Ayers Rock Sightseeing

Most of the popular things to see in and around Ayers Rock involve the rock itself, gorges, Mt Olga and various waterfalls. The combination of the beauty of the natural rock formations and the effects of light on the rock as it changes throughout the day, places nature at centre stage. In addition to the drama of sunrise and sunset here, the effect of rainfall on the landscape is also dramatic.

Ayers Rock (Uluru)
The top sight to see here is Ayers Rock, known to the Aboriginal population as Uluru. One of the iconic symbols of Australia, this is the largest sandstone monolith in the world. Its size is even further enhanced by the fact that it rises more than 1,000 feet from a flat and otherwise featureless plain. Ayers Rock has a perimeter of approximately six miles, so its massive size and rich red colour make a definite impression from a distance, and an awe-inspiring one from close up. It becomes easy to understand the spiritual significance that this remarkable natural feature has for the Aboriginal people.

Kantju Gorge
It’s unusual to see a powerful cascade of water in a desert environment, and this is a sight that you won’t want to miss. Particularly after a rainfall, water flows off the side of Uluru (Ayers Rock), plunging 300ft into Kantju Gorge. Ayers Rock is massive, and a brief visit to it won’t permit a view of this side. A second visit is recommended in order to take in this remarkable sight.

Kata Tjuta
Kata Tjuta (Mt Olga) is located approximately 30 miles to the west of Ayers Rock, and sees fewer tourists, thereby making it possible for the Aboriginal population to maintain it as a serene spot for ceremonies and mediation. You’ll see weathered, rounded red domes that rise more than 600ft higher than Ayers Rock out of a barren plain. You’ll also find well-marked walking tracks that follow along the valleys between the domes, and vantage points along the way where you’ll have views of Ayers Rock. The sunsets here are just as impressive as those experienced at Ayers Rock.

Mereenie Loop
This is a loop of road that links Ayers Rock to Alice Springs, passing through the West Macdonnell Ranges and King's Canyon. The route will take you through the major natural attractions of this part of Australia and some of its most remote outback. Part of the stretch is unsealed: the northern arm of the loop road that links Alice Springs to King’s Canyon passes through remote land belonging to the Aboriginal population, and requires a permit to enter.

Mutitjulu Waterhole
This is the spot to view Aboriginal rock art and the water hole that has quenched the thirst of animals and humans for many thousands of years. The sheer red sandstone walls of King’s Canyon are several hundred feet high, and rise up over a number of water holes. There are walking trails throughout the site that are well-signposted. There’s spectacular scenery here, and at least a half day’s worth of adventure.

Rainbow Valley
The late afternoon is the best time to visit this stark range of sandstone, as it’s the time when light strikes the rock face and the bands of colour on the face glow brightly, particularly as the sun begins to set. This conservation reserve is accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicles. Once here, you’ll find bush walking tracks that will take you into the range, where you’ll see remarkable rock formations.

Enjoy a ’Sounds of Silence’ dinner. A perfect way to experience the romance of the desert is to dine outdoors at sunset. You can watch the sun go down behind Kata Tjuta and Uluru as you listen to the haunting music of a didgeridoo, enjoy a delicious outback feast and watch the stars come out in the night sky. Gastronomic delights include local fare such as barramundi, crocodile, emu and kangaroo, accompanied by bush salads and desserts that are Australian specialties. Your hotel staff will be able to book you a table.

Four-wheel driving in the Simpson Desert. This is the place to head if you’re looking for four-wheel drive adventure. The challenging desert terrain and rolling sand dunes make for the ultimate four-wheel drive experience. You’ll be covering territory that not many visitors ever get to see. As the Simpson Desert is some distance from Ayers Rock, it’s best to schedule this visit either as you’re coming into or leaving the area.

Go walking in the bush. Heading out from Ayers Rock and exploring the desert area of the outback can be an eye-opening experience. A number of walks have been mapped, including some which are suitable for physically-challenged visitors. The information centre and local hotels will be able to provide information and maps.

Take a scenic flight. The view from above is one of the best ways to capture the essence of the landscape here. It’s possible to charter a plane, or to take advantage of a scheduled scenic flight which will give you a different perspective of the ‘rock’ and its place in its surroundings. Taking a scenic flight is also a great opportunity to get some unique photos.

View the sunrise or sunset. Both in the morning and evening Uluru is transformed by spectacular colour changes. Join throngs of locals and visitors for sunrise or sunset at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, which will change before your eyes. Ash and dust particles combined with water vapour in the atmosphere filter out blue light, increasing the intensity of the red hues at these times of day. In addition, reflections from both the clouds and the rock itself enhance the colours.

Walk the base of Ayers Rock. So you have an idea of what you’re undertaking, the distance around the perimeter of Uluru is about six miles. Walking the base is a fascinating experience that’s well worth the effort. There are also shorter walks: the Mala Walk, at just over one mile; and the Mutitjulu Walk, which is approximately half a mile long. In addition, guided walking tours are offered by park rangers and member of the Anangu community.