The Top 12 Deadliest Waterfalls: Have You Been?

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As far as natural wonders go, waterfalls offer a special type of magic. Not only are they a source of great beauty, but the pressure from the water can create hydroelectric power.

The thunderous dance of these formations attracts tourists all over the globe. But don’t let the stunning views distract you from the danger. Indeed, not all waterfalls are safe to casually explore.

Here’s a list of 12 of the deadliest waterfalls on Earth.

1. Iguazu Falls – Brazil and Argentina

Iguazu Falls

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It’s easy to see why Iguazu ranks among the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. These striking cascades are on the border between Brazil and Argentina. Together, they form 275 waterfalls framed by numerous shimmering rainbows.

This dramatic scene stretches over a mile and a half, with the highest fall reaching almost 270 feet. The water flow is strong, and the surroundings untamed. Even the iconic Devil’s Throat walkway was closed temporarily due to river flooding. Hence, you’d do well to tread with caution.

2. Angel Falls – Venezuela

Angel Falls from afar, Colors of Canaima National Park, Venezuela

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The highest waterfall in the world, Angel Falls, is located in the Canaima National Park in Venezuela. This waterfall has a total height of 3,212 feet and is a popular tourist destination. However, getting too close to the waterfall can be extremely dangerous. The water flows very quickly, and the slippery rocks make it easy to slip and fall.

3. Salto de Tequendama Falls – Colombia

Aerial view of the El Salto de Tequendama waterfall.

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Located on the outskirts of Bogota, Colombia, Salto de Tequendama Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. However, it is also one of the deadliest. Cliffs and jagged rocks surround the waterfall, and the water is so deep that it can be difficult to see the bottom.

4. Mongefossen Waterfall – Norway

Waterfall cascade on mountain rocks

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Mongefossen Waterfall is located in Norway and is known for its sheer size and power. The waterfall drops over 2,536′ and is a popular spot for tourists. However, the powerful currents and the slippery rocks make it incredibly dangerous.

5. Victoria Falls – Zambia/Zimbabwe Border

Victoria Falls from Zimbabwe

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Victoria Falls is located on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and is one of the largest waterfalls in the world. It is nearly twice as wide and twice as deep as Niagara Falls. The sheer volume of water that flows over the falls makes it incredibly dangerous. The currents can easily pull people under, and the rocks at the bottom of the falls are jagged and sharp.

6. Plitvice Falls – Croatia

Detailed view of the beautiful waterfalls in the sunshine in Plitvice National Park, Croatia

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Plitvice Falls is a series of waterfalls located in Croatia’s Plitvice Lakes National Park. Cliffs surround the waterfalls and are incredibly beautiful. However, the rocks at the bottom of the falls are jagged and sharp, and the currents can be powerful.

7. Kegon Falls – Japan

One of the top 3 waterfalls in Japan. Kegon Falls at Nikko

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Kegon Falls is located in Nikko National Park in Japan and is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The waterfall drops over 318 feet into a narrow canyon, creating a powerful and dangerous current. You can take an elevator down to a viewing platform to get a closer look at the falls, but swimming or going near the falls is strictly prohibited due to the strong currents and risk of injury.

8. Ban Gioc-Detian Falls – China and Vietnam

Ban Gioc/Detian waterfall

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The Ban Gioc-Detian Falls are located on the border between China and Vietnam and are considered one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Asia. However, the falls are also known for their treacherous currents and hidden dangers.

9. Niagara Falls – Canada

Niagara Falls

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Niagara Falls is located on the border between Canada and the United States and is one of the most famous waterfalls in the world. The falls drop over 50 meters and attract millions of tourists every year. The currents are strong enough to pull people under, and the rocks at the bottom of the falls are jagged and sharp.

10. Gullfoss Falls – Iceland

Iceland, Gullfoss waterfall. Captivating scene with rainbow of Gullfoss waterfall that is most powerful waterfall in Iceland and Europe. Picturesque summer scene with amazing Icelandic waterfall.

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Gullfoss Falls is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Iceland, drawing visitors from all over the world to marvel at its beauty. The waterfall drops over 105 feet into a deep canyon, creating a breathtaking display of water and mist. However, the falls can also be dangerous, with strong currents and slippery rocks making it easy to slip and fall.

11. Hogenakkal Falls – South India

beautiful view hogenakkal falls with water flow from carbonatite rocks famous tour spot

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Hogenakkal Falls is a series of waterfalls located on the Kaveri River in South India. The falls are known for their beauty and the healing properties of their waters, which are believed to have medicinal properties. However, the falls can also be dangerous, with strong currents and slippery rocks making it easy to slip and fall.

When exploring, be cautious. Stay within designated areas and heeding warning signs and advice from local authorities. Take appropriate precautions to enjoy the beauty of these natural wonders while also staying safe and avoiding potential danger.

12. Khone Falls – Laos

Khone Falls, Laos

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The world’s widest waterfall is in Laos, with a mighty width of over six miles. Nestled along the Mekong River, one should plan visits with caution and care. Also important to note, during the monsoon season, the river tends to flood, swallowing the falls entirely and leaving a rugged stretch of rapids.

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Where indicated, some images courtesy of Depositphotos.com.

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Hazra Khatoon

3 Comments

  1. Dawn on September 24, 2023 at 12:40 pm

    Where is the waterfall pictured with the lady wearing a yellow top?

    • Ashlee Fechino on September 25, 2023 at 10:28 am

      Hi There – That is Gullfoss Falls in Iceland.

  2. Burt Ranall on June 6, 2023 at 2:54 pm

    These waterfalls are amazing, indeed !!

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