When it comes to famous natural landmarks Uluru (Ayers Rock) in Australia is one of the most well known. Its grandeur and cultural significance make it a must-see for travelers. But did you know there is a mountain in the world that looks just like Uluru? This similarity often confuses travellers and sparks interesting conversations.
Mount Augustus, Western Australia
In the remote wilderness of Western Australia is a mountain that is often mistaken for Uluru. Known as Burringurrah to the local Wajarri people, Mount Augustus is a massive monocline, a geological formation that rises dramatically out of the surrounding plains. Its size and views are just incredible.
Key differences:
- Size: While Uluru is big, Mount Augustus is bigger, often referred to as the largest rock in the world. Its base covers more than twice the area of Uluru and has many different views from different angles.
- Composition: Uluru is made of arkose sandstone which gives it its red colour. Mount Augustus is made of conglomerate rock with layers over a billion years old. Both have unique rock formations that are a geologist’s paradise.
- Accessibility: Uluru is part of the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and is managed by Parks Australia. Mount Augustus is big but more remote and gets fewer visitors so it’s more off the beaten track.
- Cultural Significance: Both are important to Indigenous Australians. Uluru is sacred to the Anangu people, the traditional owners of the land, while Mount Augustus has spiritual significance to the Wajarri people with ancient rock art, rock shelters and Dreamtime stories.
Why the confusion?
Confusion often occurs because:
- Photos: Without context, photos of Mount Augustus can be mistaken for Uluru because of their similar red-orange colour and monolith shape. But up close they are different.
- Location Misunderstanding: Both are in Australia, which confuses international travelers.
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Mount Augustus you might also want to:
- Kennedy Range National Park: Rugged cliffs, vibrant rock formations and stunning views. Another piece of Western Australia’s natural beauty.
- Karijini National Park: A must-see for adventure seekers. Deep gorges, stunning waterfalls and peaceful waterholes. Beautiful views and wildlife like the rufous hare-wallaby.
- Carnarvon: On the coast, Carnarvon has ocean adventures and a chance to relax before or after the outback.
For a real tour experience to Mount Augustus and these nearby destinations travel with Wayoutback Tours who offer guided Alice Springs Tours to Uluru that combine cultural learning with scenic experiences.
Mount Augustus
For those looking for an alternative to Uluru or wanting to venture off the beaten track Mount Augustus is the place. Activities include:
- Hiking Trails: Many trails of varying degrees of difficulty that lead to lookouts and rock shelters. Each trail has views across the plains.
- Cultural: See ancient Aboriginal rock art and learn the stories of the land at the cultural centre. Knowing the traditions and stories of the traditional owners adds to the experience.
- Wildlife: Look out for the rufous hare-wallaby, a small and rare marsupial found only in this area.
- Panoramic Views: See the views from the top where the landscape stretches out in every direction.
- Water Holes: Find peaceful water holes to cool off in the outback. These water holes are beautiful and vital for local wildlife.
Be Prepared
When visiting Mount Augustus:
- Bring plenty of water especially when hiking as the area is dry.
- Hike during the cooler parts of the day, early morning or late afternoon.
- Respect the land by not entering prohibited areas and learning about its history at the cultural centre.
- Take time to appreciate the geology and the rock formations which tell the story of the earth’s history.
Conclusion
While Uluru Tours is the heart of Australia, Mount Augustus trip is an experience for those who want to go off the beaten track. Both are a showcase of Australia’s geology and culture, with remarkable rock formations and the stories of the traditional owners. Whether you want panoramic views, cultural insights, or quiet time by a water hole, Mount Augustus will be an adventure you’ll never forget.
FAQ
How far is Mount Augustus from Uluru?
Mount Augustus and Uluru are in different parts of Australia, 2,000km (1,243 miles) apart.
Which is bigger: Uluru or Mount Augustus?
Mount Augustus is bigger in base area, but Uluru is more famous and culturally significant.
Can you climb Mount Augustus?
Yes, there are several walking trails, but climb with respect, it’s culturally significant to the Wajarri people.
Is Mount Augustus one rock like Uluru?
Mount Augustus is a monocline of sedimentary rock layers, and Uluru is one big sandstone rock.
When should I visit Mount Augustus?
Best time to visit is during the cooler months, May to September, the summer is very hot here.