Sleeping Under the Stars in Central Australia

Guest Post by Alisha Amin Central Australia, a vast area of land, bigger than many whole countries, and home to the Simpson Desert. This desert, similar to what one would imagine mars to be like, consists of huge stretches of red sand and rock as far as the eye can see, scattered with small towns and kangaroos, and is the land of the aboriginals.

Australia

Photo Credit: Alisha Amin

Trip to Australia

During my five week trip to Australia, the one experience that had a resounding impact on me was my drive through central Australia. It was unlike anything I had ever experienced before; a landscape so dry, hostile and expansive - yet filled with an infinite amount of tradition, stories and lessons.

Talking to the native people really brought home just how important this land really is and I was fascinated by the traditions that the land held along with the significance of landforms such as Uluru and Kata Tjuta. These two ginormous red glowing land masses hold such significance in the culture and religion of the aboriginals and their ancestors and it was a great privilege to be able to hear first hand about their meanings.

Photo Credit: Alisha Amin @AlishaAbroad As we approached, even from miles away, the ominous looming presence of Uluru and Kata Tjuta was undeniable, like enormous boulders, lifting from the earth’s surface overcasting anything in its surrounding. They face each other, almost as if they are preparing to fight, and although in the midday heat they look incredible, nothing can prepare you for viewing Uluru at sunrise or sunset.