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Top Things to Do in Uluru

Few places in Australia leave a lasting impression quite like Uluru. Rising dramatically from the heart of the Northern Territory’s Red Centre, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed monolith is much more than an iconic landmark — it’s a place of deep cultural significance, breathtaking natural beauty, and unforgettable adventures.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a multi-day outback escape, there’s no shortage of incredible experiences waiting for you. From watching the desert glow at sunrise to flying over Uluru by helicopter or learning about the traditions of the Anangu people, every moment here feels extraordinary.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Uluru to help you make the most of your visit.

1. Take a Scenic Flight Over Uluru & Kata Tjuta ⭐ Recommended

One of the most unforgettable ways to experience Uluru is from the air. A scenic helicopter flight reveals the sheer scale of Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and the surrounding Red Centre, offering breathtaking panoramic views that simply can’t be appreciated from the ground. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, this is one of the best activities in Uluru.

Why you’ll love it:

Incredible aerial views of Uluru & Kata Tjuta

Amazing photography opportunities

Expert commentary from experienced pilots

Perfect for couples, families, and adventure seekers

Book here: https://www.backpackerdeals.com/australia/uluru/uluru-kata-tjuta-sunset-grand-view-helicopter-experience

2. Enjoy an Uluru Sunset with BBQ Dinner

Watching Uluru change colour as the sun sets is one of Australia’s greatest natural spectacles. Pair that magical moment with a delicious Australian BBQ dinner and local wine, and you’ll have an evening you’ll never forget. It’s the perfect experience for first-time visitors wanting to soak up the beauty of the Red Centre.

Highlights

Iconic Uluru sunset views

Delicious Aussie BBQ dinner

Sparkling wine and refreshments

Relaxed outback atmosphere

Book here: https://www.backpackerdeals.com/australia/uluru/seit-uluru-sunset-with-bbq-dinner-ssub

3. Discover the Southern Sky on an Uluru Stargazing Astro Tour

Thanks to minimal light pollution, Uluru offers some of the clearest night skies in Australia. Join a guided astronomy experience where you’ll observe distant galaxies, planets, and constellations through professional telescopes while learning both modern astronomy and Indigenous star stories.

Why it’s worth it

Incredible Milky Way views

Professional telescopes

Learn about Aboriginal astronomy

One of the most unique night experiences in Australia

Book here: https://www.backpackerdeals.com/australia/uluru/uluru-stargazing-astro-tour

4. Experience Sunrise with the Field of Light

Start your morning surrounded by Bruce Munro’s internationally acclaimed Field of Light installation before watching the sun rise over Uluru. As daylight slowly illuminates thousands of glowing glass spheres, you’ll witness one of Australia’s most iconic art experiences blending seamlessly with the natural landscape.

Highlights

Sunrise over Uluru

Entry to the famous Field of Light installation

Peaceful early-morning experience

Fantastic photography opportunities

Book here: https://www.backpackerdeals.com/australia/uluru/uluru-sunrise-field-of-light-fol

5. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight

For an unforgettable perspective, soar above the Red Centre on a scenic helicopter flight.

From the air you’ll enjoy panoramic views of:

Uluru

Kata Tjuta

Endless desert landscapes

Ancient creek systems

This is one of the best experiences for photographers and first-time visitors wanting to appreciate the scale of Australia’s Outback.

6. Ride a Camel Through the Desert

Camels have been part of Australia’s outback history for over 150 years, making a camel ride one of the region’s most iconic experiences.

Choose from:

Sunrise camel rides

Sunset camel tours

Short Camel Express rides

Watching Uluru appear on the horizon while riding through the desert is a memory you’ll never forget.

7. Discover Aboriginal Culture

Uluru is a sacred place for the Anangu, the Traditional Owners of the land.

Joining a cultural experience provides valuable insight into:

Dreamtime stories

Bush tucker traditions

Ancient survival techniques

Indigenous art

Local customs

Many guided tours are led by Indigenous guides who share stories passed down through generations.

It’s one of the most meaningful experiences you can have during your visit.

8. Visit the Cultural Centre

Before exploring Uluru, spend time at the Cultural Centre.

Here you’ll learn about:

The significance of Uluru

Aboriginal history

Local wildlife

Conservation efforts

Traditional art and crafts

It’s also the best place to gain a deeper understanding of why climbing Uluru was permanently closed in 2019 out of respect for Anangu culture.

9. Experience the Field of Light

Bruce Munro’s internationally acclaimed Field of Light installation transforms the desert into a glowing sea of more than 50,000 illuminated stems.

Visit:

Before sunrise

At sunset

During evening tours

The combination of colourful lights beneath the vast desert sky creates one of Australia’s most unique art experiences.

10. Go Stargazing

With almost no light pollution, Uluru offers some of the clearest night skies in the world.

A guided astronomy tour lets you:

View constellations

Learn Indigenous star stories

Observe planets through telescopes

Capture incredible astrophotography

The Milky Way stretching across the desert sky is simply breathtaking.

11. Join a Multi-Day Camping Adventure

If time allows, consider a 3 to 6-day camping tour.

These adventures typically include:

Uluru

Kata Tjuta

Kings Canyon

Desert camping

Campfire dinners

Guided hikes

Camping beneath millions of stars is an unforgettable way to experience Australia’s Red Centre.

12. Explore Kings Canyon

Often combined with Uluru tours, Kings Canyon is one of the Outback’s most spectacular attractions.

Highlights include:

The Rim Walk

Garden of Eden

Sandstone cliffs

Panoramic lookouts

Many travellers rank Kings Canyon as one of the best hikes in Australia.

13. Enjoy a Sunset BBQ Dinner

Dining beneath the stars while Uluru glows in the background is hard to beat.

Many evening experiences include:

Gourmet BBQ meals

Australian wines

Local produce

Sunset viewing

Outback atmosphere

It’s ideal for couples, families, and special occasions.

14. Go on a Segway Adventure

Looking for a fun way to explore?

A guided Segway tour lets you travel around the base of Uluru with minimal effort while learning fascinating stories from expert guides.

It’s suitable for most fitness levels and offers a unique alternative to walking.

15. Photograph Australia’s Most Iconic Landscape

Whether you’re using a DSLR or smartphone, Uluru offers endless photography opportunities.

Best photo locations include:

Sunrise viewing area

Sunset viewing platforms

Mutitjulu Waterhole

Kata Tjuta lookout

Field of Light

Scenic helicopter flights

Golden hour provides the most dramatic colours.

Suggested Uluru Itineraries

One Day

Sunrise at Uluru

Base Walk

Cultural Centre

Sunset viewing

Two Days

Day 1

Sunrise

Base Walk

Cultural Experience

Sunset BBQ

Day 2

Kata Tjuta

Field of Light

Stargazing

Three Days+

Include:

Kings Canyon

Camel Ride

Helicopter Flight

Multi-day camping adventure

Best Time to Visit Uluru

The ideal months to visit are May to September, when daytime temperatures are pleasant for hiking and sightseeing.

Seasonal overview:

Season (May–September)

What to Expect: Cool mornings, comfortable days, best hiking weather

Season (October–November)

What to Expect: Warm with fewer crowds

Season (December–February)

What to Expect: Very hot; early morning activities recommended

Season (March–April)

What to Expect: Pleasant temperatures and beautiful desert landscapes

Tips for Visiting Uluru

Arrive early for sunrise experiences.

Carry plenty of water, especially if walking.

Wear sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy walking shoes.

Respect cultural sites and follow local guidelines.

Book popular tours well in advance, particularly during peak season.

Consider staying at least 2–3 nights to experience both Uluru and Kata Tjuta.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need in Uluru?

Two to three days is ideal. This gives you enough time to enjoy sunrise and sunset, explore Uluru and Kata Tjuta, experience the Field of Light, and join a cultural or adventure tour.

Is Uluru worth visiting?

Absolutely. Uluru is one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, offering stunning landscapes, rich Aboriginal culture, unique wildlife, and unforgettable experiences that can’t be found anywhere else.

Can you climb Uluru?

No. Climbing Uluru permanently closed in October 2019 out of respect for the wishes of the Anangu Traditional Owners and the cultural significance of the site.

What is the best time of day to visit Uluru?

Both sunrise and sunset are spectacular, offering cooler temperatures and dramatic colour changes across the rock.

Is Kata Tjuta worth visiting?

Definitely. Many visitors consider Kata Tjuta just as impressive as Uluru thanks to its towering rock domes, scenic hikes, and fewer crowds.

Plan Your Uluru Adventure

From unforgettable sunrises and scenic helicopter flights to camel rides, cultural experiences, and camping beneath the stars, Uluru offers something for every traveller. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a deeper connection with Australia’s ancient landscapes, the Red Centre delivers memories that last a lifetime.