6 outback icons to visit after seeing Uluru, according to a local

An outback guide takes us off the red-dirt tourist trail to explore Australia’s spiritual centre.

The ancient monolith of Uluru will always leave visitors in awe, but it’s just the start of what the outback has to offer. With sacred pathways, hidden waterholes and creation stories to hear, there’s only one question to ask: where should you start?

That’s where AAT Kings travel director Glennon Babui comes in. “I want to share my culture, Aboriginal culture, with my guests,” Glennon says, expressing how much he loves showing visitors the area surrounding Uluru. “That’s why I became a guide in the first place.”

With Glennon’s passion for the outback, you’ll get to know the true stories and richness of the Red Centre – one serene moment at a time.

1. Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon

“I love the beauty of the natural landscape here,” says Glennon about his favourite outback destination, the dizzyingly high sandstone walls and deep crevices of Watarrka National Park/Kings Canyon, a three-hour drive from Uluru.

Glennon loves the gentle Creek Walk and challenging Rim Walk. “The Rim Walk is unreal,” says the AAT Kings guide. “Not only does it have thriving plants and trees, but also birdlife. The Garden of Eden is the part I look forward to most. It’s an oasis in the middle of the walk that gives you an opportunity to be at one with nature.”

Afterwards, Glennon suggests celebrating the effort with a camel burger, a refreshing drink and a well-deserved dunk in the pool at Kings Canyon Resort.

See Kings Canyon (and more) on the AAT Kings Outback Safari Tour.

Take the Rim Walk.

2. The Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuṯa

“Everyone knows Uluru,” Glennon says. “But Kata Tjuṯa is one of those places people are quite unaware of – even though it’s located close by.”

The sacred rock domes of Kata Tjuṯa inspire quiet awe in those who wander through its pathways of ochre stone. One of Glennon’s favourite routes is the Valley of the Winds. “You should expect the unexpected in the way of nature there,” he says.

Photos are forbidden in the Valley of the Winds, he explains, as it’s a culturally sensitive men’s area. For him, this rule is a gift. “It means you truly appreciate the experience without having it spoiled by social media.”

You can experience it via a 7600-metre circuit. It might be hard, sweaty work at times, but it’s worth every step. Do it best with an expert AAT Kings travel director on the Kata Tjuta Sunrise and Valley Of The Winds tour.

Walk 7600-metres along the Valley Of The Winds.

3. Waterholes at Uluru

“When people think of the outback, the last thing they imagine is waterholes,” Glennon says. “So when we take people to see them they’re instantly surprised. It’s a hard job to pick up their jaws from the ground!”

Muṯitjulu Waterhole and Kantju Gorge are Glennon’s top stops. He recalls seeing smiles and even tears of joy from visitors he takes there. “Seeing that solidified how magical these places truly are,” he says.

The walk there also reveals ancient caves with Indigenous art. “They hold a lot of important and beautiful art pieces,” Glennon says. Upon arrival, the AAT Kings travel director advises sitting down and simply being present by the water, adding, “Trust me, it’s a great way to restart.”

Visit the Mutitjulu Waterhole with an AAT Kings expert on the Outback Adventure.

Visit secret waterholes near Uluru. (Image: Tourism NT/ Jason Van Miert)

4. Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa Cultural Centre

“It’s one thing coming to the outback to see the beautiful sites, but it’s great to learn about the places you’re visiting,” says Glennon. “That’s why I love the Cultural Centre.”

The Cultural Centre is home to written stories about the Aṉangu and their culture. “It’s information you wouldn’t see or hear anywhere else around the world,” Glennon shares.

The architecture of the building itself has a story to tell “The Aṉangu wanted the building to represent the creation story of Kuniya and Liru, and this is reflected in its design – showcased on the roof, the path and within the main tunnel as you enter.”

Guests are welcomed by recordings of Aṉangu people singing as they enter to see the art displays and check out the unique – and ethical – souvenirs. “The proceeds go back into the communities to fund artists, schools and aged care,” Glennon explains.

Visit the Cultural Centre on the Uluru Sunrise and Cultural Experience.

Stop into the Cultural Centre.

5. Waḻpa Gorge at Kata Tjuṯa

“I love Waḻpa Gorge because we’re able to be up close and personal with Kata Tjuṯa,” Glennon says. “You’re stepping on the conglomerate rock and walking through two major domes.”

Named after the Pitjantjatjara word for wind, Waḻpa Gorge is a highly sensory experience. “Because of the winds travelling through the gorge, we’re able to feel and hear its beauty, which is very special,” Glennon says.

Glennon promises that the drive towards the gorge has views that are “a sight for sore eyes”, and says the platform at the gorge’s end is the jewel in the crown of Waḻpa Gorge. “If you practice being quiet and close your eyes, you’ll hear birds singing and the wind rustling through vegetation. It’s the most therapeutic sound you’ll ever hear,” he says.

Travel to Waḻpa Gorge on day six of the Outback Adventure tour.

Get a closer view of Kata Tjuṯa.

6. Field of Light

The Field of Light art installation brings even more colour to the outback. Tens of thousands of illuminated glass spheres light up the earth while you walk among the glowing stems, surrounded by birdsong and silhouettes in the sky.

“I love its concept,” says Glennon. “The colours represent the outback. What makes it special is heading up to the platform after seeing the installation. You’ll watch the sunrise with a cuppa – tea, coffee or hot choccy – and see Uluru and Kata Tjuṯa.”

See the Field of Light at sunrise, as Bruce Munro intended the exhibition to be viewed, only with AAT Kings on the Uluru Sunrise and Field of Light tour.

Gaze on the fascinatin Field of Light. (Image: Tourism NT/ Tourism Australia)

Discover more guided tour options, inclusions and flexibility (all on premium coaches) with the company that boasts over 100 years of experience, aatkings.com.