The Many Faces of Uluru

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Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, lies in the heart of Australia. The heart of Australia lies in the Northern Territory, or the Outback, or the Red Center.  The rock is a large sandstone rock formation sacred to the Aboriginal people, specifically the Pitjantjatjara people. It lies within Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, a protected area. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site for natural and cultural landscape.  There is archaeological evidence of the sacredness of this rock dating back some 30,000 years with the Aboriginals.

Besides the massive size and rich history of this rock, what is probably one of the most alluring features is the rock changes in appearance throughout the day and over the course of the year.  The sandstone contains reflective minerals that react differently to the varying positions of the sun, thus causing the surface to radiate different colors.  It also is fascinatingly different in appearance when the rains appear.  Probably the best times of year to visit this dessert environment and view Uluru along with other rock formations would be from April to October.

There are a variety of different activities giving you opportunity to view the rock and it’s changing colors.  A 2-night or more stay in the region gives the traveler a chance to view the rock in a variety of ways.  From early sunrise viewing points, to walks around the base (climbing of the rock is not allowed), to special sunset dinners.  Within these there are many opportunities to experience the culture, amazing food, and/ or celebrate a special occasion.  Some other fun ways to see the rock are by helicopter, Segway, biking, motorcycle, and even on camel back.

A very special display with extended viewing until December 2020 that you can go to via a camel ride is The Field of Lights.  Created by internationally celebrated artist Bruce Monro, it is by far ihis largest work to date with over 50,000 spindle lights.  Just one more reason to book your Outback experience before the lights go out.

 


Lisa Rossmeissl is the owner of Boomerang Escapes, a home-based agency located in Old Bridge, New Jersey with agents in TN, MS, and WI. 

She has been a professional travel consultant since 2008 and specializes in Australia and the South Pacific. Australia, New Zealand, Tahiti, Fiji, and Cook Islands are among the specialist certificates she holds.  Her agency’s focus is on creating custom itineraries with their client’s wants, desires, and budgets in mind.  She and her planners believe in getting to know the traveler to ensure they have a vacation to remember.  With each planner specializing in a different market area, Boomerang Escapes can offer a wide variety of leisure vacation planning.

Lisa RossmeisslThe Many Faces of Uluru
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