Uluru

Uluru featuring desert views and landscape views
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT
Photo provided by Tourism NT


With its vast scale and incredible colours, it is easy to see why this famous rock, known as the Red Heart of Australia, holds a sacred place in indigenous culture.

Rising from the desert in the Northern Territory, the red sandstone monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock) has been a place of great spiritual importance to the Anangu Aboriginal people for thousands of years. Be awed by the sight of the rock changing colours at sunset, its deep crevices turning from bright orange to an intense purple hue.

The best way to experience Uluru and get an insight into its cultural importance is with an indigenous guide. The Anangu people believe Uluru was one of the very first features created by the 10 spirit ancestors of the Aboriginal people as they traversed the land.

Learn about Uluru’s spiritual value, hear Dreamtime creation stories and discover the cultural traditions and food-gathering practices of the Anangu people on a guided walking tour. Learn dot painting from local indigenous artists in the nearby town of Yulara.

Take a sunrise trek around the base of the rock on the 10-kilometre (6-mile) trail through ghost gums and spinifex grass. This is the best time to spot the abundant birdlife, from honeyeaters and cockatoos to blue fairy wrens and little finches.

Pack your camera for sunset photography of the 350-metre (1,150-foot) high monolith and enjoy dinner, drinks and storytelling beneath the stars on one of the many evening tours on offer.

You can also take a scenic helicopter flight over the rock to see the incredible vastness of the Red Heart of Australia or brave the sights in freefall on a tandem skydive jump.

While Uluru can be climbed, the Aboriginal owners ask that you do not as this is a sacred site. Always pack plenty of water, sunscreen and food on outings to the rock. Visit between the dry months of April and May when the temperatures are cooler.

Uluru is located within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, about 5-hours’ drive from Alice Springs. Hotels and dining options can be found in Yulara.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

The Outback Hotel

The Outback Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2 Yulara Drive, Yulara, NT
The Outback Hotel
Desert Gardens Hotel

Desert Gardens Hotel

3 out of 5
1 Yulara Drive, Yulara, NT
Desert Gardens Hotel
Emu Walk Apartments

Emu Walk Apartments

4 out of 5
Ayers Rock Resort, Yulara Drive,, Yulara, NT
Emu Walk Apartments
The Lost Camel

The Lost Camel

3 out of 5
Yulara Drive, Yulara, NT
The Lost Camel
Sails In The Desert

Sails In The Desert

3.5 out of 5
163 Yulara Drive, Yulara, NT
Sails In The Desert
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Uluru

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Uluru through various activities such as exhilarating aerial adventures and scenic airplane tours. Witness the stunning sunrises and sunsets that illuminate the iconic rock formation. For the adventurous, consider embarking on a day filled with exploration, discovering additional attractions in the area that showcase the rich culture and natural wonders of the Northern Territory. Uluru promises an unforgettable getaway for every traveller.

Shopping

In Uluru, visit the Cultural Centre for authentic Aboriginal art and crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out the nearby Alice Springs Mall for a wider selection of souvenirs and local products, including unique gifts that capture the spirit of the Red Centre.

Recreation

At the luxurious Longitude 131°, immerse yourself in rejuvenating spa treatments inspired by ancient Indigenous practices, surrounded by breathtaking views of Uluru. Join guided meditation sessions at the Ayers Rock Resort, where tranquil settings foster relaxation, and partake in sunset yoga to harmonise body and spirit amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

The Mala Walk is a captivating hiking trail located 3.2km from Uluru, offering stunning scenery and a sense of adventure. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the area while enjoying the picturesque landscapes and the diverse wildlife that calls this remarkable place home.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the Ayers Rock Resort's Outback Pioneer Hotel, where you can enjoy a lively bush tucker dinner and traditional dance performances. For a more relaxed evening, visit the iconic Sunset Bar for stunning views and refreshing drinks as the sun sets over Uluru.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Uluru

Uluru offers an array of attractions that cater to culture enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. From the stunning national parks and iconic landmarks to the majestic mountains, visitors can immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery and rich cultural experiences that this unique destination has to offer. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty or learning about the local heritage, Uluru promises unforgettable moments for every traveller.

  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: This stunning national park, located 25.7km from Uluru, offers breathtaking scenery and a variety of outdoor adventures. Experience the grandeur of Uluru, a sacred site for the Anangu people, and immerse yourself in the unique landscapes and wildlife that make this area truly special.
  • Mulgara Gallery: Situated 12.9km from Uluru, Mulgara Gallery showcases the rich culture of Indigenous Australian art. Discover a diverse range of artwork, from traditional to contemporary, and gain insight into the stories and traditions behind each piece.
  • Kata Tjuta: Located 30.6km from Uluru, Kata Tjuta is a striking cultural landmark. Known for its majestic domes and profound spiritual significance, visitors can explore walking trails that lead to stunning viewpoints and serene environments.

Best time to go to Uluru

The best time to visit Uluru can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Uluru falls in January, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Uluru falls in June and July. July has slightly high visitor numbers and sunny weather.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January86.9°F (30.5°C)Light RainSunnyAverageSlightly Low
February85.5°F (29.7°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
April73.0°F (22.8°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
June55.9°F (13.3°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
July55.9°F (13.3°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)No RainSunnyAverageSlightly High
September68.9°F (20.5°C)No RainSunnyAverageAverage
October76.1°F (24.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighAverage
November81.5°F (27.5°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowAverage
December85.6°F (29.8°C)No RainSunnySlightly LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Uluru

To save money on your trip to Uluru, consider visiting between December and February for lower accommodation rates. Book your stay at least three months in advance, or check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Sundays when prices are the cheapest. Use Expedia's search tool to filter for budget-friendly options and eco-certified hotels. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package deal can lead to significant savings. Look out for special offers for the best Uluru accommodation deals and discounts for affordable stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Uluru are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Uluru about 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Uluru is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Uluru is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can easily arrange your results to display the lowest prices first, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation right away. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation for Uluru with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.