Our specialists told us tales of summiting volcanoes to catch the sun as it rose and sitting among dunes in the desert as it went back down. From the depths of the Sahara to waters of Botswana, these are some of our most memorable sunsets and sunrises from around the globe.
Miyajima Island, Japan
by John H., Japan Specialist
The sun setting behind a Torii gate (a traditional Japanese gate representing an entrance to a sacred place) is a must-see for any visitor to Japan. The contrast of the blue sky against the dark silhouette of the gate, mixed with all the shades of the sunset is breathtaking.
Stanley Island, Antarctica
by Alison H., Australasia Specialist
I spent a day cruising the waters on the way to Stanley Island in Antarctica, witnessing gigantic iceberg formations along the way. The sun didn't set until 11pm which was unheard of to me, and when we were finally rewarded with the view near the island of Stanley, the shades of pink and purple behind the bright white icebergs was striking.
Hokkaido, Japan
by Jess K., Japan Specialist
This sunset was a dramatic end to a beautiful day of exploring the northeastern tip of Shiretoko National Park in Hokkaido, Japan, also known as "The End of the Earth." I was lucky enough to witness an incredibly bright orange sunset.
Okavango Delta, Botswana
by David C., Africa Specialist
Africa has some of the biggest skies and so, as the sun sets, you can see the hues stretch all across the horizon. A wonderful region for these sunsets is the Okavango Delta in Botswana, because you have the wide skies above mixing with the reflections from the water below. The experience is complete with the sounds of the hippos enjoying their natural environment as the sun goes down.
Sahara Desert, Morocco
by Lauren B., Southeast Asia Specialist
I saw the sun set in the Sahara while sitting on a sand dune above our tented camp. We watched the dunes change colors as the sun went down, and even when it was completely behind the dunes, we stayed for a few more minutes to take in how lucky we were to be there.
Valparaiso, Chile
by Patrick H., Latin America specialist
This photo was taken on the balcony of Acontraluz Hotel in Valparaiso, Chile during sunset. Acontraluz has stunning skyline views, often used specifically for sunset viewing or for watching fireworks on New Year's Eve.
Volcan de Agua, Guatemala
by Michael M., Latin America Specialist
I woke up early to leave Antigua, Guatemala and head toward the volcanoes in the near distance. After a six-hour hike to basecamp, we set up tents and took in the surrounding views as night fell. Early the next morning I summited Acatenango, a steep, difficult hike over loose volcanic soil to be greeted with the sun rising over Volcan de Agua.
Experience the views for yourself
Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.
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