Alice Springs To Uluru Travel Guide

Keep reading this article if you want the best advice on travelling from Alice Springs to Uluru.

Click here if you’re looking for Alice Springs Airport Transfers

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

1. 1. How to get to Uluru from Alice Springs (options)
   2. Alice Springs to Uluru distance
   3. Driving from Alice Springs to Uluru
   4. Alice Springs to Uluru itinerary when driving
   5. Alice Springs to Uluru flight time
   6. Alice Springs to Uluru by train
   7. Some activities in Uluru (no matter how you travel there)
   8. Uluru tours from Alice Springs

Uluru is the most famous rock in the world, and one of Australia’s most awe-inspiring landmarks – attracting visitors from all over. 

When you stand on sacred land and gaze upon the red monolith, you can’t help but feel connected to a power greater than yourself.

Uluru rose from the sea around 500 million years ago. Today it stands 348 metres tall – watching over the surrounding desert in the Northern Territory.  Astronauts can even see the sandstone rock from space! 

Uluru was known as “Ayers Rock” before 1993, but its name was officially changed as a sign of respect for the local Anangu people, who are traditional custodians of the land.

Uluru is part of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, and it’s not far from other natural attractions such as Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), Kings Canyon and Mt Conner.

Hint: It’s too far to walk.

 Air travel:

Alice Springs Airport (ASP) to Ayers Rock Airport (AYQ) in Connellan: 334 kilometres, 50 minutes

Costs start from around $540 for a one-way ticket and from around $800 for a round-trip, so this isn’t the most cost-effective option.

Alice Springs to Uluru by bus: 463 kilometres (6 hours and 45 minutes)

How the journey progresses via a typical bus service (not ideal):

1. 1. Bus from Alice Springs to Erldunda: 2 hour trip, costs between $30 and $60
   2. Taxi from Erldunda to nearby bus station: 5 minute trip, costs between $12 and $16
   3. Second bus from Erlduna to Yulara: 3 hour trip
   4. Taxi from Yulara to Uluru: 20 minute trip, costs between $45 and $60

Alternatively, you can book a luxury coach service from any number of providers. This also includes a guided tour of the area, costing around $180 for adults and $90 for children. 

Emu Run also operates fast and reliable airport shuttle services in air-conditioned coaches, with prices starting from $19. This service is included for customers embarking on our tours. 

Alice Springs to Uluru by car:

467.8 km via Stuart Highway/A87 and State Route 4 (4 hours and 53 minutes

We offer airport transfers, but some travellers also enjoy booking a car.

There are a number of car hire providers, such as Thrifty, Hertz, and Avis. 

450 km, 5 hours and 30 minutes

It takes around 5 hours to drive to Uluru, but we suggest you take your time and really appreciate the views and destinations along the way. Sometimes this is easier said than done, especially when there’s an impatient passenger in the car!

Resist their pressure and take a couple of pit stops, at minimum.

After all, how often do you get to explore the open plains and rich heritage of Australia’s red heart? This journey is almost as good as the destination!

There are also safety considerations: it’s so crucial to stop and rest every two hours, for at least fifteen minutes. This stops you from getting fatigued and could save your life.

Before you embark on your journey:

Make sure your car is in good condition with a full oil tank and freshly pumped tires (always keep a spare in your trunk). If anything malfunctions along the way, it could be a long walk back.

This may seem like overkill for a road trip that doesn’t take longer than a day, but it doesn’t hurt to pack a First Aid Kit and flashlight with spare batteries, in case something goes wrong while you’re on the road.

Petrol costs:

Expect to pay around $75 for petrol each way, but this could be higher depending on fuel requirements for your particular vehicle. Check out this fuel calculator for a general estimate.

Look out for animals on the road:

Plan to travel during daylight hours, when there are fewer kangaroos, cattle, camels and other animals on the road. Regardless of what time you drive, be careful not to accidentally hit large animals, as this could be fatal for everyone involved.

Three different routes you can take:

• • Sealed roads via the Stuart and Lasseter Highways – this is the fastest way and you don’t need a 4WD.
  • Partially sealed roads via The Red Centre Way – this is best suited for four-wheel drives.
  • Unsealed roads via The Ernest Giles and Luritja Roads – only suitable if you’re driving a 4WD. Don’t attempt this with a standard two-wheel vehicle, unless you want your car to get bogged.

There’s plenty to do in Uluru, here are a few of our favourite activities:

The Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre:

You may feel slightly overwhelmed because there’s so much that you want to do, but don’t know where to start. First visit the Cultural Centre, where there’s a wealth of information that will help you plan your adventures. It’s also a good way to support the local Anangu community! Set aside a few hours to explore the Cultural Centre properly.

Sounds of Silence:

Imagine savouring the most delicious canapes, bush tucker and wine with Uluru as your companion for dinner. When darkness falls, a blanket of stars will illuminate the sky like nothing you’ve seen before. There’s no competing light sources from any cities, because your location is so remote. Not many people get to experience this, so seize the moment!

Dot painting workshop:

Local Anangu artists will help you to create a traditional artwork that you will be proud to display when you return home. There’s a special rate for families, but children need to be at least five years old.