Uluru (Ayers Rock)
Northern Territory
 4.gif)
If you are driving from Alice Springs towards Uluru, don't be confused by thinking at a distance Mt Conner is Ayers Rock. Unfortunately you still have another 100kms to drive before you get there.
Uluru, found within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, stands 348 metres high and measures 9.4 kms in circumference. What you cannot see though is that two-thirds of the rock actually lies below the ground. Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta have great cultural significance for the Anangu Traditional Aboriginal landowners, with many cultural sites located around the base.
Apart from the amazing sight when you first see Uluru, the thing that really draws the tourists in is the ever changing landscape with the changing of the light and season. The colours change from ochre brown to orange and then deeper and darker reds as the sun is setting.
Summer in the region can be extremely hot and winters can get quite cold, so the best time to visit is Autumn (April - May) and Spring (Sept - Oct).
 2.gif)
Uluru at Sunrise and Sunset
Undoubtedly the most spectacular times to see Uluru is for Sunset and Sunrise. Viewing areas have been setup with plenty of car and coach parking available, get there early though so you can get the best spots as it does get very busy.
Uluru Walks
There are many walks around Uluru, including ranger-led walks where they explain about the aboriginal mythology and wildlife.
 6.gif)
Uluru Climb
Even though you can climb Ulruru, the Anangu Aboriginal elders ask that you respect Aboriginal law and culture by choosing not to do the climb. If you do choose to, it is approximately a 1.6km return trip, and give yourself about 2 hours.
Uluru Base Walk
The Base Walk is approximately 9.8kms and will take between 3 to 4 hours. Start from the cultural centre and head down the Liru Track, then walk clockwise around the base of Uluru, returning once again to the Cultural Centre via the Liru Track. You can also start the walk from the Mala or Kuniya car parks, but if you do start from here, first visit the cultural centre for general information and safety advice.
Uluru Liru Walk
The Liru Walk is about 4kms return, and allow about 1.5 hours to complete it. Start at the cultural centre and it will take you up to the base of Uluru.
Uluru Mala Walk and Kantju Gorge
This is a 2km walk on the North-West side of Uluru. Allow yourself about 1.5 hours to complete it. The track begins at the Mala Walk car park and ends at the inspiring Kantju Gorge. Along the way you will see many examples of Anangu aboriginal rock art. From the waterhole, you have the option of continuing on the Base Walk, or return to the car park. There are free ranger guided tours, check with the Cultural Centre for details.
Uluru Kuniya Walk ad Mutitjulu Waterhole
The Kuniya Walk is a 1km return walk found on the Southern side of Uluru. Departing from the Kuniya car park, this is a short stroll to a waterhole, the home of Wanampi, an ancestral snake. Here you will see a rock shelter that was used by Aboriginal people which contains some rock art.
Uluru Dune Walk
The Dune Walk is a 30 minute walk that takes you along a sand dune with views of both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.