Angel Falls in Venezuela is the tallest waterfall globally.
This magnificent natural wonder, known locally as Salto Ángel, plunges into the Canaima National Park, captivating visitors with its unparalleled height and remote beauty. It is an extraordinary spectacle, featuring an incredible single plunge that measures more than 800 meters (2624 feet), a key characteristic that solidifies its status as the world's highest.
Angel Falls: A Global Landmark
Located in the heart of Venezuela's vast jungle, Angel Falls is not just a record-holder but also a site of immense natural significance and breathtaking scale.
Location and Discovery
Angel Falls is nestled deep within Canaima National Park in Bolívar State, southeastern Venezuela. This remote location, surrounded by dense jungle and towering tepuis (table-top mountains), adds to its mystique and inaccessibility. The waterfall was brought to global attention by Europeans in 1933 when American aviator James Angel famously discovered it while flying over the Venezuelan jungle in search of gold. His landing atop Auyán-tepui, the mountain from which the falls descend, solidified his name with this colossal natural landmark.
Unmatched Height and Plunge
While its total height is officially measured at 979 meters (3,212 feet), it is the sheer, uninterrupted drop that truly sets Angel Falls apart. The reference highlights a crucial segment of its descent: an astonishing plunge of more than 800 meters (2624 feet). This makes it not only the tallest waterfall but also features one of the longest free-falling sections of any waterfall on Earth. The immense volume of water cascades down the face of Auyán-tepui, often vaporizing into a mist before it even reaches the pool below, creating a surreal and ethereal atmosphere.
Key Facts About Angel Falls
Here are some essential details about the world's tallest waterfall:
- Official Name: Angel Falls (Salto Ángel)
- Location: Canaima National Park, Bolívar State, Venezuela
- Total Height: 979 meters (3,212 feet)
- Longest Single Plunge: Over 800 meters (2624 feet)
- Discoverer: James Angel (American Aviator)
- Year of European Discovery: 1933
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Yes (Canaima National Park)
Angel Falls at a Glance
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Angel Falls (Salto Ángel) |
| Location | Canaima National Park, Bolívar State, Venezuela |
| Total Height | 979 meters (3,212 feet) |
| Main Plunge | Over 800 meters (2624 feet) |
| Discoverer | James Angel |
| Discovery Year | 1933 |
| Designation | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
| Source | Auyán-tepui (Devil's Mountain) |
Experiencing Angel Falls
Due to its remote location, reaching Angel Falls is an adventure in itself. Visitors typically fly into Canaima National Park and then embark on a multi-day journey involving river trips and jungle treks. The most common way to witness its grandeur is from observation points or by taking a scenic flight, which offers unparalleled aerial views of its majestic drop. The surrounding Canaima National Park is also a biodiverse region, home to unique flora and fauna, making the journey to the falls an immersive natural experience. For more information on this incredible natural wonder, you can visit resources like UNESCO World Heritage Centre.
Angel Falls remains a testament to the raw power and beauty of nature, drawing adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe to witness its record-breaking height and awe-inspiring presence.
