Research continuously shows that being outside can improve our mental, physical and spiritual well-being. In fact several research findings validate that being outdoors or even looking at pictures of nature positively changes the neural activity in the prefrontal cortex of the brain.

In addition when you spend time outdoors and combine it with exercise, the majority of studies show that anxiety, depression and other mental health issues can be reduced, with water making the benefits even better. Waterfalls in particular can heighten positivity and mood. Linked to the idea of cleansing, visiting a waterfall can be one of the most engaging and sensory experiences.

To see gallons of water almost falling from the sky at full force is perhaps one of the most jaw-dropping wonders of nature and can act as a metaphor for our own troubles. Whilst some waterfalls are exhilarating to stand under, there are some that are simply awe inspiring to watch. And whilst we’re able to head off into the countryside in search of the waterfalls on our doorstep, to help guide you to a bigger outdoor adventure, the experts at Property Turkey have listed the top 10 most beautiful waterfalls in the world that you can be sure to add to your travel bucket list.

1) Niagara Falls, North America

Time and time again, the Niagara Falls has been heralded as the best waterfall in the world. Boasting an enormous 2600 ft in length and 167ft in height, it is one of the top attractions bordering both the USA and Canada. The Niagara Falls is made up of 3 waterfalls (the American Falls, the Bridal Falls and the Horseshoe Falls), combining to produce the highest flow rate of any waterfall on earth. Naturally, this is a great source of hydropower and produces an incredible amount of electricity for millions of people every day.

2) Victoria Falls, Zambia

The Victoria Falls is famous for being the largest waterfall in the world, though technically it is not. At an awesome 355ft high, the Victoria Falls is commonly known due to thebreathtaking height the water rapidly falls at. These falls are iconic and described as ‘once in a lifetime’ by many. What’s more is that the waterfall has a vast natural pool where visitors can swim safely.

3) Angel Falls, Venezuela

The Angel Falls is in fact the highest waterfall in the world. At a staggering 3211ft, the sheer height of this waterfall is astounding enough. When the water levels are high enough between June and December, visitors can take river trips and feel the mist of the waterfall as they journey upriver. Dropping over the edge of Auyantepui mountain, the Angel Falls is truly one of the most spectacular sites in the world.

4) Iguazu Falls, Brazil

The sheer enormity of the Iguazu Falls is what makes this one of the most unique and beautiful waterfalls on the planet. At 269ft high and an outstanding 8858ft wide, the Iguazu Falls is twice as wide as the famous Niagara Falls. Being one of the wettest waterfalls in theworld, you won’t have to worry about experiencing a dry fall when visiting this stunningwonder of the world.

5) Sutherland Falls, New Zealand

The Sutherland Falls is one of the most desolate and remote waterfalls on earth, not to mention one of the most impressive. For travelers wishing to be rewarded with stunning scenery after an extensive trek, the Sutherland Falls does not disappoint when look for a magnificent waterfall with a strong force of water. As the highest waterfall in New Zealand at an astonishing 1902ft, this waterfall is a must-see.

6) Kurşunlu Falls, Turkey

The Kurşunlu Falls is not just a captivating waterfall experience, but also a wildlifeexperience. Located in the heart of Kurşunlu Waterfall Nature Park and surrounded by coolpine forest, the falls offer a visual feast for visitors wishing to swim, see endemic plants and observe animal wildlife of birds, turtles, lizards and more. A lesser known but equally unique atmosphere scented with blackberries, wild roses and other plants.

7) Ban Gioc Waterfall, Vietnam

The Ban Gioc Waterfall is the fourth largest waterfall in the world and merges into Ban Detian Falls in China. What’s impressive is not so much the height of this waterfall 196ft,but the width spanning 984ft across. The water crashing onto the rocks is a beautiful, thunderous sound that can be heard from miles and afar.

8) Gulfoss, Iceland

Once a privately-owned waterfall, the Gulfoss is now state-owned and one of the mostfamous tourist destinations in Iceland. Part of ‘The Golden Circle’, the waterfall is 105ft high and plunges in two dramatic stages- the first cascade being 36ft and the second drop being 69ft. Ultimately, the Gulfoss is an Icelandic treasure which will create memories worth treasuring.

9) Tugela Falls, South Africa

Tugela Falls is a complex of seasonal waterfalls featuring an uninterrupted lead of 1350ftand a total drop of 3110ft, making it the world’s second tallest waterfall after Angel Falls.Tugela Falls can be reached by walking through a picturesque and pristine mountain trail ending at the summit of Mount-Aux-Sources.

10) Gocta Waterfall, Peru

One of Peru’s must be explored natural wonders- The Gocta Waterfall. At an awesome height of 2529ft, this is the third tallest waterfall in the world. After a scenic 2.5 hour hike or horse ride follows breathtaking views of the amazing Gocta waterfall.

For more information or to visit the Property Turkey portfolio please visit www.propertyturkey.com