At AD, we’re committed to helping you discover the beauty in the world around you. Uncovering a collection of striking waterfalls to visit might be one of the more dramatic ways to do that. These beautiful natural wonders are composed of the same elements that make any visual discipline interesting: There’s contrast, balance, form, and structure. Below, AD visits 13 incredible waterfalls, from one in Iceland with healing properties to a lava-like waterfall in Yosemite National Park. These beauties prove that Mother Nature might just be the most gifted designer of all. Here, the must-see waterfalls to visit around the world.
Photo: Westend61/Getty Images1/13Niagara Falls (US and Canada)There are debates as to whether Niagara Falls is better on the Canadian side or the American one. The Canadian side is generally credited as boasting better views, particularly panoramic ones, whereas the American ground offers up-close visits to many of the falls, in addition to being a bit more parklike. Ultimately, either option will offer a wholly unforgettable experience at some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls.- Photo: Nikpal/Getty Images2/13Plitvice Lakes National Park (Croatia)Croatia’s largest national park, the waterfalls within Plitvice Lakes National Park connect a series of striking lakes, both above and below ground. “The lake system is the result of millennia of ongoing geological and biochemical processes creating natural dams known as tufa barriers,” UNESCO explains. “The scale of the overall lake system and the natural barriers are an exceptional expression of the aesthetically stunning phenomenon, acknowledged since the late 19th century.” Here, the falls flow through dense forests and down limestone canyons.TRENDING VIDEOInside a $7.1M Miami Beach 2-Story Penthouse
- Photo: lkunl/Getty Images10/13Erawan Falls (Thailand)Seven tiers of flowing water make up Erawan Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. Located in Thailand, emerald green water collects in rock ponds, creating a striking picture. The falls get their name from a three-headed white elephant in Hindu mythology, which the top tier is said to resemble.
- Photo: Manjunath Undi/Getty Images11/13Jog Falls (India)Jog Falls is particularly striking because it is a segmented waterfall. The four separate streams stem from the Sharavati River and plunge from 830 feet in the air. During a monsoon, the different arms can appear almost as one.
Photo: Panfil Pirvulescu/Getty Images12/13Bigar Falls (Romania)The stream trailing down the mossy rocks in Bigar Falls in Romania looks a big like if a weeping willow’s leaves suddenly turned into water. Located in Cheile Nerei-Beusnita National Park, the water flows over a collection of relatively flat surfaces, forcing the streams to disperse across the landscape.
Photo: skiserge1/Getty Images13/13Havasu Falls (US)There are few things as mesmerizing as the contrast between the red rocks of the Grand Canyon and the aqua water of the Havasu Falls. Though stunning, it’s not an easy waterfall to get to. It requires a 10-mile hike deep into the canyon, and visitors are required to camp here overnight
