Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory © Tourism Australia and Tourism NT/Nic Morley
Guide to Uluru and Kata Tjuta
The ancient rock formations of Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from the land to make an incredible sight. Immerse yourself in the Aboriginal stories of this special place, 500 million years in the making.
In Australia’s Red Centre lies the spectacular Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park. Home to many ancient wonders, the park is most famous for the enormous monoliths it’s named after. Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from the earth in all their red glory just 30km (19mi) from each other. Measuring 348m (1,140ft) high and 9.5km (6mi) in circumference, Uluru is the largest sandstone monolith in the world, while Kata Tjuta is made up of 36 giant domes spread over more than 20km (12mi). Both sites remain deeply spiritual and sacred to the local Anangu people, who have lived here for more than 30,000 years.
The Anangu people have called Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park home for over 30,000 years. Known as the beating heart of Central Australian culture, the landscape – which has been acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural and natural significance – is believed by the Anangu people to have been created at the beginning of time. Visit the Cultural Centre to experience this region’s rich history.
- Traditional name: Uluru-Kata Tjuta (pronounced Ooh-loo-roo-Kah-tuh-Joo-tuh)
- Indigenous Peoples: Anangu
- Traditional lands: Anangu
- Traditional languages: Pitjantjatjara
- How to say g’day in Anangu: Palya
Get to Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park by flying into Ayers Rock Airport or Alice Springs Airport.
- Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ) is 30km (19mi) from Uluru (approximately 30 minutes)
- Alice Springs Airport (ASP) is 337km (209mi) from Uluru (approximately 4.5 hours)
- Group tours and hire car options are available at both airports, but be sure to book ahead to avoid missing out
There are no taxis or public transport around Uluru, but all roads are sealed and easy to access with a 2WD vehicle. If you’d rather leave the driving to someone else, join a tour or purchase a pass for the Uluru Hop On Hop Off bus.
The best time to visit Uluru and Kata Tjuta is between May and September when the temperature sits between a pleasant 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F). The cool and dry weather makes activities like walking and camel rides even more enjoyable.
- High season: Dry season (May - September)
- Low season: Wet season (October - April)
- Don’t miss: Wandering through 50,000 illuminated bulbs at the Field of Light
Travellers with a disability can experience the magic of Uluru and Kata Tjuta through a variety of accessible options.
- Arrival: Travellers arriving at Connellan Airport can book a wheelchair-accessible transfer to Yulara with AAT Kings. For those arriving at Alice Springs Airport, there is special assistance available.
- Getting around: Public buses are accessible for those travelling with small wheelchairs and mobility aids and some accessible taxis are available at the time of booking.
- Accessible experience highlights: Outback Tour Services provide bespoke safari tours that cater for people with disabilities. Those with limited mobility who are travelling with an able-bodied person can also join a tour with AAT Kings to explore the highlights of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
- Helpful resources: You can check out this five-day accessible itinerary to help you plan your adventure. Find more helpful information at Travability.
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