Top Uluṟu tours for an unforgettable trip

Finally booked that trip to Uluṟu? Don’t head off without reading this list of top Uluṟu tours there first.

The spectacular is a bucket-list item for most Australians, as well as travellers from further afield. And it’s no wonder. This glowing monolith isn’t just a force to be reckoned with in the wider Australian cultural imagination; it also forms the centre of many stories for the Aṉangu people who consider Uluṟu, as well as many of the surrounding watering holes, caves and gorges, deeply sacred. With so many stories to be told and to listen to at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, our list of top tours will make it easier to get every drop out of your visit to the Red Centre

Uluṟu sunrise and sunset tours

Uluṟu & Kata Tjuṯa Scenic Flight with Fly Uluru

Watch the sunrise from the air over one of the world’s most iconic views, that of Uluṟu. To take in a majestic birds-eye-view, book with Fly Uluru, who operates Ayers Rock Helicopters and Ayers Rock Scenic Flights.

a couple viewing Uluru at sunrise on a helicopter flight — Fly above the breathtaking Uluru rocks while admiring the sunrise. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Fly Uluṟu has been flying in the outback since 1989 and is still going strong. Head out for a 40- or 30-minute spin on a plane or helicopter at sunrise or sunset on the Uluṟu & Kata Tjuṯa Scenic Flight, or extend to two hours to include sights like Lake Amadeus and King’s Canyon. Their 15-minute Uluṟu Rock Blast 15-minute tour starts from $145.

Uluru sunrise helicopter flight — Get the most amazing views of the desert surrounds. (Image: Tourism NT/Shaana McNaught)

Uluṟu Camel Tours

Alternatively, you can opt for this golden hour tour where your feet are a lot closer to the ground — but still not quite touching. Uluṟu Camel Tours is a family-friendly group, that runs mid-morning and sunrise and sunset camel rides through the sands of the Red Centre.

a group of travellers riding a camel during sunset in Uluru — Enjoy an hour of a camel ride during sunset or sunrise. (Image: Tourism NT/Plenty of Dust)

Watch the colours change, as you listen to your guide tell you about the surrounding flora and fauna, all from behind the hump of your noble desert steed. Prices from $135 include freshly baked beer damper with jams, tea and coffee.

a group of tourists capturing the sunset while riding a camel — Admire the Uluṟu landscape as the colours change over the horizon. (Image: Tourism NT/Plenty of Dust)

Uluṟu Sunrise and Field of Light tour with AAT Kings

While nothing can compete with watching the dawn break over Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa, the tens of thousands of light that comprise artist Bruce Munro’s Field of Light installation sure gives it a run for its money. Watch the shifting hues of this massive artwork wax and wane as the frosted spheres dim as the sun comes up. Costs run from $75 per person.

a field of lights glowing vibrantly — Catch the spectacular Field of Light. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Sunrise with Uluṟu Motorcycles

Hey there, Easy Rider. Fancy seeing the sandstone monolith on the back of a Harley? Stupid question. Book onto Uluṟu Motorcycles’ Sunrise Harley tour to be chauffeured around on the back of your bike by a rider, who will take you to the Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area before doing a lap of Uluṟu. From $229 for 90 minutes.

motorcycle riders navigating the roads of Uluru — Ride a Harley-Davidson across the beautiful Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park. (Image: Tourism NT)

Uluṟu day tours

Ranger-guided Mala Walk

Did you know you can get a free guided walk of the base? Take the Mala Walk at the base of Uluru, which is named for the Mala people (the local Aṉangu’s peoples ancestors), with a local ranger. Learn about the meaning of the rock art along the ancient walls, and hear the Tjukurpa (creation stories) of the formations here. The walk is two kilometres and wheelchair accessible. It ends at Kantju Gorge, which is a wonderful place to finish and watch the sunset.

a group of travellers on a Mala Walk tour at Uluru — Take the scenic path from Mala carpark to Kantju Gorge. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Ulurṟu Morning Guided Base Walk with AAT Kings

Go the whole hog with this guided 10.5-kilometre walk around Uluṟu’s base, which starts when you are picked up an hour before sunrise. Next is a light breakfast, before starting on the Kuniya Walk and watching the desert wake up around you.

As you walk, you will hear stories of Tjukurpa, stop by the Kantju Gorge and see the rock art of the Mutitjulu Waterhole, and hear about the battle between Kuniya, the woman python woman, and Liru, the poisonous brown snake man, that occurred here, with their story told in the landscape. The cost starts from $189 and includes return travel.

two tourists capturing the Mutitjulu Waterhole — Marvel over the Aboriginal rock art at the Mutitjulu Waterhole. (Image: Tourism NT)

Need tips, more detail or itinerary ideas tailored to you? Ask AT.

Uluṟu Segway Tours

Don’t try to be a snob, segways are the bomb. Easy to use and fun; you get to travel as a tight group from the fast walkers to the slow pokes.

a couple gazing out the Uluru landscape — Get up close and personal with the picturesque landscape of Uluṟu. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Try out a small group tour with Uluṟu Segways and journey 12 kilometres around the base of Uluṟu on a guided tour. Options include tours that include and exclude returns, as well as sunset tours that come with nibbles and sparkling wine. Priced from $149.

a group of travellers wearing a helmet during an Uluru Segway Tour — Explore the entire Uluṟu without having to walk. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Cave Art Tour with Maruku Arts

The Maruku Arts group is an Indigenous-owned and operated organisation, whose name literally means “belonging to black". Staggeringly, almost 900 Aṉangu artists make up the collective.

a local Anangu artist and her Maruku dot-painting artwork — Witness the wonders of making a Maruku dot painting. (Image: Tourism NT/The Salty Travellers)

Support their work and learn from their knowledge on the Cave Art Tour, which sees travellers take the Kuniya Walk to hear the Tjukurpa stories.

dot painting using the hands — Learn about the ancient symbols used in Aṉangu art. (Image: Tourism NT/Matt Glastonbury)

The stories are first told by your Aṉangu guide in Pitjantjatjara, then in English. Prices are from $89. Pair with a dot-painting workshop taught by a local Aṉangu artist, assisted by an interpreter from $72.

three women participating in a Maruku Arts dot painting workshop — Immerse in the colourful Aṉangu art culture. (Image: Tourism NT)

Uluṟu Sunrise and Kata Tjuta Tour with AAT Kings

Venture out to see Uluṟu’s sister site of Kata Tjuṯa with this AAT Kings tour. Begin the day before the crack of dawn as you watch the sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the viewing area. Next, drive to Kata Tjuṯa, a sacred space for Anangu men, as your guide tells you the history of the surrounding parklands.

a couple admiring Kata Tjuta — Catch stunning sunrise views amidst the rugged landscape. (Image: Tourism NT/Salty Aura)

On your arrival at the steep-sided domes, the group will explore Walpa Gorge and check out the oasis there. While you are allowed to visit the sacred space of Kata Tjuṯa, remain respectful and be careful what you photograph; you don’t want to reveal hidden secrets of the area.

a group of travellers exploring Walpa Gorge — Go on a scenic sunrise tour across Uluṟu’s marvellous jagged scenery. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Uluṟu food tours

Tali Wiṟu

An intimate night of fabulous dining that will take your sense of taste on a veritable tour.

appetisers beautifully arranged on a plate — Indulge in the appetising Tali Wiṟu dining experience. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

The Tali Wiṟu dining experience sees you travel out to a nearby dune (the name ‘Tali Wiṟu’ means beautiful dune), for a night of bush tucker canapes, a three-course meal, and matched wines. And when we say bush tucker, we’re not talking about your average crocodile steak — or making any part of this experience snappy.

a chef carefully prepares the dishes for Tali Wiru dining — Savour international flavours carefully curated just for you. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Instead, delight over course after course of quandong coulis and native warrigal greens, toothfish with bush honey marinated heirloom carrots, gulguk (green ant) gin and tonics, kangaroo croquettes and more.

one of the dishes included in the four-course meal during your Tali Wiru dining experience — Each meal bursts with ornamental flavours. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Your time out among the dunes also includes a didgeridoo performance and Indigenous storytelling. The price starts from $440 per person.

a group of people sitting around a bonfire during their Tali Wiru dining experience — Experience dining with a bonfire setup. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

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Sound of Silence with Field of Light

Pair one of the most famous Uluru dining experiences with one of the most celebrated artworks, Bruce Munro’s Field of Light.

the spectacular field of light in Uluru — Be surrounded by a field of colourful lights. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Get picked up at your hotel, where you’ll be taken out to the outback between Kata Tjuṯa and Uluṟu, for canapés, wines and a barbecue buffet characterised by indigenous flavours. Includes installation entry, a three-course bush tucker menu, a stargazing talk and a didgeridoo performance.

a group of travellers having dinner — Drink and dine under the Southern Desert sky. (Image: Tourism NT/Tourism Australia)

Still hungry? The best options for dining at Uluṟu can be found here.

Self-guided tours

Self-guided Uluṟu base walk

You don’t need a guide to do the Uluṟu base walk (although there is a free one available, see above). Instead, have some spiritually refreshing alone time as you follow the rock around its base along the 10-kilometre track. It is recommended to start at the Mala car park, and to do so in the early hours in hotter weather. There is water and toilets available on the hike, and a map can be found at Parks Australia.

travellers walking at the base of Uluru — Traverse the Uluṟu scenic path during a self-guided base walk. (Image: Tourism NT/The Salty Travellers)

Uluṟu Bike ride

After attending the free presentation on the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and Aṉangu culture at the Cultural Centre, and checking out some of the art and activities there, it’s time to pick up the bikes and head on out. Outback Cycles has bicycle rentals, which you can hire between sunrise and late afternoon.

cycling around Uluru — Hop on a bike and explore the rugged landscapes. (Image: Tourism NT/Kate Flowers)

Family tours at Uluṟu

Free tours at Ayers Rock Resort

If you’re staying near Uluṟu, chances are it’ll be at Ayers Rock Resort, which offer a whole range of free activities you can check out. See a Bush Tucker Experience with a free cooking demonstration, check out the local flora and bush foods with a guide in the gardens of the Desert Gardens Hotel, sign up for the daily tour of the Gallery of Central Australia (GoCA) (read more about GoCA in our three-day itinerary) and take a visit to pat the camels at the Uluṟu Camel Tour petting farm.

a person holding a local flora during the Bush Tucker Experience at Ayers Rock Resort — Learn about the indigenous bush food ingredients at the Ayers Rock Resort. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia)

Uluru Astro Tours

The whole family will love gazing up at the stars that lie above Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park at night, listening quietly as the resident guide explains the astronomy of the planets and heavenly bodies above.

Uluru under the night sky — Gaze at the night sky lit by a thousand stars in the Milky Way. (Image: Tourism NT/New Asia Pacific Travel Pty Ltd.)

Uluru Astro Tours has a special permit to run stargazing tours in the park, so it is well worth booking this small-group experience. Children are from $60 and adults are from $99 for this 2.5-hour tour.

three people stargazing at night in Uluru — Head to Uluru for a deep stargazing experience you’ll never forget. (Image: Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia)

Have you booked your stay in Uluru yet? Check out our ultimate guide to visiting Uluru.

The Northern Territory is made for road trips, and this one hits all the highlights.

Craggy mountain ranges, inviting waterholes, ochre soil: the landscape of the Northern Territory is asking to be explored by road and foot. There are many iconic road trips to choose from here, but none so all-encompassing than the roughly 3000 kilometres of sealed road that make up Explorer’s Way.

Spend 14 days (or more, to really make the most of it) driving this route from Adelaide, hitting the NT near the small settlement of Kulgera before later finishing in Darwin. Along the way, you’ll find nearly all the territory’s most iconic sights.

Discover some of the top highlights that make Explorer’s Way one of Australia’s most incredible road trips.

1. Alice Springs

echidna at Alice Springs Desert Park — See the locals at Alice Springs Desert Park. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Recently hitting the big screen again with the story of The Kanagroo Sanctuary, there’s a lot to surprise you in Alice Springs.

Three distinct desert habitats – desert rivers, sand country and woodland – are recreated over 1300 hectares at Alice Springs Desert Park. Time your visit for a presentation or a free bird show.

Later, turn your attention to the skies above, taking a dive into local astronomy at Earth Sanctuary. You’ll find a range of experiences, from a 90-minute toe-dip into the stars through to an overnight adventure.

Alice Springs packs a surprising punch with its tasty dining options, including pub grub and unique brews at Alice Springs Brewing Co, tapas and pizza at Epilogue Lounge and tasty cafe fare at the quirky Page 27.

2. Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park

woman standing at Ormiston Gorge — Dive into Ormiston Gorge. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom and Jesso)

Beginning 15 minutes from Alice Springs and stretching across 161 kilometres, Tjoritja/West MacDonnell National Park is packed with striking ancient landscapes and inviting water holes.

Visit Standley Chasm – traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water’ – to take in its bold red and orange hues, and to observe the diverse bird species, lizards and wallabies that call it home.

Cool off in one of several picturesque natural swimming holes, like Ellery Creek Big Hole and Ormiston Gorge.

3. Uluru & Kata Tjuta

three women looking at Kata Tjuta at sunset — Explore Kata Tjuta. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT)

Visiting the Cultural Heart of Australia is something everybody should experience. There are so many side trips in the Red Centre you could easily spend a week here, but to get the most out of a short time, park the car then get out on foot.

Take the 10-kilometre Base Walk around the entirety of Uluru or join a free, ranger-guided Mala Walk along part of the base, learning about Tjukurpa (creation stories) and geology as you go.

For a change of pace, wait until nightfall and wander through the iconic Field of Light display by celebrated artist Bruce Munro, or see the Wintjiri Wiru lightshow that shares the ancient Mala story using drones, lasers and projections.

4. Tennant Creek

pson looking at Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles) northern territory — See the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Dom And Jesso)

Tennant Creek was Australia’s third-largest gold mining town in the 1930s, and visitors can discover that history at Battery Hill Mining Centre – and even try their own hand at gold fossicking.

For a completely different side of history, pop into Nyinkka Nyunyu Art & Culture Centre, which preserves and shares Warumungu culture through art, performance, a museum and more.

Just outside town, find the ancient granite boulders of Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles). A site integral to important stories held by the Warumungu, Kaytetye, Warlpiri and Alyawarra peoples, the boulders appear to almost have dropped out of the sky and seemingly continue to defy gravity.

5. Mataranka

aerial of people swimming in bitter springs northern territory — Dive into Bitter Springs. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Ben Savage)

A town made famous by the novel We of the Never Never by Jeannie Gunn (and a movie of the same name), Mataranka is also known for its sandy-bottomed thermal pool, Bitter Springs, within Elsey National Park. Follow a 500-metre loop track around these spring-fed pools that stay a toasty 34°C year-round, before choosing your favourite spot to dive into. Enjoy the local birdlife while you relax.

Elsewhere in the park, find historical sites, several scenic walks and Roper River, which is perfect for boating and fishing.

6. Nitmiluk National Park

Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise — Join a sunset cruise with Nabilil Dreaming. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Lachlan Gardiner)

Nitmiluk National Park is sandstone country, with 13 stunning gorges and plenty of waterfalls waiting to be explored.

One of the most beautiful spots can be found along the 62-kilometre Jatbula Trail, a five-to-six day bushwalk that follows an ancient Jawoyn songline from Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). Numbers are restricted and book out quickly, so be sure to plan well ahead. Not up for the hike? Drive right up to the falls and enjoy a dip without the challenge.

Elsewhere, explore Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Paddle a kayak through the river running through the canyon, or save your energy on a Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise, discovering the stories and ways of the Jawoyn people while enjoying a candlelit dinner as the cliffs around you shift colour and glow with the changing daylight.

Continue your cultural journey at local art centres like Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Art & Culture Centre or Mimi Aboriginal Art & Craft.

7. Litchfield National Park

cathedral termite mounds in Litchfield national park — Be awed by giant cathedral termite mounds. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ As We Wander)

Just over an hour’s drive from Darwin lies the beautiful Litchfield National Park. It’s famous for stunning waterfalls and swimming holes, including Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Florence Falls and Tjaynera Falls.

Here you’ll also find hundreds of giant – and magnetic – cathedral termite mounds that are truly a sight to see. Ageing up to 100 years old, you won’t find mounds like these outside the northern parts of Australia. Stroll along the accessible boardwalk to see them up close.

8. Darwin

darwin street art — Darwin art is streets ahead. (Credit: Tourism & Events NT/ Mark Fitzpatrick)

This list wouldn’t be complete without the territory’s capital city: Darwin. Situate yourself upon arrival with a stroll through the main streets, admiring the many art murals by local, interstate and international artists. They’re all remnants of the annual Darwin Street Art Festival, one of Australia’s longest running street art festivals.

Stop to recharge along Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct, an area of delectable restaurants, public swimming pools and free events. And, of course, it would be wrong to leave the city without enjoying a bowl of laksa at Mindil Beach Sunset Market as the sun goes down.

Learn more and start planning your Explorer’s Way road trip at northernterritory.com/drive.

Top Uluṟu tours for an unforgettable trip

Finally booked that trip to Uluṟu? Don’t head off without reading this list of top Uluṟu tours there first.

Uluṟu sunrise and sunset tours