10 ways to see Uluru, Australia
More visitors than ever are choosing not to climb the sacred slopes of Uluru (aka Ayers Rock). Bravo to that! We reveal the most spectacular alternative ways to experience Northern Territory's most famous sight – without offending Aboriginal customs
1. On a Harley Davidson
Uluru Cycles offers tours on the back of a
Harley Davidson, lasting from 30 minutes to 4.5 hours.
2. From a camel
Travel through the sandy red dunes
on a camel, taking in sunset or sunrise views of Ayers Rock – before returning to the camel farm for drinks and some freshly baked beer bread damper.
3. By bicycle
From February to November, visitors can rent bikes from
Outback Cycling and follow the stunning 15km cycle path around the base of Uluru.
4. On foot
There is a 9.4 km walk around the whole of the base of Uluru, taking in numerous Aboriginal paintings with descriptive boards. Free guided walks take place daily from the Mala carpark to the base of Uluru (departing at 8am), where rangers tell the story of the Mala people and describe the history and traditions associated with Uluru. The walks last roughly 1.5 hours.
5. By helicopter
The scale of Uluru and neighboring colossal rock formation Kata Tjuta become very real when you
view them from a helicopter...
6. Skydiving
Fancy freefalling towards Ayers Rock? All
skydiving jumps are done in tandem with an experienced instructor, leaving you to concentrate on that whopping view of the Rock and red desert.
7. In a small plane
Relish in the romance of
flying in a small plane over some of Australia’s most spectacular landscape...
8. From your car
Uluru is heralded as one of Australia’s
most popular self-drive destinations, with many people visiting as part of a wider journey through the Northern Territory. It's easy to purchase a permit from the visitor centre and enjoy Uluru at your own pace.
9. From the table
If you just want to relax and enjoy the changing colours of Uluru at sunset, there are some wonderful local dining experiences.
Sounds of Silence and
Tali Wiru both offer gourmet al fresco menus and free-flowing wine, with an incredibly impressive backdrop.
10. By coach
There are a number of comfortable
coach and minibus tours with informative commentary on the sacred sites and cultural heritage of the region.
All images courtesy Tourism NT