For most travelers, the golden hour of sunset is the ultimate photo op—the moment when the sky explodes in color and the day winds down. But what if we flipped the script? What if we started chasing sunrises instead of sunsets?
This isn’t just about waking up early. It’s about embracing a quieter, more intentional way of experiencing the world. Sunrises offer solitude, clarity and a sense of renewal that sunsets rarely match. In this post, we’ll explore why sunrise chasing is a transformative travel habit, how to incorporate it into your journey and what it reveals about your relationship with time, nature and yourself.
The Allure of Sunrises
There’s something sacred about the first light of day. While sunsets signal closure, sunrises whisper beginnings. The world is still, the air is crisp and the colors—soft pinks, gentle oranges and pale blues—feel like nature’s quiet poetry.
Why choose sunrises:
- Fewer crowds and distractions
- A sense of accomplishment and mindfulness
- Ideal lighting for photography
- A chance to witness nature waking up
Unlike sunsets, which are often shared with dozens of tourists, sunrises are intimate. They’re yours alone—or shared with a few fellow early risers who understand the magic.
Sunrise vs. Sunset: A Mindful Comparison
Let’s break down the emotional and experiential differences between these two daily phenomena.
| Aspect | Sunrise | Sunset |
| Energy | Calm, reflective | Vibrant, celebratory |
| Crowd | Minimal | Often crowded |
| Symbolism | New beginnings | Closure, and rest |
| Temperature | Cool and refreshing | Warm and mellow |
| Wildlife | Birds, dew, morning sounds | Crickets, fading light |
| Mood | Peaceful, meditative | Romantic, nostalgic |
Chasing sunrises instead of sunsets isn’t about rejecting one for the other—it’s about choosing presence over performance, solitude over spectacle.
How to Become a Sunrise Chaser
If you’re not a morning person, the idea of waking up before dawn might sound daunting. However, with a few adjustments, you can make sunrise chasing a joyful part of your travel experience.
1. Plan Ahead
Check sunrise times for your destination and scout locations the day before. Apps like PhotoPills or Sun Surveyor can help you find the perfect angle.
2. Sleep Early
To enjoy the sunrise, you need to be well-rested. Avoid late-night distractions and set a gentle alarm to help you stay on track.
3. Pack Smart
Bring layers for chilly mornings, a thermos of coffee or tea and your camera gear. Don’t forget a journal—you might feel inspired to write.
4. Be Present
Resist the urge to capture every moment. Sometimes, the best memories are the ones you experience.
Best Places to Chase Sunrises
Some destinations are perfectly suited for witnessing the magic of the sunrise. Here are a few unforgettable spots:
- Mount Bromo, Indonesia – Watch the sun rise over volcanic peaks and misty valleys.
- Angkor Wat, Cambodia – The temple silhouette against the morning sky is iconic.
- Grand Canyon, USA – The canyon glows with golden light as the sun climbs.
- Bagan, Myanmar – Hot air balloons drift over ancient temples at dawn.
- Santorini, Greece – Skip the sunset crowds and enjoy peaceful morning views.
Even your local park or rooftop can become a sunrise sanctuary. It’s not about the grandeur—it’s about the moment.
The Emotional Impact of Sunrise Travel
A psychological shift occurs when you start your day with intention. Watching the sunrise can:
- Reduce anxiety and stress
- Boost mood and energy
- Encourage mindfulness and gratitude
- Inspire creativity and reflection
Chasing sunrises instead of sunsets teaches you to value beginnings. It’s a reminder that every day is a fresh start, full of possibilities.
Photography Tips for Sunrise Moments
If you’re into travel photography, sunrise offers unique challenges and rewards.
Tips:
- Use a tripod for low-light stability
- Shoot during blue hour (just before sunrise) for soft tones
- Adjust white balance to capture warm hues
- Include foreground elements for depth
- Experiment with silhouettes
Sunrise light is gentle and forgiving, making it perfect for portraits, landscapes and atmospheric shots.
Sunrise Rituals to Enhance Your Experience
Make sunrise chasing more than a photo op. Turn it into a ritual.
- Meditate or do yoga as the sun rises
- Write morning pages to clear your mind
- Practice gratitude by listing three things you’re thankful for
- Walk in nature and observe the world waking up
These rituals deepen your connection to the moment, making your travels more meaningful.
Why Travelers Miss Out on Sunrises
Despite their beauty, sunrises are often overlooked. Here’s why:
- Late nights and sleep inertia
- Lack of planning or awareness
- Preference for social experiences over solitude
- Underestimating the emotional impact
But once you experience a truly breathtaking sunrise, it’s hard to go back. You start to crave that quiet magic.
Making Sunrise Chasing a Lifestyle
You don’t need to be traveling to chase sunrises. Make it part of your daily or weekly routine.
- Wake up early on weekends and explore your city
- Find local viewpoints or nature trails
- Invite a friend or go solo for reflection
- Document your sunrise journey through photos or journaling
Chasing sunrises instead of sunsets becomes a mindset—a way of embracing life’s beginnings with open arms.
FAQs
Q: Is it worth waking up early just for a sunrise?
A: Absolutely. The peace, beauty and sense of renewal are unmatched. It sets a positive tone for your entire day.
Q: What’s the best time to arrive for a sunrise?
A: Aim to arrive 30–45 minutes before the scheduled sunrise to catch the blue hour and set up comfortably.
Q: How do I stay safe while chasing sunrises?
A: Choose well-known locations, let someone know your plans and carry essentials like a flashlight and phone.
Q: Can I enjoy sunrises without traveling far?
A: Yes! Your balcony, rooftop or nearby park can offer stunning views. It’s about presence, not location.
Q: What if I’m not a morning person?
A: Start slow—try one sunrise a week. Over time, your body adjusts and the rewards become easier to achieve.
Final Thoughts
In a world that glorifies sunsets, choosing to chase sunrises is a quiet rebellion. It’s a way of saying, “I value beginnings. I seek peace. I want to witness the world before it wakes.”
Chasing sunrises instead of sunsets isn’t just a travel tip—it’s a philosophy. It invites you to slow down, look inward and greet each day with intention. So, next time you plan a trip—or even a morning walk—consider getting up early. The sun has something to show you and it’s worth every yawn.