(29/8/2018 – 31/8/2018)
We drove out to Kata Tjuta (previously known as the Olgas) which was about a 45 minute drive from camp. These are huge ancient rock formations and there are 36 domes spread over an area of more than 20 kilometres. The sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta are believed to be about 500 million years old. One of the domes is up to 546 metres tall.
Kata Tjuta is a Pitjantjatjara Aboriginal word meaning “many heads.” Kata Tjuta is a sacred site for men in the Anangu Aboriginal culture and many of the legends surrounding the site are kept secret. There are a number of walking trails that range from easy strolls to longer, more difficult tracks. We did start on the Valley of the Winds track to Karu Lookout but it was literally too windy to continue so we came back to the carpark and then chose the Walpa Gorge Walk which took us about an hour or so. There is a narrow creek valley between two of Kata Tjuta’s largest domes. What is also interesting is that Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Mt. Connor all appear to be in a line with each other.
The gorge is a sanctuary for numerous plants and animals including wallabies and gorgeous wildflower.
We didn’t do every experience on offer at Uluru, and it still amazes me how much there really is to do around the National Park and Yulara.
Ayers Rock Resort in Yulara is a great place to stay that is near Uluru. It has everything you need from hotel restaurants, cafes and bars, IGA, souvenir and gift shops, post office, ATM, Spa, Info Centre and the only petrol station. The accommodation options range from camping and caravan sites up to 5 star luxury. There are many free guest activities you can participate in from a Bush Food experience, bush yarns, Didgeridoo workshop, guided walks, Wintjiri Arts and Museum and Astronomy sessions.
On Thursday it was really very windy so we drove into town to do some shopping and a walk through the Arts Museum and souvenir shops, had some lunch back at the caravan then drove Mum to the airport for her flight back to Sydney that afternoon.
We packed up on Friday morning to head south towards Coober Pedy. We said our goodbyes to the Glovers, their car was still in at the mechanic so it looked like they have to stay longer than planned!!
(29/8/2018 – 31/8/2018)
Laughtons Living Life 