uluru

Uluru has an enormous presence in the flat outback landscape, being almost 350m high, 9km around the base, and perhaps two thirds lying beneath the surface. Uluru changes colour at sunrise and sunset, becoming at one point an amazingly vibrant red colour. Don't forget your camera. Uluru and nearby Kata Tjuta are on the land of the Anangu people, so there is a $15 entrance fee into the National Park which goes towards the upkeep of tourist facilities. Make sure you drop in at the Cultural Centre, a wonderful example of architecture that is appropriate for the surrounding landscape. Here you can learn about the spiritual significance of Uluru, and why the Anangu would prefer it if you did not climb the rock. Aboriginal guides are only too happy to relate some of their dreamtime stories on walks around the base of the rock. Scenic flights are also a good option.

Accommodation is available 5km outside the National Park at the resort town of Yulara. The town is serviced by an airport which has flights to and from many Australian centres. There are also many tours available from Alice Springs, 465km to the north east by road.