It is a shock to see the resort that has been built up in the middle of the desert around Ayers Rock. Smart hotels, apartment blocks, a small shopping mall and camp sites of all levels abound. Guess where we are? We had all hoped that our luxury camping of Kings Canyon would continue for the 2 nights we have in Ayers Rock and we search expectantly as we drive past encampment after encampment. Have we learnt nothing on this trip? Finally, Rick pulls up alongside an open kitchen area which conceals a mishamsh of tent options, none of which look particulalry appealing and some of which don't even have a roof. There are barely enough tents for everyone and there is a mad scramble to bagsy the best tents. Mark, Chris and Stu gallantly take the one with its roof hanging off and try to pull it over for some protection. Not that it's going to rain.
Liv has secured a low budget option hidden in a corner and offers to share with me. On the plus side, there are only 2 of us and it is in a secluded shady spot. Most of us take the early morning option(again!) of a 4am rise for sunrise at Ayers Rock. Watching the colours of the rock change as the sun peeps over the horizon and climbs into the sky is a truly magical moment.
Back to base for breakfast and its a fast turnaround to head back to the rock where we have the option to climb over the top or walk the 12 kms round the base. We have debated the moral issue of climbing this sacred Aboriginal location and for most it is ok. I have decided to grit my teeth for the climb up the sheer face with only a rope to hang on to but am actually quite relieved, when we discover that we have the opportunity to climb by 8hrs as the climb is closed from Dec 1st for the summer, due to the heat.
The 12kms walk it is then. Walking round, there are lots of little side paths into hidden gorges, pools and caves with Aboriginal Rock Art. This is a very sacred place and in many spots we are prohibited from taking photos or even ealking over the ground.
Back to the camp for a quick lunch as we are off to see Ayer's sister rocks, the Olgas, before returning directly Uluru for sunset and champagne, along with 12 other coach loads.
Liv has secured a low budget option hidden in a corner and offers to share with me. On the plus side, there are only 2 of us and it is in a secluded shady spot. Most of us take the early morning option(again!) of a 4am rise for sunrise at Ayers Rock. Watching the colours of the rock change as the sun peeps over the horizon and climbs into the sky is a truly magical moment.
Back to base for breakfast and its a fast turnaround to head back to the rock where we have the option to climb over the top or walk the 12 kms round the base. We have debated the moral issue of climbing this sacred Aboriginal location and for most it is ok. I have decided to grit my teeth for the climb up the sheer face with only a rope to hang on to but am actually quite relieved, when we discover that we have the opportunity to climb by 8hrs as the climb is closed from Dec 1st for the summer, due to the heat.
The 12kms walk it is then. Walking round, there are lots of little side paths into hidden gorges, pools and caves with Aboriginal Rock Art. This is a very sacred place and in many spots we are prohibited from taking photos or even ealking over the ground.
Back to the camp for a quick lunch as we are off to see Ayer's sister rocks, the Olgas, before returning directly Uluru for sunset and champagne, along with 12 other coach loads.
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