Uluru 3 Day Itinerary That’s Perfect For First Timers! (2025 Guide)
PLANNING A TRIP TO ULURU? OUR ULURU 3 DAY ITINERARY SHOWS EXACTLY HOW WE SPENT 3 DAYS IN THE RED CENTRE
The wide open plains, the red earth, the silence—nothing prepares you for the moment you see Uluru in person. It’s massive, surreal, and impossible to fully grasp until you’re standing right in front of it, surrounded by the clearest skies you’ve ever seen. Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park, part of the vast Aussie Outback, also includes Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs—each just as iconic as you imagine.
If you’re planning this bucket-list Australian trip and feeling a bit overwhelmed, our 3-day Uluru itinerary will give you a clear roadmap for exploring the area. From sunrise over Uluru to hiking through Kata Tjuta and experiencing the stunning Field of Light, we’ve got you covered. With practical tips on where to stay, how to get around, and what to book in advance, you’ll make the most of your time in this unforgettable region without rushing through it all.
☀️Read More from Our Uluru Series:
About Uluru & Surroundings
Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks—an enormous sandstone monolith rising out of the red desert in the heart of the Northern Territory. It holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Anangu people, the Traditional Owners of the land, and is part of the Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The rock itself is best seen at sunrise or sunset when it shifts dramatically in colour, from deep orange to glowing red.
Just 50 km away from Uluru lies Kata Tjuṯa (The Olgas), a group of large domed rock formations that are equally striking and well worth visiting. Both sites are connected by a well-maintained road, making it easy to explore them on the same trip. The landscape here is vast, dry, and incredibly remote, but it’s also peaceful and rich in natural and cultural heritage.
IMPORTANT: You’ll need a park pass to enter Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park and experience its natural and cultural sites. You can buy it online here.
(P.S. Children 18 and under go free!)
Check more information about the National Park Pass here.
How to get to Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa
Flying into Ayers Rock Airport (Connellan Airport)
The easiest way to reach Uluru is by flying into Ayers Rock/Connellan Airport (AYQ), located in the resort town of Yulara. Direct flights are available from major Australian cities, including Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Cairns. We flew from Sydney with Jetstar (round-trip mid June cost us $330) and arrived in just under 3 hours.
If you’re coming from another city or internationally, your flight may connect through one of these hubs. Airlines servicing Uluru include Qantas, Virgin Australia, and Jetstar.
By Road (from Alice Springs):
If you’re already exploring central Australia, Alice Springs is the closest major town, located about 495 km from Uluru. The drive takes roughly 5.5 hours on sealed roads, and it’s a popular option for those road-tripping through the Outback.
How to get from Ayers Rock Airport to Uluru
Ayers Rock Resort offers a free airport shuttle service for guests, with transfers timed to meet all scheduled flights arriving at Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ). Alternatively, if you want to hire a car, you can book the best rates here and pick it up at the airport. Either way, it’s a short 20-minute ride to the resort!
Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa 3 Day Itinerary
Since we were here to visit my brother as well, we extended our trip to 5 days in the Uluṟu and Kata Tjuṯa region. However, we have curated the itinerary here to ensure you experience the best things to do in Uluru and make the most of your 3 days in Uluru!
Outline of 3-Day Uluru Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Uluru, Sunset Helicopter Flight, and Stargazing Tour with Astro Tours
Day 2: Uluru Base Walk, Visit Kata Tjuta and Field of Light with Star Pass
Day 3: Sunrise Segway Tour or Ranger-guided Mala Walk, Visit Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre, and Camel Ride
Day 1: Getting to Uluru & Helicopter Flight
Late Morning: Arrive & Settle in your Accommodation
Since most flights from other major cities take at least 3 hours to Uluru, we recommend flying out as early as possible so you can settle into your accommodation and grab a bite before you step out for the afternoon.
Early Afternoon: Enjoy the FREE Ayers Rock Resort activities!
There are so many fun things to do in Uluru, with various free experiences provided by the Ayers Rock Resort
Visit Local Indigenous Art Galleries!
We recommend exploring the Indigenous art galleries the first thing after you’re well rested. That way, not only do you get an insight into the history and culture of the inhabitants, but you’ll also feel more excited about the destination. There is so much to see, learn, and admire here.
Visit the Cultural Centre, which is around a 20 minute drive away from Ayers Rock Resort, and by the way, you’ll get free shuttle services from any hotel, unless of course, you’ve rented a car.
The two art galleries, Maruku Arts Gallery and Walkatjara Art Gallery, are located within the Cultural Centre, and both feature incredible artwork.
Maruku Arts Gallery
We recommend stopping by here to see traditional wood carvings and dot paintings created by artists from over 20 remote communities. The pieces are made onsite, and you can even join one of their dot painting workshops to learn the meanings behind the symbols. The space feels welcoming, the artists are friendly, and you’ll get to take home more than just a souvenir; there’s a story in every piece.
Walkatjara Art Gallery
This gallery is owned by Anangu people, the original inhabitants of the land. The art produced and sold here is deeply rooted in the Tjukurpa, the creation stories and spiritual law that guide the Anangu people’s way of life. Each piece of art available in the gallery is a reflection of rich cultural narratives, connections to the land, and the unique perspectives of the artists. You can definitely meet the artists in person as well.
Sunset Helicopter Flight Over Uluru and Kata Tjuta
Our 36-minute helicopter flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta was the highlight of our time in Uluru and one of the most memorable tours we have ever done. You can choose from several flight durations, including short 15 minute rides and longer two to three hour experiences at different times during the day. We recommend the 36 minute tour at sunset which costs around A$450, as it gives you a generous amount of time in the air without being overly expensive (though yes, it is still a splurge).
Sunset is a stunning time to fly. As the light softens, Uluru glows in deep shades of red and orange, and from above, you get a clear view of the scale and beauty of both Uluru and Kata Tjuta! We also had uninterrupted views of Kings Canyon in the second half of the flight, which was an unexpected bonus.
We booked the Uluru and Kata Tjuta Sunset Helicopter Tour with Professional Helicopter Services, one of the most experienced operators in the region, with more than 30 years of flying in the Red Centre. They are one of the most experienced operators in the area. If you book through GYG, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book Your Uluru Helicopter Flight Tour Here
Evening- Stargazing Tour
The night skies in the Red Centre are unreal. With hardly any light pollution, you can see more stars here, and the Milky Way with your naked eye. If you’re not too tired after dinner, booking a stargazing tour is an experience you won’t forget.
The National Park Astronomy Tour with Astro Tours is a 2.5 hour guided experience that includes telescope viewing, a lesson in Indigenous astronomy, and a professional photo of you beneath the stars (which you can download later). You’ll use powerful telescopes with the help of your guide! The tour includes pickup and drop-off from your stay in Yulara and costs 129 AUD per person. You don’t need your park pass for this one, but closed-toe shoes are required, and we strongly recommend layering up, especially if you’re visiting in winter as nights get icy cold even when the days are mild.
If I could pause time anywhere, it would probably be here, under the clearest skies I have ever seen, surrounded by desert and that iconic rust coloured monolith.
Book Your Stargazing Tour with Astro Tours Here
Day 2: Valley of the Winds and Field of Lights Dinner
Believe me when I say, this is going to be one of the most memorable days of your Uluru adventure. You’ll start early with a scenic drive to Kata Tjuta, then hike through the spectacular domes and end your day wandering through a glowing desert field that feels like another world.
Early Morning: Kata Tjuta Sunrise and Valley of the Winds Hike
Kata Tjuta Half Day Tour from Ayers Rock Resort
This five hour guided experience takes you deep into the heart of the Kata Tjuta formations, with a fully guided Valley of the Winds hike included. Discover the magic of Kata Tjuta on an unforgettable journey through its towering domes and ancient landscape.
➡️ Book Your Tour Here
Alternatively, book this five hour guided experience takes you deep into the heart of the Kata Tjuta formations, with a fully guided Valley of the Winds hike included. Discover the magic of Kata Tjuta on an unforgettable journey through its towering domes and ancient landscape.
➡️ Book Your Hop On Hop Off Pass Here
Start your morning around 6 am and head straight for the Kata Tjuṯa dune viewing area. The drive from Yulara takes just under an hour, which gives you plenty of time to reach before the first blush of light hits the horizon. June mornings can be chilly, often sitting around 5 or 6 degrees, so we highly recommend packing warm layers, especially gloves and a beanie.
The dune viewing platform gives you gorgeous views of Kata Tjuṯa’s massive domes as they slowly catch the morning light. It’s quieter than the Uluru sunrise spots, and in our opinion, much more rewarding. There are no toilet facilities here, so make a pit stop before leaving Kings Canyon.
Once the sun is up, drive a short distance to the Valley of the Winds trailhead, located at the Kata Tjuṯa car park. This is hands down one of the most popular hikes in the Uluru-Kata Tjuṯa National Park, and June is a great time to attempt the full loop.
Overview of the Walk
🚩 Start Point: Valley of the Winds Car Park
🥾 Distance: 7.4 km loop
⏱ Duration: 3–4 hours
🧗♀️ Grade: Moderately Difficult
💦 Water: Available at Carpark & Karingana Lookout
🚻 Toilets: None on the trail
☀️ Trail Closures: Loop closes above 36°C (not common in June)
📸 Cultural Note: Photography is not allowed in culturally restricted zones
🧍 Short Option: Karu Lookout – 2.2 km return (~1 hour)
The complete circuit is 7.4 kilometres and takes about three to four hours to finish, passing through steep rocky gullies and wide, windswept valleys. The Karingana lookout is the highlight, perched above a gorge surrounded by the domes, it’s pure outback magic. That said, if you’re not up for the full hike, you can turn back at Karu lookout, which is about 2.2 kilometres in and still gives you a solid experience of the terrain.
TIP
We recommend bringing at least 2 litres of water, good walking shoes, and start as early as possible to avoid the midday sun.
Uluru Car sunset viewing area
📍 Car Sunset Viewing Area Location
It’s impossible to separate Uluru from the image of a glowing outback sunset; the two belong together. The national park has five designated sunset spots, but the Car Sunset Viewing Area stands out as the one to visit this evening. It’s specifically set aside for private vehicles and happens to be one of the best places to witness the colours of the rock change in real time.
As the sun dips behind you, Uluru becomes a canvas, shifting from dusty pinks to electric orange, then settling into deep, smouldering reds. This viewing area is located about twenty minutes from Yulara and doesn’t have toilet facilities, so it’s worth keeping that in mind before you drive out.
If you haven’t rented a car, chances are you’re touring the park with a group. In that case, your tour will likely take you to the Bus Sunset or Talinguṟu Nyakunytjaku viewing areas instead. These are designed for larger vehicles and still offer stunning sunset views.
Late Evening- Fields of Lights
Wrap up the day with the Field of Light, an after-dark experience created by artist Bruce Munro. Over 50,000 solar-powered glass spheres light up the desert floor near Uluru, stretching across the landscape in waves of soft colour. The tour starts 30 minutes after sunset!
The Star Pass starts with sunset drinks and canapés at a private dune-top viewing area. You’ll get uninterrupted views of Uluru as the sky fades and the lights slowly begin to glow. After dark, walk through the installation on a dedicated trail. The lights are silent, the stars are sharp, and the setting is surreal without needing to do much at all. Transfers are included, and the whole experience lasts around 2.5 hours from pick-up to drop-off.
Book Your Field of Lights Tour Here
Day 3: Kings Canyon
Day 3 of your 3-day Uluru itinerary is an adventour one!
Early Morning: Sunrise Segway Tour
Sunrise and sunset are two things you absolutely shouldn’t miss when visiting Uluru. We did the Sunrise Segway Tour around the base, and it turned out to be way more fun and efficient than we expected. The full base walk is around 10 km, and while walking it is possible, it can be tough under the strong sun and with flies constantly buzzing around. Even in winter, the temperature rises quickly after sunrise, so getting it done early and on a Segway makes the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.
Mutijiju Waterhole!
The tour costs $239 per person and includes hotel pickup, breakfastat sunrise, a guided walk around the base and the Mutijiju waterhlole! we found it well worth it. If you’re on a tighter budget, you can still catch a beautiful sunrise from one of the five official viewing areas in the park:
Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, Uluru Car Sunset Viewing Area, Uluru Sunset Bus Viewing Area, and Kata Tjuta Drone Viewing Area. Either way, watching the desert come to life with the first light is a memory that sticks.
Book Your Sunrise Segway Tour Around the Base Of Uluru Here
Alternatively, we recommend grabbing breakfast at Ilkari Restaurant and heading to the free Ranger-guided Mala Walk. It starts around 8 am most mornings and begins at the Mala car park near the base of Uluru. The walk is led by a park ranger and runs for about 1.5 hours, covering the western section of the base walk, including the Mala story, rock art sites, and Kantju Gorge. Check more information about the guided walk on the official site here.
Afternoon: Camel Farm Visit
After returning to Yulara, make your way to the Uluru Camel Farm for a short afternoon ride through the red sand dunes, with views of Uluru and Kata Tjuṯa along the route.
Usually, the Camel Express ride departs at 2:00 PM, and you’re expected to arrive by 1:40 PM, but it’s always best to check the official website. The ride takes around 45 minutes, and closed shoes are essential. Cameliers guide you through the trail and share insights into camel behaviour and desert life. You can also visit the small saddlery museum on the property before heading off for the evening.
Return to Sydney!
Check out from your accommodation and make your way to Ayers Rock Airport, located around 10 minutes from the resort. Most flights to Sydney and Alice Springs depart in the early to mid-afternoon. If you have time, grab some food at the Town Square or visit the Wintjiri Arts and Museum space for one last look at locally made souvenirs.
Getting Around Uluru
From Yulara Airport, you’ll need to make your way to Ayers Rock Resort, which is the main accommodation hub for the area and the only place to stay within reach of the national park unless you’re camping. Broadly, you have two main options: renting a car or joining organised tours. The good news is that all roads around Uluru and Kata Tjuṯa are paved, so a regular 2WD is perfectly fine for getting around.
If you don’t have your own vehicle, you can rent one directly at the airport, book a guided tour, or purchase a Uluṟu Hop On Hop Off bus pass that connects major points in the park. There are no taxis or public transport services here, so planning ahead is essential. The drive from the airport to Ayers Rock Resort takes about 20 minutes.
Where to Stay in Uluru
As mentioned earlier, all accommodation is located within the Ayers Rock Resort complex, in Yulara. While the setting is incredible, accommodation here doesn’t come cheap. Based on our research and experience, here are the top picks across different budgets:
- Budget: Outback Pioneer Hotel is the best pick if you’re looking for shared amenities or a lower nightly rate without sacrificing comfort.
- Mid-Range: The Lost Camel Hotel has a fun, boutique feel and sits right in the middle of Yulara. It’s walkable, stylish, and more affordable than you’d expect.
- Luxury: Sails in the Desert is where we stayed, and it is the best luxury stay in Uluru. From spacious rooms to excellent dining and easy access to resort activities, it made the entire trip feel seamless.
Best Time to Visit Uluru
We recommend visiting between May and September, during the Australian winter. Mornings are cooler than in summers, there are fewer flies, and sunrise or sunset tours are much more enjoyable without the extreme heat.
If you prefer slightly warmer weather without the summer extremes, April, August, and September are ideal shoulder-season months. You’ll still have mild nights, and in September, you might even spot wildflowers blooming around the base of Uluru.
Summer (October to March) has its own appeal too, with fewer crowds and occasional waterfalls at Kata Tjuta. But be prepared for intense heat, very early starts, and walking track closures after 11 am due to high temperatures.
FAQ: 5 Day Uluru Itinerary
How Many Days Do I Need For Uluru?
Uluru is an expensive place to visit, so staying more than three days can feel unnecessary for most travellers. We recommend spending 2 to 3 days here. That gives you enough time to see Uluru and Kata Tjuta, catch a sunrise or sunset, and do a couple of walks or tours. If you follow this 3 day Uluru itinerary, you’ll cover most of the region without missing the key spots.
Is It Worth Driving to Kings Canyon From Uluru?
Only if you have an extra day to spare, the drive takes around 3.5 hours one way, and while Kings Canyon is beautiful, especially the rim walk, it’s a full-day commitment. If you’re short on time, it’s better to focus on Uluru and Kata Tjuta. If you’re doing a longer Red Centre road trip, then yes, add it in.
Can You Walk Around Uluru Without a Tour?
Yes. The base walk is free and open to the public during park hours. It’s a flat, 10.6 km loop that you can start from the Mala car park. Just keep in mind the weather; in summer it gets extremely hot, so go early. Bring plenty of water, wear proper shoes, and allow 3 to 4 hours if you want to stop and take it all in. You don’t need a guide, but the experience is richer if you join one of the ranger-led walks or cultural tours.
Wrap Up: 5-Day Uluru Itinerary
That’s a wrap on our 5-day Uluru itinerary! This is the itinerary we followed as first-time visitors and it’s completely doable! Let us know your suggestions and comments on our Instagram!
