Getting to know Uluru – Australia’s natural wonder.

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation located in the southern part of the Northern Territory, Australia. It is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in the country and is sacred to the indigenous people of Australia.

History of Uluru

The history of Uluru dates back millions of years, with the first humans said to have arrived in the region around 50,000 years ago.

Over the centuries, Uluru played an important role in the lives of the aboriginal people of Australia using it as a gathering place and spiritual site to perform various religious ceremonies and rituals.

Today, Uluru remains an important cultural symbol for many aboriginal groups, who continue to visit the rock formation to pay their respects and connect with their heritage.

Over time Uluru began to gain widespread recognition both within Australia and around the world as a breathtaking natural wonder. In 1985, Uluru was officially declared a World Heritage Site by the United Nations, cementing its status as one of the most important places on earth.

Today, Uluru is one of Australia’s most popular tourist destinations, with people from all over the world coming to experience its unique beauty. While it is still an important cultural site for Aboriginal Australians, Uluru now also holds great meaning for many non-indigenous people who appreciate its history and significance. 

How tall is Uluru?

Uluru is 348m tall, 3.6km long and 1.9km wide – making it one of the largest monoliths in the world and visible from space.

To put in perspective just how tall Uluru is, comparing the iconic Australian landmark to other notable buildings and wonders throughout the world really gives you an idea of just how big it is.

When compared to the Eiffel Tower, Uluru is 20m taller, 209m taller than the Great Pyramids of Giza, 255m taller than New York’s Statue of Liberty and 205m taller than one of Australia’s other most iconic landmarks – Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Things to do when visiting

When visiting Uluru, whether you’re looking for a relaxing day outdoors or an action-packed adventure, there is something for everyone.

Hiking

One of the most popular things to do when visiting Uluru is to take a walk around the base.

The base track is a 10km of track that takes you around the whole circumference of the rock. If the 10km or just concentrate on one or more of its sections, depending on how much time you have, your level of fitness and the weather.

Please note that you aren’t allowed to climb Uluru as the climb was closed permanently from 26 October 2019.

Field of Light 

Witness the spectacle of colour lighting up the desert at the Field of Light art installation by British artist Bruce Munro sees 50 000 solar-powered spheres light taking over an area the size of seven football fields.

In the local Pitjantjatjara language, it’s called Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakutjaku or ‘looking at lots of beautiful lights’.

Camel Ride, Cycle or Segway

Want a little bit more adventure than walking?

If you have never ridden a camel before this would be the perfect opportunity as you can join a sunrise or sunset camel tour.

Want to jump on something a bit smoother? Visitors can also choose to glide their way around Uluru on a Segway or hire a bike to cycle around the monolith at your own pace.

Sounds of Silence

​​There is no dining experience quite like the three-course Sounds of Silence dinner at Uluru.

Take in the starry night sky sipping on sparkling wine and taste canapes from atop a red desert dune as the setting sun changes Uluru’s colours. Then feast on bush tucker-inspired delicacies paired with fine Australian wine. After dinner, an astronomer brings to life the planets and galaxies of the Australian night sky.

Scenic Flights

There is a range of exciting tours which fly over Uluru and the surrounds providing you with a bird-eye perspective of the landmark.

Flight tours range from quick flights to thrilling six-hour outback adventures.

Discover more things to do in Uluru via northernterritory.com.

How to get to Uluru

The best way to get to Uluru is via Alice Springs with direct flights from major Australian airports. From here you can then choose to fly, drive or tour your way to the red centre.

A direct flight from Alice Springs to Uluru is the fastest way with a flight time of 50mins and also provides a great opportunity to take in the heart of Australia as you fly over the outback.

For those who are wanting to self-drive from Alice Springs, the Red Centre Way drive a 450km 5.5hr drive to the landmark.

Or if you are more inclined to sit back and relax while someone else does the driving for you there are many organised tours from Alice Springs to Uluru.

Best time to visit Uluru?

The best time to visit Uluru is during the cooler months of the year from May to September, when the maximum temperature during the day is usually between 20°C and 30°C. 

This will ensure you avoid the Australian outback summer heat.

Can you camp at Uluru?

Yes, you can camp, however camping is not permitted in the national park itself.

Camping is available near the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with free camping available on unpowered sites at the Curtin Springs Campground.

Please note that it’s illegal to camp on the side of highways, at rest stops or in visitor amenities areas.

Whether you are a nature lover or simply appreciate the beauty of our planet, Uluru is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. So if you ever find yourself in Australia, or for those in Australia and want’=ing to holiday somewhere different be sure to set aside some time to tick Uluru off your becket list.