Fact Sheets & Video - Canada

Falling for Niagara

You hear it before you see it. The roar is deafening. The sight is awe-inspiring. Seeing this mighty wonder in photos can never compare to seeing it in the flesh, hence why up to 20 million visitors will this year visit, what is often called "the world's most famous address"...Niagara Falls.

This set of massive waterfalls is located on the Niagara River in eastern North America, on the border between Canada and the United States. Niagara Falls comprises three separate waterfalls: the Horseshoe Falls (Canadian Falls), the American Falls, and the smaller, adjacent Bridal Veil Falls.

Every minute, more than 168,000 cubic metres, the equivalent of more than a million bathtubs full, of water goes over the falls and, although there are hundreds of waterfalls worldwide that are taller, in terms of sheer volume Niagara Falls are hard to beat.

Visitors can view the falls from numerous lookouts all along the river, but there are also some more famous and spectacular ways to view the falls up close, behind and above the thundering waters.

The world-famous 'Maid of the Mist' boat tours have been in continuous operation since 1846, making it one of North America's oldest tourist attractions. A powerful diesel-engined boat will take you from the Canadian docks past the base of the American Falls, then into the basin of the magnificent Canadian Horseshoe Falls where you will feel the mighty power, and certainly the spray and mist, of the wall of water right in front of you. Don't worry, raincoats are provided!

Going behind the falls is another unique experience, provided at the 'Journey Behind the Falls' attraction. Here Elevators descend 150 feet through bedrock to tunnels that lead to the Cataract Portal and the Great Falls Portal, one third of the way behind the massive sheet of water, then on to the Upper and Lower Observation Decks at the foot of the Falls.

For a birds eye view there are two great ways to see the Falls. Firstly, Niagara Helicopters can take you on a spectacular 12 minute flight down the river and over the falls, to give you a real sense of the size and span of the waters. Secondly, a visit to Clifton Hill, the Entertainment and Dining Precinct of Niagara Falls, will provide the opportunity to ride the new Niagara Skywheel, towering 53m above the Niagara Falls Horizon.

However you choose to view these magical waters and from whatever angle, you're sure to fall for Niagara.

Further Information:

Niagara Falls, CANADA

Air Canada fly return to Toronto

from $3596 east coast

$4115 west coast

1300-655-767

www.aircanada.com

Prices correct at 12/6/08. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes. Conditions apply.

Great Wolfe Lodge

Rooms from $405 a night

www.greatwolflodge.com

Prices correct at 7/6/08. Prices include surcharges, fees & taxes. Conditions apply.

Maid Of The Mist

Operating from late April/early May (weather dependent) to October 24 each year, the Maid departs every 15 minutes.

www.maidofthemist.com

Journey Behind the Falls & Niagara Parks

Open year-round except December 25

www.niagaraparks.com

Niagara Helicopters

Flights depart daily from 9 a.m. until sunset, weather permitting. Standard tour duration: 12 minutes (including boarding time).

www.niagara-helicopters.com

Niagara Skywheel atClifton Hill

www.cliftonhill.com

Tourism Canada

www.canada.travel

Ontario Tourism

www.ontariotourism.com

Niagara Falls Tourism

www.niagarafallstourism.com