Angel Falls
Angel Falls, known as Salto Ángel in Spanish, is the world's highest uninterrupted waterfall, boasting a total height of 979 meters (3,212 feet) and a continuous drop of 807 meters (2,648 feet). The falls are named after Jimmy Angel, an American aviator who, in 1933, was the first person to fly over them. The falls are fed by the Churún River, which cascades off the edge of Auyán-Tepui, one of the table-top mountains, or tepuis, in Venezuela's Gran Sabana region. The water freefalls for more than half a kilometer before transforming into a misty cascade and eventually joining the Kerep River below. The base of the falls is surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, adding to the natural spectacle. Angel Falls is not only an awe-inspiring natural wonder but also a significant ecological treasure, housing a diverse array of plant and animal life.
The indigenous Pemon people, who consider the falls sacred, call them "Kerepakupai Merú," which means "waterfall of the deepest place." Recognized worldwide for its majestic beauty, Angel Falls is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, designated in 1994. This status helps protect the falls and the surrounding pristine environment. The area’s ecological and cultural significance makes Angel Falls an emblem of Venezuela's rich natural heritage.