Without a doubt, the Tikal Ruins in Guatemala were some of the most memorable of any I have been to. Although one is able to bribe the guards into letting them camp inside the park, I decided instead to setup in the legitimate camping area just outside the gates. The minute they opened, I was sprinting for Temple IV, striving to make it in time for the sunrise.

Upon excavating the temple, panting and on the verge of collapse, I was greeted at the top by a group of tourists whom had apparently paid the nominal fee to enter early for the sunrise tour. They all seemed very relaxed, their guide distributing coffee from a thermos.

I couldn’t help but feel a tinge of jealousy, bordering on frugal embarrassment. Regardless, I made it in time to enjoy the incredible view. If you’re in Guatemala, don’t miss out on the Tikal Ruins at sunrise!