Central Australia
Moved in to Elke's Backpacker in Alice Springs, (previously a motel) with
good facilities and friendly staff.
http://www.elkesbackpackers.com.au/alice/accom.html.
Booked a 5 day trip in a 4WD to see most of Central Australia's most
spectacular "outback" country, including:
- The Desert Park
- Discreetly designed to fit in with the countryside, and including a great
display of native birds, and a Nocturnal House containing reptiles.
- Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge
- Picturesque, but too cold to swim in.
- Palm Valley
- Where the worlds oldest plant "the Cycad" grows, plus date
palms and eucalypt trees. The valley looks so old it wouldn't be
surprising if a dinosaur appeared.
- Kings Canyon
- Which we hiked up, across and down, taking in the magnificent colours,
views and scenes (including rock formations identical with the Bungle Bungle in
Western Australia) which probably makes this my favourite outback place in
Australia.
- Ayers Rock / Uluru
- Walked up to the top and then across to the centre, which was challenging,
but provided magnificent views. Sunsets are only spectacular if there are
clouds. Enjoyed helicopter ride around the rock to see it from a different
perspective.
- Olgas / Kata Tjuta
- Hiked into "Valley of the Winds" and back. Would like to hike out the other
end one day.
Joined a staff member from Elke's Backpacker, to hike along the ridge at
the top of East McDonald Range, which once again provided fantastic
views. Hard going, but satisfying to have accomplished. Enjoyed musical
show at "Starlight Theatre" consisting of didgeridoo accompanied by
drums, percussion instruments and synthesizer. Visited Reptile Centre
and had photo taken with a python draped around my neck. Appreciated
half-day tour of Stanley Chasm and Simpson's Gap, both with massive red
cliffs.
Go here for web site index, including
pictures and comments about other destinations, scuba diving, and other
activities.
Last updated 24 May 2006, send comments to
comments01@chamberlain.net.au.