Ulura and Kata Tjuta, Outback

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The splendid colour and size of this famous sandstone monolith never fail to awe those who are chanced to view it. Lying about 40 kilometres west of Uluru (still within the National Park) is the "Kata Tjuta" or The Olgas, which is composed of a series of 36 rocky domes that date back 500 million years. It was regarded in 1987 as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Both the Uluru and the Kata Tjuta are culturally significant to the traditional landowners of the region - the Anagu. They personally lead walking tours that inform visitors about the local flora and fauna, the bush foods as well as the Aboriginal Dreamtime stories on the area that have lived throughout the centuries. For the Aborigines, the Uluru is a symbol of their struggle for their land rights, and the collaboration between indigenous and government land management, and that they are the keepers of the sacred landscape. Today, the Uluru and the Kata Tjuta are centrepieces of the 330,000-acre national parked which is owned by the Anangu and collaboratively managed by Parks Australia. The Aborigines expect tourists and visitors to respect their sacred area.

The sandy landscape of the region is largely dominated by low shrubs and spinifex on sand plains which are dotted with desert oaks. There are also water holes and soaks which are home to a number of unique and rare plant species. Complementing the exciting flora are over 150 species of birds and reptiles, as well as invertebrates and amphibians which are all well adapted to the arid environments of the region.

Aside from these two iconic structures, the Kings Canyon and the Watarrka National Park are two other landmarks that are also worthwhile to visit in the region. It is a home to over 600 different plant species. Located near here are the Giles Track, which features a 22 kilometre walkway and the Kathleen Springs which is well-loved for its spectacular scenery. For those who are in for a little adventure, exploration at the Curtin Springs, quad biking at the Kind's Creek, and enjoying camel safaris are great activities that are offered in the area.

Accommodations are provided within the national park and at the King's Creek Station. The service town of Yulara situated just outside the park boundaries, was built to offer accommodation, facilities and supplies for tourists who visit the park.

The climate in the Ulura and Kata Tjuta region can be blistering hot in the summer, most especially in December and January. Some areas are closed during these days as safety measure. The months of July to September offer a climate which is more temperate, but still quite warm enough to sweat visitors up at mid-day.