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Ayers Rock is one of Australia's best-known landmarks. Uluru is it's Aboriginal name and it means "giant pebble". Ayers Rock is located in Australia's Northern Territory and it sits almost directly in the center of the continent. It is the largest monolith in the world. Ayers Rock is located in the Kata Tjuta National Park. This park was returned to the Anangu Aboriginal people by the Australian government in 1985.
If you visit Ayers Rock it is important to remember that this is an Aboriginal spiritual site. They have strong ties to this area that date back 60,000 years. The rock is said to be home to dozens of Aboriginal ancestral beings, all tied to their history and their sacred beliefs. Though much of this is clouded in mystery, Aboriginal guides at Ayers Rock offer you a glimpse of this as you visit the caves and inlets carved in the bottom of the rock.
The best time to visit Ayers Rock is at sunset or sunrise. The rock appears to change color as the sun sets or rises. You can walk around the base of the rock or climb to the top. Some companies offer motorcycle tours, hot air balloon rides, helicopter tours, and small airplane tours. There are also camel tours, camping tours, backpacking trips, and sunset dinners. When walking around the base of the rock you can have an Aboriginal guide accompany you if you wish.
If you are traveling to Ayers Rock for a vacation remember that this landmark is in the Australian Outback. The sun can be extremely brutal. It is always necessary to wear sunscreen and a hat. Insect repellent and sunglasses are also recommended. The temperatures during Australia's summer months (October through April) can climb as high as 90 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Wear light fabrics in light colors. If you are going during the winter months, it will be warm during the day but temperatures will dip at night. Take long-sleeved tops, jackets, and slacks with you for these times.
In 1984 a complex called Yulara was built just outside the park boundaries to accommodate the large amounts of tourist that come each year. The complex includes an airport, hotels, restaurants, and other accommodations. Many tour companies offer different ways to view Ayers Rock.
Here are a few tour companies that you may wish to contact for your Ayers Rock visit. Contact each company for details and rate information. Though a few of these offer climbing the rock as part of their tours, please keep something in mind as you decide. When you visit, you will see signs posted by the Aboriginal people asking you not to climb the rock. Ayers Rock is a sacred site and they hope you will treat it with respect.
Frontier Camel Farm: This farm has 50 camels available for tours of Ayers Rock and nearby Alice Springs.
Northern Territory Tours and Travel: This company offers sunrise tours with complimentary coffee and sunset tours with complimentary wine. You can also see Ayers Rock from the back of a motorcycle or take one out on your own.
Sahara Outback Tours: This company offers many different packages for visiting Ayers Rock. They have motor coaches that take you to their campsite where you can camp in provided tents. Included in their prices are park entrance fees, meals, and other related camping needs.
Iris Tours, Australia: This company offers walking tours around the base of Ayers Rock. They also have tours at sunrise. The rock can be viewed at sunset along with a buffet dinner. They offer helicopter rides over the park. Park fees are not included in their price.
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