Despite its large size, Australia really only has a few places that are populated. These hotspots of urbanisation are concentrated along the southern and eastern coasts, as well as in pockets around Perth on the western coast.
For the most part, the centre of Australia is a sprawling mass of desert, scraggy bush, and vibrant orange scenes. This area tends to be referred to as the Outback, which spreads out across 2.5 million square miles and is inhabited by fewer than 60,000 people. There is not just one place referred to as the Outback, instead the term refers to remote areas that tend to sit inland.
Few people know much about these areas, including Australians themselves, but it is known for its harsh environment filled with endless orange deserts, scruffs of greenery dotted here and there, and roads that meander on and on. With the harsh environments come harsh temperatures, with no escape from the heat of the Australian sun in the most exposed areas.
Animals in the Outback
But everyone agrees on one thing – it’s a beautiful part of Australia, filled with incredible,
breath-taking views and a plethora of unusual wildlife. Here, you might catch a glimpse of a native red kangaroo, a desert dingo, the quirky thorny devil, the perentie, and the bilby. Each of these lesser-known creatures call the desert landscape their home, blending in perfectly with the red, rocky surroundings.
Iconic Landmarks in the Outback
Most people venture into the Australian Outback for one reason – to see the incredible landmarks and natural points of interest.
Uluru, or Ayers Rock, is one of the most famous of these hotspots in the Outback. It’s surrounded by miles and miles or rich orange landscape, peppered here and there with the odd burst of greenery.
Set in the Kata-Tjuta National Park, it’s centred round a collection of other natural wonders,
including the sprawling views across Kings Canyon, and the dipping peaks of Walpa Gorge. These rustic, rocky formations are typical of the Australian Outback, boasting ragged scenes and a fascinating heritage.
The Outback is home to a number of indigenous peoples, too, and you can get to know the cultural splendour of their traditions in a number of museums and galleries dotted around the arid area.
If you’re looking to learn more about the mystery and intrigue of Australia’s Outback, get up close and personal with some of the country’s weirdest wildlife, and stare, open-mouthed, at the spectacular natural landscapes, you can do all of this and more on our Uluru tours.
