22 Beautiful Sunrise Points Across The Globe

Nature's Unbeatable Magic

Some places nail the sunrise experience, turning an everyday event into something extraordinary. Here are a couple of spots that have perfected the art of morning shows, making those early wake-up calls worth every minute of lost sleep.

Grand Canyon

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

Watching the sunrise at Angkor Wat is a must-do experience for individuals visiting Cambodia. It offers a stunning view of the temple as it is bathed in the early morning light. North Reflection Pool and South Reflection Pool are where you’ll find the best view.

Angkor Watt Bjørn Christian Tørrissen, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Angkor Wat, Cambodia (Cont.)

Also, there is Phnom Bakheng, which is located on a hill. This temple provides panoramic views of Angkor Wat and is popular for sunrise and sunset. The hike to the top is about 20 minutes, and it allows for a unique perspective of the temple against the rising sun.

Angkor Wat Cambodiancab, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Bromo, Indonesia

This mountain, also called Gunung Bromo, is an active somma volcano in East Java, Indonesia's Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park. Although it is not the tallest peak in the area at 2,329 meters (7,641 feet), it is well-known for its activity and natural beauty.

Mount Bromo Eveline Tania Mustika, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Bromo, Indonesia (Cont.)

Bukit Pananjakan is the most visited viewpoint, located at 2,770 meters above sea level. It offers lovely scenic views of Mount Bromo, Mount Batok, and Mount Semeru as the sun rises. Bukit Pananjakan 2 (Seruni Point) is also another such point.

Bukit Pananjakan Zweiteent, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Machu Picchu, Peru

Discovered by American historian Hiram Bingham in 1911, Machu Picchu was quite unknown to the outside world before this time. It is often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas," a 15th-century Inca citadel placed in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru.

Machu Picchu Pedro Szekely, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Machu Picchu, Peru (Cont.)

At the Guardhouse (Casa del Guardian), which is situated along the main trail to Machu Picchu, you will get to see marvelous views of the ruins as they are covered in early morning light. It’s less crowded than Inti Punku, hence a serene choice for sunrise.

Guardhouse bobistraveling, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Haleakala, Hawaii, USA

Haleakalā, which means "House of the Sun" in Hawaiian, is a dormant volcano that stands at 10,023 feet above sea level. Sunrise times vary throughout the year, typically occurring around 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM, so don’t miss out on it.

Mount Haleakala dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Haleakala, Hawaii, USA (Cont.)

Summit Visitor Center is the primary location for viewing the sunrise. It also gives away amenities and exhibits about the park. Folks can enjoy expansive scenarios of the crater as the sun rises, creating a spectacular foreground for photography.

Haleakala Visitor Center PaulT (Gunther Tschuch), CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Yosemite National Park, California, USA

In addition to its breathtaking waterfalls, like Yosemite Falls, the tallest waterfall in North America at 2,425 feet, the park is recognized for its gracious granite cliffs, such as El Capitan and Half Dome. Glacier Point presents one of the most iconic sights here.

Yosemite Valley Sunrise Harold Litwiler, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Yosemite National Park, California, USA (Cont.)

From this point, you can see Half Dome and the entire Yosemite Valley. The vantage point is accessible by car during the warmer months or via a strenuous hike along the Panorama Trail. Plus, the Tunnel viewpoint shows you the vistas of Bridalveil Fall.

Yosemite Valley Sunrise Amadscientist, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro, found in Tanzania, is the tallest mountain in Africa, reaching 5,895 meters high. It's a dormant volcano that attracts a lot of trekkers. One of the most unforgettable experiences here is witnessing the sunrise from its summit, Uhuru Peak.

Mt Kilimanjaro Schavda, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania (Cont.)

As climbers reach the final stretch to the summit, they are treated to a transformation of the sky, shifting from dark blue to vibrant shades of orange, yellow, and pink as the sun erupts behind the clouds. Besides, Stella Point, at 5,685 meters, also gives a background of glaciers.

Mount Kilimanjaro TristanBalme, Shuttershock

Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA

Mather Point is the go-to spot for catching the sunrise because it’s easy to get to and offers a great display. It’s a quick walk from the visitor center and has a stunning drop-down to the canyon floor. Just keep in mind that it can get pretty packed, especially during busy seasons.

Grand Canyon David Ilécio, Pexels

Grand Canyon, Arizona, USA (Cont.)

For a quieter experience, Yaki Point is an excellent choice. It is the easternmost viewpoint on the South Rim, letting visitors see the sunrise slightly earlier than at other locations. It is accessible via shuttle service, a more peaceful alternative to Mather Point.

Yaki Point Alan D. Wilson, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Cappadocia, Turkey

At Love Valley, which is famous for its striking rock formations, you get to see the sunrise and hot air balloon launches. Getting there early lets you catch the balloons lifting off with the valley’s cool shapes in the background, making for an awesome scene.

Love Valley Wanderonomy, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Cappadocia, Turkey (Cont.)

The UNESCO World Heritage Site, Goreme National Park, also serves superb visuals of the hot air balloons as they ascend at dawn. One tip is to arrive by 5:00 AM to secure a good spot and enjoy the vibrant colors of the sun, illuminating the fairy chimneys.

Göreme National Park Feridun F. Alkaya, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Fuji, Japan

Located on the south shore of Lake Kawaguchiko, Oishi Park provides an expansive view of Mount Fuji framed by beautiful seasonal flowers. This park is particularly popular for its picturesque scenery and is seen as an ideal spot for sunrise photography.

Mount Fuji Alpsdake, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Fuji, Japan (Cont.)

Facilities like restrooms and parking are available here, although shops may be closed early in the morning. Plus, the area around Lake Kawaguchi is known for its reflections of Mount Fuji in the water. The Kawaguchi Ohashi Bridge also gives you a perfect vantage point.

Lake Kawaguchiko redlegsfan21, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Taj Mahal, India

Experiencing sunrise at the grand Taj Mahal is a magical and unforgettable event. The best time to arrive is around 5:30 AM. This allows you to enter the grounds as the sun begins to rise, typically between 6:00 AM and 6:15 AM, depending on the season.

Taj Mahal Joel Godwin, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Taj Mahal, India (Cont.)

Char Bagh at the Taj Mahal is the central garden area where you can get lovely images of the Taj Mahal framed by lush greenery. Also, don’t miss out on the golden hour, where the soft morning light enhances the exquisite white marble of the monument.

Char Bagh Garden Biswarup Ganguly, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Bagan, Myanmar

For the best viewing locations, Sulamani Hill is a definite pick, especially for sunrises near Sulamani Temple. As the sun emerges, visitors can catch sight of hot air balloons going into the sky. Arriving early is essential, as this location can become crowded quickly.

Bagan Jean-Marie Hullot, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Bagan, Myanmar (Cont.)

Similarly, the Bagan Viewing Tower helps you see the wonderful surrounding area and is another good choice for sunrise. There is an entrance fee of approximately MMK 6,500. Also, the area in front of Dhammayangyi Pahto displays a small hill with nice vistas.

Bagan © Vyacheslav Argenberg, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Sinai, Egypt

Mount Sinai, also known as Jebel Musa, rises to an elevation of 2,285 meters (7,497 feet) and is situated in the Sinai Peninsula near Saint Catherine. The trek to the summit usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, according to the selected route, but the final picture is obviously worth it.

Mount Sinai alljengi, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Mount Sinai, Egypt (Cont.)

There are two main paths here. Camel Path (Siket Sayidna Musa) is a gentler, winding trail that is easier for most hikers, and the second is Steps of Repentance. A steeper route consisting of about 3,750 steps. Remember to check current conditions before planning your visit.

Mount Sinai Ahmedherz, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Table Mountain, South Africa

Individuals can see how the environment changes dramatically as dawn breaks over Table Mountain. The Atlantic Ocean and Cape Town are bathed warmly as the sun rises behind the mountain. With the light slowly spreading across the peninsula, the city gets framed by the mountain's shadow.

Table Mountain South African Tourism, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Table Mountain, South Africa (Cont.)

On clear mornings, the visuals are amazing, reaching all the way to Cape Point. Maclear’s Beacon, which is the highest point on Table Mountain, cannot be missed out on along with the Platteklip Gorge, the direct route to the summit. This trail is known for sunrise hikes.

Maclears' Beacon Barry Ne, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Isle of Skye, Scotland

The Isle of Skye is the biggest and northernmost of the main islands to be found in Scotland's Inner Hebrides. Skye is characterized by its dramatic scenery, which includes the Cuillin Hills. These dominate the scenario with their rugged peaks.

Isle Of Skye Giant Squid, Wikimedia Commons

Isle of Skye, Scotland (Cont.)

It stretches approximately 50 miles long, with a deeply indented coastline that ensures no part is more than 5 miles from the sea. The Old Man of Storr is a prime location for sunrise viewing. The climb to the top takes about 40 minutes to an hour.

Old Man Of Storr Nono vlf, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia

At daybreak, the 10,582-square-kilometer Salar de Uyuni becomes a breathtaking scene where the sky and earth meet. A dreamlike ambiance is created when the sun rises, illuminating the salt flats with sparkly shades of pink and orange.

Salar De Uyuni Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia (Cont.)

Shallow water pools emerge on the flats during the rainy season, which usually lasts from mid-December to mid-March. This creates a nice mirror effect that reflects the sky. Many travelers opt for guided sunrise tours that start early, between 3:30 AM and 4:30 AM.

Salar De Uyuni Diego Delso, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Great Wall Of China

Some of the noteworthy spots for sunrise are inclusive of the General Tower, Small Jinshan Tower, and Flower Tower. It is recommended to stay overnight at a local farmer's inn near Jinshanling so you can wake up early (around 4:00 AM) and hike to your chosen point.

The Great Wall Hao Wei, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Great Wall Of China (Cont.)

The sun is said to rise here between 5:30 AM and 6:00 AM, based on the season. Additionally, the Simatai section is known for its steep gorges, which makes it a picturesque place. The area between East Tower No. 5 and East Tower No. 6 is also a good pick.

Simatai Section Jakub Hałun, CC BY-SA 4.0Wikimedia Commons

Santorini, Greece

Of course, this is already on your bucket list. Santorini is part of the Cyclades group of islands in the Aegean Sea, placed at the southern tip of the archipelago. Situated on the caldera's edge, Fira, the capital of Santorini, gives you a nice look at the Aegean Sea.

Santorini, Greece Pedro Szekely, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Santorini, Greece (Cont.)

Skaros Rock is a prominent rocky headland that juts out into the Aegean Sea. The climb to it is moderately challenging and takes about 30 minutes from Imerovigli. But, as you ascend, you are rewarded with an increasingly spectacular sunrise atop the caldera.

Skaros Rock Christopher Down, CC BY 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Taveuni Island, Fiji

This is the third-largest island in Fiji, located about 7 kilometers off the southeast coast of Vanua Levu. Taveuni Island, which you will find right on the 180-degree longitude line, makes it one of the first places in the world to greet the sun each day.

Taveuni M Sundstrom, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Taveuni Island, Fiji (Cont.)

Lavena Village brings you lovely beachfront views that are best for watching the sunrise amidst calm waters. Also, the area around Matei Airport provides unobstructed views of the horizon. Its easy accessibility is a huge advantage for travelers.

Taveuni Barry Peters`, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Namib Desert, Namibia

The Namib Desert is said to be one of the oldest deserts in the world. The desert alters dramatically at daybreak when the sun shines on the dunes, lighting them with warm shades of pink, orange, and gold. The shadows and light play dramatically on the sand.

Namib Desert Keith Hardy keithhardy2001, CC0, Wikimedia Commons

Namib Desert, Namibia (Cont.)

So, you choose to visit Dune 45, which you can comfortably reach from the main road leading to Sossusvlei. Similarly, there is Sossusvlei, which is located at the end of a long, scenic drive through the desert. Sossusvlei is known for its white clay pan surrounded by red dunes.

Dune45 I, Luca Galuzzi, CC BY-SA 2.5, Wikimedia Commons

Kausani, India

This hill station is a hidden gem amidst thick pine forests, with visuals of the snow-covered Himalayas and famous peaks like Nanda Devi, Trishul, and Panchachuli standing out. People often call it the "Switzerland of India" because of its vibe, tea gardens, and rich culture.

Kausani sushanta mohanta sin…, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Kausani, India (Cont.)

At the Kausani Viewpoint, which is one of the best spots to witness the sunrise, you get to see the Himalayan peaks clearly. Plus, the Anasakti Ashram is not only a place of spirituality but also has one of the best vantage points for sunrises.

Anashakti Ashram sushanta mohanta sin…, CC BY 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Taal Volcano Lake, Philippines

The first light of the day gives the environment a mystical tint as it rises above Taal Volcano Lake. The volcano, which is present on an island in the center of the lake, rises sharply against the sky's hues. These colors are reflected in the serene waters below.

Taal Lake And Volcano Ray in Manila, CC BY 2.0, Wikimedia Commons

Taal Volcano Lake, Philippines (Cont.)

You can consider visiting Tagaytay Ridge. Also known as the Tagaytay Range, this is a prominent mountain range located in Cavite, Philippines, stretching around 32 kilometers (20 miles). This ridge is about 2,000 feet above sea level and overlooks the Taal Lake.

Tagaytay Ridge Patrickroque01, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Ojstrica Viewpoint is one place serving the best views of Lake Bled and its iconic island church. The hike to Ojstrica takes around 20-30 minutes from the base. For those seeking a less crowded option, Mala Osojnica is the right pick for you, even though it takes a little more time.

Lake Bled Canadianhockey91, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Lake Bled, Slovenia (Cont.)

It stands at 685 meters above sea level as a prominent feature on the southwestern shore of Lake Bled. Located in the Julian Alps of northwestern Slovenia, Lake Bled was formed through a combination of glacial and tectonic processes after the Bohinj Glacier melted.

Lake Bled Kemalcan, CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons