At a glance
- Best for
- Desert landscapes, Aboriginal culture, sunrises, sunsets and stargazing
- Airport
- Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ) at Yulara, around fifteen to twenty minutes from Uluru
- Time needed
- Two to three nights, more if adding Kings Canyon or Alice Springs
- Best season
- April to October, with cool nights in June to August
- Getting around
- Resort shuttles, guided tours or a self-drive along sealed park roads
- Good base for
- Uluru, Kata Tjuta and, on a longer trip, Kings Canyon
Why go
Photos cannot prepare you for the size of **Uluru** or the stillness of the desert around it. The rock is around three hundred and fifty metres high and nearly ten kilometres around at its base, and it sits in a landscape of red sand, desert oaks and spinifex under huge skies. A visit here adds a completely different dimension to a trip focused on beaches and cities.
Respecting Anangu culture
Uluru and **Kata Tjuta** are deeply significant to the Anangu, whose law, known as Tjukurpa, connects the land, the people and their stories. Climbing Uluru has been permanently closed since October 2019 at the request of the traditional owners. Some sacred sites along the base are marked as no photography zones; please respect the signs. The **Cultural Centre** near the rock is the best first stop to understand the land before you explore it.
Things to do at Uluru
Walk the **Uluru base walk**, around ten kilometres of flat track that passes waterholes, caves and rock art; start early to avoid the heat, or walk shorter sections such as the **Mala walk** with a free ranger guided tour, and the **Kuniya walk** to Mutitjulu Waterhole. Watch **sunrise** from Talinguru Nyakunytjaku and **sunset** from the car sunset viewing area. Many visitors join a guided tour with Aboriginal guides, a camel ride, a dinner under the stars or a scenic flight.
Kata Tjuta
Around forty minutes' drive from Uluru, **Kata Tjuta** is a group of thirty six giant domes. The **Valley of the Winds** walk is one of the most rewarding in the park, and **Walpa Gorge** is shorter and easier. Parts of the Valley of the Winds close on hot days, usually when temperatures are forecast to be high, so walk early.
Field of Light
The **Field of Light** art installation by Bruce Munro, made up of tens of thousands of solar-powered lights across the desert, has become one of the region's most popular experiences, best seen at dusk or before dawn.
Where to stay
All accommodation is in **Ayers Rock Resort** at Yulara, a township just outside the park that ranges from a campground and hostel to luxury hotels. There is also a separate luxury camp. Book early for the cooler months and school holidays, as rooms are limited.
Park passes
You need a park pass to enter Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, bought online through Parks Australia or at the entry station. Check the official park website for current pass types, opening hours, which change with the seasons, and any closures.
Kings Canyon and Alice Springs
With more time, drive or join a tour to **Kings Canyon** in Watarrka National Park, around three to four hours away, for the dramatic Rim Walk. **Alice Springs**, about five hours' drive from Uluru, has the Royal Flying Doctor Service base, the School of the Air, the Desert Park and Aboriginal art galleries, and is the gateway to the West MacDonnell Ranges.
Heat, flies and safety
Summer temperatures can be extreme, so walk early, carry and drink plenty of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, and turn back if you feel unwell. A fly net for your hat makes the warmer months far more pleasant. If you self-drive in the outback, carry extra water and stay with your vehicle if it breaks down.
Questions about Uluru and the Red Centre
Can you still climb Uluru?
No. The climb closed permanently in October 2019 out of respect for the Anangu traditional owners. There are many walks around the base instead.
How many days do I need at Uluru?
Two nights is the minimum to see sunrise and sunset at Uluru and walk at Kata Tjuta. Three nights allows a cultural tour or Field of Light without rushing.
When is the best time to visit Uluru?
April to October is most comfortable. June to August has cool days and cold nights, while December to February can be extremely hot.
Do I need a park pass?
Yes. Every visitor needs a valid pass for Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Buy it online through Parks Australia or at the entry station and check current pass options on the official site.
Facts checked . Fees, schedules and entry rules change, so always confirm the latest with the official source.
