The longest shortcut-Uluru and Kata Tjuta (3)

We visited Uluru and Kata Tjuta many years ago, and while the monoliths have not changed, it was well worth spending 3 days camping at Yulara and re-acquainting ourselves with the region. Ulura, once known as Ayres Rock, is spectacular, and while the banning of its climbing caused controversy a number of years ago, I don’t think that it has devalued the experience of visiting the site. Walking and cycling around the rock is encouraged and getting close to the near vertical walls, the waterfalls and native vegetation is memorable. In the right light the rock almost glows-a religious experience. The same can be said for Kata Tjuta, not a monolith but the rocks glow, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Beautiful.

We camped at the Erldunda Roadhouse prior to driving to Yulara the next day. Rain and wind during the night resulted in a wet and cold start to the morning. While not particularly convenient, the rain did bring out the beauty of the red sands and the contrasting greens of the vegetation. This is our camping compatriots manhandling a wet and soggy tent before heading for Yulara.

MT CONNER

Mt Conner, this flat-topped monolith is estimated to be 500 million years old. At a total height of 300 meters, this towering chunk of sandstone, siltstone and mudstone creates an incredible impression on the otherwise flat landscape. Seen to the south of the road from Alice Springs to Yulara, it is often mistaken for Uluru which is some distance to the west.

ULURU

Uluru

The changing colours and shapes of Uluru

Tata Tjuku waterfall. While rain does not occur frequently in the desert, the water falls are spectacular if you are lucky enough to be there at the right time.