Travel Uluru

If one image stands out as a symbol of Australia it has to be Ayers Rock. Uluru (Ayers Rock) is situated in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, an area that covers a massive 132,566 hectares of land, belonging to the Anangu people. The land is also one of only 20 World Heritage sites that achieved accreditation because of its outstanding natural values as well as outstanding cultural values. A visit to Uluru is a truly memorable experience. It's a sacred land to the Aboriginal people and somewhere that truly depicts Australia.

Activities

Heart Attack Hill

I'm sure, if given a choice; most people would like to have a heart attack whilst doing something spectacular. These giant, ledges are the entrance and only route onwards and upwards to the amazing Kings Canyon. Getting to the top, especially at 6am, is a death defying defeat worthy of a Rocky air punching scene, if you still have any energy left. However, once at the peak you'll witness the best views of the red centre.

Garden of Eden

An oasis called the Garden of Eden is the best section to relax in. Resembling a scene from Jurassic Park; it's a natural pool full of temptation, with young guys and women frolicking in the water. Look up and you'll see ogling men risking their life, leaning precariously on the rim of the canyon desperate to get a glimpse of action. Whether it's labyrinths, greenery or sheer rock climbing, you'll find it here.

Kata Tjutas

After visiting Uluru and Kings Canyon how much more rock can you really explore? It's gets to the point where you just think, ‘I've seen it all before.' Once these feelings begin to kick in it is now prime time to check out Kata Tjuta's Valley of the Winds. Located 48kms from Ayers Rock and standing 200metres tall, the 36 monoliths of Kata Tjuta, meaning many heads, are also called The Olgas. The weathered red domes were discovered in 1872 by explorer Ernest Giles. Ernest said of his discovery: "Mount Olga is the more wonderful and grotesque; Mount Ayers the more ancient and sublime." So I guess, no matter how much rock you want to avoid, you've got to explore at least these two in order to judge his comparison, which I personally agree with.

Climbing

The Anangu people don't appreciate it and politely request you not to. Unfortunately that doesn't put many people off and thousands climb every year. It's a steep climb - over 60 people have died trying it - and in the burning sun it really shouldn't be an option. The climb's alternative is a base walk. You can wonder around, and have a look at Australia's various native flora and fauna. Uluru is home to 46 native animals. The majority of travellers head to Uluru for the sunset. Legend has it that as the orange globe slopes downwards, the rock changes colour, much to the oohs and aahs of the expectant crowds.

Transport

Uluru Express is a Yulara based shuttle service, operating between Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). Uluru Express is the ideal choice for guests who wish to see the sights of this spectacular region. Uluru Express can pick you up from your accommodation, and also assist you in the planning of your daily activities Uluru Express travel to Kata Tjuta four times daily, twice in the morning and twice in the afternoon. This particular location is for those who wish to walk along the Valley of the Winds trail (8km) or the Gorge Walk (2km). Afternoon walks also include a sunset at Uluru. Uluru Express offers experiences not to be missed.

Useful Contacts

Groovy Grape Getaways:

Starting operations in 1997, with the Barossa Valley tours, Groovy Grape Getaways has grown to cover the best of Southern and Central Australia and also extended up to Darwin in May 2009. Showcasing exciting South Australian destinations including the Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island, the Flinders Ranges and Coober Pedy, Groovy Grape Getaways honours its mission statement: "To provide culturally aware bus tours that are value for money, fun and groovy to the backpacker market. To promote the regions we travel to and the tourism industry as a whole." Their tours have been endorsed with accreditations for Eco Tourism and Tourism Business.

Backpack NT:

Check out Backpack NT for adventure tours all over the Northern Territory.

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