Glorious sunrise above the clouds on Bali volcano is beyond breathtaking

Almost everyone has memories of a sunrise that they will never forget. Perhaps they shared it with someone special in a moment that will live on in their memory forever. Or maybe it was the first rays of morning seen in a magical location. These tourists embarked on a journey that would take them up the side of a volcano in Bali, Indonesia, to one of the most perfect vantage points to meet the dawn.

The journey started long before first light, departing at 3am by jeep for a drive over rugged terrain, marked by lava rocks and gullies. The steep inclines and tumbling rocks made the trek a treacherous one. But the prize waiting for them was worth every minute.

Guests arrived by the dozens, all taking a seat on benches or ledges on the side of one volcano to gaze out over the valley and neighbouring volcano in front of them. As the sun began its slow climb, an orange and red spread over the horizon like a crimson blanket, slowly being unrolled. Streaks of golden light spiked upwards, piercing the dark blue sky and drawing gasps of amazement and appreciation from the crowd.

Clouds rolled through between the volcanos, obscuring the jungle and village below. It was like watching the world wake up as the colour flooded the sky and slowly revealed the outlines of palm trees and volcano peaks in the distance. At times, there was only the hushed silence as the spectators took it all in. At other times there were emotional moments and cries of delight as some people were actually brought to tears by the glory of our planet.

The meaning and the impact were very different for each person watching, but they all seemed to share the understanding that this place and this time would be remembered forever. The silhouette of such a majestic peak, formed so long ago was stunning. Knowing that from this high peak, these would be the first rays of light to shine on this part of the world made it even more special.

With pictures and memories to last a lifetime, guests slowly got into their jeeps for the trip back. And every single one took a long, last look, drinking it all in before saying goodbye to one of the most beautiful sunrises imaginable.