Detian Waterfall Travel Guide

Found in the heart of the Detian Scenic Zone, this waterfall is the largest in Asia. It is a three-tiered cascade situated on the Chinese border with Vietnam. This is a massive feat of nature dropping 230 feet.

Detian Waterfall was only recently ‘rediscovered’ by the mainstream tourism industry. In the past it was a sanctuary for local bandits and otherwise went unnoticed. As a result, the entire area is relatively pristine and home to a variety of rare plants and animals.

This cascade is fed by the Guichun River. Rafts can be hired to approach the waterfall from the base, where the view is especially impressive. While Detian’s 230-foot drop is easily outdone by other waterfalls, the real feat is its nearly 700-foot width. This is easily the largest waterfall in all of Asia.

Aside from the waterfall, the entire region is rich in geological attractions. Unique limestone towers (called karsts) are common here, and one of the nearby clusters is the world’s largest. There are also many other rivers running through this lush, tropical landscape.

Getting There & Away

Access to Detian Waterfall is through Daxin, a small town located a short drive away. From Daxin, travelers can take a bus to Nanning (2 hours), the capital and transport hub of Guangxi Province. Flights connect to Southeast Asian capitals as well as Beijing (3 hours) and Shanghai (2 hours, 30 minutes) from Nanning Airport.