First Nations people have lived in the area around Uluru and Kata Tjuta for at least 30,000 years, and it continues to be a significant region for the local Anangu who tell creation stories of these ancestral lands as part of their Tjukurpa. In 1873, surveyor William Gosse sighted ‘the Rock' and in honour of the then Chief Secretary of South Australia Sir Henry Ayers, named it Ayers Rock. It wasn't until 1993 that Uluru became the first icon in Australia to be given back its Aboriginal name, making it the first official dual-named feature in the Northern Territory.

Walking around the 9km perimeter is one of the key highlights of many Uluru tours, but with plenty of walking options, it may be difficult to know where to begin. At AAT Kings, we recommend the Kuniya Base Walk and the Mala Walk, both rated highly by tourists and locals. While walking along these trails, you will encounter sacred Indigenous sites and art.

The Kuniya Base Walk is an insightful track that leads to the Mutitjulu waterhole. Along this walk you can learn about the deadly battle which took place here between two ancestral beings – Kuniya, the woman python, and Liru, the venomous snake. You'll gain a unique insight into the sheer physical and spiritual enormity of Uluru and pass by ancient cave paintings and other sites of significance to the local Anangu and the early explorers.

The Mala Walk leads you past several areas of ancient rock art and sacred sites where Aboriginal communities live and prepare for ceremonies. It's believed that as you walk through this area, you'll be surrounded by the spirit of the Mala Tjukurpa – the hare-wallaby people. This adventure will also take you to the peaceful Kantju Gorge.

As the two most popular rock formations in the Northern Territory, adventures of Uluru and Kata Tjuta are often featured together in several top Uluru tours. Sitting approximately 40km to the west of Uluru, Kata Tjuta is a unique experience with its flowing rock domes, which light up beautifully at sunrise and sunset. There are various walking trails to choose from, such as the Walpa Gorge Walk or the Valley of the Winds Walk.

Watarrka National Park is approximately 300km southwest of Alice Springs and is a protected region encompassing much of Kings Canyon. The rocky terrain is perfect for those seeking a hiking adventure outside of their comfort zone, with it taking around 3 hours to walk the park's circumference.

The best time to visit is between May and September when temperatures are cooler—ideal for walking and exploring. For wildflowers, August and September are perfect. If you want to see Uluru’s waterfalls, plan your trip for the summer months following rainfall.

Uluru is situated in the heart of Australia, within the Northern Territory’s Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. It is approximately 450km southwest of Alice Springs, surrounded by the iconic Red Centre desert landscape.

The easiest way to reach Uluru is by flying into Ayers Rock Airport (Connellan Airport) located in Yulara, only 20 minutes from the park. Direct flights are available from major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Cairns. Alternatively, you can drive from Alice Springs, which is a 5.5-hour scenic journey.

Uluru is estimated to be about 500 million years old! Its formation dates back to a time when the area was covered by an ancient sea—an incredible reminder of Earth's evolving history.

The traditional custodians of Uluru are the Anangu people, one of the world’s oldest living cultures, with a history dating back over 60,000 years. Uluru holds deep spiritual and cultural significance for the Anangu, representing their ancestral connection to the land.

No, climbing Uluru has been permanently prohibited since October 26, 2019. This decision was made to respect the wishes of the Anangu people, as the site is deeply sacred to their culture and beliefs.

• Uluru Base Walk: Explore the stunning 9.4km trail around the base and marvel at sacred caves, ancient rock art, and waterholes like Mutitjulu.

• Field of Light: Witness the awe-inspiring light installation by artist Bruce Munro, featuring 50,000 glowing spindles under the night sky.

• Sunrise and Sunset Views: Capture the changing colors of the rock as the sun rises or sets—a truly unforgettable experience.

• Cultural Tours: Visit the Uluru Cultural Centre and learn about the Anangu’s Tjukurpa stories, laws, and traditions.

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Light clothing for the day and warm layers for chilly mornings/evenings

• Wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent

• Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)

• A camera to capture the breathtaking sights

Yes, there are a variety of tours to enhance your Uluru experience:

• Cultural tours led by Anangu guides to deepen your knowledge of Aboriginal heritage

• Scenic sunrise and sunset tours

• Guided hikes around Kata Tjuta and Uluru

Explore options like sunrise Field of Light tours, Ayers Rock sunset tours, and full-day excursions to both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Absolutely! Ayers Rock Resort in Yulara offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury stays to budget-friendly campgrounds. All visitors are just minutes away from the park entry and Uluru’s attractions.

The Field of Light is an immersive art installation by Bruce Munro, featuring 50,000 glowing lights in vibrant hues. Set against the silhouette of Uluru, it’s a magical experience that blends nature, art, and culture.

To fully explore Uluru and its surroundings, plan for at least 2-3 days. This allows time for sunrise/sunset tours, base walks, cultural experiences, and a visit to Kata Tjuta.

Uluru is more than just a natural wonder—it’s a spiritual and cultural treasure. Whether you’re hiking its base, learning ancient stories, or soaking in its breathtaking sunsets, Uluru promises an unforgettable experience.