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Backpackers lie on top of swags on the tour bus trailer, taking in the view of Uluru during sunset. Tourists are rushing to climb the world heritage-listed Monolith, Uluru in Australiaâs central desert before the ban takes effect. The date of the closure, 26 October 2019, will be 34 years to the day since Uluru was given back to the traditional owners: The Anangu people have long requested that visitors not climb the sacred site. Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory, Australia. Saturday 17th August 2019. Matthew Abbott For The New York Times.