Half a billion years young, this World Heritage-listed sandstone behemoth is a deeply sacred place for the indigenous Anangu people and climbing the rock is rightfully banned. Not that you need to scale it to be moved by Uluru’s scale, energy and chameleon-like hues (most spectacular at sunrise and sunset).

A kilometre from the rock, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre explores Aboriginal custom, religion and law, and park rangers offer free morning tours along the easy Mala Walk (2km), peppered with rock art. Head in early if you plan on circumventing the rock (10.6km), as the midday can be unforgiving.

For unforgettable sunrise views, hit the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku Lookout. At sunset, opt for the Car Sunset Viewing Area.

Practical Info

Part of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in Central Australia, Uluru is some 17km south of Yulara and around 460km southwest of Alice Springs.

Air: In Yulara, Ayers Rock Airport serves Qantas and Jetstar, with direct flights to/from Alice Spring, Darwin, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Cairns and Adelaide.

Bus: The Uluru Hop On Hop Off tourist shuttle runs between Yulara resorts/campground and Uluru. See the website for timetables, ticket options and to book.

Car: From Yulara, head south on the sealed Lasseter Hwy/Uluru Rd (A4). From Alice Springs, drive south on the Stuart Hwy (A87) and switch to Lasseter Hwy in Ghan.

parksaustralia.gov.au/uluru