Uluru

Uluru showing landscape views and desert views
Uluru showing landscape views and desert views
Uluru which includes desert views
Uluru which includes desert views as well as children
Uluru featuring tranquil scenes as well as a small group of people

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

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park featuring desert views

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Discover Aboriginal rock art and the living culture of the Anangu people, take a joy flight over Uluru and hike through the incredible landscapes of the Red Centre.

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
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Kata Tjuta

You can find out about the history of Petermann with a trip to Kata Tjuta. Discover the desert landscapes in this family-friendly area or enjoy its local tours.

Kata Tjuta
The Olgas or Kata Tjuta from 2500 feet

Mount Olga

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mount Olga during your travels in Petermann. Discover the mountain views while you're in the area.

Mount Olga
Uluru showing landscape views and desert views

Uluru

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.

Uluru
Fun place to hike around

Watarrka National Park

Explore the great outdoors at Watarrka National Park, a lovely green space in Petermann. Visit the area's spas or simply enjoy its restaurants.

Watarrka National Park
Red Centre showing tranquil scenes and desert views

Mount Conner

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Mount Conner during your travels in Petermann. While you're in the area, wander around the natural setting.

Mount Conner

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
See all 9 properties in Uluru
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

Shopping

In Uluru, visit the Cultural Centre for authentic Indigenous art and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, head to Alice Springs' Todd Mall, where you can find local crafts, galleries, and boutique shops showcasing unique gifts and Aboriginal artwork.

Recreation

Experience rejuvenation at the tranquil Spa at Ayers Rock Resort, offering traditional Aboriginal healing practices. Engage in guided mindfulness walks through the stunning landscapes, participate in yoga sessions at sunrise, and enjoy nourishing meals featuring local ingredients to enhance your well-being amidst the beauty of Uluru.

Adventure

The Mala Walk is a stunning hiking trail located 3.2km from Uluru, offering breathtaking scenery and a true adventure vibe. Experience the rich cultural significance of the area while immersing yourself in the natural beauty and unique landscapes that surround this iconic landmark.

Nightlife

Uluru's nightlife is unique, with stargazing experiences and the iconic Field of Light art installation drawing visitors. Enjoy a relaxing evening at local resorts offering outdoor dining and live music while immersing yourself in the stunning desert landscape under a canopy of stars.

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

Find the best attractions near Uluru

Explore the stunning natural beauty of Uluru, a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its iconic monolith and sacred Aboriginal sites. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, you can enjoy breathtaking views, particularly at sunrise, and engage in adventurous activities in the surrounding national parks. For a luxurious experience, consider indulging in premium holidays that showcase the unique landscapes and cultural significance of Uluru.

  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Discover the breathtaking beauty of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site located 25.7km from Uluru. This stunning park offers dramatic landscapes, outdoor adventures, and a chance to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Anangu people.
  • Mulgara Gallery: Located 12.9km from Uluru, Mulgara Gallery showcases an impressive collection of Aboriginal art and crafts. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore unique artworks and engage with the stories behind them.
  • Kata Tjuta: Situated 30.6km from Uluru, Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas, is a series of large, ancient rock formations. Experience the spiritual significance and stunning vistas of this iconic landmark, perfect for hiking and exploration.

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

Tips to save on your trip to Uluru

  • Take advantage of package deals on Expedia and combine flights, hotels, or car rentals for a convenient and cost-effective trip to Uluru.
  • Consider traveling to Uluru during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
  • Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
  • Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.