The Australian outback has some of the most beautiful and unique geological features found any where in the world. The outback is a splendid mix of flat, dry land with diverse vegetation and wildlife and areas with giant protruding rocks and interesting land formations. The Olgas, and the nearby Ayers Rock are two of the most famous land formations in the Australian outback.
The Olgas are located about 365km’s southwest of Alice Springs. This group of 36 rock formations, composed of mostly basalt, granite and sandstone, rises 1066m above sea level at its highest point.
Ayers Rock is located 335km’s southwest of Alice Springs. Like the Olgas, this rock formation is made primarily of sandstone. While not as tall as the Olgas, Ayers Rock rises 863m above sea level.
The land formations are beautiful to look at, but the surrounding vegetation and wildlife should not be ignored. There are usually locals around who are more than willing to tell you about the surrounding area. From rare and almost extinct plants to species of animals that only live in this part of Australia, the surrounding Uluru - Kata Tjuta National Park has something interesting for everybody. And if you are worried about the heat in the Australian outback, just make sure you don’t visit this area in the middle of the day. It can get pretty warm, but if hot temperatures are not for you, just visit these areas in the morning or in the beginning of the evening. The climate should not deter you from visiting this beautiful site, though.
There are a few things that you should know about Ayers Rock and the Olgas before you go and visit. Since these rock formations (especially Ayers Rock)
are spiritual symbols to the local aboriginal people, you must treat them with respect and not just as a tourist attraction. There are a few places you can take pictures of Ayers Rock, but many places forbid or strongly frown upon photography. Also, it is best to just look at the rock formations from the pre built observation decks, and not try to climb them. Not only is it a safety issue, but the local aboriginals don’t want tourists crossing a sacred dreamtime track that the path crosses. These limitations do not decrease the amount of enjoyment you will receive from viewing these incredible masses of land. It is just good taste to respect the locals and their traditions.
[...] admin added an interesting post today on Ayers Rock & The Olgas « Exploroo BlogHere’s a small readingThere are a few places you can take pictures of Ayers Rock, but many places forbid or strongly frown upon photography. Also, it is best to just look at the rock formations from the pre built observation decks, and not try to climb them. … [...]