on the verge of extinction. The waterfall can only be visited with a local guide, you have to pay for it. There are many sugar cane plantations nearby.


6. Virginia

Located in Canada in the national park. Included in the basin of the river South Nahanni. The height of the mountain peak on which the waterfall is located is about 500 meters. The height of the water fall is 96 meters. Width fluctuates around 260 meters. Rainbows are a frequent sight here, they are formed from the so-called "water dust". Nearby there are many viewing platforms, there are thermal springs.


7. Hanging Glacier Waterfall

Located in Chile. There are about two thousand glaciers of various sizes in the district. On one of them - the only one hanging in the world - there is a waterfall. The name is unofficial. Water falls down after melting. The intensity depends on the season. The height is about 550 meters. Belongs to the territory of the national park. It is almost impossible to get close, but the nearby lake offers a beautiful view of the waterfall.


8. San Rafael

Located in Ecuador on the Quijos River. Massive rocks, densely covered with greenery, form something like a relief depression, from where the water falls down. The cascade is double, so the height is divided into two sectors: 50 and 100 meters, respectively. Width - about 14 meters. At the foot lies a thick fog. It also raises a lot of spray and is very noisy. It is part of the national park, there is an observation deck.


9. Niagara Falls

A complex of waterfalls in the United States and Canada. Each of the waterfalls has its own name. The total height is approximately 53 meters, and the width is 792 meters. Used to get energy. Tourism is developed to the maximum. There are all kinds of excursions, various souvenirs. Observation platforms are made both near and at a sufficient distance to provide guests with the opportunity to see the entire panorama.


10. Jog

It is located in India on the Sharavati River. It has several names associated with both origin and pronunciation: Gersoppa, Yog and others. Height - 255 meters. Such impressive dimensions are explained by belonging to the Western Ghats mountain system. Consists of four cascades. It is used to generate electricity, generating power within 891 MW.


11. Helmcken Falls

Located in Canadian Provincial Park. Height - 42 meters. The wall behind the waterfall is partially frozen for the winter. Icicles of various sizes appear here and some kind of glacier. Climbers in especially cold periods get out here for climbs. There are several viewing platforms nearby, picnic areas and other types of outdoor recreation are equipped.


12. Takakkau

Located in Canada in the national park. The name is derived from the language of the natives and is translated as an expression of delight. The height from top to bottom is more than 380 meters. The intensity of the water fall is different and varies depending on the season. The waterfall feeds a lake located on a glacier and flows into the Yoho River. At the base on fine days you can often see a rainbow.


13. Dettifoss

It is located on the territory of Iceland on the river Jökulsau-au-Fjödlum. Included in the national park. Height - about 44 meters, width - about 100 meters. Its capacity exceeds similar indicators of other European indicators. It is not a typical tourist destination, but attracts travelers who are familiar with the topic. There are other waterfalls within a radius of a couple of kilometers.


14. Odegard (Odegaard Falls)

Located in Canada. It flows smoothly from the rocky terrain into the valley. At the same time, the height remains impressive from the top to the bottom. The waterfall has many steps and rapids. The area around is perfect for hiking, there are prepared "islands" for tourist camps. It will take a long time to get there by car. Transport will not pass everywhere - you will eventually have to walk.


15. Calandula

Located in Angola on the Lucala River. Height - more than 105 meters, width - 400 meters. Heterogeneous: there are many watersheds in the form of boulders, rocks and other things. The trip to the waterfall is long, although the roads are good. This explains the not too great popularity of the attraction. There are dense forests of mixed type in the district. Down below, collapses occur due to sediment, which erodes large stones.


16. Gullfoss

Located in Iceland on the Hvitau River. The name translates as "golden waterfall". Height - 32 meters. The volume of water varies seasonally, rising in summer. There are two steps, and they are located at an angle of ninety degrees to each other. Gullfoss was on the verge of destruction due to attempts to build a power plant here. Now there is a popular tourist route.


17. Sutherland

Located in New Zealand, the highest in Oceania - 580 meters from top to bottom. The waterfall is not wide, especially when viewed from a distance and correlated with height. It has several steps, the largest is located almost in the center. The place is very picturesque: a reservoir is visible from a height, from which a waterfall is formed, spray rises below. Rocks are heterogeneous covered with greenery.


18. Langfossen

Located in Norway on the Vaule River. Height - 612 meters, width - 76 meters. Its base goes directly to the modern track. For this reason, they often visit the waterfall: someone on purpose, as it is easy to get there, someone passing through, even initially not knowing about this attraction. Langfossen consists of smooth cascades, which distinguishes it from most waterfalls. The power of the flow is unchanged.


19. Gaganachukki Falls

Located in India. In fact, there is a lot of confusion associated with this waterfall. Sometimes it is mentioned as a separate natural segment, and sometimes as part of a complex. It is located in close proximity to the Barachukki waterfall and, according to some sources, is a component of Shivanasamudra. Has numerous thresholds. The total height is within 90 meters. A power plant has been built here.


20. Mardalsfossen

Located in Norway. The name is derived from the valley where it is located. Height - in the range from 645 to 705 meters (different measurement methods due to the heterogeneity of the waterfall). Width - 24 meters. There are several ledges, and two large ones, visible to the naked eye even from afar, they break the waterfall into pieces. A power station was built nearby. Disputes about the expediency of its work are still ongoing.


21. Vettisfossen

It is located in Norway in the valley of the Utla River. The height of the free fall of water is about 275 meters, the width is about 23 meters. At the bottom, the power of the jet is reduced due to the dispersion of water, which makes the waterfall quite quiet. It does not freeze for the winter, the speed and strength of the stream also do not undergo any special changes. Unlike other large waterfalls in the country, Vettisfossen is not used for energy.


22. Ruacana

It is located in Namibia on the Kunene River. It is located almost on the border with Angola. Height - 124 meters, width - 695 meters. Since the rainy season gives way to the dry season in this area, the level and thickness of the water in the falls are very variable. There is also a hydroelectric power station here, which not only provides the region with energy, but also saves part of the water for irrigation and sanitary needs.


23. Augrabis

Located in South Africa on the Orange River. The height is about 146 meters. Situated in a gorge. It is part of the national park, and it was formed specifically to preserve the waterfall and its environs. Several species of rare animals live here, including black rhinos, which were artificially re-settled here. There are several viewing platforms and comfortable climbs.


24. Hafragilsfoss

It is located in Iceland on the river Jökulsau au Fjödlum. Is the "neighbor" of Dettifoss. Included in the national park. Height - about 27 meters, width - ranges from 91 meters. In terms of power, it is inferior to other waterfalls in the area, but it has the best panoramic view. Thanks to the built observation deck, tourists can have a good look not only at Hafragilsfoss, but also around.


25. Søtefossen

Located in Norway on the river Kinso. Above - bare rocks with frost, below - dense forests with moss-covered ground. The maximum height is within 246 meters. The waterfall is multi-stage, has a pronounced division into segments. The nature around is included in a specially protected zone. It is not easy for tourists to get there, but the view is worth it. Human intervention is minimal.


26. Hunlen Falls

Located in Canada. The maximum height to the foot is 365 meters. The continuous water fall is less than 260 meters. You can get to this natural attraction by plane - about 20 minutes from the nearest settlement. On foot - about half an hour from the road to the observation deck. There are many scenic spots nearby, including Lonely Lake.


27. Gokak

Located in India. The height of the water fall is 50 meters, the width is about 177 meters. The water level changes depending on the season. Gokak feeds the hydroelectric power plant and supplies energy to the entire district. At the foot of the mountain lies a dense fog, which is formed due to drops of moisture breaking into fractions. The waterfall can be observed from several equipped points. It's always very noisy there.


28. Twin Falls

Located in Canada. The height is about 180 meters, but the height of the continuous fall of water is less. The width varies from 18 to 30 meters. Not far from the foot passes the railway track. There are not so many convenient points for a panoramic view of Twin, so tourists cannot fully enjoy the local beauties. Included in the national park.


29. Basaseachi

Located in Mexico on the river of the same name. The second largest waterfall in the country. The height is approximately 246 meters. Included in the national park. The fall of water is absolutely vertical: from the mountain to the valley. The stream is narrow, but expands near the ground, forming foam and numerous splashes. The rocks of the canyon are covered with vegetation only at the top and at the foot.


30. Tjørnadalsfossen

It is located in Norway near Sandvinvatnet lake. The total height is about 500 meters, width is about 60 meters. For the most part, the water does not drain sharply, there are many thresholds and steps of different sizes. The slopes are partially covered with vegetation, but it is not uniform. You can approach the very base of Tjørndalsfossen, as there is a road and numerous hiking trails nearby.


31. Nevada

Located in the United States and part of the Yosemite National Park - one of the most popular in the country. Water falls from a height of 181 meters. A tourist route has been laid out, allowing you to get acquainted with the waterfall in detail. Its length is slightly less than four and a half kilometers. There are also parking lots and several viewing platforms.


32. Lower Yellowstone Falls

It is located on the territory of the most popular national park of the same name in the United States. There are many waterfalls here, but this one stands out from the crowd. Water falls down in a powerful stream directly from the canyon from a height of 94 meters. There is fog at the bottom. The width is modest, especially when compared with Niagara. Viewing platforms are equipped on different sides, some are close, others provide an opportunity to admire panoramic views.


33. Shoshone

Located in the USA on the Snake River. The height is 65 meters, the width is heterogeneous - about 300 meters. Here, numerous rapids and steps divide the waterfall into separate factions. This makes the picture even more picturesque, but reduces its integrity. The time of year affects the intensity of the flow and the water level. The rainbow constantly appears at the foot on sunny days.


34. Barron Falls

Located in Australia on the river of the same name. Height - 256 meters. The flow is heterogeneous; water flows down the gorge in separate streams. Especially a lot of water in the rainy season. When viewed from a specially equipped platform, the picture looks almost intimidating. Foamy, slightly beige-brown streams rush down, and the fog envelops the green rocks on the sides.


35. Snoqualmie

It is located in the United States on the river of the same name, between two mountains. Height - 82 meters. The natural attraction is popular with tourists; about one and a half million people visit it annually. Even a working power plant is a historical value of the state. It is convenient to get there, there is a parking lot, trails, there are several equidistant viewing platforms.


36. Vøringsfossen

Located in Norway on the Bjoreyu River. The height is 182 meters, but the water falls freely from 145 meters. The flow is not too intense, it is influenced, among other things, by seasonality and a nearby power plant. At the same time, there are restrictions on energy production and water use in order to prevent a negative impact on the environment and not damage the local microclimate.


37. Alexandra (Alexandra Falls)

Located in Canada on the River Hay. Nearby there are many other natural beauties, hiking trails are laid, two viewing platforms are equipped from different sides. The flow is strong and wide. The height is approximately 32 meters. A highway has been built within a few kilometers. In the lower reaches there are many well-passable rapids that attract kayakers: from beginners to pros.


38. Krimmler

Located in Austria. Also called Krimml. In fact, this is not one waterfall, but a cascade. They are located on the river with a similar name - Krimler-Ahe. The total height is within 380 meters. The current varies depending on the season, and significantly. The same thing happens with the water level. In some places the stream is violent and falls almost vertically, in others it is weaker and flows down the rapids and ledges smoothly.


39. Yosemite Falls

It is located in the USA on the territory of the national park of the same name - the most popular and visited in the country. Height - 739 meters. It is noteworthy that a beautiful view opens both from the lowland, right from the road, and from the observation platforms at the top. The rock from which the water falls is almost completely sheer. The noise from the waterfall spreads throughout the valley: this is not only because of its power, but also because of the special acoustics.


40. Skogafoss

Located in Iceland on the Skougau River. Height - 60 meters, width - 25 meters. Previously, it approached directly to the coastline, now the sea has receded, making the waterfall very convenient for viewing. It is popular with tourists, in the area there are observation platforms, souvenirs, and convenient approaches, as well as parking lots for vehicles. At the foot you can observe a rainbow, sometimes a double one.


41. Waterfalls of the Plitvite Lakes

They are located in Croatia on the territory of the national park. The total number of waterfalls is about thirty. The numbers are inaccurate due to the difference in assessment approaches: some researchers combine waterfalls into cascades, while others name them separately. Among the waterfalls, one can single out: Batinovachki, Galovachki, Velika cascade, as well as Sastavtsi - the most beautiful, whose height is 72 meters.


42. Huangguoshu

Located in China in the mountainous province of Guizhou. Since there are many mountains and reservoirs, waterfalls are also not uncommon. Huangguoshu stands out among the neighbors. Its height is 78 meters, width is approximately 101 meters. The strength of the stream is not uniform, there are several separate channels separated by small rocky ledges. The waterfall can be viewed from several angles, including from a cave hidden behind a water wall.


43. Waterfalls of the Blue Nile (Tis-Ysat)

They are located in Ethiopia on the river of the same name. They have difficult to measure height and width. The top point is about 45 meters from the foot, and individual streams form a line within 400 meters. Nearby is a stone bridge built in the 17th century by the Portuguese. The cascade of waterfalls is surrounded by picturesque mountains and a green valley.


44. Detian

Located in China and Vietnam. During the flood, the waterfall looks like a single whole, in the rest of the period - the watershed line is clearly visible. In the lower reaches there is a lake that attracts tourists no less than Detian. Nearby you can also see caves, a forest of water stones and other natural attractions. Excursions here are popular routes for visitors.


45. Dunns River

Located in Jamaica in a natural park. The total height is 180 meters. Moreover, the current here is not rough, there are many thresholds and steps. The water flows directly into the Caribbean Sea. Tourists make hiking ascents right along the waterfall. Convenient routes help park staff and hired guides. At the foot you can swim or spend time in the shade of abundant vegetation.


46. ​​Rhine Falls

Located in Switzerland on the river of the same name. Height - 23 meters, width - 150 meters. Belongs to the type of flat waterfalls. The strength of the flow in winter and summer differs significantly. You can get to the observation decks for a fee, it is different, depending on the convenience and viewing angle. Nearby there are historical and architectural sights, which complements the trip with impressions.


47. Ouzoud

Located in Morocco in the High Atlas Mountains. The height is approximately 110 meters. The flow of water is heterogeneous and stretched, and part of the cascade is located at an angle of ninety degrees to the main drain. Monkeys come to the waterfall at sunset. At the top, water mills were built, which are still functioning. You can get to Ouzoud through olive tree plantations.


48. Multnomah

Located in the USA in the Columbia River Canyon. Divided into two sections. Since the width of the threshold allows, a bridge has been built across it. The total height is 189 meters. The waterfall is fed from several sources, including underground and melted snow. Therefore, the water level is practically unchanged from season to season. However, Maltoma can partially freeze.


49. Montmorency

Located in Canada. For Quebec and the whole country - a popular tourist route. For this reason, the infrastructure here is well developed to the smallest detail. Detailed ascent routes have been developed, but it is rather difficult. There are special bridges and tiled passages. The total height is 84 meters. The flow of water is swift, foaming from the speed of the flow and falling, a rainbow and fog form below.


50. Marmore (Marble)

Located in Italy. The total height of the three tiers is 165 meters. The name comes from the rocks, which in places are very similar to marble. Water cascades down. Since part of the year the slopes are covered with dense vegetation, and diverse, both in form and in color, the picture becomes picturesque. It is easy to get here, there are quite a lot of observation platforms, both natural and built.


There are a lot of unique, beautiful places on our planet and the most impressive objects of mother nature are waterfalls. They are truly beautiful, you can look at them for hours watching how tens of tons of water in a continuous stream falls from the ledge, creating an incomparable view. But which waterfall is the highest on earth, and where is it located - that's what we'll talk about in today's article.

The highest waterfall in the world - this is Angel in Venezuela with a height of almost 979 meters (although some believe that it is 75 meters higher and its real height is 1 km. 54 m, but despite this, it takes an honorable first place).

For the first time, it was mentioned by the Venezuelan researcher Ernesto Sanchez La Cruz in 1912, but still did not officially publish his discovery.


21 years later, on November 16, 1933, American pilot Jimmy Crawford Angel accidentally noticed him when he was flying in his small plane, and the waterfall was named after him.


After a few years, he decided to return to him and learn more about him. Taking their wife and three comrades with them, they tried to land nearby, but due to the fact that the plane was damaged and its wheels were completely sunk in marshy soil, they had to descend on foot to the very bottom. It took them 11 days to reach civilization.


A little later, after 18 years, the Latvian explorer Alexander Laime in 1955 decided to independently reach this area and, as a result of long efforts, he succeeded. In the mid-60s, it was possible to raise the fallen plane and it was taken to one of the aviation museums.


Angel Falls is one of Venezuela's top tourist attractions, but even today, getting there is not an easy task.



3. The Three Sisters waterfall is located in Peru, deep in the forests and got its name due to the fact that it is divided into three parts. Its height is 914 meters.

4. "Olupena" - the highest waterfall in the United States, located in Hawaii, it is only 14 meters less than the "Three Sisters". Around him, there are several, so getting close to him without special transport is impossible in principle.

5. "Yumbilla" - located near the well-known Amazon River. As for its height, here the numbers diverge a little. Some sources claim that its real height is 870 m, but other slopes claim that it is 25 meters higher.

6. Norwegian V.Vinnufossen ranks sixth in our ranking, and is the highest waterfall in Europe - 860 meters.

7. In Russia, Talnikovy waterfall is considered the highest - 600 meters.

The highest waterfalls in the world

Waterfalls have always attracted tourists. Water falling from a height is very mesmerizing. Especially if it's a dizzying height. Your attention is invited to the five highest waterfalls in the world, which attract both ordinary tourists and extreme lovers.

1. Angel Falls

Salto Angel is the highest waterfall on our planet. It is located in an exotic country - Venezuela. True, there are still disputes regarding the height of this waterfall: some argue that the water falls from 1054 meters, others insist that it is necessary to count differently, and the height is only 979 meters. The only thing that no one disputes is that this is the highest waterfall in the world.

The local name of the waterfall - Churum-Meru comes from the name of the river Churum, which feeds the waterfall. It enters the Orinoco river basin.

To admire the beauty of Angel, tourists must first get to the capital of Venezuela, the city of Caracas. Then their path lies to the Indian settlement of Canaima. Thanks to the influx of tourists, Canaima has become a real tourist center, with hotels, entertainment centers and shops. From November to May, in case of favorable weather, the waterfall can be admired from the board of a small aircraft, which allows travelers to enjoy beautiful views of Angel and its surroundings, flying over Mount Auyan Tepui (Devil's Mountain), from which the highest waterfall falls. In addition, from Canaima to the lower reaches of Angel can be reached by motor canoe, however, in this case, the tour will last for the whole day. The most courageous travelers get to the waterfall directly, through the jungle.

The second highest is the Tugela Falls, which is located in South Africa. Its height is 948 meters. It got its name from the Tugela River, on which it is located. In winter (winter in the southern hemisphere begins in June), the mountain ledge Amphitheater, on which Tugela is located, often freezes. But in the summer, the waterfall is visited by many tourists. It is especially popular with lovers of mountain biking and fishing. In addition, via two suspension bridges you can get to the observation deck located above the waterfall and admire the five-stage cascade of the Tugela waterfall.

On the third line of this rating is Gokta. Until recently, Yosemite Falls occupied this place, but in 2005, Gokta Falls, 771 meters high, was discovered in Peru. As you can see, geographical discoveries are still taking place today. Gokta is located 650 kilometers from the capital of Peru, in an impenetrable selva. The discoverers from the Peruvian-German expedition named the waterfall after the nearby village of Gokota. Nearby are the ruins of the Chachapoya Indian fortress Kuelap. In the years 1000-1400, a rather large city of Kuelap was located here. Unfortunately, at present, only tourists who prefer extreme sports can admire this waterfall.

This is the highest waterfall in North America. Its height is 727 meters. It is located in the USA, in the state of California, in Yosemite National Park. In years with little snow in winter, the waterfall dries up in autumn (sometimes this happens at the end of summer). So it is best to visit this waterfall in the spring when it appears in all its glory.

Norway is famous for its many waterfalls. The highest waterfall in Europe Utigard is also located here. Many tourists visit the surroundings of Lake Duen to admire how water falls from a height of 610 meters, originating on the Jostedal glacier. Numerous tourists are attracted by the virgin beauty of this area.

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