📷 Photo by Hanna Lazar on UnsplashUluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
Uluru and Kata Tjuta rise from flat red desert in a park owned by the Anangu and jointly managed with Parks Australia, where the rocks are sacred places, not just landmarks.
- Region
- Red Centre, Northern Territory
- Nearest town
- Yulara
- Best season
- May to September (cooler months)
- UNESCO
- Mixed World Heritage site: natural 1987, cultural 1994
- Established
- Handed back to the Anangu in 1985
Before you go
- Climbing Uluru has been permanently banned since 26 October 2019; the base walk of about 10.6 km is the way to experience it.
- Summer days regularly exceed 40 °C and some walks close in heat, so walk at dawn and carry plenty of water; winter nights can drop below zero.
- A park entry pass is required, and photography and drones are restricted at sacred sites; read the signs and ranger advice.
Why the climb is closed
For the Anangu, Uluru is a place of law and ceremony, and climbing it is not part of visiting. The park board voted in 2017 to end climbing, and the closure took effect on 26 October 2019, the anniversary of the 1985 handback. Alternatives include the base walk, ranger-guided tours and cultural experiences.
Kata Tjuta and the viewing areas
Kata Tjuta, about 50 km from Yulara, has the short Walpa Gorge walk and the longer Valley of the Winds loop, which closes in extreme heat. Sunrise and sunset viewing areas around Uluru and at Kata Tjuta are the main spots for the changing colours.
Getting there and staying
Yulara is about 445 km from Alice Springs, roughly five hours on sealed highways, and has an airport. The resort village has hotels and a campground. Fuel is available along the Lasseter Highway at Erldunda and Curtin Springs, so plan fill-ups.
FAQs
Can you still climb Uluru?
No. The climb has been permanently closed since 26 October 2019, at the request of the Anangu traditional owners. Walking the 10.6 km base track is the recommended alternative.
What is the best time to visit Uluru?
The cooler months, May to September, suit walking best. Days are mild and clear, but nights can be below freezing. In summer, December to February, heat often forces early starts and closures.
Do I need a permit to visit Uluru?
You need a park entry pass, bought online or on arrival, but no separate Aboriginal land permit. Do not leave marked areas, and respect signs at sacred sites.
Places to see
Uluru
The huge red sandstone monolith, sacred to the Anangu, who own the park. Climbing was permanently banned on…
Kata Tjuta
Thirty-six domed rock formations about 25 km west of Uluru, with the short Walpa Gorge walk and the longer…
Photo by Hanna Lazar on UnsplashAtila (Mount Conner)
A flat-topped mesa on a pastoral lease, often mistaken for Uluru by drivers on the Lasseter Highway. A…
Kings Canyon Rim Walk
A 6 km circuit above 100 m sandstone walls in Watarrka National Park, with domes known as the Lost City and…
