For decades, Uluru—Australia’s iconic red rock—was a magnet for adventurous tourists. Climbing it was once seen as a must-do, a bucket-list moment. But since October 2019, scaling Uluru has been banned. The decision wasn’t about safety or convenience. It was about respect.
What Is Uluru?
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is not just a massive sandstone monolith rising out of the flat desert in central Australia. It’s a living symbol of the Anangu people’s profound spiritual and cultural beliefs, a testament to their enduring connection to the land. It’s over 500 million years old and stands more than 340 meters high, but its true significance goes beyond its geology.
To the Anangu people, the Indigenous custodians of the land, Uluru is a sacred site. It features in their creation stories (Tjukurpa), and certain parts of the rock, particularly the higher and steeper sections, are considered so sacred that they are not photographed or approached.
The History of Climbing
When tourism began to rise in the 20th century, climbing Uluru became popular. Tourists followed a steep path up the side of the rock, sometimes ignoring warning signs or cultural requests. Over the years, more than 35 people died attempting the climb due to heat, falls, or medical issues. But despite the dangers, many saw it as a rite of passage.
Despite the dangers, the Anangu community had long been asking visitors to refrain from climbing. Signs at the base of Uluru read: “We don’t climb. This is our home.” For years, the message was more of a plea than a rule, a testament to their patience and resilience in the face of cultural disrespect.
Why the Climb Was Finally Banned
In 2017, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park board, which comprises a majority of Anangu representatives, voted unanimously to close the climb by October 26, 2019, permanently. That date marked the 34th anniversary of the ‘handback’, a significant event when the Australian government formally returned the land to its traditional owners, the Anangu people.
The board cited several reasons:
- Cultural Respect: Climbing disrespects Anangu law and tradition.
- Environmental Concerns: The path up the rock had eroded the surface, disrupting native habitats.
- Safety Issues: Rescues and fatalities placed pressure on park staff and emergency services.
The ban wasn’t sudden—it came after decades of dialogue and gradual shifts in public understanding, particularly in the recognition of Indigenous rights and the importance of cultural sensitivity in tourism. This growing awareness played a significant role in the decision to ban the climb.
How Tourists Reacted
The decision sparked mixed reactions. Some supported it, recognizing the importance of Indigenous rights and cultural sensitivity. Others rushed to climb Uluru before the ban took effect, leading to a surge in visitor numbers in the final weeks.
On the last day, hundreds queued to ascend. But today, tourists are encouraged to experience Uluru in other ways: walking its base, hearing Anangu stories, or visiting the nearby Cultural Centre.
Respecting Sacred Sites Around the World
Uluru isn’t the only sacred site where tourism clashes with tradition. Mount Kailash in Tibet, certain temples in Southeast Asia, and even burial grounds in the U.S. face similar pressures. As travel becomes more global, the need for respectful behavior becomes more urgent. Understanding and respecting the cultural and spiritual significance of a place is just as important as admiring its beauty.
Understanding the cultural and spiritual significance of a place is just as important as admiring its beauty.
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