It was a little hot last night as we turned the aircon off because it is noisy. At 8:30 we were at reception trying to sort out the helicopter flight. Luckily they were able to change our time to 11:30 which was better.
So we set off the base of Uluru and walked a little way around. It is hard to believe that it is one solid rock and most of it is very smooth. Standing at the base and looking up is quite an experience. The flies are a real nuisance and many people were wearing fly nets over their faces but we just put up with them. It was too hot to walk far so we returned to the van and drove around the base to see the rock from all angles. After a quick look in the cultural centre we returned to the campsite for the helicopter ride.
Our pilot was a lovely young man called Ben and there were just four of us for the flight. Mick was lucky enough to sit in front due to weight distribution I think and I sat in the back but next to a window. We have never been in a helicopter before and it was great. First we flew to Uluru and along the side which gave a different perspective of the rock which is just stuck in the middle of the desert. Then we flew to The Olgas which is a cluster of rock outcrops and the tallest is taller than Uluru! All around is flat empty land interspersed with scrubby bushes and trees.
The flight lasted 30 minutes and then we were back landing at the airport. A truly amazing experience.
At 1:30 we set off for the 300 km drive to Kings Canyon. We actually had a shower of rain on the way down which dropped the temperature from 42C to 40C. I know I like it hot but this is just too hot. I feel as though I am dripping most of the time.
We arrived about 5:00 and then got showered and changed ready for the sunset over Kings Canyon.another amazing sight. There were rainbows above the canyon and it looked as though it was raining in places in the distance. As the sun set the rainbows became brighter and the light played on the rocks.
Tomorrow we take a look at Kings Canyon and then begin our journey home.