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


Top Uluru 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
Longitude 131

Longitude 131

5 out of 5
Yulara Dr, Yulara, NT
Longitude 131
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

Uluru offers a fantastic array of activities for visitors, including guided tours that showcase the iconic rock formation, breathtaking sunrise and sunset views, and opportunities for outback camping. Adventurous souls can explore the best walks in the area, while those seeking tranquillity can enjoy a wilderness retreat. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures or simply soaking in the natural beauty, Uluru provides an unforgettable experience.

Shopping

At the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, you can find unique Aboriginal art and handmade crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Alice Springs, where you can explore the Todd Mall for more extensive shopping options and local souvenirs that reflect the region's rich culture.

Recreation

At Uluru, the Sails in the Desert Hotel offers a rejuvenating spa experience with Indigenous-inspired treatments and tranquil surroundings. Experience yoga sessions at the base of Uluru, where you can connect with nature while finding inner peace amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Adventure

The Mala Walk is a thrilling hiking trail located 3.2km from Uluru, offering breathtaking scenery and a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of the area. Experience the rich cultural significance while enjoying the adventure of the great outdoors.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Uluru by visiting the Outback BBQ at the Town Square for a delightful evening of traditional Australian cuisine. For a laid-back atmosphere, head to the Red Ochre Bar for signature cocktails and local wines while enjoying the stunning desert views.

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

Find the best attractions near Uluru

Uluru offers a captivating blend of adventure and stunning scenery for visitors. Popular attractions include the iconic Uluru itself, where you can experience breathtaking views, especially at sunrise. Exploring the surrounding national parks and symbolic landmarks adds to the allure, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciating the natural beauty of this remarkable region.

  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: This breathtaking national park offers stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Witness the majestic Uluru and the impressive domes of Kata Tjuta, surrounded by rich Indigenous culture and history.
  • Mulgara Gallery: This unique gallery, situated nearby, showcases a diverse range of Indigenous art and crafts. Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture while exploring exquisite artworks and perhaps finding a perfect souvenir.
  • Kata Tjuta: Also known as the Olgas, this iconic landmark features striking rock formations. Experience cultural significance through guided walks that reveal ancient stories and the natural beauty of this stunning desert landscape.

Best time to go to Uluru

The best time to visit Uluru is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. January is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with light rain. June and July are its coolest month on average. At the time of July, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny.

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 during your visit to Uluru, consider travelling between December and February, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel at least three months in advance for the best rates, or check Expedia for last-minute deals. Sundays are the most affordable days to stay, while Saturdays are pricier. Use Expedia's search tool to filter by budget and location, and consider eco-certified hotels for better value. Additionally, bundling your hotel, flights, and activities through an Expedia package can lead to significant savings.

  • 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, preferred location, and additional criteria. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your Uluru hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.