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ince Australia’s rusty-red monolith, Uluru, was handed back to its original owners in 1977, the Anangu people have welcomed visitors to walk its 9.4 kilometre circumference and soak up its spiritual presence. They’ve also been vocal about the fact they’d prefer people didn’t climb Uluru, as this was seldom allowed in the past. Eighty percent of tourists to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park respected the request, although the other 20% chose to haul themselves up the rock’s 348-metre surface regardless. At least 35 climbers died while doing so. Now, there’s no longer a choice. On October 26 last year, the park’s Board of Management officially banned climbing on Uluru. In the weeks that followed, the chains installed in 1963 to help people climb the steep rock were removed and symbolically handed over to Anangu elders.
Many visitors begin with a free, ranger-guided walk along the two-kilometre wheelchair-accessible Mala Walk. However, many Anangu suggest taking a slow exploration of the Tjukurpa Tunnel before setting out. Here, to the sounds of ceremonial songs, visitors can learn about the Anangu’s laws, traditions and art. The guided Mala Walk departs at 8 a.m. or 10 a.m. daily, depending on the season. Photos aren’t allowed for cultural reasons.
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Take to
Take in Uluru on two legs
the sky
Regardless of what you call it — Uluru is also known as Ayers Rock — there are dozens of ways to experience all that is sacred about Uluru and the rest of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Here are just a few options...
