The Red Centre is full of gorgeous attractions, but there’s really nothing more iconic than Uluru. Based in the campground at the small township of Yulara, you’ve got everything at your fingertips, and it’s only a stone’s throw from Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Exploring Uluru and the surrounding area is made easy thanks to the large range of tours on offer. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience that dives deeply into the stories and traditions of the Anangu people, keen for a guided walk or Segway ride, or want to soak up the views from the air or perched on a camel, the tours at Uluru deliver these and more. As this wasn’t our first visit to Uluru, we chose a few tours that would provide a cross-section of experiences that were unique in the region.
SUNRISE JOURNEYS TOUR
If you fancy starting the day with something truly special, this tour could be just the ticket. It’s an early-morning start. Guests are whisked away before dawn to one of Uluru’s private lookouts where you’ll watch the desert come alive with spectacular Anangu artworks laser-projected onto the surrounding landscape and backed with powerful music.
As the sun rises and Uluru is revealed from the darkness, this immersive light, music and sound experience will have you completely mesmerised. The tour includes a breakfast that’s inspired with native flavours, welcoming hot drinks, and blankets to keep warm. Keep in mind those Red Centre winter mornings can dip below zero, so you’ll want to rug up for this tour.
ULURU SUNRISE & SEGWAY TOUR
As far as tours go, this particular one is full of adventure. After an early morning bus pick-up outside the Ayers Rock Campground, you’ll head to the national park, which is around 20 minutes away. Arriving at a sunrise lookout, guests enjoy a hot cuppa and a continental breakfast while taking in the breathtaking Uluru views as the sun peeks above the horizon.
Once you’ve fuelled up, it’s time to climb aboard a Segway and glide around the entire base of Uluru. Covering the full 10km circuit, it sure beats walking, and the Segway has you in the box seat, up close to this natural wonder. As you roll along and stop at key locations, a guide shares fascinating stories about Uluru’s geology, local wildlife, and the spiritual significance of this iconic site.
We can assure you this tour is loads of fun. At the same time, it’s also an educational tour, and a fabulous experience that’s suitable for all ages and fitness levels. We found this tour leaves lasting memories and a fantastic way to explore Uluru in style.
WINTJIRI WIRU TWILIGHT TOUR
If you’re after a truly magical Aussie outback experience, the Wintjiri Wiru Twilight Tour at Uluru should be at the top of your list. As the day fades and the desert sky begins to glow with vibrant colours, you’ll settle into your seat with some snacks and a cold drink in hand, ready for a night like no other.
With the majestic silhouette of Uluru as the backdrop, the atmosphere is electric as anticipation builds for the stunning drone and light show that follows. Featuring more than 1200 drones, this cutting-edge spectacle paints the legends of the Anangu people across the vast night sky, creating a moving tapestry of culture, history and innovation. This tour is fabulous storytelling brought to life with dazzling technology. Take it from us – this tour is a real showstopper.
AUSTRALIAN NATIVE HIGH TEA TOUR
This tour was a little different and all about indulging in sweet and savoury delights inspired by native ingredients/bush flavours. Enjoy yummy treats made with wattleseed, lemon myrtle, wild rosella, saltbush and bush tomato, while sipping on native-infused teas or barista-made coffee.
Comprising a mix of good-sized savoury and sweet temptations, there was plenty that satisfied our appetites. While we enjoyed the entire experience, the barramundi, lemon aspen saffron tart was a standout, and the saltbush caramel Tim Tam was an absolute knockout.
The high tea servings were very generous, and we certainly didn’t walk away hungry. This tour is perfect for foodies and curious travellers alike. It is a delicious celebration of Australia’s edible landscape, where tradition meets innovation in every bite.
SUMMING UP
As far as Aussie icons go, Uluru is a place that everyone should at least visit once. It’s such an awe-inspiring destination and we thoroughly enjoyed the tours we chose. While a visit to Uluru is fabulous in itself, these tours added another dimension to our experience of this icon, our most well-known natural wonder.
