Travel Agent Castle Hill

Central Australia is so picturesque and captivating, it grabbed my attention before my flight touched down. Rich in colour, history and culture! I was so excited to be travelling to such a diverse part of the country. Flying over the bare dry land I was surprised with how green the trees and shrubs where. I think we all forget what Australia has to offer as we all get caught up in today’s hustle and bustle of life.

On arrival I joined my group with APT and set off for our afternoon tour of Alice Springs. Our tour included Anzac Hill which has outstanding views overlooking the West MacDonnell Rangers, the Old Telegraph Station, Royal Flying Service, the School of Air and then onto the Mbantua (Aboriginal Cultural Museum and Gallery) home to a private collection of Aboriginal Artefacts.

Over the course of six days I managed to walk about 32kms. I had never felt so relaxed and energised just by the fresh air and peacefulness the area has to offer. I walked the base and watched the sunset and sunrise at Uluru (Ayers Rock). I took in the panoramic views of the Kata Tjuta (Olgas) and walked into the Walpa Gorge. We visited Rainbow Valley, travelled along the rugged Mereenie track to Tnorala (Goose Bluff) Conservation Reserve, stopped off at Glen Helen, and finished off our tour at Finke Gorge National park and Palm Valley.

The most outstanding part of the tour was driving into the Watarrka National Park, located at the Western end of the George Gill Ranges at sunrise. To then go on and walk the ridge of Kings Canyon where I got to absorb the spectacular views was amazing. This is a must do for any of you wishing to travel to Central Australia. However the walk is not for the unfit as the first hill is called cardiac hill, full of steps which I lost count walking up. But nothing better finished off the long day but going back and enjoying the comforts at APT Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge – five star camping with boarded floors, a deck and an ensuite for your comfort. To then sit back and enjoy a 3 course dinner with my fellow travellers was heaven!

I rate this holiday as a five star hoilday and would be happy to return any day.