Discovering the World’s Largest Waterfalls and Why Niagara Falls Stands Out

While Niagara Falls is a well-known and beloved attraction, there are several other waterfalls that surpass it in terms of size, volume, and height. From the majestic Angel Falls in Venezuela to the massive Victoria Falls in Africa, let’s explore some of the world’s largest waterfalls and what sets Niagara Falls apart.

The Notable Waterfalls

Ancient Sete Quedas and El Salto Guairá

Before the construction of the Itaipu Dam, Sete Quedas (Seven Falls) or El Salto Guairá occupied a spot for being one of the world's largest waterfalls. situated on the Paraná River, it was a sight to behold, with a volume more than twice that of Niagara Falls. The waterfall consisted of a wide and high scarp, totaling 114 meters in height and spreading across a considerable width, making it a significant natural wonder. Unfortunately, it is now submerged beneath the waters of the Itaipu Dam, serving as a lasting reminder of the waters its once diverted.

Brazilian Iguazu and Its Traversing Elegance

Also in Brazil, the Iguazu Falls captures an awe-inspiring width and height that can be a match to Niagara. Spreading across a width twice the combined size of both Niagara Falls’ parts, the falls have a height of up to 82 meters, making it a visual spectacle. Although not as voluminous as other waterfalls, Iguazu still offers an incomparable experience with its sheer volume and the sheer beauty that makes it more enchanting than Niagara.

Africa’s Victoria Falls: The Monarch of Waterfall Height

Victoria Falls, located on the Zambezi River near the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, boasts a impressive single scarp width of over a mile and a height of 108 meters. This water height is more than twice that of Niagara’s, making it a colossal natural wonder. During peak flood periods, Victoria Falls generates an astonishing volume and is renowned for the steam that rises from the falls, earning the nickname “The Smoke That Thunders.” Currently, due to a prolonged drought, the flow rate has significantly diminished, affecting its majestic appearance.

Other Notable Waterfalls

South America’s Inga Falls

In South Africa, the Inga Falls on the Congo River stands as another staggering example. With a width of nearly a kilometer, Inga Falls has a substantially greater volume, averaging 900,000 cubic feet per second. However, at just 70 feet in height, it is dwarfed by the sheer dominance of height in other waterfalls.

Asia’s Khone Falls

Nearby, the Khone Falls on the Mekong River in Laos holds a unique distinction as the widest waterfall in the world, spanning over 10.6 kilometers, with a flow rate of approximately 400,000 cubic feet per second. While impressive in its width, its flow rate pales in comparison to that of Inga Falls.

Niagara Falls: A Human-Centric Marvel

The popularity of Niagara Falls is inextricably linked to its accessibility and proximity to major population centers. Many of these colossal waterfalls, especially those in remote locations, remain less frequented due to their inaccessibility. Niagara Falls stands out because of its easy reach and the surrounding attractions that draw millions of visitors annually. However, from a strictly natural perspective, it ranks below several of these colossal contenders.

The World’s Largest Falls by Measurement

1. Angel Falls (Venezuela): With a height of 979 meters (3212 feet), Angel Falls is recognized as the world's tallest waterfalls. It is famously known as the tallest continuous plunge, making it a true wonder of nature.

2. Victoria Falls (Zambia Zimbabwe): Astonishingly, Victoria Falls is the highest widthwise waterfall with a total scarp width of over a mile and a height of 108 meters. Its volume and single scarp are on par with some of the lowest-ranked waterfalls on list but its presence and sheer size make it unique.

3. Niagara Falls (Canada USA): Ranking at 7th among non-submerged waterfalls, Niagara Falls has a flow rate of just over 2400 cubic meters per second and a height of 51 meters. It has the advantage of being visible and accessible to millions, ensuring its enduring recognition and appeal.