10 of the Dangerous Snakes in the World

Few animals strike as much fear into people as venomous snakes. Although the chances of running into a venomous snake—much less being bitten and dying from the toxin injected into one’s body—are minuscule compared to dying from cancer, heart disease, or an automobile accident, this seemingly unreasonable fear remains very real for many people.

Snakes have slithered through mythology, culture, and the underbrush of our deepest fears for centuries. But of the more than 3,000 snake species worldwide, only a small fraction are venomous, and even fewer are considered deadly to humans. Still, those few can pose real danger, especially in areas where antivenom is unavailable.

Here are 10 of the world’s deadliest snakes, judged by the potency of their venom, their likelihood of human interaction, and the number of fatalities attributed to them.

1. Inland Taipan (Oxyuranus microlepidotus)

Region: Australia

Also known as the “fierce snake” or “small-scaled snake,” the Inland Taipan is widely regarded as the most venomous snake in the world. Its venom is estimated to be 50 times more toxic than that of the Indian cobra.

One bite can contain enough venom to kill over 100 adult humans, causing death within 30 to 45 minutes if untreated. Fortunately, the Inland Taipan is extremely reclusive and rarely comes into contact with people.

2. Eastern Brown Snake (Pseudonaja textilis)

Region: Australia

This fast and aggressive snake is responsible for the majority of snakebite deaths in Australia. Just a small amount of venom from the Eastern Brown Snake can cause cardiac arrest or paralysis.

Unlike the Inland Taipan, this snake is more commonly found in populated areas, including farms and suburbs, increasing the chances of human encounters. Its alertness and speed make it a formidable danger.

3. Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis)

Region: Sub-Saharan Africa

The Black Mamba is the fastest land snake, capable of moving at speeds up to 12.5 mph (20 km/h). But it’s not just speed that makes it deadly—its venom can kill a human in under 30 minutes.

Highly aggressive when threatened, the Black Mamba delivers multiple bites in quick succession. Without antivenom, the fatality rate is nearly 100%. It’s no wonder it’s one of the most feared snakes in Africa.

4. Coastal Taipan (Oxyuranus scutellatus)

Region: Northern and Eastern Australia, New Guinea

Cousin to the Inland Taipan, the Coastal Taipan has venom capable of causing death in as little as 30 minutes. It is extremely nervous and quick to strike, often delivering multiple rapid bites.

Before the creation of effective antivenom in the mid-20th century, a bite from this snake was considered almost certainly fatal. Even today, prompt medical treatment is crucial.

5. Tiger Snake (Notechis scutatus)

Region: Southern Australia and Tasmania

Tiger snakes are known for their distinctive banded patterns, though coloration can vary. They inhabit a wide range of environments and are often found near water.

Their venom affects the nervous system, blood, and muscles, and bites can be fatal if untreated. Fortunately, they are generally shy and will flee if given the opportunity. Nonetheless, they are responsible for a significant number of snakebite deaths in Australia.

6. Boomslang (Dispholidus typus)

Region: Sub-Saharan Africa

Don’t let the Boomslang’s bright green and brown coloration fool you—this rear-fanged snake can deliver a lethal dose of hemotoxic venom, causing internal and external bleeding.

Bites are rare, as the Boomslang is shy and avoids humans. However, when it does strike, symptoms may be delayed for hours, lulling victims into a false sense of security before sudden collapse. Without prompt treatment, it can be fatal.

7. King Cobra (Ophiophagus hannah)

Region: Southeast Asia, India

The King Cobra is the longest venomous snake in the world, reaching lengths of up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). Its venom isn’t the most toxic, but it delivers a large volume in a single bite—enough to kill an elephant.

What sets the King Cobra apart is its intelligence and aggression during the breeding season, along with its ability to “stand up” and spread its iconic hood when threatened. It’s both revered and feared across Asia.

8. Saw-Scaled Viper (Echis carinatus)

Region: Middle East, Central Asia, India, Africa

Despite its small size—typically only about 2 feet long—the Saw-Scaled Viper is one of the deadliest snakes in the world due to the high number of fatalities it causes, particularly in rural India.

Its venom can cause massive internal bleeding and kidney failure, and it’s known for its aggressive behavior. Its signature warning sound—a rasping “sizzling” noise made by rubbing its scales together—is often ignored, to deadly effect.

9. Russell’s Viper (Daboia russelii)

Region: Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia

Russell’s Viper is another major contributor to snakebite deaths in Asia. It is responsible for tens of thousands of fatalities every year, particularly in rural areas with limited access to medical care.

Symptoms of envenomation include pain, swelling, kidney failure, and severe bleeding disorders. In some cases, survivors suffer from lifelong disabilities due to tissue damage or loss of limbs.

10. Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops asper)

Region: Central and South America

Also known as the “terciopelo”, the Fer-de-Lance is the most dangerous snake in Latin America. Its venom is not only cytotoxic, causing severe tissue destruction, but also fast-acting and often fatal if untreated.

These snakes are highly unpredictable and often found near agricultural fields and rural homes, leading to a higher risk of encounters. It is responsible for the majority of snakebite deaths in its range.