Day 546: March 30, 2026 – Uluru, Northern Territory, Australia
Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) is one of Australia’s most recognized landmarks and a bucket list item for many a traveler. It’s true, as some say, that “it’s just a rock.” But to call it that is to call the Grand Canyon just a hole in the ground. The rock has geological and cultural significance, natural beauty, as well as being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is referred to as a geological oddity because it is a single piece of sandstone (monolith), 1,142 ft high. It is especially interesting at sunrise/sunset, when iron oxide deposits give it a red glow.
The rock has spiritual significance for the Aṉangu, the Aboriginal people who were the traditional owners of the land. In 1985 the Australian government returned ownership to them, with a 99-year lease-back agreement. A dual naming system, Uluru/Ayers Rock was later agreed upon. At the request of the Aṉangu and for safety reasons, climbing the rock has been prohibited since 2019.
A 6-mile walk around the base of the rock gave us the opportunity to view up close its caves, rock holes, water holes, and ancient paintings. Some sections of the rock are considered culturally sensitive zones by the Anangu and photography is not allowed. (Of course, none of the pictures shown here were from restricted zones.)
17 responses to “The Rock”
I love the reflection of rock in the water. Did it take you a long time( a lot of waiting) to get this perfect shot?
No, this one was actually very easy. The water was completely still when we walked up to it, and the light was just right. It was serendipitous moment.
Nice rock.
Startlingly beautiful photographic compositions. The colors! Many look unreal! Because of the light at that moment, your self portrait with the rock looked like you were standing in front of a fake backdrop! Unbelievable reality!
Lol, yes I can see how it would seem like a fake background. But it was definitely 100% real.
Incredible photos Basia, that trip diversion worked out well to get to see that amazing place
Yes it did, I’m very glad I had the chance to do it.
Agreed! Fabulous photos! I had to check my watch, your dating system is a day ahead…
Ha. Yes, we are a day ahead of the U.S. right now.
These are overfill images!
Hmmm…overfill images…I hadn’t heard that term…but I’m going to take it as a compliment?
love the closeups to see all the different formations and colors
They’re gorgeous, aren’t they
I especially love the reflections and your shadow selfie.
I love the reflections too. My eye is always drawn to them.
Thank you for explaining it and taking us around the “Rock” Fabulous
It was fabulous experience