The deafening roar of a waterfall, the misty spray on your skin, the absolute power of nature — waterfalls have mesmerized humanity for centuries. Although iconic showers like Niagara and Victoria allure masses from around the world, a quieter, more intimate experience is in store for travelers willing to stray from the beaten path.
Hidden high in secluded canyons, lush rainforests and remote islands, these waterfalls reveal the earth’s unspoiled majesty. These secret cascades, reached by a hike or some boat travel, are some of the more breathtaking and nature-connected one’s efforts are rewarded with.
Here are 10 of the best hidden waterfalls around the world that will have you itching to travel again:
Kuang Si Falls, Laos
Located deep in the jungles, Kuang Si Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall that cascades over limestone cliffs into turquoise swimming holes. The vivid blue of the mineral-rich water forms a surreal, almost dreamscape. There are several levels of pools, beckoning the visitor to dive into the invigorating water.
A brief hike takes you to the top of the falls with sweeping views of the surrounding rainforest. Due to its distance from the busy cities, the calmness of this jewel is the perfect place for explorers trying to find peace with nature.
Havasu Falls, USA
Deep in the Grand Canyon, Havasu Falls is a desert oasis of an unexpected kind. The high mineral content is responsible for the bright turquoise water, contrasting beautifully against the red walls of the canyon. The falls tumble down travertine cliffs and form a series of pools ideal for swimming and hanging out.
Getting to Havasu Falls involves an arduous 10-mile hike or a helicopter ride, so it is a truly secluded and rewarding experience. The sheer distance and the breathtaking beauty of the falls makes it a sought-after location for hikers and photographers.
Gocta Falls, Peru
Nestled in the cloud forests of Peru’s region of Amazonas, Gocta Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in the world, with two drops totaling over 771 meters. Until recently, the falls were little known to outsiders, hidden in local myth and legend.
A walk through verdant foliage and over suspension bridges brings you to the foot of the falls, and the magnitude of the cascade is mesmerizing. These are remote and a challenging hike, making Gocta Falls an adventure for intrepid travelers.
Fairy Pools, Scotland
Nestled within the Isle of Skye are the Fairy Pools — a series of cascading crystal-blue waterfalls and pools spilling down the steep edges of the Black Cuillin mountains. The magical, enchanting turquoise water is fed by mountain streams. The pools provide refreshing wild swimming, but the water can be cold even during summer.
The breathtaking scenery, with jagged peaks rising up and waterfalls cascading down, made the Fairy Pools a must see for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Sutherland Falls, New Zealand
Nestled deep in Fiordland National Park, Sutherland Falls is a dramatic, 580-meter tall waterfall that cascades down a vertical cliff face. The falls are a testament to the raw beauty of New Zealand’s wilderness, accessible only by a multi-day hike on the Milford Track, or by helicopter.
With towering mountains and rainforest surrounding the powerful cascade it is very much an unforgettable experience. The remoteness and difficult approach means Sutherland Falls is a reward for those who really want the wilderness experience.
Kaieteur Falls, Guyana
We have one more stop before we fly to our next destination. Hidden in the heart of Guyana’s rainforest, this magnificent waterfall drops 226 meters down a sheer face of sandstone: Kaieteur Falls. The sheer volume of water, along with the dramatic drop, is what makes it one of the most impressive waterfalls on the planet.
Only reachable by small plane, the falls are encircled by untainted rainforest, a habitat for an incredibly varied range of flora and fauna. Kaieteur Falls is a hidden gem in every sense; its remoteness, untamed wilderness.
Dettifoss, Iceland
Nestled in Northeast Iceland’s rugged, volcanic terrain, Dettifoss is the continent’s most powerful waterfall. Glacial meltwater tumbles over a 45-meter drop, sending clouds of spray airborne, pounding the earth.
The raw size of the gushing water and the barren, moon-like landscape surrounding dettifoss create an amazing spectacle. The access is relatively easy and you can get up close and personal with this natural marvel.
Erawan Falls, Thailand
Sequestered in Erawan National Park, Erawan Falls is a seven-tier cascade that flows its way through tropical rainforest. Emerald-green pools that are great for swimming and relaxing add to the enchanting atmosphere.
Getting to the top of the falls can be strenuous but offers great views of the surrounding jungle. Thanks to its beautiful scenery and easy accessibility, Erawan Falls is a well-known destination for locals and tourists alike.
Akaka Falls, Hawaii, USA
Akaka Falls, on Hawaii’s Big Island, cascades 442 feet into a rainforest gorge. The walk to the falls, while short, is lush and lined with tropical vegetation, and it ends with a breathtaking view.
This magnificent act of nature will leave you awestruck and speechless, surrounded by colorful trees and something which we might call magical forest. Easy access, and stunning scenery make Akaka falls a must see on a trip to Hawaii.
These invisible waterfalls, interspersed through the world, unlock a view of the earth’s undisturbed beauty. They show us how vast and powerful mother nature is, adding to its marvels and emphasizing the importance of protecting these fragile biomes.
From seasoned hikers to nature lovers and those in search of a peaceful retreat, these hidden gems are sure to take your breath away. So take the plunge, and go find the secrets that these waterfalls hide.
