Uluru/Ayers Rock What to see, how to visit & when to go

Uluru is located in the heart of the Northern Territory's Red Centre, about 450km southwest of Alice Springs. It sits within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, 330km west along the Lasseter Highway from the Erldunda Roadhouse, and is surrounded by the remote and rugged landscapes of Australia's Outback.

Uluru can be visited year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September. During these cooler months, daytime temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for walking and outdoor activities, while August to September also brings wildflowers in bloom across Australia’s Red Centre.

From October to March, temperatures can exceed 35°C during the middle of the day, but mornings and evenings remain suitable for exploring. Summer storms transform the landscape, filling waterholes and occasionally revealing the rare sight of waterfalls cascading down Uluru.

The easiest way to get to Uluru is by flying into Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ), which is located just 20 minutes away, in the nearby resort town of Yulara.

You can also drive from Alice Springs (approximately 5 hours). If you’re travelling from the SA/NT border, allow around 9 hours. Follow the Stuart Highway and turn onto the Lasseter Highway at Erldunda Roadhouse.

Most visitors stay 2 to 4 days to experience Uluru and nearby attractions.

2 days: Uluru highlights.

3 to 5 days: Uluru - Kata Tjuta - Kings Canyon

Yes. A park pass is required to visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Passes may be purchased online from Parks Australia, with options of either a 3-day or an annual pass. The 3-day pass can be extended for an additional 2 days at the entry station, at no additional cost.

Uluru is a place where Aboriginal culture is part of everything you do. At Uluru, you can gain a deeper understanding of Anangu culture through guided tours, the Cultural Centre, and immersive experiences.

Accessible travel is well supported at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and Ayers Rock Resort, with designated viewing areas and visitor facilities designed for a range of mobility needs.

The Northern Territory welcomes travellers of all abilities and provides the information you need to plan your visit with confidence. Accessibility here goes beyond infrastructure, reflecting the supportive and inclusive nature of local communities.

You’ll find a variety of accessible accommodation, tours, and transport options tailored to different needs, including wheelchair access, hearing and vision support, and high-care requirements. You can refine your search by region and accessibility preferences. If a tour or experience isn’t listed, it’s worth contacting the operator directly, as many are happy to accommodate individual needs wherever possible.

• Book tours in advance during peak season (May - September)
• Weather can be extreme - plan accordingly and stay safe. Carry water and wear sun protection.
• Respect cultural protocols and guidelines.