Sunset in Rio
Like trying to describe a dream, recounting a beautiful sunset is futile. The colours, the scale, in fact everything about the true nature of a sunset is inexpressible. Whether it’s the colours, the clouds, or the scenery, there’s always something unique and particular about it. So get ready because here are seven of the best places to watch the sunset around the world.
Santorini, Greece
There must be a good reason coachloads of tourists head out for the sunset in Santorini each night. The island’s distinctive crescent shape could be the reason it ushers in the most beautiful sunsets you may be privileged to see. Fira, the capital village, and the whitewashed town of Oia, both lie on the western side, giving travellers ample opportunity to witness how the sea is lit up in a gorgeous rose-pink light. As once is not enough, you can try to catch the stunning views from a new angle each evening.
Taj Mahal, India
Regarded as one of the world’s architectural wonders, the Taj Mahal in the Indian state of Agra is spectacular to see against blue skies during the day. But when the sun starts receding, that’s when you make sure you have your camera. The mausoleum transforms into a magical sight as the day comes to an end and the sun starts to set behind it. The sun’s rays bend and twist round the white marble dome, covering the stuccoed walls, minarets and garden in a soft pink and orange haze.
Masai Mara, Kenya
The Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya is one of the most magical places to enjoy a much-coveted sunset. The sun’s rays begin to cool as it sinks beneath the horizon, plunging the land and wildlife in a rusty orange light. A combination of capricious weather, soaring cliffs and the wildlife help highlight the beauty of Africa’s landscape. The Masai Mara is well known for having the finest photographic light in the world, and the Olare and Mara North conservancies have the best spots for watching the twilight without crowds of people.
Uluru, Australia
A large lump of sandstone erected at 348m in the middle of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) is the largest monolith (single massive stone) in the world. It’s so big that as the clouds move across the sky at sunset, they reflect its orange and red colours. It’s a bit of a chameleon, changing from a dark rusty brown colour at sunrise to blood red as the sun sets. The rock is sacred to the Anangu people and visitors are discouraged from climbing it, so stand at the foot and gaze up as the sun sinks through the cloud formations and dusk turns to night.
Hawaii, USA
Hawaii is truly blessed with the most magnificent sunsets that can be enjoyed in many different spots. Try Anaeho'omalu Beach, or head to the summit of Mauna Kea. Alternatively, Mount Haleakala, a dormant Hawaiian volcano, shines like a jewel on a blackened landscape when the setting sun’s rays rush across its steep slopes. Located on Hawaii’s Kohala Coast, Kauna’oa Bay is generally known to be the best beach in the US. A crest of sparkling white sand, it’s also the perfect venue for a magnificent sundown to see how the Pacific turn a breathtaking mix of yellow, violet, and orange.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Sunset’s a beautiful thing in Rio and you get to see the sky turn into magical colours. Some touristy places like the Sugar Loaf, which has 360-degree views, and Ipanema Beach are great for seeing the sun setting. However, other fantastic places to watch the ultimate sundown include Arpoador, Rio’s most romantic spot, Urca, and Vista Chinesa, a beautiful little spot above the Lagoa. Prainha is one of Rio’s little secrets and a beautiful little secret it is. It’s a little out of town, but worth it if you want a quieter beach to watch an amazing twilight.
Great Pyramids, Egypt
Watching the sun descend behind the pyramids as two of the world’s greatest natural and man-made wonders meet is one of the most spectacular sights you’ll ever see. With camels in the distance and yellow sand as far as the eye can see, this wonder of the ancient world really comes into its own when the sun starts setting. The sight of Egypt’s hot red sun sinking and glittering between the triangular peaks of the Great Pyramids near Cairo is a mesmerising one, and will leave you with a deep sense of awe and history, as well as some seriously impressive photographs. If you can, it’s also a good idea to watch it from a rooftop in Giza for an amazing panoramic view.
