Forget camel- riding, safari the desert by car!

You’ve seen it on postcards. Probably even in movies. But there’s nothing quite like seeing that big, red rock up close and personal.


Ayer’s Rock - or Uluru (as the local Aborigines and many locals would prefer you call it) – has a way of stirring the spirit and possibly stealing your breath away.

For the scientific minded – Ayer's Rock or Uluru must be seen at least once for simply being THE biggest monolith the world knows.

For those more open to the esoteric side of life, prepare yourself. This rock could rock your universe because it happens to be a revered spiritual centre of power for local Aborigines, playing a big role in their mythology.


Uluru – which has been the home of Aboriginal peoples for as long as 20, 000 years – certainly has an ancient mythic feel about it. Renowned for its constantly-changing colour - fiery orange and crimson hues at sunset and sunrise - and its dramatic shadows and texture, this rock mesmerises.

Apparently, the colour- effects are due to rich iron deposits that make the rock rust when it rains. Whatever the reason, it's a visual experience that ingrains itself in the mind forever.

While climbing Uluru is not prohibited, Aborigines discourage it, out of respect for the spiritual significance it holds for them.

Many visitors prefer to walk around it instead, along the base.

But the walk around is no brief event. It is nine kilometres long, taking an easy three hours.

Apart from being a less strenuous option that's more in line with Aboriginal beliefs, seeing Uluru's various faces from the ground may even appear more majestic.This towering monolith can be quite humbling looking up from its base!

“Awesome” - this overly- used word justly describes Uluru's elemental presence: it fills you to the brim with awe. You're sure to hear many gasps of "Oh, wow!" and camera clicks.

Thousands of tourists visit Uluru National Park by car.

A car with air conditioning to soak up the desert heat, and to provide a refuge from those flies is highly recommended for both your enjoyment and sanity.

What’s more, you can rent some wheels that are (red) dirt cheap by visiting our Ayers Rock deals page.

Alternatively, you can see more of the surrounding desert and drive in from Alice Springs.

If you motor in, taking most of the things you need, you can see as much of Uluru and the Olgas as you want in three days.

For those who prefer a comfy bed, Ayers Rock Resort is located in Yulara 19 km from Ayers Rock.

It’s said the best times to go are from March-May and September-November. But just make sure you GO!