Enjoy panoramic views of Ayers Rock from a hot air balloon

For the first time ever, visitors to Australia's Red Centre will be able to enjoy panoramic views of iconic Uluru (Ayers Rock) at dawn from the comfort of a hot air balloon. The first service with Outback Ballooning will take to the skies in March 2012.

Flights are approximately 30-minutes long and float over the Patji region just outside Uluru -Kata Tjuta National Park, with Uluru viewed from the south (depending on wind direction). This area has never before been accessible to visitors without special permits.

From this airborne viewing platform visitors will get awe-inspiring views of this natural wonder which stands 348 metres high and measures almost six miles around. During this spiritual journey visitors will be able to soak up the vastness of the surrounding desert and admire the rock as it gradually changes colour as the sun rises.

An area of cultural significance, the new balloon service has been introduced thanks to the support of, and a new agreement with, the traditional Anangu owners.

As part of the trip, guests will enjoy a light bush breakfast and can help re-pack the ballooning after it lands. Priced at AU$450 (approx £294) per person for a 30-minute flight, the four hour experience also includes transfers to and from your accomodation. For further information and to book, visit outbackballooning.com.au. Terms and conditions apply.

Extend your trip with a 10-day Red Centre adventure with Audley Travel (audleytravel.com) from £3,620 per person. The price includes international flights to Darwin, domestic flights to Alice Spirings, four-star accommodation, all meals, minibus transportation and a naturalist guide as part of a small group.