Uluru / Kata Tjuta Region, Northern Territory

Articles

Surprising biodiversity

While the Central Australian environment may at first seem stark - a barren landscape supporting spectacular rock formations - closer inspection reveals it as a complex ecosystem, full of life. Plant and animal life have adapted to the area's extreme conditions and it subsequently supports some of the most unique flora and fauna on the planet. Many of these have long been a valuable source of bush tucker and medicine for local Aboriginal people. From a geological point of view, analysis of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Watarrka National Park reveals an awe-inspiring history. About 500 million years ago, the entire area was covered by an inland sea and over many centuries, sand and mud fell to the bottom of the sea, creating rock and sandstone. Kata Tjuta's domes are the eroded remains of sedimentary rock from the seabed, while Uluru / Ayers Rock is a relic of the coarse grained, mineral-rich sandstone called 'arkose'. Kings Canyon, 300 kilometres north-east of Uluru, in Watarrka National Park, is part of the George Gill Ranges, towering 270 metres above Kings Creek. Its ancient environment has been carved by enormous inland lakes and was once covered in tropical woodlands, some of which remain in the Garden of Eden on the canyon floor. Cycad ferns dating back to the time of the dinosaurs continue to thrive here, along with hundreds of species of other plant life. Ayers Rock Observatory, in Yulara, allows visitors to take advantage of the clear, outback night sky. Stargazers are guided by professional astronomers through the wonders of the Southern constellations, local celestial attractions, recent scientific discoveries and an interpretation of local indigenous astronomy. more

Walking wonderland

Perhaps the best way to experience the majesty and serenity of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Watarrka National Park is on foot, and a multitude of signed trails lead to lookouts, caves, Aboriginal art sites and rock pools. On purchasing your Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park entry ticket, you will be provided with a book of maps and information covering walking trails. It is also possible to purchase the booklet ‘An Insight into Uluru - self-guided walks' at the cultural centre, and for an added level of insight, join free ranger-guided walks throughout the day. In Watarrka National Park, the Kings Canyon Rim Walk affords hikers unforgettable views. The first section of the walk involves a fairly steep ascent and requires a degree of fitness. It is best attempted in the early morning to avoid the heat and walker 'traffic congestion'. The easier hour-and-a-half Kings Creek Walk is also beautiful, leading to a lookout in the centre of the canyon and is perfect for families. Walking trails in both parks range from easy strolls to overnight hikes, but whatever your level of fitness, it is important to factor in extremes in the weather. Try to keep out of the sun at midday, carry lots of water and sun protection and remember that temperatures can dip below freezing at night during the months of June to October. more

World-recognised wonders

Rising from the broad desert plain in the Red Centre of Australia, Uluru / Ayers Rock is Australia's most recognisable natural icon. One of many spectacular rock formations in the Red Centre, this famous sandstone monolith stands 348 metres high and, like an iceberg, has most of its bulk below the surface. Located 440 kilometres south-west of Alice Springs in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Uluru is considered by many to be the spiritual heart of Australia. Kata Tjuta, also known as The Olgas, is located 40 kilometres west of Uluru / Ayers Rock. This massive pile of rock domes dates back 500 million years. Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta have great Aboriginal cultural significance for the Anangu traditional landowners, who lead walking tours that inform about the local flora and fauna, bush foods and the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories of the area. Watarrka National Park, encompassing Kings Canyon, lies 300 kilometres to the north-east of Uluru and 310 kilometres west of Alice Springs. Kings Canyon has 300 metre high sandstone walls, walking trails, palm-filled crevices and views across the desert. more