Waterfalls are one of nature’s most spectacular gifts, offering us a glimpse of the power and beauty of water. They come in different shapes, sizes and types, and can be found on every continent. But which countries have the most waterfalls in the world? That’s not an easy question to answer, as different sources may use different criteria to rank them. Some may focus on the height, width or volume of the falls, while others may consider the number or diversity of the falls.
Top 10 Countries with Most Waterfalls in the World
In this article, we will try to give you a balanced overview of the top 10 countries with most waterfalls in the world, based on various sources and factors. Let’s dive in!
10. Iceland
Iceland is a land of fire and ice, and also of waterfalls. The island nation has over 10,000 waterfalls, many of which are fed by melting glaciers or geothermal springs. Some of the most famous ones include Gullfoss (the Golden Falls), Seljalandsfoss (which you can walk behind), Skógafoss (which has a rainbow on sunny days), Dettifoss (the most powerful waterfall in Europe), and Goðafoss (the Waterfall of the Gods).
9. Norway
Norway is another country blessed with abundant waterfalls, especially along its western coast where the mountains meet the sea. The country has over 1,000 named waterfalls, and many more unnamed ones. Some of the most impressive ones include Vøringsfossen (which drops 597 feet in two stages), Kjosfossen (which is near the scenic Flåm Railway), Mardalsfossen (which is one of the tallest free-falling waterfalls in Europe), and Langfossen (which flows directly into a fjord).
8. Canada
Canada is home to some of the largest and most famous waterfalls in the world, such as Niagara Falls (which it shares with the US), Horseshoe Falls (which is part of Niagara Falls), Montmorency Falls (which is higher than Niagara Falls), Athabasca Falls (which is in the Jasper National Park), and Takakkaw Falls (which is one of the highest in Canada). The country has over 100 major waterfalls, and many more smaller ones.
7. Brazil
Brazil is a tropical country with a rich biodiversity and a variety of landscapes, including some stunning waterfalls. The most notable one is Iguazu Falls, which is one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world. It consists of 275 individual falls that span across the border with Argentina. Other notable waterfalls in Brazil include Cachoeira da Fumaça (which means Smoke Falls), Salto do Itiquira (which is one of the highest in Brazil), and Cataratas do Iguaçu (which is another name for Iguazu Falls).
6. Zambia/Zimbabwe
Zambia and Zimbabwe share one of the most iconic waterfalls in the world: Victoria Falls. Also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), Victoria Falls is the largest waterfall in the world by area, measuring 5,604 feet wide and 354 feet high. It is also one of the most visited tourist attractions in Africa, attracting millions of visitors every year. Apart from Victoria Falls, both countries also have other beautiful waterfalls, such as Kalambo Falls (which is one of the tallest in Africa), Mutarazi Falls (which is the second highest in Africa), and Chisimba Falls (which is a complex of three falls).
5. New Zealand
New Zealand is a country of natural wonders, and waterfalls are no exception. The country has over 200 named waterfalls, and many more unnamed ones. Some of the most remarkable ones include Sutherland Falls (which is one of the tallest in the world), Milford Sound Waterfalls (which are a series of cascades along a fjord), Huka Falls (which are very popular among tourists), and Purakaunui Falls (which are very photogenic).
4. China
China is a vast country with diverse geography and climate, which results in a variety of waterfalls. Some of the most famous ones include Huangguoshu Waterfall (which is one of the largest in Asia), Detian Waterfall (which is on the border with Vietnam), Hukou Waterfall (which is on the Yellow River), and Jiuzhaigou Waterfall (which is in a scenic national park). China has over 300 major waterfalls, and many more minor ones.
3. Venezuela
Venezuela is a country with a rich natural heritage, and waterfalls are one of its highlights. The most notable one is Angel Falls, which is the highest waterfall in the world, dropping 3,212 feet from a tabletop mountain. It is also one of the most isolated and difficult to access waterfalls in the world, requiring a flight or a boat ride to reach. Other impressive waterfalls in Venezuela include Kukenan Falls (which is near Angel Falls), Salto Aponwao (which is in a rainforest), and Salto Ucaima (which is in a national park).
2. United States
The United States is a country with a diverse landscape and a wealth of waterfalls. Some of the most famous ones include Yosemite Falls (which is one of the highest in North America), Niagara Falls (which it shares with Canada), Grand Canyon Waterfalls (which are in one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world), and Multnomah Falls (which is one of the most visited in the US). The country has over 1,000 major waterfalls, and many more smaller ones.
1. Argentina
Argentina is a country with a stunning natural beauty and a plethora of waterfalls. The most prominent one is Iguazu Falls, which it shares with Brazil. It is one of the largest and most spectacular waterfalls in the world, consisting of 275 individual falls that span across the border. Other notable waterfalls in Argentina include Salto del Angel (which is not to be confused with Angel Falls in Venezuela), Salto Grande (which is in a national park), and Salto Bernabé Méndez (which is near Iguazu Falls).
Conclusion
Waterfalls are one of the most amazing natural phenomena that can awe and inspire us. They can be found in every corner of the world, and each one has its own unique charm and beauty. The countries we have listed above have some of the most waterfalls in the world, but they are not the only ones. There are many more countries that have wonderful waterfalls that are worth visiting and exploring. We hope this article has given you some ideas and inspiration for your next travel adventure!
Most Asked Questions and Answers
- Q: Which is the largest waterfall in the world by area?
- A: Victoria Falls, which is on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is the largest waterfall in the world by area, measuring 5,604 feet wide and 354 feet high.
- Q: Which is the highest waterfall in the world?
- A: Angel Falls, which is in Venezuela, is the highest waterfall in the world, dropping 3,212 feet from a tabletop mountain.
- Q: Which is the most powerful waterfall in the world by volume?
- A: Inga Falls, which is in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is the most powerful waterfall in the world by volume, moving at a rate of over 900,000 cubic feet per second.
- Q: Which country has the most waterfalls in the world?
- A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as different sources may use different criteria to rank them. However, some of the countries that have a lot of waterfalls include Iceland, Norway, Canada, Brazil, Zambia/Zimbabwe, New Zealand, China, Venezuela, United States and Argentina.
- Q: What are the different types of waterfalls?
- A: There are many types of waterfalls, such as cascades, horsetails, plunges, cataracts, fans, squares, and frozen falls. Each type has its own characteristics and features.
- Q: How are waterfalls formed?
- A: Waterfalls are formed when water flows over an edge or a cliff due to gravity. They can be caused by various factors, such as erosion, tectonic movements, volcanic activity, glacial retreats or human interventions.
- Q: What are the benefits of waterfalls?
- A: Waterfalls have many benefits for humans and nature. They can provide hydroelectric power, irrigation, tourism revenue, recreation opportunities, habitat for wildlife, air purification, noise reduction and aesthetic value.
- Q: What are some of the dangers of waterfalls?
- A: Waterfalls can also pose some dangers for humans and nature. They can cause floods, landslides, erosion, accidents, injuries or deaths.
- Q: What are some of the best ways to enjoy waterfalls?
- A: There are many ways to enjoy waterfalls depending on your preferences and abilities. Some of them include hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting, swimming, boating or flying over them.
- Q: What are some of the best tips for visiting waterfalls?
- A: Some of the best tips for visiting waterfalls include doing your research beforehand on their location, accessibility, seasonality, safety, and regulations; packing appropriate gear, clothing, and snacks; respecting nature, wildlife, and local culture; taking photos, videos, or sou