Uluru Kata Tjuta Information

Uluru was returned to the care of the Anangu people in 1985 as the original custodians. Along with Parks Australia they now jointly manage the national park in which the rock lies. Archaeologists estimate that Aboriginal people have lived in the area for at least 22,000 years-a history that infuses it's many natural attractions with an inescapable sense of purpose and wonder.

West of Uluru are the Olgas, or Kata Tjuka - a collection of 36 enormous weathered rock domes estimated to be around 500 million years old. The tallest of the domes is actually 200 metres higher than Ulu[u. The Anangu people, the traditional landowners, lead walking tours in both areas, informing visitors about the local plants and animals, bush foods and retelling Aboriginal Dreamtime legends.

Around three hundred kilometres north west of Uluru is the Watarrka National Park, best known for Kings Canyon- a mighty gorge which cleaves the ground down to a depth of almost 300 metres. In the depths of Kings Canyon exists an exotic Garden of Eden with luxuriant cycads around a permanent water hole.

Top 5 things to do

Hike to the rim of this magnificent canyon, up 300 metre sandstone walls for awe inspiring desert views

2. Do a dot painting workshop

3. Join an Aboriginal guided tour

4. Marvel at Kata Tjuka's domes

5. Learn indigenous culture at the Uluru-Kata Tjuka Cultural Centre