Situated within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, in Central Australia, Uluru, or Ayres Rock, as it was formerly known, is one of the country’s most outstanding and recognisable landmarks. As such, it’s also a key bucket list ranker for many global travellers, renowned for both its geological and indigenous importance.
Not usually one for visiting the most touristy and iconic attractions in a country, I thought I probably wouldn’t ever visit Uluru during my time here in Australia, mainly because it had been widely downplayed to me as “just a big rock”! Nothing however, could have been further from the truth – the sheer magnitude and awe-inspiring quality of the whole Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park cannot be downplayed; it truly is a world wonder, an epic visual spectacle and an vivid colour display by nature, which has to be seen to be believed.
I really do count my time at Uluru as one of the most prominent highlights of my travels in Australia and I would therefore strongly urge anyone visiting this country to try and get there too. Here are the best 5 ways I think you can experience the magic of Uluru.
5. Walk Round It
The 10.6km circumnavigation track of the wonderful Uluru is an absolutely brilliant way to view the many angles and colours of this photogenic rock, as well as familiarise yourself with the legends, stories and history of its role in aboriginal culture. The walk took us roughly 3 hours, but we foolishly made the mistake of undertaking it in the afternoon when there was very little shade to be had. Luckily the sarongs we’d brought did a great job of protecting us from the fierce heat, but my tip would be to get started just after sunrise instead! At this time of day you’re assured of a fantastic light display as the sun warms both the colours of the rock and the incredible sky above it.
4. Explore the Cultural Centre
The Cultural Centre within the park is free to enter and will give you an excellent insight into the natural and cultural significance of Uluru. You can easily spend a good few hours here as there is plenty of information, which is beautifully displayed and very accessible.
3. Photograph it at Sunset
Nobody can visit Uluru and miss out on the chance to photograph this most famous rock in its best light. There at least 4 designated sunset/sunrise viewing spots within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, all of which have specially raised platforms for better angles. Make sure you get up early at least one day to see the colours of the day coming to life over Uluru as well – it will make for some unforgettable photographs too.
2. Dine There
The Sounds of Silence is a once in a lifetime opportunity to eat your dinner with the famous setting of Uluru as your backdrop. Enjoy the views of this great rock as the sun sets and then choose from a fabulous array of bush tucker treats and other cuisine delights as the incredible stars of Central Australia come out.
1. Take a Camel Tour
Who can resist the opportunity to experience all the delights of Uluru’s desert setting including sitting on the back of a camel? Visit the Uluru Camel Farm, the largest in the Southern hemisphere, for the full picture. Otherwise, you can just take a tour on the back of one of these wonderful animals in the surrounding dunes and get a whole new angle on this great arid area.
So those are the best 5 ways I think you should experience Uluru. However you choose to see this great rock though, just make sure you get there!
