21 June 2014

a little from my recent trip to Alice Springs, Northern Territory, and beyond

Ten days tripping about Alice Springs and Uluru was nothing short of spectacular. My expectations were pretty high and I wasn't dissapointed.   The scenery was majestic, with many contrasts in between.

A 2.50 hr flight from Sydney, had the tour group arriving in Alice Springs, a distance of 2022 km.

I'm going to find it much easier to share snippets from various days, in no real sequence especially.  I'm like that when I pick up a magazine or newspaper too - somehow I want to know what's near the back end, or in the middle. before I read from the very beginning.

So this post, a little smorgasbord from here, and there ...

Oh, and early mornings, and evening temperatures, sat at a crispy 1 degree celcius!

 Simpsons Gap, West MacDonnell National Park, an early morning stop here, in the shadows


and looking up in one section, there were sighted two Wedge-tail Eagles eating what was thought to be a Rock Wallaby.  Later a lone Rock Wallaby was seen sitting on a rock shelf too.  

By the dry creek-bed of the Todd River, near to the Overland Telegraph Station




Lesser Wanderer, there were many on these gum blossoms.  Information sheet quotes "this butterfly contains alkaloids in it's body which induces vomiting in predators when eaten."  

the Ghost Gums stood proud, their roots wedged between the ochre-coloured rocks at great heights


sunset over Glen Helen Gorge at one end ...

while at the other, was this!

Yes, I have a host of photos to share, not only views like these, but also botanical, and some birds too. The birds will be shared over on Snap Happy Birdingas I settle back in to my blogging routine again.  

Oh, and maybe one last one, of final destination ....

Uluru sunrise, before breakfast back at the resort, and then returning for a 9.4 km Base Walk. Remember, it was just 1 degree celcius standing out on the viewing platforms waiting for this to happen.  Even though rugged up in layers; tips of fingers were frozen, as were my toes - just plain numb!  It took quite some time to thaw out.

18 comments:

John @ Beans and I on the Loose said...

I'd love to see all of this but not at that temperature. It'll will get that cold in our deserts too. It's amazing for normally one would think not. Wonderful images Carole.

John "By Stargoose And Hanglands" said...

Actually the 1C temperature seems a lot more acceptable to me than the temperatures I usually here quoted from this area. But for that scenery I reckon I could endure most climatic extremes.

Unknown said...

It must have been a wonderful trip Carole, I look forward to seeing more. I would gladly suffer to see the Ularu sunrise

betty-NZ said...

It was obviously worth the chattering teeth to get these views. They are just magnificent! Someday I hope to see a bit of your countryside for myself.

Irma said...

Hi Carole,
It was a wonderful journey you have made​​.
Very beautiful the red rocks, I am very curious about the sequel to the pictures.
I wish you a very nice weekend.
Best regards, Irma

FAB said...

Carole .. They say you have to suffer a little to enjoy the stunning views that nature has to offer. Can't wait to see more of your trip.

The Furry Gnome said...

Amazing scenery!

diane b said...

A magical part of Oz. I am glad it wasn't winter when I was there. But look at the super shot that you got in the freezing temps, it was worth it.

Jeanne said...

Absolutely stunning shots Carole! Love the contrasting colors of the rocks and the greenery.. Also that moon shot is so beautiful. Bet this adventure was amazing!

Karen said...

I had to pop over for a look Carole. Magnificent captures of this magical area. Your Uluru at sunrise is gorgeous. I'm feeling a bit "homesick". I'm not Australian, but I did live there for several yeas.

Elizabeth Edwards said...

gorgeous scenery. love the butterflies. ( :

Deanna said...

Kinda reminds me of Arizona only not with those temps. Beautiful images, Carole, love the butterflies!!

Grandma Barb's This and That said...

Great photos, Carole! I love the red rocks and the reflection in the water of the first one. A beautiful one of the butterflies and interesting info about them.
Thanks for sharing your part of the world.

maryaustria said...

A fascinating landscape! Amazing shots!

Dianne said...

Burr! 1 degrees Celsius makes for a cold night Carole but I'm sure it was worth it . Lovely captures especially those pretty butterflies.

Sue (this n that) said...

Great photos Carole. Beautiful rock formations, ghost gums and that oh so blue sky.
Loved seeing the butterflies.
Brrr chilly eh.
The base walk around Uluru must have been something else :D)

Kay said...

What a beautiful country. I loved the different views of Glen Helen Gorge what a contrast. Butterflies are beautiful.The rock formation reminds me of the Lost Dutchman SP in Arizona. And then the Uluru sunrise, wauw.....!!! What a great experience!

Laura said...

Your trip sounds awesome!!! Love the photos you have shared! Especially the Ghost Gums with that majestic blue sky in the background!!! ...and Uluru Sunrise. We got up at 4:30am to get a good spot at the lookout when we were there. However, during the day it was HOT in the 30s!!! Our hike around the base was cut short! I look forward to seeing more of your photos!!!