Sunrise Jeep Tour Review: Is the Photo Op Worth It?

Is it really worth waking up way before dawn, that too for a Jeep tour to watch the sunrise and get some photos? The promise of breath-taking views and getting amazing photos for, you know, Instagram is surely a draw, but the early start and the price tag, which could be a bit hefty, make one stop to think. So, you are probably wondering if this ‘Sunrise Jeep Tour with Photographer’ lives up to what you think. Well, stick around, because I’m here to break down my experience, talk about the highs and lows, and assist you in deciding if it’s an adventure for you.

What to Anticipate from a Sunrise Jeep Tour

The typical Sunrise Jeep Tour usually begins well before sunrise. Most tours start with a pickup from your accommodation in a rugged, open-air Jeep. Now, that alone is almost an experience! The ride is often bumpy, you see, as you make your way up to a vantage point known for pretty sunrises. As a matter of fact, that could be a mountain peak, a scenic overlook, or even just a wide-open plain. You get to watch the sky change colors as the sun starts coming up.

Lots of tours include a photographer, so, you get professional-quality photos taken with the sunrise as your backdrop. Typically, there is something included after the sunrise like a quick breakfast or some snacks. The entire thing takes about 3 to 4 hours, and that is, of course, round trip from your accommodation.

My Own Experience

My alarm went off at, like, 4:00 AM. So, that alone tells you I was serious about trying out this tour. After a quick cup of coffee, there is nothing more to do but wait outside for the Jeep. It showed up right on time, and it was already kind of chilly, even though I thought it was going to be warmer. The drive to the peak was definitely a bit rough, but it was also exciting, in a way. The driver knew their way around so we felt safe. The anticipation definitely started building as we climbed higher, and the sky began to hint at the coming dawn.

We got to the top just as the sky began turning from dark to the lighter shades of pre-dawn. Now, let me tell you, the view was truly gorgeous! Colors you, like, only see in paintings started filling the horizon, and the landscape beneath us was slowly revealed as the light increased. The photographer started snapping pictures, you know, catching all the angles and views. The professional gear certainly made a difference in the final photos.

After the sunrise, we had a quick breakfast with some pastries and coffee. Then, it was back to the Jeep for the return ride. I have to say, the drive back was so much better because the light gave a clear view of the scenery. By, the way, I got my photos back later that day, and, like, wow! They really nailed it!

The Good Parts

Spectacular Views: I am telling you that nothing beats seeing a sunrise from a vantage point, it’s just beautiful. The panoramic views and vibrant colors, that the photos really catch, are spectacular.
Amazing Photos: Having a professional photographer there really helped. The photos you get are far superior than what you could probably capture with your phone. They honestly make, very nice memories.
Unique Experience: The Jeep ride itself is exciting. Going up winding roads, is also interesting and certainly something different from the usual tours.

Things That Could Be Better

Early Start: Waking up so early can be a deal-breaker for quite a lot of folks. It really is hard if you aren’t naturally an early riser.
Bumpy Ride: That Jeep ride isn’t for the faint of heart. You need to expect a lot of bouncing and possible discomfort.
Price: The tour is, like, not cheap. If you are traveling on a budget, you should decide whether the cost is really worth it.

Recommendations for Potential Tour Takers

If you are seriously thinking about doing a Sunrise Jeep Tour with a Photographer, here are some ideas:

Bring Warm Clothes: No matter what the time of year it is, it can be very cold at the higher elevations before sunrise, so wrap up.
Confirm What’s Included: Make sure, before you book, you know what is all included (breakfast, number of photos, etc).
Check the Weather: Obviously, try to pick a day when the weather looks clear, so you do not miss out on those awesome views.
Prepare for a Bumpy Ride: Seriously, if you are easily prone to motion sickness, think about taking something ahead of time.

Other sunrise tours worth Considering

In fact, Jeep tours are not your only options if you like an early morning adventure to welcome the sunrise.

Hot Air Balloon Rides: In places like Cappadocia, Turkey, Hot Air Balloon Rides present magical experiences at the rise of the sun. That is to say that, riders witness spectacular landscapes bathed in early morning glow. These excursions are famous for romantic getaways. You might like one yourself!
Hiking Sunrise tours: Like Angels Landing in Zion National Park and Diamond Head in Hawaii, these hikes combine outdoor sports with fantastic views at the summit when the sun ascends. Always check conditions as sometimes trails are closed or overcrowded with like-minded tourist such as yourselves.
Boat Tours: Locations, that too coastal like Hawaii and Australia give sunrise watching at sea. The tours are generally calmer then by land as most tourists and local visit sunrise locations by foot or automobile. Check reviews and safety when planning one of these tours to ensure they are safe and reputable.