Is Uluru worth visiting? Should you visit the outstanding Ayers Rock?

Are you planning a trip to Australia and have found yourself wondering “is Uluru worth visiting? Should I add it to my Australia itinerary?” Having included a trip to Uluru in my Australia trip, here is everything you need to know about Uluru and making a trip here, to help you decide whether it is worth visiting!

Where is Uluru?

First things first, where exactly is Uluru? Well, welcome to the Red Centre, the very heart of Australia! Uluru is located in the middle of the Northern Territory and about 1,300 miles from Sydney. The nearest large town is Alice Springs, which is 280 miles away. Despite its remote location, it is accessible from a nearby airport. Or, if you fancy a very long road trip, travelling here will offer extraordinary views of the Australian Outback.

Top Tip: If you are looking to hire a camper van to travel Australia, then make sure to check out Travellers Autobahn who have a huge range for all needs!

Uluru, or Ayers Rock as it has formerly been known, is one of the Northern Territory’s most visited tourist sites. It is located in the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage listed site is deeply significant to the Aṉangu people, the Traditional Owners, and is famous for its stunning desert landscapes, cultural importance, and beautiful sunrises and sunsets.

What is Uluru?

Uluru is one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks, a massive sandstone monolith rising 348 M above the desert. However it is not just a striking geological wonder—it’s also a very sacred site for the Aṉangu people, who have lived in the region for tens of thousands of years. At over 9 KM around its base, this impressive place really is a sight to behold.

The rock is a mind blowing 300 million years old and is made of sand, feldspar and rock. All originally from the sea floor. A large chunk is above ground today, and the flat top and grooved sides are a result of weathering. The colour of the rock is an instantly recognisable orange hue, which is actually due to the oxidisation of the sandstone.

How to get to Uluru?

There are a number of ways you can visit Uluru and the Uluru area. Each one will offer a different experience, and ultimately the decision will come down to how long to have to spend in the region.

Arriving into Ayers Rock Airport

Ayers Rock Airport is undoubtedly the most convenient way to arrive at Uluru. The airport is so close you get your first views of the rock as you land!

There are flights from all major Australian airports. Prices will vary according to time of booking and travel dates, but on average return flights from Sydney are around AUD $300, from Melbourne AUD $100 and Cairns AUD $700.

Travelling from Alice Springs

Driving from Alice Springs to Uluru is an iconic Australian road trip through the heart of the Australian. It is around 280 miles, and takes 4-5 hours. The highways are well maintained, but it’s a long, remote drive with limited stops for petrol. Make sure your car is in good condition, you have plenty of water, and avoid driving at dawn or dusk due to wildlife.

Alice Springs itself does have a reputation with a higher than average crime rate compared to the rest of Australia – so do your research and book accommodation before arriving.

Top Tip: If you don’t fancy making the journey on your own, there are many transfers that can be arranged from in Alice Springs

Tours groups for visiting Uluru

If you have a little more time, and are after a guided experience, then there are plenty of group travel tours you can take. Take a look at the different options for tours to visit Uluru that range from 3 days to 8 days, and cover a variety of places to see.

Top Tip: The most popular length tour is a four day one, why not try this tour which visits Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon!

Where to stay when visiting Uluru

If you decide to head straight to Uluru, then there is only one back to stay in the area – Ayers Rock Resort. Luckily, within this resort there are accommodation options to suit every need!

HOTELS IN AYERS ROCK RESORT:
Sails in the Desert – For those looking for real luxury in the desert!
The Lost Camel Hotel – Compact, studio style rooms and a pool.
Outback Lodge – For those on a budget there are family rooms and dorms.

Check out this Ayers Rock Resort post for a full review and to see all the options

What to see at Uluru? – is Uluru worth visiting?

The big question when asking, “Is Uluru worth visiting?” is whether there’s enough to do. The main attraction is, of course, Uluru itself, and there are many ways to experience this iconic monolith. While each perspective offers something unique, you really only need to choose one or two activities to truly appreciate its beauty. The exception to this being sunrise and sunset, I could watch that every day.

Note: To enter the park you need to buy a Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park pass. This is $38 for three days, or $50 for an annual pass. See more HERE, as well as info on what the money is used for.

Walk around the base

The best way to see Uluru up and close, and even a chance to touch the rock. The entire walk is just over 9 KM, but there are tracks off the main path that you can take to see watering holes and other sacred sites. It will take around 4-5 hours to complete. While it is mainly flat, and not a challenging walk, it does get very hot during the day. So only do this first thing in the morning.

Top Tip: If you are looking for a base walk, why not try this walking tour which adds a layer of local knowledge, transfers and a light breakfast!

Drive around Uluru

If you have your own car, you can drive around Uluru. Keep in mind that the road is a little bit of distance from Uluru, but it will give you a chance to marvel at the sheer size of the monolith. It will take around 30 mins to drive all the way around. There are certain designated areas where you can stop and take photos.

Segway Tours

If walking isn’t for you, and you want a little bit more of a thrill, then why not consider a segway tour? These also go around the base at sunrise, but this time you are gliding along on a silent segway, giving you the chance to admire the scenery and nature.

Sunrise and Sunset

Sunrise and sunset are probably the busiest time to visit Uluru, and for good reason – the famous rock almost sings with beautiful colour as the light catches it. Because of this, you should definitely aim to get there early. You will want to arrive at the viewpoints at least 30 minutes before the sun is due to hit the horizon, and then you need to allow extra time for parking. There are designated sunset and sunrise spots to get the best views of the rock.

Alternatively, if you are staying in Ayers Rock Resort, there are some amazing viewing spots for sunrise and sunset in the resort. They are highlighted in this post: Ayers Rock Resort review.

Where else to visit near Uluru – is Uluru worth visiting?

Beyond Uluru, there are a number of other places that make it worthwhile visiting this part of Australia. Here are some other locations you might want to add to your itinerary when thinking “is Uluru worth visiting?”

The Field of Light

This experience is by tour only, and you can book it through your stay at Ayers Rock Resort. It is located just outside the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, near the Ayers Rock Resort. This stunning art installation by Bruce Munro covers an area the size of seven football fields and features over 50,000 solar powered lights that illuminate the desert in vibrant colours.

It is built so that there is a view of Uluru from it, but to truly experience the magic you need to visit at night when the lights really can shine.

Kata Tjuṯa

The second of the huge rock formations that form Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Kata Tjuṯa, formerly known as Mount Olga, is, unlike Uluru, actually formed of 36 domed rock formations, rather than just the one.

There are two options to walk around this wonderful site – either the Walpa Gorge Walk (1-hour return) or the Valley of the Winds (3 hours return).

Kings Canyon

Exploring even further afield, you can take a day trip to Kings Canyon. It is a long day from Ayers Rock Resort, but worth it.

Kings Canyon is a stunning natural canyon in the Watarrka National Park. It is about 3 to 4 hours’ drive from Uluru. Known if it’s towering sandstone walls, palm-filled crevices, and stunning views over the rugged outback. The Rim Walk is the most famous hike, which is a 6 km loop that takes you along the canyon’s edge.

How to be respectful when visiting Uluru

When visiting Uluru it is hugely important to respect the sacredity of the site, and the traditions of the Aṉangu people

Climbing Uluru

Climbing Uluru has been banned since 2019, following long standing requests from the Aṉangu people. It was both dangerous, there were fatalities, and also deeply disrespectful. Our guide likened visiting Uluru as being invited to someone’s house, but climbing it is like rifling through their underwear drawer! You can still see the “scar” where the chain used to be, and the black mark caused by countless people walking up it. Visitors used to leave rubbish, including batteries and nappies, at the top. Because of this acid washed into the sacred watering holes at the bottom, meaning animals no longer use it. While you can no longer climb, you are welcome to touch the rock, so please respect its cultural significance!

Photographing Uluru

You are absolutely allowed to take photos of Uluru. However there are some parts where traditional ceremonies are held, and here it is requested that no photos are taken. If you choose to walk around the base, these areas are clearly marked out with signs on when you can’t photograph. Please read carefully and ensure you are in the right place when you get the camera out!

Taking parts of it home

Just don’t. The entire rock and area is sacred, so even if you find a rock that seemingly is no longer “attached” just leave it alone. Even small pieces are part of the sacred land and should not be taken. Take nothing but memories and leave nothing but footprints.

People who had previously taken parts of Uluru have been known to re-visit to return the rocks to where they found them. Or if they are unable, then they have been posting them back. As it cannot be clear where exactly these rocks came from, they have been using them to fill in the holes left by the chain that was previously used for climbing. To ensure the healing is natural.

Respect the environment

And, of course, respect the environment. Stay on marked paths to protect both the landscape and sacred sites. Take your rubbish with you and leave no trace to preserve the natural beauty.

Final thoughts on “is Uluru worth visiting?”

So, is Uluru worth visiting? Undoubtedly yes. It was one of my favourite places I visited in Australia, not least of all because it is unlike anywhere else I went to.

Uluru is worth visiting for its breathtaking beauty, deep cultural significance, and unique outback experience. Whether you want to admire it at sunrise, explore its base on foot or by Segway, or visit nearby wonders like Kata Tjuṯa and Kings Canyon, this sacred site offers something truly special. While it may seem remote, the journey is part of the adventure, and with respectful exploration, Uluru leaves a lasting impression. If you’re visiting Australia, this iconic monolith is a must see destination that offers more than just stunning views. It is a place of history, spirituality, and connection to the land.

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We respectfully acknowledge and honour the Aboriginal people of the Northern Territory and recognise the continuation of culture, connection to lands, water and country. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future.