Learn about why central Australia has deep red soil.
Most people outside of Australia think the dirt across the country is red, but only the central regions have this deep red soil. The red soil is millions of years old and has a high percentage of iron oxide, giving it the red colour we see. It’s also believed that the red soil is very similar in colour to the surface of Mars! Even though the red soil looks so different and unique, there aren’t a lot of nutrients in it, meaning there isn’t much use for it.
Things to do in Uluru
If you’re organising a trip to Uluru, be sure you take part in as much as possible and try these activities.
– Uluru base walk
The best way to see Uluru is by doing the four hour, 10 kilometre base walk. You will walk around the base of Uluru and learn its stories by seeing cultural sites, wildlife, and plants. It’s ideal to do this walk early in the morning and finish by 11 AM, as it becomes too hot after that. From 11 AM onwards, you can do shorter walks or consider a bus tour or a Segway tour as alternatives.
Credit: Tourism NT/The Salty Travellers
– Valley of the Winds walk
The Valley of the Winds walk offers a close up view of the giant red domes known as Kata Tjuta. This grade four walk takes around three to four hours and includes two lookout points of the domes. It’s recommended to start this walk early in the morning to avoid the heat.
If the full walk is too long, you can opt for the one hour return walk to Karu Lookout or the two and a half hour return walk to Karingana Lookout. Note that Karu Lookout (first lookout) is closed from 11 AM due to the heat.
– Watch the sunrise and sunset
Uluru offers some of the most magnificent sunrises and sunsets in the country. If you’re in Uluru, watching the sunrise and sunset is a once in a lifetime experience. Arrive early to secure the best viewing spot and there are plenty of viewing areas available.
– Taste bush tucker
Have you ever wondered what bush tucker tastes like? While in Uluru, you can try some! Taste the snacks the Anangu people would eat and learn about how they turned some food into medicine too.
Credit: Tourism NT/Mark Fitzpatrick
Uluru is a remarkable part of Australia to visit. When you visit, make sure to immerse yourself in cultural activities and guided walks with a guided ranger. Or you can opt for a guided tour of Uluru and other sites.
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia
Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.