Attractions

Uluru/Kata Tjuta National Park - Uluru Section

Before exploring Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park we recommend that you visit the fabulous Cultural Centre to learn from the Aboriginal Traditional Owners (Anangu) about this twice registered World Heritage listed National Park. The park covers 1325 hectares and has been World Heritage listed not only for the importance of its natural phenomena, but also for its cultural significance.

Ayers Rock (Uluru)

Rising 348 metres above the surrounding plain, occupying an area of 3.33 sq km, and with a girth of 9.4 km, Uluru lives up to its status as the world's most famous monolith. It has a very significant place in the creation stories and laws (Tjukurpa) of Anangu. Anangu guides can take you along the base of Uluru, sharing their stories with you. There are also many walks for you to enjoy on your own.

At sunset Uluru puts on a spectacular light show that changes its colours from red to orange to lilac in a matter of minutes.

Uluru's important Aboriginal history means that the National Park is one of only two places in the world recognised as a World Heritage site because of its living cultural significance. It is jointly managed according to the rules of Anangu Law, the Tjukurpa.

Anangu prefer that visitors respect the cultural significance of Uluru and their duty of care for your safety by not climbing Uluru. If you insist on climbing Uluru be aware that the climb is a very strenuous activity requiring considerable fitness. For your safety the Uluru climb is also closed when there is strong winds, when it is raining or the climb is slippery and when lightening, storms or other potentially dangerous conditions are imminent.

No matter how many pictures you've seen, nothing will prepare you for your first view of Uluru. Even from a distance, across the rich red plains of The Centre, the power of its ancient spirit will overwhelm you. Once you stand at its base, touch it and explore the mysteries of its perimeter, you will understand why it's not only a treasured icon to local Aboriginal people, but also one of the great wonders of the world.

Walking Tracks

• The Mala Walk: 2km return. This wheelchair accessible track begins at the Mala Walk Carpark and ends at the inspiring Kantju Gorge. From the waterhole you can continue on the Base Walk or stroll back to the carpark.
• The Base Walk: 10km. This track goes around Uluru. It is a fine alternative to the climb. Two sections of the walk have interpretive signs, and can be walked with the aid of the 'Insight into Uluru' self guiding brochure which can be obtained at the Culture Centre.
• The Liru Track: 2km one-way. This is an excellent way to walk from the Cultural Centre to the base of Uluru. The shady track winds through stands of wanari or mulga and links up with the Base Walk track.
• The Mutitjulu Walk: 1km return. This wheelchair accessible track leads from the Mutitjulu Carpark to a special waterhole which is the home of Wanampi, an ancestral watersnake. See and learn about Kuniya (woma python) Tjukurpa along the way.

Remember on all walks it is important to be well prepared so wear a hat, strong shoes, long sleeves and sunscreen for protection. Walkers should drink 1-2 litres of water per hour.

Climate

During the winter months nights get very cold and temperatures may drop to several degrees below freezing. The winter days are balmy. In contrast, the days during the summer months can reach well over 40 degrees Celsius.

During summer you should carry (and drink) two litres of water per hour and conduct all strenuous activities in the cooler early morning hours. For your safety, on days when the forecast maximum temperature is 36°C or more, the Valley of the Winds walk is closed at Kata Tjuta Lookout from 11 am, and the Uluru climb is closed from 8 am.

The highest temperature recorded at Uluru was 45.5 degrees Celsius on 17 February 1992.

At Uluru the long-term average rainfall is about 22 centimetres. Seasonal and annual rainfalls are extremely variable throughout the region, and rain may fall at any time of the year. However, heavy rains are more likely during the months from November to March.

Safety

Please consider your fitness before undertaking activities in the Park.

Heat Stress: Summer days are extremely hot. Remember to carry and drink plenty of water where ever you go in the Park and rest in the shade. A brochure on Safety and Comfort is available at the Cultural Centre. Please read this carefully.

Do not attempt to climb Uluru if you suffer from:

• Heart Condition
• Breathing Difficulties
• Fear of Heights

Park Opening And Closing Times

Looking After The Park

• No camping in the Park. Facilities are available in the Ayers Rock Resort.
• Do not feed the wildlife or souvenir rocks.
• Rubbish must be carried out with you including cigarette butts, tissues and food scraps.
• Walk only on marked paths. Drive only on public roads.
• Commercial photographers and film crews require permits to operate in the Park.