Guided Garden Walks

Some might assume that the desert lacks abundant plant life, but the Red Centre defies expectations with a diverse array of over 416 native plant species thriving within Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. At the Resort Town Square, you can explore gardens showcasing a variety of native species. Wander independently or join a Guided Garden Walk, offered twice daily at 9 am and 4 pm. These guided tours highlight plants' cultural significance, including their roles in food, medicine, and more.

 

Bush Yarns

At Bush Yarns, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Aboriginal culture through interactive storytelling sessions. Learn about traditional men’s weapons used for hunting and the women’s tools and techniques for gathering bush tucker, native foods found across the central desert. This free experience offers a deeper understanding of Anangu way of life and may also include the opportunity to hear and learn words from the local Pitjantjatjara language, spoken by the Traditional Owners of Uluru. It’s a wonderful way to connect with the land’s ancient heritage and gain insight into the knowledge passed down through generations.

 

Visit the Camel Farm

Experience an authentic outback adventure at UluruCamel Tours, home to Australia’s largest camel farm. Located just minutes from Ayers Rock Resort, this unique attraction invites visitors to explore the saddlery, meet friendly camels, and enjoy hands-on encounters at the animal petting farm. Discover the fascinating history of Australia’s early inland exploration as you learn about Afghan cameleers, ANZAC cameleers, and the vital role of their Aboriginal guides

Bush Food Experience

If you’re curious about traditional bush tucker, don’t miss the Bush Food Experience, held daily at 1 pm in the Arkarni Theatre, located next to the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA). This engaging culinary session explores the rich traditions of Indigenous food preparation, showcasing how local Aboriginal groups have hunted, gathered, and cooked nourishing bush foods for thousands of years. Put your knowledge of native plants, fruits, grains, and spices to the test as you learn how these ingredients are used in traditional cooking methods. Enjoy a live demonstration, and best of all, a tasting that brings the flavours of the outback to life.

 

Didgeridoo Workshop

Experience the captivating sounds of the didgeridoo, one of the world’s oldest wind instruments, during the free Didgeridoo Workshop at Ayers Rock Resort. This instrument has been used for generations in storytelling, ceremony, and song. Learn about its cultural significance, how it’s made, and the techniques used to play it.

 

Free Documentary Film Screenings

Be sure to check out the free daily documentary film screenings at Ayers Rock Resort that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Anangu. One must-see short documentary, “An Ancient Story Takes Flight,” reveals how the world’s oldest continuous living culture is embracing modern technology to preserve and share its stories. Discover the making of Wintjiri Wiru and learn how this extraordinary experience was developed in close collaboration with the local Traditional Owners to ensure the story is shared respectfully and powerfully with the world.

Explore the mysteries of the universe with “Capturing the Cosmos.” This film delves into the latest scientific research and breakthroughs in radio astronomy, dark energy, and Australia’s leading role in radio astronomy. Narrated by Geoffrey Rush and written and directed by astronomer Dr. Tanya Hill, the documentary offers a fascinating look at the cosmos through the lens of cutting-edge technology and scientific discovery. Following the screening, guests are invited to stay for a brief talk and Q&A session with the resort’s resident Astronomy Guide.

 

3. Discover Local Indigenous Art

Ayers Rock Resort is a vibrant hub for Indigenous art in the Red Centre, proudly showcasing the work of local Indigenous artists and creatives from across Central Australia. Through painting, sculpture, carving, and handcrafted objects, these artists share powerful stories of identity, ancestry, cultural knowledge, and deep connections to Country.

There are three art galleries within the Resort, and all are free to visit during your stay. Mulgara Gallery, located at Sails in the Desert, celebrates a range of regional Indigenous art styles, featuring everything from traditional dot paintings to contemporary works. In the Town Square, the Mingkiri Arts offers a curated selection of Australian-made glassware, pottery, jewellery, and zebra rock pieces, perfect for those seeking locally crafted souvenirs. Nearby, the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA) showcases works exclusively from Central Australian Indigenous artists, with a focus on supporting both established and emerging talent. The GoCA collection also includes punu (traditional Anangu wood carvings) and intricately designed pieces handmade by remote community art centres.

GoCA is also home to Ayers Rock Resort’s Artist in Residence program, which invites Indigenous artists to work onsite, creating pieces in real time while engaging with guests. It’s a rare opportunity to witness the artistic process firsthand, gain insight into the cultural significance of the work, and purchase authentic art that directly supports Indigenous communities.

There’s no better way to connect with the Spiritual Heart of Australia than by witnessing the natural wonders that bookend each day: sunrise, sunset, and stargazing at Uluru.

As dawn breaks, the first light of day slowly washes over Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, painting the landscape in soft pinks and oranges. At sunset, the rock glows a deep, fiery red, an unforgettable spectacle that draws visitors to nearby viewing platforms and dune lookouts. When night falls, the desert sky unveils its final show: a spectacular display of stars, constellations, and the Milky Way, clearly visible thanks to the area's minimal light pollution.

The best part? You don’t need a tour or telescope, just step outside and take in the vast beauty above. From first light to the last star, outback skies offer an awe-inspiring, free experience that deepens your connection to this ancient landscape.

 

5. Free Guided Walk at the Base of Uluru

Discover the deep cultural and spiritual significance of Uluru on the Ranger-Guided Mala Walk. Departing daily from the Mala carpark, this free interpretive experience takes you along the base of Uluru, where you’ll hear the Tjukurpa story of the Mala (rufous hare-wallaby). Along the way, Rangers share insight into traditional and contemporary Anangu culture, explain the meaning behind ancient rock art, and highlight the unique ways the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is managed in collaboration with Traditional Owners.

Prefer to explore Uluru at your own pace? Take one of the self-guided walks around the base of Uluru, where interpretive signs along the path provide rich insights into the area’s cultural heritage, natural environment, and spiritual importance to Anangu.

 

Plan Your Uluru Itinerary

No matter your Red Centre adventure budget, there are so many ways to explore Uluru. Whether you’re seeking luxury, adventure, or a more budget-friendly escape, you’ll find the perfect mix of nature, culture, and connection in the Spiritual Heart of Australia. Start planning your perfect outback getaway today.