Uluru holds some of the most ancient stories and traditions passed down from generation to generation. Located near Australian landmarks such as Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon, it has become synonymous with natural beauty and cultural preservation.
With the 10 experiences below, you can get a feel for the magnitude of one of Australia’s most prized holiday destinations. These also showcase the variety Uluru presents when it comes to adventure, nature, food and culture.
1. Field of Light art installation
During the hours before sunrise or right after sunset, witness a spectacle of colour at the Field of Light art installation. There are many surprises within the impressive design – between black velvet skies and earthy red rock, you’ll find 50,000 reflective spheres laid out across an area the size of seven football fields.
Field of Light was conceived by British artist Bruce Munro. It slowly changes colour, creating a spectacular tapestry of rainbows. Uluru makes the perfect backdrop for this piece of modern art.
2. Wintjiri Arts and Museum
Want to discover the works of local indigenous artists? Visit Wintjiri Arts and Museum within Ayres Rock Resort. It houses works by artists in residence from the Pitjantjatjara and Ngaanyatjarra lands.
You can even watch these artists while they work or simply stroll around admiring their creations and learning more about their history. Shop for that special piece of art or browse the bush medicine, soaps and cosmetics for sale.
3. Create with local Maruku artists
Anyone interested in art or Aboriginal culture shouldn’t miss this opportunity to try dot painting or wood carving with local artists at Maruku Arts. Not only will you learn these unique artistic techniques, but you’ll also discover more about indigenous symbolism.
There are more than 900 Anangu artists supported by Maruku Arts. They all offer incredible insight into the local area and its history.
4. Under a Desert Moon
An exclusive dining experience awaits couples looking for romance in the outback at Kings Canyon Resort. Book a table for two beneath the stars for the incredible Under a Desert Moon dinner. It includes a six-course set menu showcasing regional produce paired with Australian wine.
Enjoy an intimate evening with your loved one near a flickering fire, surrounded by desert oaks and rugged cliffs. It’s the perfect way to embrace the outback’s otherworldly ambience.
5. Walk around Uluru
There are multiple official walks around Uluru, all of which let you delve deeper into the nature, history and culture of this landmark. They also reveal various features of Uluru that are often missed from afar.
Trek for two kilometres around part of the base on the free Mala Walk while learning about the first-generation people. Want to explore the entirety of this monolith? Opt for the 10.6-kilometre loop and witness its sacred elements.
6. Sounds of Silence
Combine dinner, stargazing and storytelling during Sounds of Silence. This three-course dinner takes place overlooking Uluru and includes canapes, Australian wine and bush tucker-inspired plates.
As you dine, the light of the day slowly disappears, giving way to a starry night sky. After dinner, you’ll be treated to an evening of stargazing that reveals the various stories behind the constellations. Many of these stories date back to the local indigenous people.
7. Kata Tjuta
The towering rock domes of Kata Tjuta actually sit 200 metres taller than Uluru’s peak. This spectacular landmark has a range of walking trails ideal for discovering its beauty. The shortest is a walk to the Kata Tjuta dune viewing area, which offers panoramic views of the natural wonder.
Up for a longer walk? Hike the Valley of the Winds Walk for a challenge that rewards you with outstanding views across this rugged landscape. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for remnants of the local Aboriginal Anangu people. You can learn more about their culture, history and Dreamtime stories on a guided tour.
8. Kings Canyon
Kings Canyon offers yet another stunning hiking opportunity 3 and a half hours drive from Uluru. The 150-metre-tall bluff is comprised of sandstone and overlooks outback forests, water holes and desert plains.
Be ready for a challenge. You’ll scale 500 steps as you climb to the summit and witness panoramic views across the rugged landscape. You can then continue around the rim of Kings Canyon while admiring the world unfurling below. Best done during sunrise to avoid the heat, the trek includes sightings of the weathered ‘Lost City’ domes.
9. Camels, Harleys, helicopters or segways
Of course, there’s more than just one way to explore Uluru. In fact, there are at least four other ways worth considering. The first is by riding on the back of a camel. These magnificent creatures have a rich history with the outback and are one of the best ways of seeing Uluru during a sunrise or sunset tour.
Motorcycling enthusiasts can also ride around Uluru on vintage Harley Davidson motorcycles. Prefer to see this cultural landmark from a higher vantage point? Jump in a helicopter for bird’s-eye views that showcase its size. Finally, one of the most unique ways to see Uluru is while riding a segway during a guided tour or at your own pace.
10. Karrke Aboriginal Cultural Experience at Kings Canyon
Immerse yourself in authentic Aboriginal culture and traditions at Karrke. This unique experience starts with a one-hour walk that delves into bush tucker and medicine used by the Luritja and Pertame people.
That’s not all. You’ll also learn about the messages and importance of Aboriginal dot painting and see local artefacts made from wood. There will be numerous opportunities for asking questions and expect plenty of fascinating answers from the local guides.
The magnificence of Uluru awaits
Uluru is one of those impossible creations that only Mother Nature could conceive. Today, its status as a natural and cultural landmark is irrefutable. It’s a place for adventure, fine dining, hiking, indigenous culture and wildlife spotting. Book your next holiday to Uluru and surrounds through KAYAK for the best deals on hotels.
Photo Credit: Tourism Northern Territory
