Travel Advice needed for Alice springs

[beavis]

Going to Alice Springs in early November during Melbourne Cup long weekend, planning to stay 4 days,will go to see Ayers Rock, which is the best way to see the rock? Join a tour or do it myself?

Thanks

[jimshu]

I'd have a look for a tour.There are restrictions now on climbing Uluru, and your guide will explain the do's and don'ts as it's a very sacred place for local Aboriginal tribes.I could be wrong, but I think it has been handed back to local tribes.
And it's good to have a knowledgeable guide along to tell you all about the site.There are many rock paintings and ancient sacred sites that the guide will point out, which the solo traveller will miss.
I'm sure once you get there, there will be local tours on offer .

[desiree2]

Hi beavis

Being an Aussie, I'm sure you're aware that it's hundreds of kms from Alice to Uluru, so if you don't book a tour, you'll have to rent a car. You'll also be aware that you will find it difficult to find any cheap tours but it's probably the way to go.
You can still climb Uluru, but, being such a sacred site perhaps you might consider just viewing it from the base. I was appalled to hear recently that tourists have been using Uluru as a toilet - I could certainly understand the local people wanting climbing banned altogether.

Desiree

[jimshu]

I tend to agree Desiree.
Sometimes it's actually better to visit a site, and explore it's significance to local people, than to go just to take pics.
Better memories that way.

[beavis]

Thanks heaps,

I also think tour is the way to go, does anyone know any good websites I can check before I head there?

[jimshu]

If you google''uluru tours' there's few that show up.
http://www.uluru.com/index.html
Perhaps make up a list of them all and take with you, then chat with others you meet, talk with your accom. host and make a decision when you get there.
And hey, we'd all like to read about it when you get home.
Cheers.