Car hire at Uluṟu — Ayers Rock, Kata Tjuta and the distances between

Local expert tips when renting a car in Uluṟu - Ayers Rock

Behind the wheel itself? Our Uluṟu - Ayers Rock driving tips cover road rules, parking and local quirks

• Best time to visit

  The best time to visit Uluṟu is between May and September, when the maximum daytime temperature is usually between 20°C and 30°C. Overnight temperatures can be very cold during winter, so be sure to bring some warm clothing with you. October to March can get extremely hot, with daytime temperatures regularly exceeding 35°C.

• Plan your trip

  The Uluṟu-Kata Tjuta National Park requires a paid entry pass, with a 3-day pass for an adult costing $38, and the park has gate opening and closing times tied to sunrise and sunset, so plan your visit accordingly.

• Check your vehicle

  Even if not visiting Uluṟu, be sure to pack abundant water — the park authority recommends an extra litre per person — and check your vehicle’s air-conditioning before you leave your accommodation.

• Fuel & return

  Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is 30 kilometres to the south of Yulara and around 325 kilometres to the southwest of Kings Canyon, and visiting on a day trip requires genuine fuel planning as Yulara has the only fuel for hundreds of kilometres.

• Unsealed roads

  Sealed roads reach Uluṟu, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon via Luritja Road, but the Mereenie Loop is unsealed in places and so is generally excluded by standard hire terms, even for 4WD vehicles. Check your provider’s Terms and Conditions for further information before booking.

• Watch the time

  Even outside summer, daytime temperatures at and around Uluṟu regularly exceed 40 °C, with 4 pm generally the hottest time of the day. In summer, the park authority strongly recommends people not go walking after 11 am.