When planning this trip, Uluru was one of the places we were most looking forward to, and it didn't disappoint.
We spent 5 days exploring the area, which was just enough time to fit everything in. We highly recommend you make the early start to watch the sunrise over the landscape as well as catch a sunset from one of the dedicated sunset platforms for the ultimate Uluru shot. We loved it so much we watched the sun rise and set from a new spot every day.
Experiences in Uluru
We didn't participate in many of the tours, but one thing we did, and can 100% recommend is the Field Of Lights experience. We paid a bit extra to do the Star Pass which included drinks and canapés as you watch the sunset over Uluru, before descending down to the lights and immersing yourselves in the installation as you wander through a field of 50,000 lights. This will set you back about $100 per person or you can do the cheaper package for $45 (however this does not include drinks or food or the view of Uluru from the platform (pictured above).
There are many paid experiences to do including camel rides, guided walk tours, helicopter experiences and so much more. Unfortunately we didn't have the budget to do all of these things but we plan on returning in the future to tick a few more off our list.
There are also plenty of free experiences that the resort puts on for all guests (no matter which hotel you are staying in) . It was an amazing way to learn more about the culture and history of the area (also great to get out of the heat). We attended a bush tucker demonstration where a local showed us some of the Flora and taught us about how Aboriginals relied on and used the native plants in their food and medicines.
There is also a cinema with free movies throughout the day and of course pools and resort amenities to enjoy during your stay.
Walks & Hikes
Unfortunately it was too hot to do the base / perimeter walk (during summer they close the paths early in the morning when the temperatures will get too hot to safely complete the walk). We went in the dead of summer which means 40+ degree temperatures every day. This unfortunately limited us on what we could do during the day. If we were to go back we would 100% do this walk.
We did 3 of the short walks before sunrise to beat the heat. We did two at Kata Tjuta; Walpa Gorge as well as The Valley OF The Winds, however we only did the first portion of the walk as the heat got a little too much and we knew we wouldn't get back before the walk closed.
Both walks were reasonably short and a great way to see Kata Tjuta from every angle. We would recommend bringing lots of water with you as it does get very hot.
Where We Stayed
Ayers Rock Resort is really the only option in the area. The resort is made up of many hotels and types of accommodation to choose from, catering to all budgets. We stayed at the campground for the first 4 nights of our stay.
The best part about the resort is the free unlimited WIFI throughout the area. This was available to all guests, no matter where they were staying. We were able to use the down time during the hotter parts of the day (when we couldn’t do much but sit by the pool) to research and plan the next leg of our trip.
For our last night we stayed at the one of the fancier hotels - SAILS in the Desert. This was incredible and well worth the money. We hadn’t planned on staying in a hotel, but after some unforeseen circumstances with our trailer and car we needed a place to sleep for the night.
The resort had everything you could possibly need, with so many restaurants to choose from, an IGA as well as a petrol station. The staff were also so amazing and friendly everywhere you go.
Best Spots to take Photos
The sunrise and Sunset viewing areas are the best spots for that glow of the sun hitting the rock and setting behind it. We went for every sunrise and sunset while we were there to see it from a different angle.
One of our other favourite places to take photos was the entrance to the Mutitjulu Waterehole - the path leading into the split in the rock formation is perfect for framing a great shot.
Other Tips For The Area
When you arrive you will be warned to not keep any valuables in your cars or in sight. Unfortunately we learnt this the hard way with some smashed car windows and a missing wallet. If you are traveling by car like us, there aren't many places you can hide things. Just keep this in mind if you have any valuables. Consider taking them with you. And no the glove box isn't a safe place.
Overall, Uluru is a must visit destination in Australia. It was amazing to learn more about the history, culture, native fauna and flora and Aboriginal Communities in the area. No trip to or around Australia is complete without visiting Uluru.
If you want to know more about our time in the Red Centre, you can keep an eye out for our next blogs about our 2 weeks in Alice Springs or our time in Coober Pedy.
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