Uluru

Uluru showing landscape views and desert 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


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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

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Emu Walk Apartments

Emu Walk Apartments

4 out of 5
Ayers Rock Resort, Yulara Drive,, Yulara, NT
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Longitude 131

Longitude 131

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The Lost Camel

The Lost Camel

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Sails In The Desert

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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

Uluru offers a variety of exciting activities, including guided tours that showcase its breathtaking landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the stunning sunrises and sunsets that paint the sky in vibrant colours. Adventurous day trips allow for exploration of the area's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you're hiking, rock climbing, or simply soaking in the views, Uluru promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of Australia.

Shopping

In Uluru, you can shop at the Cultural Centre, which offers authentic Aboriginal art and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Yulara Shopping Village, where you'll find various shops featuring local crafts, clothing, and unique gifts to remember your trip.

Recreation

The Ayers Rock Resort offers wellness retreats with spa treatments and yoga sessions amidst stunning desert scenery. Experience guided meditation and traditional Aboriginal healing practices to rejuvenate your spirit. For recreational activities, explore scenic walking trails and embark on breathtaking stargazing tours under the clear outback sky.

Adventure

Embark on the Mala Walk, a scenic hiking trail located 1.2km from Uluru. Experience the stunning landscapes and vibrant outdoor atmosphere as you explore this ancient route, rich in cultural significance and breathtaking views of the iconic rock formations.

Nightlife

Experience the unique atmosphere at the Outback Pioneer Hotel's bar, where you can enjoy a lively evening with a mix of local brews and traditional bush tucker. For a more laid-back vibe, the Ayers Rock Resort offers stargazing sessions, allowing you to soak in the stunning night sky.

Find the best attractions near Uluru

Uluru offers a captivating array of attractions, including national parks, symbolic landmarks, and stunning mountains, perfect for those seeking adventure and scenic experiences. Must-visit sites include Ayers Rock, where you can immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore questions about Uluru and enjoy a warm welcome to this iconic destination, ensuring a memorable visit in the heart of Northern Territory.

  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Experience the breathtaking beauty of this iconic national park, home to the awe-inspiring Uluru rock formation and the domed structures of Kata Tjuta. Engage in outdoor adventures, such as guided walks and scenic drives, while immersing yourself in the rich cultural significance of the land.
  • Mulgara Gallery: Discover the vibrant art and culture of the region at Mulgara Gallery, showcasing Aboriginal artworks and crafts. This gallery offers a unique insight into the local heritage and is a perfect spot to appreciate and purchase authentic Indigenous pieces.
  • Mount Olga: Venture to Mount Olga for stunning views and exhilarating hiking opportunities. Surrounded by striking landscapes, this mountain invites you to explore its rugged terrain while enjoying the serene natural beauty of the Northern Territory.

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 Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March81.7°F (27.6°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
April73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
May62.6°F (17.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
June55.9°F (13.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
July55.9°F (13.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August61.2°F (16.2°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageSlightly High
September68.9°F (20.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
October76.1°F (24.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly HighAverage
November81.5°F (27.5°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly LowAverage
December85.6°F (29.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnySlightly 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, with Sundays being the cheapest nights to stay. Book your hotel at least three months in advance or explore last-minute deals on Expedia for potential discounts. Use Expedia's search tool to compare prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and consider package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for extra savings. Avoid the peak season from June to August to keep costs down and enjoy a more budget-friendly experience.

  • 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Uluru is usually 3+ months out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels currently available. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from low to high.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Uluru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.