Opacarophilia, the Passion for Watching Sunsets: The 5 Most Incredible in the World

Opacarophilia is defined as "love or passion for sunsets, especially for dusk or sunset". The word, although of dubious origin, comes from a supposed 'opacare', which means 'to enter into shadow' in Latin, or in other words, sunset. It hasn't yet appeared in official dictionaries, but it may not be long before it does, as more and more people are enamored with this natural phenomenon that repeats itself every day.

Social media is filled with photographs of skies that turn orange and pink when the sun begins to set. While these always produce beautiful images, it is true that the surroundings can enhance or detract from sunsets in various ways. It isn't the same enjoying it while sitting on a rock with a view of the sea as watching it from your home window overlooking brick buildings.

It tops all lists of the best sunsets in the world. The Angkor Monument Complex is the epicenter of Khmer civilization and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built in the early 12th century and today remains one of the most recognized skylines in all of Cambodia.

Both at dawn and as the sun begins to lose strength, the landscape of this monumental temple is stunning. The colors of the sky cast a reflection on the water that includes the silhouette of the Cambodian jewel, surrounded by tall trees, stone walkways, galleries, moats, and stairs.

From any area of the impressive Grand Canyon, there are incredibly privileged views, but the South Rim is one of the most popular spots, especially for enjoying a beautiful sunset. At over two thousand meters above sea level, the landscape becomes rocky and orange, perfectly complementing the colors of the sunset.

The South Rim is part of the Grand Canyon National Park and has the highest number of lodges, restaurants, shops, trails, and a fabulous transportation system to connect various points. Additionally, the views from there are also the broadest, making it much easier to enjoy the sunset.

The ascent to the mountain usually starts from the village of Toya Bunkah and, although it is somewhat costly, the reward is worth it. It is the second highest volcano on the island, after Gunung Agung, and is still partially active. It is an ideal destination for nature lovers and the more adventurous hikers.

After a two to three-hour climb along a steep trail of lava rock, you reach an altitude of nearly two thousand meters. The last time it erupted was between 1999 and 2000, and volcanic activity can still be detected in places where steam rises from the ground.

Less than two kilometers from the Ibiza coast lies the most enigmatic islet. It is a rocky pyramid that rises almost 400 meters above the water, astonishing everyone who sees it for the first time. It is part of the Cala d'Hort Natural Park, Cap Llentrisca, and Sa Talaia, and is a Bird Protection Zone (ZEPA).

Myths and legends swirl around this limestone rock of 80 hectares. Among the viewpoints from which the sunset can be observed with the rock in the background, the overlooks of Cala d'Hort, a small typical Ibiza beach with coarse sand, and the one at the Torre de Es Savinar, an ancient defensive tower on top of a cliff, stand out.

Bled Castle is located on the top of a 150-meter-high cliff, from where you can see the best panoramic view of the city. In the middle of the lake of the same name, there is a small islet that can be accessed after about twenty minutes of crossing. Both from there and from the top of the castle, the views are spectacular.

Also, on select days in July, there are special activities, and the lake is covered in lights at night, with fireworks taking place while music entertains the evening. This glacial lake of the Julian Alps reflects the image of the village surrounded by vegetation that turns orange with the setting sun.