Travel Inspo #6: Roadtrip to Uluru

If someone mentions Australia, most of the people will think about the east coast Sydney, Brisbane, etc. Australia is such a large country and has the same size as the USA. In the middle of the country is the red Centre. An amazing way to experience this area is a roadtrip. 5-7 days depending on your budget and planned time is a good amount of time.

Flying into Alice Springs takes about 3h and is probably the easiest and fastest way to get there. If you either way plan to do a long roadtrip, you can also get there by car which takes 30h from Sydney.

From the airport, after getting your car, it is recommended to check the tourist information. They can tell you if roads are closed, which road to take depending on your car type and give you a map.

1.First stop is King’s Canyon

From Alice Springs it takes 3,5h (319 km). I have never seen those never ending roads, where there is nothing around. No trees, buildings, just red sand. Staying at King’s Canyon 1-2 days for some hikes, while it is not so crowded than Uluru, is recommended.

2.Second stop is Yulara

From King’s Canyon it takes another 3h (301km) to Yulara. This is the small desert town with few hotels, restaurants and supermarkets. There is also the possibility to fly directly into Yulars and take bus tours to get to the sights. With your own car, you can go past the crowds and flexible in time. This is a good base to get to the next stops.

3.Third stop is Uluru

From Yulara it takes 24 min (25km) to reach Uluru. You will reach the bottom of the large rock and take a base walk around it. Be aware of the high temperatures and time. In January around 10am is was already over 30 degress. Along the road to the base there are designated sunset and sunrise spots with many parkings lots. Don’t be too late to the spot, you will not be the only one wanting to catch the sun.

The colour transitions during sunrise and sunset are amazing and so special.

Uluru Sunset Viewing Point (Link to Maps)

4.Forth stop is Kata Tjuta

It takes 45 min (59km) from Uluru to reach Kata Tjuta. There are also some viewing platforms and walking spots to take a short walk. It’s also possible to visit this place after the sunrise at Uluru and go for sunset back to Uluru.

5.Back to Alice Springs

From Kata Tjuta it takes 5h (489km). If you have a 4WD you can take the Mereenie Loop, which takes in total 7h (684km). It’s off-road and an experience to drive through. At the beginning of the Mereenie Loop, you have to register and pay a small fee. They will also ask you for your number before you leave. If you don’t call the office by a certain time, they will start searching for you along the road.