Since 2008, at least 379 people have died taking dangerous selfies—more than four times the 90 killed by sharks worldwide in the same period. These selfie deaths are a tragic reminder of the risks involved. Most victims are young adults. They fall from cliffs, drown near waterfalls, or step onto train tracks for the perfect shot. India, the United States, and Russia record the highest numbers. At iconic spots like the Grand Canyon, Trolltunga, and Victoria Falls, ignoring barriers for a photo keeps turning dreams into tragedies. No post, no like, no fleeting fame is worth your life.
Pedra da Gávea, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil (Multiple Incidents): This towering coastal mountain is known to have the highest accident rate of any trail in Brazil. Although a specific 2017 incident involving a Portuguese tourist falling while hanging for a GoPro shot remains unverified, the mountain has a documented history of fatal falls. These accidents involve BASE jumpers and general hikers, often at sites popular for extreme photographs.
Yosemite National Park – Taft Point, USA (2018): An Indian-Israeli married couple (Vishnu Viswanath and Meenakshi Moorthy) fell approximately 800 feet from the unfenced overlook. The couple, who maintained a popular travel blog, were reportedly setting up a camera and a tripod near the edge when the accident occurred.
Trolltunga, Norway (2015): A 24-year-old Australian student fell to her death after losing her footing while preparing to pose for a photograph. She was on the edge of the famous “Troll’s Tongue” rock formation. This was the first recorded fatal fall at the site, which is heavily promoted on social media.
Machu Picchu, Peru (2016): A 51-year-old German tourist died after falling into a ravine at the ancient Incan citadel. He had reportedly ignored safety barriers and entered a restricted area to pose for a photograph near a cliff edge.
Hua Shan “Plank Walk,” China (Ongoing): The extremely precarious plank walk on Mount Hua Shan has a well-known history of fatal accidents. While official statistics are not released, the narrow, thousand-foot-high path is popular for extreme photo opportunities. This contributes to numerous documented fatalities.
Angels Landing, Zion National Park, USA (Multiple Incidents): This highly exposed trail has a history of fatal falls. While specific sensationalized stories (like a 19-year-old “influencer” hanging from chains) are unverified, numerous deaths have occurred on the chain section and summit. For example, a 43-year-old Utah man fell from the summit in 2021. The risk is high, and hikers have been observed engaging in reckless behavior for “cliffhanger” pictures.
Final Thoughts
No view, no like, no viral post is worth stepping over that edge. Travel boldly, post proudly, but always put staying alive above staying relevant. Your story deserves to continue long after the picture is taken.