Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from the desert in the heart of Australia, sacred to the Anangu people. Sunrise and sunset, Field of Light and outback stars are the highlights, and Kings Canyon is a long day trip. May to September is cooler.
Good to know
- Climbing Uluru is banned; walk the base trail instead.
- Bring a fly net in warm months.
- Start hikes early in summer due to extreme heat.
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Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Art installation of 50,000 lights in the desert.
Astronomer-led tour of the remarkably clear outback sky, from the Milky Way to the Southern Cross.
Camel trek across red dunes at sunrise or sunset with Uluru on the horizon.
Outdoor dinner under the stars with bush tucker.
Learn the symbols and techniques of Aboriginal dot painting from a local Anangu artist.
Indigenous-owned art center selling paintings and carvings by artists from the surrounding communities.
Watch the rock change from purple to burnt orange at dawn.
Sunset viewing area with the rock glowing deep red.
Flat 10 km loop around the rock, passing waterholes, caves and ancient rock art; start early.
Learn about Anangu culture, law and the Tjukurpa creation stories, with local art for sale.
Hike the Valley of the Winds among 36 towering red domes, a less crowded walk than Uluru.
Spectacular rim hike, a long drive from Uluru.