Aussie Outback Wonder - May 2025 - Hostess Round Up - Dawn Caputo

We arrived at Ayers Rock on different flights, from different states, but it was not long before the inclusiveness and camaraderie of the "sisters" became evident. After freshening up, we were picked up from our hotel at dusk and headed towards Uluru  Kata Tjuta National Park, all eager to get our first glimpse of Uluru and the rock domes of Kata Tjuta.

Our viewing platform was on top of dunes where we were greeted with drinks and canapes and entertained by the sounds of the didgeridoo as we watched the magical sunset over Uluru and Kata Tjuta in the nearby distance. Onto the "Sound of Silence Dinner," a bush tucker-inspired buffet dinner under a clear, dark sky and the warmth of the nearby campfire.  We had been warned that the nights can get cold, so with my long-sleeved dress, cardigan, pashmina and puffer jacket, I was ready to enjoy my meal.

During the evening, we had a resident star talker who explained the different constellations and stars in the night sky that looked all too close. It was a magical, surreal evening!  The following morning, an early start for an "up close and personal " visit to Uluru. We watched the sunrise over the iconic monolith. The dawn sky colours changed from blue, orange and pink reflecting onto Uluru and the surrounding plains. As we walked around Uluru, our guide told us about the Mala people, pointing out the plants and trees used for food and medicine. Our afternoon visit was to Kata Tjuta (a.k.a. The Olgas), a group of large domed rock formations and a very spiritual and sacred land to the Anangu people. 

This evening again started with drinks and canapes (as should every evening). We experienced the sun setting over Uluru, and as darkness fell, over 50,000 glass spheres came to life. The imposing shadow of Uluru in the background is one of the most magical sights I have seen! It got even better as we were allowed to walk amongst the lights and experience walking in the darkness of colour.

Next day Kings Canyon - 324.4km from Uluru (3hr 22min), a long but surprisingly relaxed day!  Although it was a 4:30 am start, the drive to Kings Canyon was relaxed and comfortable with the bonus of seeing the most amazing sunrise ever! Bands of colour, green, orange, pink and blue stretched across the sky, are forever in my heart.  We arrived at Watarrka National Park and home to Kings Canyon, known for its towering sandstone walls and its oasis of palm-filled crevices. There were 2 options for exploring the Canyon - the 6km rim walk along the canyon sandstone edge or the 2km creek bed walk, or as Jim, our guide, called this the "sensible walk "! Two of our adventurous sisters completed the rim walk whilst the other 5 were more "sensible".

Our Last day in Uluru, a morning at leisure for some a sunrise walk around the base of Uluru.; approximately 10.5 km around the base was enjoyed as we learned more about the people and the cultural significance of Uluru.  This evening was our much anticipated camel ride and our last chance to experience an outback sunset; we all took in the colours of the red soil, the stretches of arid land, the grey colours of the grasses and the ever present Uluru in the background..

I loved the colours, sunsets and sunrise, but for me it was the culture, spirituality, peace and serene beauty of this harsh land. Our tour finished as we caught different flights to different states, with the bond of friendships and memories of our Outback Adventure tying us together.