Ruby the Camel

 

Today we rode out to West MacDonnell National Park.  It was pretty in several spots but overall just more dry desert.  This area is called Ellery Big Hole.  It’s a big watering hole where the locals come and swim.  We had thought about going in but the water was a little mossy and when you stepped in a big puff of dirt went up.  There were repeated warnings about how cold the water was and to watch for signs of hypothermia.  So all combined we elected not to go in. One lady did brave it while we were there.  She swam all the way up between the rocks but did keep saying how cold it was.  I was worried for her, but she seemed to be doing fine.

Hannah and I finished the day with a sunset camel ride in the desert.  It was so cool!  The most exciting parts were when the camel stood up and then sat back down again.  It was like a roller coaster.  You had to hang on tight and lean way back, otherwise you’d flip over the top.  You also don’t realize how tall they are till your on one looking down. 

 

 

This was our camel train with Alice Springs in the background.

 

 

 

 

 

Hannah and I rode Ruby – of all the camels she was the one that never stopped eating.

When we got back they let us help feed the camels.  This was almost as fun as the ride.  They have huge teeth and were very excited about getting food.  We picked up some hay and the camel master said “you’re not feeding a guinea pig, they’re camels!”  Needless to say we picked up huge handfuls after that.  Another great memory made. 

 

 

 

 

 

Tomorrow we pack up and head north about 600k to Tennant Creek.  Should be exciting!