13 Mesmerizing Waterfalls Around the World That Will Give You Chills (Literally!)
Ever wondered where nature’s most breathtaking yet terrifying beauty hides? Brace yourself because we’re diving into the world’s most stunningly eerie waterfalls that will leave you in awe—and maybe a little spooked. But, trust us, you won’t want to look away. Let’s get started!
1. Niagara Falls (Canada & USA): The Thundering Giant
Have you ever felt the ground rumble beneath your feet? If you visit Niagara Falls, you’ll know exactly what we mean. Straddling the border between Canada and the United States, this colossal waterfall moves over 3,160 tons of water every second. That’s more water than you drink in a lifetime!
Height: 51 meters (167 feet)
Volume: 700,000 gallons per second. Yes, per SECOND!
Why it’s eerie: The sheer force of the water is intimidating, especially if you get close enough to feel the mist on your face.
Pro Tip: Visit at night to see the falls illuminated in a stunning array of colors—it’s like nature’s own light show!
2. Iguazu Falls (Argentina & Brazil): The Devil’s Throat That Calls Your Name
Ever hear of a waterfall so large that it makes Niagara look like a faucet? Meet Iguazu Falls, stretching between Argentina and Brazil with a total of 275 cascades! At its heart is the “Devil’s Throat,” a U-shaped drop that plunges 80 meters (262 feet) into a swirling abyss.
Height: 80 meters (262 feet)
Width: 2,700 meters (1.7 miles)
Why it’s eerie: The constant roar and thick mist make you feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world—or the mouth of the underworld.
Fun Fact: Legend says that a god planned to marry a beautiful woman, but she fled in a canoe with her lover. In rage, the god sliced the river, creating Iguazu and condemning them to an eternal fall.
3. Angel Falls (Venezuela): The World’s Tallest Waterfall
Did you know that this waterfall is so high that by the time the water reaches the ground, it’s more mist than water? Angel Falls in Venezuela drops a whopping 979 meters (3,212 feet)—that’s three times taller than the Eiffel Tower!
Height: 979 meters (3,212 feet)
Free Fall: 807 meters (2,648 feet)
Why it’s eerie: Watching water vanish into thin air halfway down is a surreal experience that will give you goosebumps.
Pro Tip: The falls are only accessible by air or river. Feeling adventurous yet?
4. Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe): The Smoke That Thunders
Ever seen a waterfall that creates its own rain? Welcome to Victoria Falls, known locally as “Mosi-oa-Tunya” or “The Smoke That Thunders.” With a width of 1,708 meters (5,604 feet) and a drop of 108 meters (354 feet), it’s the largest curtain of falling water in the world.
Height: 108 meters (354 feet)
Width: 1,708 meters (5,604 feet)
Why it’s eerie: The mist rises over 400 meters (1,300 feet) into the air, creating a permanent rainstorm over the nearby forest. It’s like the clouds decided to move down to Earth.
Dare to Try?: The “Devil’s Pool” is a natural infinity pool right at the edge. Would you swim this close to a 100-meter drop?
5. Dettifoss (Iceland): Europe’s Most Powerful Waterfall
Imagine standing next to a waterfall that’s loud enough to drown out your thoughts. That’s Dettifoss in Iceland for you. Known as Europe’s most powerful waterfall, it channels the icy waters of the Jökulsá á Fjöllum river, making it a force of nature.
Height: 44 meters (144 feet)
Volume: 500 cubic meters per second
Why it’s eerie: Its misty spray and roaring sound make it feel like you’ve stepped into a prehistoric world where glaciers rule.
Pro Tip: Visit during winter when the surroundings freeze over, turning the entire scene into a frozen wonderland. It’s chillingly beautiful.
6. Kaieteur Falls (Guyana): Nature’s Untamed Fury
Tucked away in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, Kaieteur Falls in Guyana is five times taller than Niagara! Its solitary drop of 226 meters (741 feet) into a jungle gorge is a sight to behold—and a reminder of nature’s raw power.
Height: 226 meters (741 feet)
Why it’s eerie: No fences, no railings—just you, the roaring water, and the endless jungle. It’s like being on the edge of a giant’s bathtub.
Adventure Tip: It’s one of the least visited major waterfalls, making it a perfect spot for those seeking serene solitude.
7. Gullfoss (Iceland): The Golden Falls with a Twist
The beauty of Iceland’s Gullfoss lies in its unique, two-tiered cascade that flows into a deep canyon. But be warned, this isn’t your ordinary waterfall.
Height: 32 meters (105 feet)
Why it’s eerie: On misty days, the falls appear to vanish into the earth itself. It’s like a scene straight out of a fantasy novel.
Fun Fact: Legend has it that a farmer once threatened to throw himself into the falls to save it from being dammed. His spirit supposedly protects the falls to this day.
8. Havasu Falls (USA): Arizona’s Secret Turquoise Treasure
Nestled in the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is a hidden paradise with water so blue it looks Photoshopped. But don’t be fooled by its beauty—its isolation makes it one of the most remote spots in the U.S.
Height: 30 meters (100 feet)
Why it’s eerie: Getting there requires a 10-mile hike through desert terrain. The isolation and echoing canyons give it an otherworldly vibe.
Pro Tip: If you make the trek, stay for the night. The falls under a star-filled sky? Magical.
9. Plitvice Waterfalls (Croatia): A Dreamy Cascade of Turquoise Lakes
Ever seen a waterfall that splits into a series of smaller falls, all feeding into turquoise pools? The Plitvice Lakes National Park in Croatia offers just that—and more. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a network of 16 interconnected lakes, each spilling into the next with dazzling beauty.
Number of Falls: Hundreds of cascades across 16 lakes
Height: 25 meters (82 feet) at its tallest drop
Why it’s eerie: The stillness of the surrounding forests and the glassy waters give this place a surreal, almost otherworldly vibe. It feels like stepping into a fairytale—or a place where time stands still.
Pro Tip: Visit during the fall when the surrounding trees burst into fiery colors, creating a stunning contrast with the blue waters. It’s pure magic.
10. Sutherland Falls (New Zealand): The Misty Giant of the Southern Hemisphere
Ever wanted to feel like you’ve walked straight into a Lord of the Rings scene? Sutherland Falls in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is your chance. With a total height of 580 meters (1,904 feet), it’s one of the tallest waterfalls in the world and the mist that swirls around it gives it an eerie, mystical aura.
Height: 580 meters (1,904 feet)
Why it’s eerie: The sound of the water crashing down in three separate tiers can be heard long before you see it—like a distant roar that draws you in.
Best Time to Visit: During New Zealand’s summer months, when the snowmelt makes the falls even more powerful.
Did You Know?: The trek to Sutherland Falls is part of the Milford Track, known as the “finest walk in the world.” Fancy a challenge?
11. Tugela Falls (South Africa): The Second Highest Waterfall You’ve Never Heard Of
Bet you didn’t know about this one! While Angel Falls gets all the attention, Tugela Falls in South Africa is right behind, with a total height of 948 meters (3,110 feet). Located in the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains, Tugela offers a series of stunning cascades that plunge down a sheer cliff.
Height: 948 meters (3,110 feet)
Why it’s eerie: The falls seem to vanish into the clouds, giving it a mysterious aura. And if you’re brave enough to hike to the top, you’ll be treated to views that are nothing short of epic.
Fun Fact: On a clear day, you can see the falls from the road—but nothing beats getting up close and feeling the spray on your face.
12. Gocta Falls (Peru): The Hidden Gem of the Andes
Until 2002, Gocta Falls was a well-kept secret known only to locals. Can you imagine a 771-meter (2,529-foot) waterfall hiding in plain sight? Today, it’s one of Peru’s top attractions, yet it retains that sense of mystery and untouched beauty.
Height: 771 meters (2,529 feet)
Why it’s eerie: The jungle surrounding Gocta Falls is so dense that you hear the waterfall long before you see it, creating a haunting sense of anticipation.
Adventure Tip: The hike to the falls takes about 2-3 hours, but the payoff is worth it—especially when you catch your first glimpse through the trees. It’s like unwrapping a gift.
Travel Tip: Pair this visit with a trip to Machu Picchu for the ultimate Andean adventure!
13. Ban Gioc – Detian Falls (Vietnam & China): The Waterfall of Two Nations
What if you could stand in two countries at once while marveling at a spectacular waterfall? Ban Gioc – Detian Falls straddles the border between Vietnam and China, creating a stunning natural border. With a width of 200 meters (656 feet), it’s one of Asia’s largest waterfalls.
Height: 30 meters (98 feet)
Width: 200 meters (656 feet)
Why it’s eerie: The fog that frequently covers the area gives it a ghostly appearance—like a scene from a mysterious martial arts movie. And, let’s be honest, the idea of a natural border that powerful is just plain cool.
Best Time to Visit: September to October, when the water flow is at its strongest and the surrounding rice fields are lush green.
Pro Tip: Bring your camera—the landscape around Ban Gioc looks like it belongs on a postcard.
Feeling Inspired (Or Spooked)? Here’s Your Next Adventure Plan
Ready to explore the world’s most stunningly eerie waterfalls? Whether you want to feel the power of Niagara’s thundering waters or hike to the secluded beauty of Havasu, these destinations promise more than just a photo op—they offer an experience. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime.
Question Time: Which of these waterfalls would you visit first? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this list with your travel buddies!
Why You Should Keep These Waterfalls on Your Travel Bucket List
Awe-inspiring landscapes that will make your jaw drop.
Unforgettable experiences that let you feel the true power of nature.
Perfect photo opportunities—your Instagram will thank you.
A sense of adventure—because some of these places are hard to reach, but worth every step.
Take Action: Save this article for your next vacation planning and don’t miss out on these jaw-dropping wonders. You won’t regret it!