Discovery Ecotours

A Cultural Insight into Australia's Red Heart

ENLARGE MAP

A Cultural Insight into Australia’s Red Heart

Discover the fascinating ecological and cultural values unique to the heartland of this region on a small group, personalised tour with award-winning operator Discovery Ecotours. You will travel in a comfortable 4WD vehicle with a specialist knowledgeable guide, thus providing a personal interaction and comprehensive understanding of this unique part of Australia. You will be given time to absorb not only the natural beauty, but the cultural significance and sense of place that characterises this remarkable destination.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Covering 132,566 hectares of arid ecosystems in the traditional lands of the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara Aboriginal people (locally known as Anangu), Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a place that honours the culture of the Anangu people. The huge rock formations of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) are remarkable geological features set in a contrasting, relatively flat, sand-plain environment. 9.4 kilometres in circumference, Uluru rises to a height of over 340 metres above the plain. Rock art in the caves around its base are evidence of the enduring cultural traditions of Anangu. About 32 kilometres to the west of Uluru lie the 36 steep-sided domes of Kata Tjuta, covering an area of 3,500 hectares.

Explore the domes of Kata-Tjuta by walking through Walpa Gorge (Olga Gorge) for a fascinating introduction to the geology evolution over millions of years. Walk or tour the base of Uluru to gain the appreciation of this massive monolith to the survival and heritage of the Anangu people.

Pitjantjatjara Lands

In conjunction with Desert Tracks’ tours to the Pitjantjatjara lands, you can take part in an extended aboriginal guided walk in the footsteps of their ancient dreamtime ancestors – enjoy the beauty and serenity of this arid desert environment to see how work, song, dance, story-telling and art are truly integrated in a living culture that is many thousands of years old.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1

Depart for the domes of Kata Tjuta. Learn about the nature of the desert and its development. A short walk to the dune provides a spectacular panoramic view of Kata Tjuta – a very sacred place to the Aboriginal people.

Day 2

Venture into the remote Pitjantjatjara Lands, travelling south to Cave Hill, site of the Seven Sisters Tjukurpa. The main feature is the magnificent cave paintings – possibly the most significant art site in Central Australia. Return by helicopter for spectacular scenic views of the desert landscape, Uluru and Kata Tjuta. This evening, dine under the stars as you enjoy the multi award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner.

Day 3

This tour to Uluru provides the opportunity to witness the spectacular sunrise without rushing. Take time to absorb this famous monolith’s natural history and deep significance to the Anangu people. Short walks will bring you close to this wonderful and powerful place, with time to view rock art and waterholes and to appreciate the unique flora and fauna of Uluru. The final stop is the Uluru and Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre.

Discovery Ecotours also offer multi-day tours which start in Alice Springs and include Palm Valley and Kings Canyon - please contact us for further details.