The Australian Outback is as iconic as it is illusive, and in the middle of the outback lies a vast, storied swath of land: the Red Centre. Home to incredible places like Uluru & Kata Tjuta National Park, this part of Australia has been the subject of misconceptions and misunderstanding — but we’re here to put some common myths about Uluru to rest.

Exploring Beyond Uluru: Discovering Kata Tjuta's Majestic Domes

 

Uluru is not the only natural wonder worth visiting on your holiday. Neighbouring the rock is the incredible, 36-domed Kata Tjuta. Standing at 546 meters, Kata Tjuta is 198 meters higher than Uluru. The best part? A short 45-minute drive from Uluru will get you to the domed rock formations. If you aren’t planning to drive to Uluru or don’t intend to hire a car, jump on the Uluru Hop On Hop Off shuttle or book a guided tour. To get a true understanding of Kata Tjuta's size and beauty, it's worth taking the time to walk through the valleys and gorges. The Walpa Gorge Walk is suitable for most ages and fitness levels and will leave you in awe of the natural and spiritual surroundings.

Incredible Experiences: So Many Activities, So Little Time

When you visit Uluru, be sure to map out your itinerary in advance so that you don’t miss any of the incredible experiences on offer at Ayers Rock Resort and beyond. From spending the day exploring around Uluru & Kata Tjuta National Park, one-of-a-kind dining experiences like Tali Wiru, to award-winning Indigenous storytelling at Wintjiri Wiru, you’ll be wondering how to fit everything into your holiday.

Make sure to carve out some time during your stay to explore the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA). GoCA works with art centres, independent artists and galleries, to showcase the work of emerging Indigenous artists from across Central Australia. During your visit, you can wander the gallery and appreciate one of the world’s oldest living cultures through their artwork. Maybe you’ll even take a piece home!

If you’re looking for something unique to add to your Uluru itinerary, consider one of the free guest experiences available at Ayers Rock Resort. Learn about native plant life on an Indigenous Guided Garden walk, head to Arkarni Theatre for the daily Bush Food Experience, or join a guide for a chat about Aboriginal history, culture and the land at Bush Yarns.

After a big day at the resort or exploring the national park, you’re sure to be hungry. There are 12 dining options at Ayers Rock Resort, meaning that there’s something to cater to your needs no matter what mood you’re in. At Sails in the Dessert, you can enjoy a drink and a light bite at Walpa Lobby Bar, partake in the international buffet at Ilkari Restaurant, or sip and snack by the pool at Pira Pool Bar. Grab a coffee at Mangata Bistro & Bar, or head over to the Town Square for a light breakfast at Kulata Academy Cafe, which is run by National Indigenous Training Academy (NITA) Trainees. You can find information about all dining options at Ayers Rock Resort here.

Unveiling Uluru: A Geological Marvel with Rich Cultural Significance

Uluru is called the Spiritual Heart of Australia for a reason — its cultural significance can be felt from the moment you arrive. More than just a World Heritage Listed site, it is home to Anangu culture that dates back thousands of years. Local Anangu culture is one of the world’s oldest, and is still practiced today!

At Ayers Rock Resort, there are many ways to immerse yourself in and learn about Anangu way of life. From free Indigenous experiences like Bush Yarns to award-winning cultural storytelling experiences like Wintjiri Wiru, your holiday will leave you feeling deeply connected to Uluru.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the rock itself on your visit. From helicopter and segway tours to biking the base or simply walking around the base, there are so many ways to get up close with the wonder of one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. You can take a guided tour to learn about Uluru’s significance to local Anangu.

Unveiling Uluru's Ever-Changing Beauty: Captivating Views Throughout the Day

Seeing Uluru for the first time is an awe-inspiring experience, but one of the most incredible things about Uluru is its ever-changing colours. Depending on the time of day that you view Uluru, its colours change from red to orange to deep purple, so you get to experience that feeling of seeing the rock for the first time over and over again.

If you want a truly unique sunrise experience in the outback, Sunrise Journeys is a one-of-a-kind light, laser, and sound show that brings a piece of Anangu artwork to life with Uluru as the backdrop.

Only a small percentage of fortunate people will see Uluru in its rarest form: in the rain! Heavy rains paint the sandstone monolith silvery blue, dark burgundy, and even black. Only about 1% of visitors will experience rainfall in Uluru, and it is something to behold.

A visit to Uluru is an amazing opportunity to experience the wonder of the Outback skies. The remote location and clear desert skies make for the perfect location to stargaze. Add a stargazing tour to your itinerary or book one of three Field of Light experiences to see the Red Centre from a different perspective.

Affordable Adventures: Getting to Uluru & Planning Your Visit on Any Budget

Getting to Uluru has never been easier! There are a number of direct flight options available to Ayers Rock Airport, just a short 10-minute drive from Ayers Rock Resort. Airport shuttles are available or you can hire a car at the airport if you wish to roam around on your own time.

Ayers Rock Resort offers accommodation near Uluru that suits every budget. Travellers seeking an upscale desert experience can stay at Sails in the Garden or Desert Gardens, enjoying the height of luxury in the Red Centre. Experience the wonder of Uluru and Kata Tjuta from above with a helicopter tour, and if you’re visiting between April and October, dine under the stars at award-winning Tali Wiru.

Travellers on a budget can stay at the resort’s social hub, Outback Hotel & Lodge. The accommodation offers comfortable and affordable stays in hostel-style dorms or budget-friendly private rooms. Alternatively, book a stay at Ayers Rock Campground. Sleep under the stars at one of our powered or unpowered sites or stay in an air-conditioned cabin.

Enjoy laid-back Australian hospitality at the Outback BBQ & Bar, where you can grill your own meat, paired with jacket potatoes and sides from the salad bar.

There is so much more to learn about the Australian Outback on your visit to Uluru. Get ready to dive into Anangu culture, explore around the national park, or simply soak in the wonders of the Red Centre. Start planning your perfect Outback holiday today.