Travel bucket list idea:
Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory, Australia
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Arguably the best-known outdoor dining experience in Australia, the Sounds of Silence is an ideal way to round off a busy day exploring Uluru and Kata Tjuta. By Central Australian standards this is incredibly spiffy, with linen-covered tables, candles and silver service.
Guests arrive for drinks and canapés while watching the sunset over The Rock, then enjoy a buffet meal, didgeridoo music and a spot of stargazing.
The true majesty of the night sky is revealed in all its glory here, with billions of tiny stars wherever you look and the Milky Way prominent. After your meal, there’s a talk from the resident astronomer, who guides you through the many constellations in the southern night sky. Brilliant.
The dinner location is a short drive from Yulara, and the price includes return transport to/from your accommodation.
Book tickets ahead of time on the Ayers Rock Resort website. Plan on about 4 hours. Food is buffet style – vegetarian options are available with prior notice. Temperatures plummet in the evening in the desert, even in warmer months – take a warm jacket and/or a wrap.
Sounds of Silence operates all year round, seven days a week. Pick up times are seasonal, around 1 hour before sunset.
Since this is a desert region, many first-time visitors imagine that heat will be a problem. Just the reverse. Winter (June to August) nights can be bitterly cold, so guests should rug up in long trousers, jumpers and fleeces. Since this is an outdoor event high winds can also make this an uncomfortable experience, so check the weather forecast before you book. You are unlikely to be troubled by flies or mosquitos, but it’s always wise to carry insect repellent when travelling in the Australian Outback.
Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Northern Territory, Australia
The place to come for the Australian outback experience – jaw-dropping geological formations (including world-famous Uluru), sleeping out in swag bags, sampling bush tucker, and connecting with authentic Aborginal culture.
