WHAT’S THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ULURU?
Uluru is beautiful year round. The most popular time to visit is from April to October, when days are warm (temperatures average 20°C) and nights are cool. From October to March, the days grow warmer – up to an average of 38°C in December and January – and the nights turn balmy. You can witness the desert’s wildflowers blooming between September and November; between December and March is your best chance of experiencing Uluru’s rare waterfalls in action, as the desert enjoys occasional short bursts of warm rain in these months. You may also like to time your visit around one of the area’s major events, which include the Uluru Camel Cup, the Australian Outback Marathon, the fascinating Astronomy Weekend and more.
WHERE CAN I STAY?
There is no accommodation or camping inside Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, but just outside the park boundary you’ll find Ayers Rock Resort: a sprawling village containing several hotels, restaurants, bars and cafes, a supermarket, a post office and other facilities. Accommodations suit all budgets, from the 3.5-star Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge to the 4.5-star Desert Gardens Hotel and 5-star Sails in the Desert. There are also serviced apartments, a campground and, new in 2018, a boutique hotel, The Lost Camel.
HOW DO I GET TO ULURU?
Fly into Uluru via Ayers Rock Airport, located just 6km from Ayers Rock Resort. When you arrive on any scheduled Qantas, Virgin Australia and Jetstar flight, the resort’s free shuttle will transfer you to your accommodation (bookings are not required). Alternatively you can fly to Alice Springs, 450km away, and hire a car to explore additional highlights of the Red Centre. Coach transfers are available between Alice Springs, Kings Canyon and Ayers Rock Resort.
DO I NEED A CAR?
No. A free shuttle bus operates at the resort daily, stopping at all hotels, the campground, Town Square, information centre and Uluru Camel Farm (note: this shuttle does not go to Uluru). The shuttle departs every 20 minutes or so, between 10.30am to 12.30am. You can also book tours which include return hotel transfers, or purchase a 1-day, 2-day or 3-day pass on the Uluru Hop-on Hopoff which will take you from the resort to Uluru and Kata Tjuta and back. If you’d like to explore on your own, hire cars are available at the airport and resort.
WHAT SHOULD I PACK?
In winter, bring layers and a warm jacket for the evenings. The resort supermarket stocks all sorts of supplies, in case you forget to pack something; a good pair of walking shoes, sunscreen and a widebrimmed hat are also recommended. And of course, your camera.
