Ayers Rock, Yulara

Visiting the Red Centre had been proposed by my parents a number of times over the past few years but it wasn’t until very recently that we journeyed into the Australian outback. I really didn’t know what to expect as it was the first trip since before I can remember where I didn’t pour over travel guides and trip advisor reviews, so I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the adventurous four day trip would become one of our most memorable Australian holidays. 

DO: Astro Tour

I have always been fascinated by astronomy and the universe. On a clear summer’s night there’s nothing I love more than staring at the stars; unfortunately, living close to the city has always hindered viewing just how beautiful the night sky can be. So imagine my delight at being able to walk out into a secluded section of the Yulara desert (only five minutes from the town centre) and watch the sky illuminate with countless stars, and even a few planets. With highlights including the Milky Way, shooting stars and the rings of Saturn, I’ve truly never witnessed anything as beautiful. The tour guides were extremely friendly and knowledgeable, willing to answer any questions, debunk incorrect myths and tell a few corny ‘dad jokes’ along the way as well.   

SHOP: Craftworks

With the resort centered around tourists exploring the desert and embracing nature, shopping in Yulara is extremely limited. Despite this, I really enjoyed the selection at Craftworks, an art and design store located in the town’s centre. Housing accessories and prints crafted by their current resident artist Lesley Chaston, the pieces draw on the landscape of the Northern Territory and traditional Aboriginal art, making them the perfect choice for your souvenirs. 

EAT: Gecko’s Cafe

It was hard to pick a favourite eatery as each place in the town centre served a unique purpose; whether that be a quick lunch, sit down dinner or take away option.  What stood out about Gecko’s Café in comparison to the other options was its varied menu, ensuring everyone will find something to enjoy. Their generous portions at reasonable prices will leave you satisfied after a long day touring and trekking.  

TIPS: Uluru Tours and Weather 

It is no longer considered culturally appropriate to climb Uluru due to the location’s heritage and the negative impact on the environment, and its popularity is subsequently on the decline. There are still ways however to explore the natural surrounds in a socially mindful way. SEIT run intimate base trek tours; the six hour, 13 km walk allows you to explore the area, with the running commentary providing interesting information about Aboriginal cultural and the morals learnt through their cultural fables, fables which link directly to the markings on Uluru.  Sunrise and sunset tours are another beautiful way to relax as you watch the colours of the sky and Uluru slowly transform before your eyes.

Timing your stay is also essential. I recommend traveling in winter, you’ll miss the fly and wet seasons which are notoriously unbearable and while the temperature overnight can reach as low as -1/-2 the days are sunny and pleasant