Uluru at Sunrise

Our last day at Yulara, we again arose early and headed down the road to Uluru for our second sunrise. We were paid for our effort with a spectacular sight of a glowing red stone.

Mutitjula Waterhole

Just to the left of the large tree on the left is a gouge in Uluru. This leads down to Mutitjula waterhole. Farther around to the left is this missing bite from Uluru where it seems like a dandy place to take shelter. This combined with the water made this corner a well used place to live during the season when Aboriginals were in residence.

Sunrise at Kata Tjuta

We awoke with the stars still shining brightly overhead. At this time of day and in this season, Orion was about a third of the way up in the sky. We put on yesterday's clothes, grabbed some yogurt and hit the road. In about 50 minutes, we reached the sunrise lookout for Kata Tjuta. This is a metal platform getting us up above the surrounding vegetation.

Uluru

Uluru. It is a majestic place. It feels more visiting Notre Dame or perhaps I should compare it to the temple at Karnak. Something ancient, built to an alien design, imposing, and serene.

After visiting the culture center, we gained a tiny glimpse of what this enormous rock means to the people who have lived here, in this place, for perhaps 22,000 years.

Entering the Northern Territory

Finally near the end of the long stretch of unsealed road as we enter the Northern Territory.