8 best waterfalls in the world

Prepare to get wet at the world's best waterfalls, from the mighty Victoria Falls to the border-straddling Iguazu Falls between Brazil and Argentina. One thing's for sure, you'll have to pick your jaw up off the floor after seeing these...

Tourists at Iguazu Falls on the border of Brazil and Argentina. Photo: Shutterstock

Few landscapes are quite as mesmerising as those with a waterfall. Let's face it, though: No two are created equal. We searched high and low for the absolute best waterfalls in the world

1. Erawan Waterfall, Thailand

A little over two hours northwest of Bangkok is Erawan National Park, which plays host to some of the most dazzling waterfalls in all of Asia. The crown jewel here is its eponymous falls, inspired by the mythical white elephant of the same name. As Time Travel Turtle describes in his own adventures, the dreamy, cascading waterfalls are what make this park such a stunner. See it for yourself on an epic Insight Guides trip from Bangkok to Hua Hin.

2. Iguazu Falls, Argentina

If it's a quiet, babbling waterfall you're expecting, then Iguazu Falls will surely disappoint. This mighty natural wonder, which is actually comprised of 275 waterfalls, is a force to be reckoned with. As CNN reports, Iguazu is twice as large as Niagara Falls. The final result is a roaring, jaw-dropping example of Mother Nature at her best. You'll find it on Insight Guides' Argentina's Northern Highlights trip. What are you waiting for?

3. Victoria Falls, South Africa

We can't very well spotlight the world's best waterfalls and not give Victoria Falls the shout-out it deserves. This awe-inspiring site forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, boasting jagged cliffs and dizzying drops to the rocky canyons below. Visitors say that the sound of Victoria Falls is actually its most distinctive quality; booming and unmistakable. Add this one to your South African travel itinerary with Insight Guides' Cape Peninsula to Victoria Falls vacation.

Victoria Falls is the largest curtain of water in the world (1,708 m wide). Photo: Shutterstock

4. Pearl Shoal Waterfall, China

Jiuzhaigou Valley is home to Pearl Shoal Waterfall, a spectacular Chinese landmark that stretches over 500 feet wide. The backdrop, made up of lush, green woodland, is perhaps its most noteworthy feature. The contrast of rushing white water against the verdant forest is breathtaking. According to Natureflip, the falls got their name thanks to the "pearly" water drops you see as the flow heads toward the fall. There's plenty more to see in this incredible country; take it all in with Insight Guides' Best of China trip.

5. Kegon Falls, Japan

A long, narrow rush of water cascading from a super-high rocky outcrop is the signature image of Japan's Kegon Falls. In fact, the drop itself measures up at over 300 feet high. Hiding in Nikko National Park, a little over two hours north of Tokyo, this natural phenomenon is one of Asia's most treasured waterfalls. This particular beauty releases over a ton of water every second, according to Voyapon. Venture off the beaten path and see it for yourself while on Insight Guides' Completely Japan getaway.

Kegon falls in Japan. Photo: Shutterstock

6. La Paz Waterfall, Costa Rica

With unreal tropical jungles, gorgeous coastlines, and eco-adventures galore, Costa Rica already stands on its own as a nature lover's paradise. The fact that you'll also find epic waterfalls in these parts only solidifies it as the go-to luxury travel destination. The La Paz River, as Traveling Ted describes, actually flows through a number of gorges, creating exquisite waterfalls in the process. Sneak a peek at some waterfalls on Insight Guides' Costa Rica Eco Adventure.

7. Athirapally Falls, India

Majestic and grandiose, Athirapally Falls in Kerala towers a whopping 80 feet high. It also brings together the Chalakudy River. According to Kerala Tourism, the picturesque locale is only three miles from the equally divine Vazhachal waterfall. The scenic area is just another reason why this heavenly bit of India should be on your bucket list. Insight Guides makes it easy with its Magical Kerala vacation.

8. St. Clair's Falls, Sri Lanka

St. Clair's Falls may not look like your average waterfall, but that hasn't kept it from earning a reputation for being one of the most alluring sites in all of Sri Lanka. St. Clair's is made up of two falls, both of which are found not far from Talawakele. Set wide and low, the falls are surrounded by abundant greenery that's nothing short of lovely. Take it all in with Insight Guides' Perfectly Sri Lanka trip.

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