Though familiar to most outsiders as Ayers Rock, the paragon symbol of Australia has a more politically correct and culturally relevant name. Uluru, as the Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara people call it, is without question, the de facto national emblem. A massive sandstone formation, sacred to the Aborignial people of the area for thousands of years, Uluru is at the very heart of Australia and draws millions of visitors to the Northern Territory every year.

About 400 km from the small city of Alice Springs, relative seclusion and desolation have always been part of the iconic landmark's appeal. With mass tourism however, come the usual concerns about preservation and respect. As a result, major efforts have been made to protect not only the precious ecology of Uluru and indeed, the rock formations of Kata Tjuta, but also Aboriginal heritage. The fact that Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is now a vital UNESCO World Heritage Site certainly helps the valuable cause.

Attractions

Activities

The Ayers Rock area has a semi-arid climate, with wide temperature extremes and little rainfall throughout the year.

• Summer (November to February) 17-38°C

• Fall (March to May) 8-33°C

• Winter (June to August) 5-23°C

• Spring (September to October) 9-31°C