Waterfalls

Waterfalls Worth Crossing the World For

Some trips start with a hotel. Others start with one place you want to see in person. These six waterfalls bring rainforests, cool weather, quiet lakes and powerful river views into one travel list.

1.Iguazú Falls, Argentina and Brazil Iguazú is a full experience, not a quick photo stop. Follow the paths through the rainforest, see the smaller cascades up close, then finish at Devil’s Throat. Give the park a full day.

2.Victoria Falls, Zambia and Zimbabwe Victoria Falls is something you hear before you properly see. Mist rises above the Zambezi River, while the view changes with the season. Stay near the river and pair the visit with a safari nearby.

3.Seljalandsfoss, Iceland Seljalandsfoss adds a rare moment to Iceland’s south-coast road trip. When conditions permit, the path runs behind the falling water. Visit during the quieter hours for a cleaner view.

4.Plitvice Lakes Waterfalls, Croatia Plitvice is less about one huge fall and more about the complete walk. Blue-green lakes, wooden paths and small cascades create a calm break from Croatia’s busy coastal cities.

5.Kuang Si Falls, Laos Kuang Si falls through the forest in pale-blue tiers outside Luang Prabang. Visit early, walk around the pools, then return to the old town for a relaxed afternoon.

6.Niagara Falls, Canada Niagara brings scale and an easy family itinerary. See Horseshoe Falls up close during the day, return after sunset for the illumination, then add Toronto or Niagara-on-the-Lake to the trip.