10 tallest waterfalls in the world: From Angel Falls in Venezeula to Olo’Upena Falls in the US

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Waterfalls remain fascinating sites worldwide and attract tourists not only because of their natural beauty but also due to their height. While some may be broad, there are other waterfalls that are narrower and flow from extremely high elevations. In fact, height becomes the primary aspect of comparison among various waterfalls in the world. They can be found in diverse habitats ranging from rainforests to mountainous regions. There are notable waterfalls around the world that have gained popularity because of their exceptional heights.According to World Atlas and Worldostats, the top 10 tallest waterfalls in the world are listed below height-wise.

List of the tallest waterfalls in the world

World’s tallest waterfalls: Angel Falls, Tugela Falls, Olo’Upena Falls and more

Angel Falls

Angel Falls remains the tallest waterfall in the world with a total height of 3,212 feet and also recognised by The Guinness World Records. It drops from the Auyán-tepui, one of the many flat-topped mountains in the region. The height is so extreme that water does not always fall in a continuous stream. The waterfall feeds into the Carrao River below. Its location inside Canaima National Park makes it relatively remote, with access usually requiring river travel or small aircraft.

Tugela Falls

Tugela Falls is the second tallest waterfall globally, measuring around 3,110 feet. It is located in Royal Natal National Park, part of the larger Drakensberg mountain range. Unlike Angel Falls, Tugela Falls is not a single vertical drop. It is formed by a series of cascades that step down the mountainside. The Tugela River supplies its flow, and the volume can vary depending on rainfall patterns and seasonal changes.

Tres Hermanas

Tres Hermanas Falls ranks third, reaching a height close to 2,999 feet. It is located within Otishi National Park. The waterfall descends in multiple stages through dense vegetation, giving it a segmented appearance.

Olo’Upena Falls

Olo’Upena Falls, located on the island of Molokai in Hawaii, ranks fourth in the world. It measures around 2,953 feet. The waterfall is largely inaccessible by land, which limits direct observation.

Yumbilla Falls

Yumbilla Falls holds the fifth position globally. It stands at approximately 2,940 feet and is formed by the Utubamba River. The structure is tiered, with several visible drops that together make up its total height.

Vinnufossen

Vinnufossen is Europe’s tallest waterfall, measuring about 2,822 feet. It is located in a valley where water flow depends heavily on snowmelt. This water flows into the Vinnu River, travelling down to around 990 metres before plunging over the edge. It eventually joins the Driva River below.

Balåifossen

Balåifossen follows closely with a drop of 2,789 feet. The waterfalls are influenced by the region’s cold climate and mountainous terrain, which sustain the flow during warmer months when snow begins to melt.

Pu’uka’oku Falls

Pu’uka’oku Falls in the United States shares a similar environment, dropping along steep coastal cliffs with 2,756 feet height. Pu’uka’oku Falls drops from one of the highest sea cliffs in the world, which contributes to its total height.

James Bruce Falls

In Canada, James Bruce Falls stands as the tallest waterfall in North America. It originates from a snowfield and flows into Princess Louisa Inlet, maintaining a strong seasonal flow.

Browne Falls

Browne Falls completes the list at number ten. It stands at 2,743 feet and is located in Fiordland National Park on New Zealand’s South Island. The waterfall originates from a glacial lake and descends into Doubtful Sound. The surrounding area is covered in dense rainforest, which contributes to the steady water supply throughout the year. Go to Source