Ayers Rock Hotels

Awesome Ayers Rock

Ayers Rock, better known these days as Uluru, is one of the most important sites on Aussie soil – and not just because it is now World Heritage-listed. ... Read more »

‘The Rock’ sits in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, a place that is definitely worth exploring. When you visit the Olgas/Kata Tjuta (and you really, really need to), make sure you go on the Valley of the Winds Walk, a 7km (4.3 miles) track that will take you through the most unbelievable spots. And while you’re in the region, don’t forget to hit up the Kalpa Lookout for a phenomenal view. If you’re not down/fit enough for a 7km hike, the much shorter 1.5km (0.9miles) Olga Gorge Walk is an option. Watarrka National Park is another desert treat. Spy on native wildlife while you (safely) soak up the rays from that big ball of fire in the sky.

AYERS ROCK TOP 10

10. Haasts Bluff Check out the huge hill (also called Haasts Bluff) and mingle with the friendly locals in this arty area.	5. Aboriginal Heritage Tour Take a tour with a super-knowledgeable Aboriginal guide and learn about Uluru’s cultural significance.
9. Camel ride They’re stinky and bumpy, but a sunset camel ride through the arid desert is something you’ll never forget.	4. Yulara This cute neighbouring town has a bunch of art galleries to explore, as well as some rustic drinking holes to hit.
8. Kings Canyon Hands down, best canyon ever! Go on the Rim Walk for a scary-but-awesome view of down below.	3. Helicopter ride Once you’ve explored around Uluru, why not hover above it for a real eye-opening perspective? It’s fun!
7. Lake Amadeus Less a lake and more a big, crusty mass of salt. Sounds icky, but is actually pretty magnificent to see.	2. Kata Tjuta Also known as ‘The Olgas’, these domed rock formations are awesome. So go exploring!
6. Hermannsburg Visit this nearby town for a big fat dose of history and stunning scenery. Visit the open-air museum (Historical District), Palm Valley and Finke Gorge National Park.	1. Uluru Whether you climb it (frowned on by the traditional owners) or stand slack-jawed watching it change colour at sunset, you have to experience the magic.

AYERS ROCK/ALICE SPRINGS EVENTS

The Country Music Festival in Alice Springs in mid-June is a real treat for those who love their country bumpkin tunes!

July’s Alice Springs Show is one of the NT’s biggest festivals.

Another mammoth event in July is NAIDOC Week. Celebrating the awesomeness of Oz’s indigenous culture and traditions, this week is all about educating, enlightening and having a bloody good time.

Take full advantage of the hot sun with the Alice Prize Arts Festival, held every November.

WHEN TO GO

Summer is pretty damn brutal, with temperatures often top 40°C (104°F). Bring plenty of sun protection – and lots of fly spray!

On the flipside, Uluru’s winters are quite the frost fest. Expect temps to dip as low as 3°C (37°F) by day and even lower at night.

Although the area barely sees any rain, if you want a teeny-weeny chance of a refreshing storm, visit in March.

GETTING AROUND

Having a car is kinda essential when travelling around Ayers Rock, as the attractions are scattered and the shuttle services aren’t that good.

AAT Kings and Uluru Express run decent shuttle services around the area and The Rock itself, but there aren’t many routes so you probably won’t score too much exploration time.

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