Custom Search
|
|
Alice Springs Provides The Perfect Base For Trips To Uluru
The rock itself can be compared to an iceberg, in that most of its mass is hidden from sight. Considering it stands 350 meters above the desert plain, its true size is astounding. Carbon dating from samples in the vicinity indicate 500 million years of existence. It is claimed that the local natives, the Australian Aborigines, have frequented the rock for 40,000 years. It is understandably of great cultural significance for these traditional owners, (the Anangu tribe). Their ancestors now work as conservationists of the rock, a big part of which is the education of those who visit the area. They are the preferred guides on the walking tours around the rock, highlighting the local flora and fauna, explaining which are considered 'bush foods' and how they are prepared. The highlight for many is for the first time bearing witness to the traditional Aboriginal Dreamtime stories. Ancient rock drawings highlight these stories, as does the authentic charm of the guides. The national park in which Uluru, and several other significant sites are included is the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. It is World Heritage Listed to protect both the natural and cultural values unique to the area, and indeed the entire world. Debate has raged in Australia about the ability to climb the rock or not. The local Aboriginals prefer that visitors don't climb Uluru because of its sacred past. The authorities that manage the park, are also troubled by the many deaths and serious injuries that have occurred by those who have climbed it. Although a chain link guide rail has marked the path for many years, on congested busy days with many tourists climbing, slow walkers force faster walkers to overtake them. Leaving the defined track has proved fatal on many occasions. Also standing 350 meters high, in the middle of a flat desert, can cause significant gusts of wind to occur. Many who have climbed the rock and returned often tell of an awkward moment. Visitors are now encouraged to follow the 9 kilometer walking trail that circumnavigates the rock. This trail offers ample photographic opportunities from various angels and lighting conditions. As the color of the rock is most vivid when the sun is low, sunrise and sunset are busy times... but well worth the effort. Uluru is 440 kilometers south west of Alice Springs. Many consider it advantageous to organize a group tour from Alice Springs, as the knowledge of the tour guide provides greater insight into the region, the accommodation near the rock is privately owned, and it frees you to enjoy the ever changing landscape on the way. Comparable to a visit to the Grand Canyon or the Pyramids, a visit to Uluru will be an experience that will stay with you always. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Desert Palms Resort is highly recommended for your Alice Springs Accommodation. They can provide further information on group tour options and the best times to visit the Red Centre. For quality accommodation in Alice Springs, look no further. |
|