anangu tours uluru

Maruku Arts

For over 30 years, Maruku has been our place to share our stories with you – the stories of our culture and of our country.

Online Store

Discover traditional and contemporary A n angu art and craft from the heart of Australia. Each hand crafted piece has a story.

Online Shop

collectors corner →

Tours & Workshops

Explore and connect with Aboriginal art and culture in an authentic way by experiencing our range of cultural offerings in a unique format with local Anangu artists.

Book now →

About Maruku

For over 30 years Maruku has operated as a not-for-profit art and craft corporation, owned and operated by A n angu. Approximately 900 Aboriginal artists belonging to over 20 remote communities across the Central and Western Deserts, make up the collective that is Maruku. Our purpose is to keep culture strong and alive, through art, craft and organic experiences.

From our blog

March 2, 2023

Really One Story – Arts from the Ngaanyatjarra Lands

Maruku is proud to be part of this new exhibition: Tonight we celebrate the opening of Really One Story: Art from the Ngaanyatjarra Lands at FORM Gallery (previously known as The Goods Shed). Featuring a diverse collection of work from Minyma Kutjara Arts Project in Irrunytju (Wingellina); Papulankutja Artists in Papulankutja (Blackstone); Tjarlirli Art in Tjukurla; Warakurna

November 24, 2022

AIATSIS Art Market 2022

Visit Maruku Arts at the AIATSIS Indigenous Art Market and find some beautiful Christmas presents for friends and family … or yourself. visit the Maruku Arts booth

October 11, 2022

Tarnanthi Art Fair

14th – 17th October 2022 Back by popular demand, the Tarnanthi Art Fair is 100% online in 2022. Browse and buy from home on Kaurna Country or wherever you are around the world. Discover paintings, ceramics, sculpture, woven objects, jewellery, textiles, clothes and homewares, created by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists working independently and

SOME SAY WE DON'T DO TOURS AT ALL....WE GIVE EXPERIENCES!

Walk the base of Uluru...learn the stories, see it's wonders.... or maybe the more adventurous Valley of the Winds at Kata Tjuta. A day trip to Kings Canyon and visiting an Aboriginal Community are unforgettable experiences...and it's all possible.

Some of our Guides have over 50 000 years experience

They are the Anangu (local Aboriginal people). As well as being wonderful story-tellers and artists, their sense of humour, perception and logic makes your time with them mesmerising. By the way, all of our OTHER Guides have a number of years experience in the Red Centre and are accredited to guide in the UKTNP.

Private Tours

We customise the tour to suit your interests, the time you have and your budget to make sure you have the best experience here in Central Australia.

Why tour with Red Spaces

We are a small Australian owned business based at Uluru, who is dedicated to providing the best touring experience for our Guests and to assist in sharing the "worlds oldest continuous Culture" as... understanding brings respect.

Contact us with your tour requirements, questions or booking requests.

Red Spaces Tours

PO Box 343, YULARA, NT 0872

0408 505030 [email protected]

Photo Gallery

Copyright © 2020 redspaces.com.au - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by GoDaddy Website Builder

Please Note: Whilst tours do go ahead in wet weather, itineraries may be altered to suit weather conditions. Prices do not include entry fees to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (payable on the day of your tour). The park use fee is $25 for each person over 16 years of age and valid for 3 consecutive days. Entry is free for children under 16 years of age.

Child rates apply for 5-15 years.

Take advantage of the search to browse through the World Heritage Centre information.

Share on social media

Unesco social media, ulu r u-kata tju t a national park.

• Description

This park, formerly called Uluru (Ayers Rock – Mount Olga) National Park, features spectacular geological formations that dominate the vast red sandy plain of central Australia. Uluru, an immense monolith, and Kata Tjuta, the rock domes located west of Uluru, form part of the traditional belief system of one of the oldest human societies in the world. The traditional owners of Uluru-Kata Tjuta are the Anangu Aboriginal people.

Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

Parc national d'Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a

Ce parc, qui s’appelait autrefois parc national d’Uluru (Ayers Rock-Mont Olga), présente des formations géologiques spectaculaires qui dominent la vaste plaine sableuse du centre de l’Australie. L’immense monolithe d’Uluru et les dômes rocheux de Kata Tjuta, à l’ouest d’Uluru, font partie intégrante du système de croyances traditionnelles de l’une des plus anciennes sociétés humaines du monde. Les propriétaires traditionnels d’Uluru-Kata Tjuta appartiennent au peuple aborigène des Anangu.

منتزه أولورو- كاتا تجوتا الوطني

يضمّ هذا المنتزه الذي كان اسمه في السابق منتزه أولورو الوطني (في أيرز روك- جبل أولغا) تشكّلات جيولوجية مذهلة تسيطر على السهل الرملي في وسط أوستراليا. إن المنحوتة الحجرية الضخمة (المكوّن) في أولورو والقبب الصخرية في كاتا تجوتا، غرب أولورو، هي جزء لا يتجزّأ من منظومة المعتقدات التقليدية لأحد أقدم المجتمعات البشرية في العالم. أضف أن المالكين الأصليين لمنتزه أولورو- كاتا تجوتا هم من السكان الأصليين الأنانجو.

source: UNESCO/CPE Description is available under license CC-BY-SA IGO 3.0

乌卢鲁－卡塔曲塔国家公园

该公园原名乌卢鲁国家公园，特点在于其壮观的地质构造，那也是澳大利亚中部广阔的红砂土平原的主要构造。乌卢鲁是一块巨大的独石柱，而卡塔曲塔则是穹顶形巨石，位于乌卢鲁西部，它们共同构成了世界上最古老人类社会传统信仰体系的一部分。乌卢鲁－卡塔曲塔原来的所有者是阿南古土著人。

Parque Nacional de Uluru-Kata Tjuta

Conocido en sus inicios con el nombre de Parque Nacional de Uluru (Ayers Rock-Mount Olga), este sitio posee formaciones geológicas espectaculares que dominan la vasta planicie arenosa del centro de Australia. El inmenso monolito de Uluru y las cúpulas rocosas de Kata Tjuta, situadas al oeste del parque, forman parte del sistema ancestral de creencias de una de las sociedades humanas más antiguas del mundo. El pueblo aborigen de los anangu es el propietario ancestral de Uluru-Kata Tjuta.

ウルル-カタ・ジュタ国立公園

source: NFUAJ

Nationaal park Uluru-Kata Tjuta

Dit park – voorheen Nationaal Park Uluru (Ayers Rock-Mount Olga) – beschikt over spectaculaire geologische formaties, zoals de enorme monoliet Uluru en de rotskoepels Kata Tjuta ten westen hiervan. Uluru bestaat uit harde zandsteen die bloot is komen te liggen door erosie van het omliggende gesteente. De monoliet heeft een basisomtrek van 9,4 kilometer, gladde schuine zijden en een relatief vlakke bovenkant. De rotsformaties zijn onderdeel van het traditionele geloof en tevens eigendom van een van de oudste menselijke samenlevingen ter wereld, de Anangu Aboriginals.

Source: unesco.nl

Outstanding Universal Value

Brief synthesis

A n anguku Tjukurpa ku n pu pu l ka alatji t u nga r anyi. Inma pu l ka nga r anyi munu Tjukurpa pu l ka nga r anyi ka palula tjana-langu r u kulini munu uti ngana n a ku n pu mu l apa kanyinma. Mii l -mii l pa nga r anyi munu A n anguku Tjukurpa nyanga pu l ka mu l apa. Tjukurpa panya tjamulu, kamilu, mamalu, ngunytjulu ngana n anya ungu, kurunpangka munu katangka kanyintjaku.

© Tony Tjamiwa

There is strong and powerful Aboriginal Law in this Place. There are important songs and stories that we hear from our elders, and we must protect and support this important Law. There are sacred things here, and this sacred Law is very important. It was given to us by our grandfathers and grandmothers, our fathers and mothers, to hold onto in our heads and in our hearts ©

Nintiringkula kamila tjamula tjanalangu r u. Wi r u r ala nintiringu munula watarkurinytja wiya. Nintiringkula tjilpi munu pampa ngura r itja tju t angu r u, munula rawangku tjukurpa ku t u t ungka munu katangka kanyilku. Ngura nyangakula ninti – ngana n a ninti.

© Barbara Tjikatu

We learnt from our grandmothers and grandfathers and their generation. We learnt well and we have not forgotten. We’ve learnt from the old people of this place, and we’ll always keep the Tjukurpa in our hearts and minds. We know this place – we are ninti, knowledgeable. ©

The sandstone monolith of Ulu r u and the conglomerate domes of Kata Tju t a, rise abruptly, to over 300 metres in height, above the relatively flat surrounding sandplains and woodland. Their changing colours provide dramatic views for visitors, shifting from different tones of red, violet and orange as sunlight, shade and rain wash across their flanks.

Far from coastal cities, the rich red tones of Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a epitomise the isolation, starkness and beauty of Australia’s desert environment. When coupled with the profound spiritual importance of many parts of Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park, the natural qualities convey a powerful sense of the very long evolution of the Australian continent.

Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park has been home to A n angu people for tens of thousands of years, and contains significant physical evidence of one of the oldest continuous cultures in the world. A n angu is the term that Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara Aboriginal people, from the Western Desert region of Australia, use to refer to themselves. Pitjantjatjara and Yankunytjatjara are the two principal dialects spoken in Ulu r uKata Tju t a National Park.

Traditional Anangu law, the Tjukurpa, is the foundation of the A n angu living cultural landscape associated with Ulu r u Kata Tju t a National Park. The Tjukurpa is an outstanding example of traditional law and spirituality and reflects the relationships between people, plants, animals and the physical features of the land. Tjukurpa was founded at a time when ancestral beings, combining the attributes of humans and animals, camped and travelled across the landscape. They shaped and created all of the features of the land and its landscapes. The actions of these ancestral beings also established a code of behaviour that continues to be followed by A n angu today. This code regulates all aspects of life, from gathering food and management of landscape to social relationships and personal identity. It is expressed in verbal narratives, lengthy Inma (ceremony and associated rituals and song lines), art and the landscape itself.

The landscape is imbued with creative powers of cultural history through Tjukurpa and related sacred sites. Powerful religious, artistic and cultural qualities are associated with the cultural landscape created by Mala, Lungka t a, Itjaritjari, Liru and Kuniya ancestral beings. Within this landscape there is a gender-based cultural knowledge and responsibilities system, where A n angu men are responsible for looking after sites and knowledge associated with men’s law and culture, and equally A n angu women are responsible for looking after sites and knowledge associated with women’s law and culture.

Criterion (v): The cultural landscape of Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park is an outstanding living reflection of indigenous A n angu traditional hunting, gathering and other practices of great antiquity that have created an intimate relationship between people and their environment.  

Criterion (vi): The cultural landscape is of outstanding significance for the way it is perceived as the creation of Mala, Lungka t a, Itjaritjari, Liru and Kuniya - these are heroic ancestral beings of the Tjukurpa. The landscape isread as a text specifying the relationship between the land and its Indigenous inhabitants, as laid down by the Tjukurpa. The monoliths of Uluru and Kata Tjuta are seen as living proof of the heroes' actions and their very being.

Criterion (vii) : The huge monolith of Ulu r u and multiple rock domes of Kata Tju t a (32 kilometres to the west of Ulu r u) have outstanding scenic grandeur, contrasting with each other and the surrounding flat sand plains. The monolithic nature of Ulu r u is emphasised by sheer, steep sides rising abruptly from the surrounding plain, with little or no vegetation to obscure the silhouette. The exceptional natural beauty of the Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park landscape is also of cultural importance to A n angu.

Criterion (viii) : The inselbergs (steep-sided isolated hills rising abruptly from the earth) of Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a are outstanding examples of tectonic, geochemical and geomorphic processes. Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a reflect the age, and relatively stable nature, of the Australian continent.

Ulu r u and Kata-Tju t a demonstrate ongoing geological processes of remarkable interest. The sides of Ulu r u are marked by a number of unusual features which can be ascribed to differing processes of erosion. For example, the colossal geological feature described as Ngaltawata, a ceremonial pole associated with Mala Tjukurpa, is ascribed to sheeting of rock parallel to the existing surface. During rain periods, the runoff from Ulu r u cascades down the fissures forming waterfalls, some up to 100 metres high. Caves at the base of Ulu r u are formed by a widespread arid zone process of granular disintegration known as cavernous weathering.

The geological values of Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a remain in excellent condition. Human impacts are largely confined to tourism activity around the base of Uluru and along the former path to its summit, as well as in residential areas. Invasive species (feral animals) are present, but management measures assist in containing them. Prescribed burning activities, guided by A n angu, help to maintain ecosystem integrity and cultural values and also reduce the likelihood of intense and large-scale wildfires.

Mining is not allowed in Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park.

Reintroduction programmes for threatened native species are being pursued to enhance the integrity of the property. The Mala or Rufous Hare-wallaby, an important species associated with the cultural landscape of Ulu r u- Kata Tju t a National Park and considered extinct within the park at the time of nomination, has been reintroduced.

A n angu living in the park help to maintain the landscape and Tjukurpa. The integrity of A n angu cultural processes, such as fire practices and bush food use is strong. Other associations, such as Inma (ceremony and associated rituals and song lines), stories, traditional skills and knowledge, health and healing practices and A n angu family and community connections are actively sustained. Places in the landscape related to these associations are also maintained , including the paths or tracks of ancestral beings, particular sacred sites, waterholes, rock art, places where A n angu lived long ago and sites connected to historic events or people.

The 1986 nomination file stated that both Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a were in a relatively pristine condition.

Some natural deterioration and some human impacts were noted in relation to some of the rock art and cultural sites at the time of re-nomination of the property under cultural criteria.

Authenticity

Tjukurpa, A n angu law and culture, has remained in place despite other changes since European settlement. A n angu culture remains strong because the Law is embodied in Tjukurpa through Inma, stories, songs, language, knowledge and other practices to look after the country. These elements continue to define the A n angu relationship to their land and each other.

Sustaining the authenticity of the property is related not only to these physical sites but also to the processes of interaction of A n angu with their environment, and to ensuring that visitors understand and respect these traditions. Tourist infrastructure impacts minimally on the landscape.

Anangu cultural heritage extends beyond Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and working together with the traditional owners of the surrounding lands is critical for maintenance of the living cultural landscape and Tjukurpa, within and outside the Park.

Protection and management requirements

Joint management is the term used to describe the working partnership between the A n angu traditional owners and the Director of National Parks as lessee of the park. Joint management is based on Aboriginal title to the land and the terms of the lease of the land to the Director of National Parks, which are supported by a legal framework laid out in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act). Under these arrangements Tjukurpa continues to help guide the management of Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park.

Through joint management, traditional knowledge forms a key part of Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park’s management practices. This includes the use of traditional fire management to protect sacred sites, encourage regeneration of plants and provide food for animals. Water sources are also maintained using traditional practices.

The Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park Board of Management was established under the National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act 1975 and continues under the EPBC Act. A majority of Board members must be Indigenous persons, nominated by the traditional Aboriginal owners of land in the park. The functions of the Board are to make decisions relating to the management of the park and, in conjunction with the Director of National Parks, to prepare management plans, monitor the management of the park and advise the Minister on all aspects of the future development of the park.

Australia has national legislation to directly protect its World Heritage properties through the EPBC Act. Since joint management arrangements began, significant historical management issues have been addressed in the management plan and management arrangements. This includes locating tourist accommodation and airport facilities outside of the Park. Access roads have been redirected so that visitors approach Ulu r u and Kata Tju t a from the “right way” providing culturally appropriate access. Interpretive materials and appropriate infrastructure protect the sacred places around the base of Ulu r u and at Kata Tju t a.

As a result of their significance, many of these cultural sites are protected from unauthorised entry and viewing, and there are guidelines in place on commercial filming and photography.

Climate change has emerged as a potential threat to Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a’s World Heritage values and is likely to bring extreme weather and increase the risk of wildfire. Biodiversity, human health and Indigenous use of the park are all likely to be affected. Park managers are implementing some key measures to help mitigate the impacts of climate change, particularly through the fire management program. As part of these measures, the maintenance of Tjukurpa, including passing on this detailed knowledge, will be crucial.

Renomination of "Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park" under cultural criteria.

• Parks Australia (in English only)
• The Official Site for Australian Travel and Tourism Australia
• Uluru Ayers Rock (Australian Tourism Network)
• Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park (world heritage) (Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment) (in English only)
• Protectedplanet.net

The Nomination files produced by the States Parties are published by the World Heritage Centre at its website and/or in working documents in order to ensure transparency, access to information and to facilitate the preparations of comparative analysis by other nominating States Parties.

The sole responsibility for the content of each Nomination file lies with the State Party concerned. The publication of the Nomination file does not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever of the World Heritage Committee or of the Secretariat of UNESCO concerning the history or legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its boundaries.

State of Conservation (SOC)

The Significance of Uluru to Australian Indigenous Culture

Written by: Cameron Ward

Published: 02/15/2017

Reading time: 5 mins

Uluru might be one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, but it’s also a hugely important part of the country’s cultural history.

The landscape surrounding the monolith has been inhabited for thousands and thousands of years – long before the country was invaded in the 1800s. Today, Uluru and the Aboriginal culture that imbues the area are very much entwined in a historic narrative that spans generations.

Anangu People in Uluru

Aboriginal Australia’s have been living on and cultivating these lands since the beginning. They were here for centuries before European invasion in the 1800s. Across the country there were more than 500 Indigenous nations. Out of the 500 nations estimated to have lived here, there was over 260 distinct language groups and 800 dialects.

In the Uluru region , the local tribe are named the Anangu people. Dating back more than 60,000 years, the Anangu culture has always been a vital part of Central Australian life. Anangu Tjukurpa teach that the landscape was formed as their ancestral beings moved across the barren land.

For the Anangu people, live revolves around Tjukurpa, the cultural underpinnings of their society. Life and rebirth is vital in their beliefs, with Tjukurpa stories passed down from generation to generation. These stories, dances and songs underpin all of Anangu belief systems and society behaviours. Elders pass the stories to younger generations as deemed appropriate. Anangu must share their oral history to keep to ensure the continuation of their culture for generations to come.

While at Uluru and Kata Tjuta, you can learn more about the Anangu people and their past, as well as the strong ties the natural formations have to the culture of the region. The on-site Cultural Centre provides ample opportunity to get to know the unique narratives of the region. Additionally, local Aboriginal tour guides show tourists around the base of Uluru every single day.

Why is Uluru Important

It has been a significant landmark to aboriginal people since the beginning.

The natural landmark is thought to have been formed by ancestral beings during the Dreaming. According to the local Aboriginal people, Uluru’s numerous caves and fissures were all formed due to ancestral beings actions in the Dreaming. Still today, ceremonies are held in the sacred caves lining the base. The term Dreaming refers to the time when the land and the people were created by the ancestor spirits. They creates the rivers, hills, rocks, and more, forming everything in the natural world. The ancestors also made particular sites to express to the Aboriginal people which places were to be sacred.

It is a Sacred Site

For many, Uluru and its neighbour Kata Tjuta aren’t just rocks, they are living, breathing, cultural landscapes that are incredibly sacred. Known as being the resting place for the past ancient spirits of the region. A large portion of its surrounds is Indigenous Protected Area, which protects the biodiversity, cultural, and social features within. Cultural customs and traditions are handed down and link the people with the land and animals.

The Anangu People Hold numerous traditional Customs at Uluru

Uluru is an important geological site, it plays a vital role in conserving our environment.

Related article:  When is the best time to visit Uluru ?

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

Explore Our Uluru Tours

3 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon Tour from Uluru $679

4 Day Ayers Rock and Surrounds from Uluru $729

Uluru Sunset Tour $99

7 Day Alice Springs to Darwin Tour with Uluru Detour $910

4 Day Ayers Rock & Red Centre Premium Camping Tour $1109

2 Day Uluru Tour from Uluru $480

Uluru Sunset and Sacred Sites from the Rock from $195

3 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon Tour from Alice Springs $679

3 Day Uluru & Kings Canyon Premium Camping Tour $780

Uluru Sunrise and Kata Tjuta from Ayers Rock $199

Uluru 3-Day Tour: The Ultimate Guide & Review

Posted on Last updated: November 24, 2020

When I was little I read a fiction book set in Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock), it had drawings of the huge red monolith and I remember thinking it looked magical.

Fast-forward 15 years and I’m visiting Australia for the first time, I couldn’t help but satisfy my childhood fascinations and pay Uluru a visit!

I went on a 3-day tour of Uluru and the surrounding areas with Wayoutback Australian Safaris  and I can highly recommend the experience.

We spent 3 days learning about Aboriginal culture in Australia, hiking in stunning outback landscapes, seeing impressive rock formations and much more.

Read on to discover the day-by-day itinerary of our Ayers Rock tour , and additional information about what you need to be ready for a trip in the Australian outback.

• 1 About Uluru & surroundings
• 2.1 Day 1: Uluru – Learn about Aboriginal culture
• 2.2 Day 2: Kata Tjuta – Hike in the Valley of the Winds
• 2.3 Day 3: Hike in Kings Canyon
• 3.1 Be ready to battle the flies
• 3.2 Don’t forget sunscreen!
• 3.3 Bring water bottles
• 3.4 Pack warm clothes
• 3.5 Pack a small bag for the trip

Uluru at sunrise

About Uluru & surroundings

Uluru is the original Aboriginal name of the largest monolith in Australia and the world.   You might have heard it being called Ayers Rock, this is the name that the English colonisers gave it when they first came to Australia.

Either name can be used but today it’s more common and appreciated to call it Uluru. It’s located in the Northern Territory of Australia or what is known as the “Red Centre” due to red colour of the sand and rocks.

Uluru is also home to the Anangu people, who known as the world’s oldest civilisation.

Uluru is sacred to the Anangu people, which is why it is now protected by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The national park is jointly run by Australian government officials and representatives of the Aboriginal society, so as to ensure it is preserved appropriately and its history passed on.

Exploring Kata Tjuta, Australia

Our 3-day Uluru tour itinerary

Wayoutback Australian Safaris have a number of different tours both in the Northern Territory and other parts of Australia.

I would have loved to spend longer exploring Australia’s Red Centre however given our other travel plans, we decided to go for the 3 Day Goanna Dreaming Red Centre 4WD Tour , as it would enable us to see as much as possible of Uluru and the surroundings in just 3 days.

On our 3-day Uluru tour we followed the itinerary below.

Day 1: Uluru – Learn about Aboriginal culture

Our tour started with a 1PM pick up from our hotel in Yulara, the town closest to Ayers Rock airport; the Outback Pioneer Lodge .

On the first day you will receive your ticket for the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, you need to hold on to this at all times as they might ask you for it if you meet a ranger.

The first stop of our tour was the Cultural Centre. Here there is a big exhibition in place that teaches you about the flora, fauna and history of this area.

The most interesting part for me was learning about Aboriginal culture and how the National Park is run today with guidance from the Anangu people.

Check out the latest prices and availability at Outback Pioneer Lodge

Exploring the base of Uluru, Australia

After visiting the Cultural Centre we drove to the base of Uluru, where we met our Anangu guide and her interpreter.

We did the Uluru base walk where we saw a number of small caves, where indigenous rituals used to be carried out and others with indigenous paintings on them.

There are lots of beautiful walks in Uluru , and the base walk is just one of them.

Our guide introduced us to Aboriginal origin stories and it was fascinating to hear about them from her, even with a interpreter translating in English.

We also learnt about Aboriginal painting methods and symbols, and what specific recurring symbols mean. We then finished our walk at Mutitjulu Waterhole, a water hole where the Anangu men used to hunt.

Our Anangu guide with some of the traditional aboriginal tools the women used

We then drove to the sunset viewing spot over Uluru. There is a big car park here and you will find a lot of other people here. Watching the sun go down and turn Uluru a fiery red is one of the biggest attractions here after all!

However most people crowd by the car park, if looking at Uluru you just walk towards the right there is a path with considerably less people. Perfect if you want to snap some photos without the crowds!

We also had a table by our 4WD with nibbles, dips and champagne, the perfect way to end our first day in the outback.

From there we drove to the campsite, where all had dinner together before going to sleep in either the tents or swag for those that felt like braving it (I wasn’t one of them).

Click here to book your Uluru 3-day tour!

Enjoying the sunset over Uluru with champagne and nibbles

Day 2: Kata Tjuta – Hike in the Valley of the Winds

On the second day we woke up at 5AM in the morning to make sure we were at the Uluru sunset viewing spot in time for sunrise.

The viewing spot is a short 5-minute drive away so you have time to get ready and have breakfast before the day starts.

Once we got there we were happy to see that the crowds of the day before at sunset had considerably diminished. We were there with only a handful of other people watching the sky around Uluru catch fire.

Once the sun was fully up we drove on to Kata Tjuta, the next stop on our 3-day Uluru tour.

Sunrise at Uluru, Australia

I was surprised to find out about Kata Tjuta. In my ignorance I always thought of Uluru as a stand alone natural beauty, I didn’t realise there was another similar rock formation so close to it.

Our guide explained that the reason why Kata Tjuta is less known is because it is a sacred place for Aboriginal men, which means creation stories about it are not shared with tourists. Here we went hiking in the “Valley of the Winds”.

| READ MORE: 15 INCREDIBLE AUSTRALIAN ADVENTURES |

Kata Tjuta, Australia

Hiking in the Valley of the Winds in Kata-Tjuta, Australia

The hike in the Valley of the Winds starts off on a straight path, then at one points breaks off and forms a loop, forming two possible hiking routes.

You can either hike directly to Karingana Lookout and then hike back (5.4km return, approximately 2.5 hours), or go all the way round and form a loop (7.5km full circuit, approximately 4 hours) .

Being the young and dashing athletes we think we are we decided to go the longer way round. Most of the hike is pretty flat with the occasional extremely steep section.

If you can handle a 7.5km hike, I really recommend going the longer way, as part of the hike was outside of the canyons of Kata Tjuta and will give you some epic views over the surrounding landscapes.

The steepest part is the uphill climb to reach the lookout, but once you make it up, the view is well worth it!

The view from Karingana Lookout in Kata Tjuta, Australia

After the hike we drove back for approximately an hour to Yulara for a barbeque lunch, just what you need after a long hike!

There was also a pool at the camping spot where we had lunch so if you need to cool down after the hike it’s a great place to do so. From there we then had a long drive to Kings Creek Cattle Station; our camp for the night.

We did a few stops along the way to see Mount Connor, a mesa tableland and another important rock formation like Uluru and Kata Tjuta, and other particularities of the environment during the drive.

The camp you will stay at tonight is truly magical and will give you a true feeling of what the outback is really like.

There are no other camps, towns or other forms of civilisation for miles, making it also an amazing place for stargazing given the minimal light pollution!

We had dinner cooked on the campfire, watched the stars and then hit the hay early in preparation for the early rise the next day.

Click here for more information and to book your own Uluru 3-day tour!

Mount Connor, Australia

Our tent at Kings Creek Cattle Station, Australia

The Milky Way seen from the Australian outback

Day 3: Hike in Kings Canyon

It’s another 5AM start for day 3, so that we could make it to King’s Canyon in time to catch the sunrise and before it became too hot to hike.

There are a number of different hikes that you can do at King’s Canyon, however given that some are more than 20km long we were given two options; an easy 2.5km return trip or a 6km full circuit.

The longer loop starts with a very steep uphill walk along what is known as “Heart Attack Hill”. Yes that’s how steep it is. However even if you’re not an athlete you’ll be able to do it, if I managed it can’t be too hard really!

It’s very steep but it’s quite brief, and once you reach the summit you will be rewarded with a beautiful view over the surrounding outback.

We made it just in time to see the sun come out from behind the rocks and it set a great mood for the rest of the hike.

Hiking up Heart Attack Hill at Kings Canyon, Australia

Hiking in Kings Canyon, Australia

After Heart Attack Hill the rest of the walk is pretty flat and our guide had the opportunity to tell us about the local flora, fauna and aboriginal traditions.

At a number of points during the hike we stopped to enjoy the view of the red cliffs. About half way through the hike we reached the “Garden of Eden”, an unexpected waterhole surrounded by cliffs on all sides.

We finished the hike around lunch and went back to our campsite for lunch, after which we set off for a long drive on to Alice Springs .

We did part of the driving on a typical outback road, with the occasional stops to appreciate the local flora and fauna or to try throwing a frisbee.

The tour ended around 5PM with a drop off at our hostel. If you want the tour can continue on back to Yulara.

Click here to see the latest prices and availability for your Uluru 3-day tour!

The “Garden of Eden” in King’s Canyon, Australia

Cool rock formations in Kings Canyon, Australia

How to prepare for a trip in the outback

The Australian outback is considered one of the world’s harshest environments, and while today we have the benefits of civilisation, I still found that compared to a “normal” trip to a city or beach there were things I wish I’d known and been better prepared for.

This is an extensive list of things I think will help you prepare for a trip in the Australian outback.

View over the Australian outback from Kata Tjuta

Be ready to battle the flies

One of the things I was not ready for on my outback trip were the flies. Nobody told me there would be so many flies everywhere!

From the moment when the sun comes up to when it goes back down (you get some relief at least at night!) you will be pestered by flies.

They’re like that one friend that always leans in too much when they talk to you, they have no concept of personal space.

They will fly in your ears, nose and mouth if you don’t stop them. You have two main remedies against flies:

Fly nets :  These look ridiculous but they’re the only 100% effective fly repellent. They’re made of fine mesh and you wear them over your head so that they can’t get in your mouth when you speak.

The downside is that you will look a bit silly and will have to see the world through a mesh of light pink / blue / green / whatever colour you pick for your net.

The flies will attack you as soon as they get a chance

Fly repellent roll-on or cream :  This isn’t as effective as the nets but it gets pretty close. We bought a natural repellent that you apply on your exposed skin and the smell keeps the flies away (it’s not a bad smell btw)!

The only disadvantage is that you need to reapply often as it wears off quickly.

I went for the roll-on as I have the bad habit of rubbing my eyes when I’m tired and given the number of 5AMs on the itinerary, I didn’t want to be rubbing fly repellent in my face.

The cream is supposedly more effective but I found the roll-on to be enough, when a fly came too close to my face I just reapplied and they would stop coming.

All of these can be bought at the shops in Yulara or Alice Springs . You will see the shops there also sell cork hats. These are normal hats with strings with corks dangling at the end of them.

Legend says that you just shake your head and all the dangling corks scare away the flies. They don’t work. If you want one as a souvenir go for it, but don’t expect them to keep flies away.

And land anywhere on you

Don’t forget sunscreen !

I’m the kind of person that puts sunscreen on only at the beach, and even then I tend to go for factor 20 or less (what’s skin cancer compared to a beautiful golden tan right? Just kidding, that’s me trying to be funny).

In the Australian desert, make sure to bring a high SPF sunscreen and don’t forget to reapply when you need to. The sun is strong here and nobody likes sunburns or skin cancer.

Uluru at sunset

Bring water bottles

The 4WD always had a tank of fresh drinkable water on board, however you will need your own water bottles to fill up. Wayoutback recommends bringing two 1.5L bottles.

When you get off the 4WD and start hiking, don’t forget your water bottle! Hiking under the desert sun will make you sweat a lot and you will need to drink while you hike.

Hiking in Kata Tjuta with our water bottles!

Pack warm clothes

This might seem like a counter intuitive one, given that you’re going on a trip to the desert, however if you’re visiting in autumn, spring or winter you will need some warm clothes for the night.

The temperatures drop considerably at night and you will want a hoodie or long sleeved top to spend the evening in. This isn’t to say that you will need a winter coat, but just an extra layer will do.

If you need help figuring out what to pack for your trip to the Australian outback, check out my Uluru packing list .

Our camp at Kings Creek Cattle Station, Australia

Pack a small bag for the trip

If you do a tour with Wayoutback Australian Safaris they will store your luggage in a trailer in the back of the 4WD.

The luggage trailer is always accessible when you stop for the night however if you’re like me, and travelling with a huge 25kg suitcase, you might not want to lobby it up and down the stairs of the luggage trailer and into a small tent.

I found it easier to pack the things I needed for 3 days in a backpack so I could keep those with me in the bus, and I just put the luggage in the trailer at the tour pick up and took it back at the end of the tour.

The Wayoutback Australian Safaris 4WD vehicle we did the 3-day Uluru tour with

Final thoughts on our Uluru 3-day tour

Have you been to Uluru? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

Visiting Uluru was a magical experience for me, one of the highlights of my Australia trip and something I think everyone should add to their Australia itinerary .

I was a bit concerned I would be doing a huge trip to get there and then feel like it was all “just for a big rock in the middle of the desert” but it was so much more than that.

Learning about aboriginal culture was fascinating, the hikes we did were amongst my favourite ever and the landscape was unlike anything I had ever seen before.

If you get the opportunity, I highly recommend doing a 3-day tour of Uluru .

Looking for more Australia tips? Check out my travel guides:

• Is the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk the most beautiful walk in Sydney?
• Swimming in the Noosa Heads fairy pools
• Fraser Island 3-day tour review
• How to spend a weekend on the Great Ocean Road
• The best day trips to Whitehaven Beach & the Whitsunday Islands
• How to spend 3 awesome days in Sydney
• 15 most Instagrammable places in Sydney
• Day trip to Blue Mountains from Sydney
• Daintree Rainforest – the ultimate Cairns day trip
• Everything you need to know to plan the perfect Australia road trip
• Cairns to Brisbane 2-week itinerary
• Discover the Great Barrier Reef
• Best things to do in & around Cairns

Enjoyed reading about our Uluru 3-day tour? Pin it!

Wednesday 30th of January 2019

Thanks for the information. It looks like that tour costs $860 AUD on 1/30/19. Kind of a high price. I will look for other tours and compare itineraries and read others reviews. Your info make me wonder if there is some similar type of fly repellent that you could sort of pre-soak your shirt in that would also help keep them away. Thanks for the post and you have some great photos!

Monday 4th of February 2019

The tour I did was a bit more expensive as it was in a smaller 4x4 coach and sleeping in tents, the same company does bus tours sleeping in the swag (under the stars) which are cheaper. Don't know about a fly repellent for clothes, I found the roll-on was fairly effective! Glad you liked my post & photos, hope this helps in planning your trip! :)

Small Towns in Australia Worth Visiting (and a Couple of Slightly Bigger Ones) - Birdgehls

Wednesday 11th of July 2018

[…] population of less than 900 people. It is also a popular tourist destination, as it is where most Uluru tours start from and it’s where all the area’s campsites and hotels are […]

Saturday 2nd of June 2018

Gorgeous photography! And you've enlightened me, didn't realise there was quite so much to do around the rock too :) Enjoyed the read!

Thanks, glad you enjoyed the post! And I know, I had no clue till I went there! (should've done more research before haha)

I visited the Outback a couple years ago and LOVED it! Uluru is so beautiful and I loved Kings Canyon as well. Your photos are great and are making me want to get back to Australia asap!

Thanks so much, glad you enjoyed it! Visiting the outback and Uluru was my favourite part of my Australia trip!

If there was only a word to describe those photos... Is it magic?

Beautiful journey!

Thanks, it really is a magical place!

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

• Copy Link copied

Uluru, or Ayer’s Rock as many know it, is one of the most recognized landmarks anywhere in the world. This strange giant rock in the middle of the Australian Outback has long kindled imaginations, going back millennia. It may be an important tourist site today, but it also holds immense cultural value for the original inhabitants of the area, something I learned all about on the very unique Anangu Tour of Uluru. In the Pitjantjatjara language, anangu means person or human being, and the tours are designed to teach newcomers about the native peoples. The tours are given in the Pitjantjatjara language, with interpreters translating for the guides. It’s not that the guide didn’t know English, he certainly did, it’s that they want visitors to hear the nuances of a language most of us have never before encountered. The walk around the rock was an enlightening experience, learning all about traditional culture and the extreme importance Uluru holds in the Tjukurpa or Dream Time. Tjukurpa is Aboriginal law, culture, history, and their worldview all bundled into one. It is expansive, impossibly ancient and much of it is shrouded in mystery, transmitted only to certain people at particular times in their lives. To be a part of that was a humbling experience. Sadly this tour is no longer run but a new tour offered is very similar and offers many of the same features of the original Anangu experience: The Rising Sun tour booking information is below.

More Recommendations

Journey through time at uluru, uluru cultural centre.

Many people visit Australia’s Red Centre to learn about or experience Aboriginal culture. As one of the oldest living cultures on the planet – actually a diversity of Aboriginal cultures dating back about 40,000 years – its appeal is considerable, especially given the unique and challenging environments in which it has survived. ‘Culture’ isn’t however always found on easy display. In Australia, sharing Aboriginal ceremonies, practices and stories is often not allowed outside of the groups to which they have direct significance. And many indigenous people are understandably uncomfortable performing rites for show purposes alone. There are many locations Down Under, though, where Aboriginal culture is so affectingly at one with a place that even a little allowed knowledge goes a long way. Nowhere is this more true than in the heart of Australia’s Outback at Uluru, the mighty and mystical red-sandstone monolith sacred to the Anangu Aboriginal people. With a nod from the Anangu traditional owners of the Uluru parkland, an award-winning Cultural Centre stands near the base of Uluru and brings to life Tjukurpa, a complex word in the Pitjantjatjara language that describes the basis of all Anangu knowledge and connects everything in life. Through displays, art and video about creation stories and laws, some of the rich cultural and spiritual fabric of Uluru is revealed from the perspective of the Anangu. Everyone’s trip to Uluru should start here. Photo: Tourism NT

The Mala Walk at Uluru

The Mala Walk at Uluru traces one kilometer along the base of the famous Red Centre monolith, formerly known as Ayer’s Rock, from the Mala carpark to Kantju Gorge, pictured above. It follows one of Uluru’s two named and easy trails made accessible by parking areas – the other is the Kuniya trail to the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Both are brought to life by explanatory panels that reveal the tales associated with the rock, as well as details about the area’s flora, fauna and Aboriginal history. The Mala Walk should be of particular interest to first-time (or even return) visitors as there is a free and highly enlightening ranger-guided tour scheduled every morning, at 8am from October through April and 10am from May through September. I soaked up information during the slow-moving stroll, as it stopped often and used near-at-hand rock formations, rock art, trees and other plants to tell the story of the Mala (rufous hare-wallaby); discuss Tjukurpa, a word in the local language describing the knowledge base of the Anangu people indigenous to the region; explain how the park is jointly managed by Parks Australia and the traditional Anangu owners; and share some of the Anangu culture. The Mala Walk, part of the 10.6-kilometer (6.6-mile) Base Walk, is an excellent alternative to climbing Uluru, something the rangers make very clear when they share the request of the traditional owners that visitors not climb for cultural, safety and environmental reasons.

Sunrise at KataTjuta

What could be better than sunrise in the Australian Outback? Or that same sunrise from the back of a camel—perfect cool and cloudless morning combined with the gentle swaying of a camel. As the sun rose in the east, the colors of Kata Tjuta became more vivid. Seeing the changing of the color on both Uluru and Kata Tjuta at sunrise is every bit as dramatic as watching the changing hues of Uluru at sunset. Getting up at 4am was well worth the lost sleep.

Outback Wildflowers

Nothing is as beautiful as the wildflowers in Australia ‘s outback. These flowers fluttered onto the red sand from a light breeze and I wanted to preserve that moment’s beauty... until the next time I’m back.

Information on this page, including website, location, and opening hours, is subject to have changed since this page was last published. If you would like to report anything that’s inaccurate, let us know at [email protected].

WELCOME TO ANANGU TOURS

Get started on your vacation plans by exploring Australian Tourist Attractions

POPULAR PLACES TO VISIT IN AUSTRALIA

The great barrier reef, sydney opera house, blue mountains, popular things to do in australia, exploring dental wonders around australia.

by AnanouTours | May 9, 2024

In the realm of children's dentistry, the journey to healthy smiles often leads to unexpected and wondrous destinations. Across the globe, dental care takes on various forms, each influenced by culture, tradition, and innovation. One such adventure brings us to the...

Dentists on Holidays: Do They Visit Other Dentists?

by AnanouTours | Apr 16, 2024

in the quaint town of Melton, nestled away from the bustling city life, one might ponder: do dentists take a break from filling cavities and straightening smiles, or do they seek out dental care themselves, even on holiday? It's a curious thought, especially in a...

Exploring Dental Tourism for Your Perfect Smile Makeover

by AnanouTours | Mar 15, 2024

In recent years, the concept of dental tourism has gained significant traction, offering individuals the opportunity to combine leisure travel with essential dental procedures at a fraction of the cost they might incur in their home countries. One of the most...

Why Do People Travel Abroad For Dental Care?

by AnanouTours | Nov 13, 2023

Are you tired of high dental costs and long waiting times? Well, it's time to pack your bags and explore a whole new world of dental care! The rising trend of traveling abroad for dental treatment, also known as dental tourism, is sweeping the globe. People from all...

Does Vacation Care Enhance The Classroom? Teachers Perspective

by AnanouTours | Nov 9, 2023

Generally, school holidays provide a great time full of joy and wonder for school kids. However, most parents might have different feelings when their kids close school for holidays. The good news is that you can access holiday care programs, which prove resourceful...

Discovering Dental Tourism In Australia

by AnanouTours | Oct 16, 2023

Looking to transform your smile? Dreaming of a perfect set of pearly whites but worried about the hefty price tag that comes with it? Well, look no further! It's time to consider dental tourism in Australia – an emerging trend that combines travel and affordable...

Australia: One of the World’s Best Dental Destinations

by AnanouTours | Sep 21, 2023

Introduction Welcome to the land down under, where stunning landscapes and a vibrant culture blend seamlessly with top-notch dental care. When it comes to oral health, Australia has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the most professional dental destinations...

Melbourne’s Sunbury as a Tourism Spot

by AnanouTours | Feb 7, 2023

Introduction to Sunbury Tourism: the Dental Aspect Today, dental tourism is one of the most popular medical tourism services. It is a type of tourism where people travel to another country to receive dental care. The main reasons for choosing this option are to save...

During Covid: It’s Now So Much Safer To Stay At Home

by AnanouTours | Jul 25, 2021

Thailand is a beautiful country. And one of the biggest reasons people have been going is to get their teeth fixed while enjoying the sights and smells of Chang Mai, Bangkok and every other visual and sensory delight. But with the advent of Covid-19, dental tourism to...

Cape York Four Wheel Drive Touring: Can You Hack It?

by AnanouTours | Jan 12, 2021

Most folk faff about in the shallows, when it comes to 4x4 outback adventure. Not everybody can handle the real stuff, that’s a fact of life plain and simple. You might like the odd romp along the shores of a placid beach, with grandma and the kids in the back, and...

South African Traditions

by AnanouTours | Jul 28, 2019

South African traditions are as diverse as the people itself. The beginnings as colourful as the land. Their traditions articulated through dance, music, sculpture, beadwork and art. South Africans have managed to keep and pass down their traditions for a long time....

Betting on Travel: From Buffett To Personal Lifestyle Funding

by AnanouTours | Aug 24, 2017

Betting on Travel: From Buffett To Personal Lifestyle Funding Reports that billionaire, Warren Buffett, is investing big bucks in airline stocks and, therefore, the travel business, has that industry salivating in expectation

• Australian Holidays
• Northern Territory

Uluru is an unexpected luxury and adventure holiday

When you picture luxury dining, Italy or the south of France come to mind. But there’s an unexpected Aussie spot also high on the list.

Moment TV star joins ‘1 per cent club’

Tourists lose it over fake Aussie town

’No other’: Aussie beach star obsessed with

When you picture luxury dining, Italy or the south of France often come to mind. But there is one unexpected spot in Australia that has highly sought after dining experiences.

Uluru is a place of great mystery to many Australians, but the area has completely transformed since the controversial climb was closed on October 28, 2019 .

As part of Anangu’s bid to get the Uluru climb closed, they were encouraged to create other tourism revenues and that is how several new attractions were introduced to the area including Segway tours around the rock and the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner.

I was quite naive about what was about to unfold when I touched down with Virgin Australia, who recently announced flights from Melbourne and Brisbane kicking off on June 6 and 7.

It’s completely possible to visit The Red Centre on a budget but if you’re willing and able to splash some cash, you will have some unforgettable experiences. One might even say “bucket list worthy”. What one might not expect is that Uluru is a quiet place of luxury mixed with an adventure holiday.

Where to eat in Uluru

The trip was an absolute whirlwind of good food — and as a coeliac that isn’t something I can always say as my options are typically severely limited on the food front.

There are a handful of places to eat at Sails in the Desert, one of the many accommodation spots at Voyages’ Ayers Rock Resort, such as Walpa and Pira Pool Bar but if you’ve ever wanted to splash out on a meal I highly recommend Tali Wiru Dinner Under Stars .

Yes, it isn’t cheap with a price tag of $440, but it is worth every cent — and more, in my opinion.

Imagine this; the sun is setting over the back of Uluru. You’re handed a glass of sparkling wine and as you make your way up a dirt track, a man is heard playing the Yidaki.

You’re offered a mix of canapes such as mushroom caps stuffed with cheese and sun-dried tomatoes or duck with emu pate or kangaroo with natural ingredients. That’s all before you sit down with just 19 other guests to eat under the stars.

There is a four-course meal with wine pairing, with diners able to pick from three entrees, mains and desserts. Nearly everything was gluten-free bar the dessert and one canape.

However, the chef immediately prepared me versions that were - with no hassle or fuss.

I have eaten at Michelin star restaurants and I can hands down say that there was something so incredibly special about this night. It outweighed every dining experience I’d ever had with some of the best food I’d ever eaten.

The ncredible atmosphere of someone playing traditional instruments and sharing local stories about how the Anangu people used the stars, topped the night.

Another excellent dining experience is the Wintjiri Wiru Sunset Dinner , which has a significantly lower price point than Tali Wiru at $295 for adults and $125 for children.

The three-hour experience includes cocktails with Beachtree Gin, an Indigenous-owned distillery, and canapes overlooking Kata Tjuta and Uluru as the sun sets. You’re then handed an individual hamper featuring seafood, cured kangaroo and emu as well as dessert and wine. Again, my having coeliac disease caused absolutely no issue.

You’re then treated to another beautiful experience - a sound, light and drone show telling one of the local ancestral stories.

It’s a super fun way to help kids understand a little bit more about the First Nations community. However, there is a risk that winds will prevent the drones from running. But that doesn’t mean the night is over. The light and sound show is just as incredible without it. For my experience, it only worked for half of the 20-minute show, but everyone was handed a partial refund as they didn’t get the full experience.

Where to stay

There is one resort in the entirety of Uluru — Ayers Rock Resort — but it has varying levels of accommodation. There is the campground, the Outback Hotel and Lodge, Emu Walk Apartments, the Lost Camel Hotel, Desert Gardens Hotel and Sails in the Desert. I stayed at Sailys in the Desert, which is the more luxury brand. I opened up my balcony door to a view of Uluru. Like, how cool is that? There is a pool with a cocktail bar, a tonne of restaurants, a day spa and there is a handful of shops not too far away. There is something for every budget.

I am not a morning person but trust me, you will kick yourself if you don’t get out of bed early to watch the sun rise over Kata Tjuta and Uluru. There are several ways to do this. My personal favourite was watching the sunrise while riding a camel named Curly who had a penchant for biting people. Every camel’s personality was as unique as a puppy’s and I was absolutely there for it.

Riding a segway around Uluru while listening to someone give insight about some of the Anangu history was also a very fun and unique way to visit the rock. The actual hike around Uluru is about 10km so if you’re not used to walking a lot, this could be an easy way to do it. But, be warned, there are some obstacles on the ride. Seeing Kata Tjuta and Uluru from the skies — aka a helicopter ride — is also an unforgettable experience. It’s almost as though there is an “adventure element” still alive and well in the area despite the climb being stopped — and rightfully so. But, I think it’s a brilliant way to keep that energy going.

The hike between two of Kata Tjuta’s peaks is also a highlight, especially with a guide to tell you about some of the artworks and what certain plants are used for.

But for a truly authentic experience to learn about the Anangu people, I think the best place to visit is Maruku Arts and Walkatjara Art. It’s a brilliant place to learn more about what certain imagery means in Indigenous art, as well as a chance to hear local history. It’s genuinely one of the most meaningful moments of my life. It’s a moment of clarity getting to hear someone share their culture with you, something no one should ever pass up.

Maruka Arts has been owned by the Anangu people for more than 40 years and has become one of Australia’s largest Aboriginal-owned-and operated organisations with 900 artists from 20 remote communities.

More Coverage

How to get there

There aren’t many ways to get to the centre of Australia with car or flying being the only two options. However, this has been made a lot easier with Virgin Australia announcing from June 6 there will be four flights from Melbourne to Uluru and four return flights every week. There will also be three flights every week from Brisbane to Uluru from June 7, as well as three return flights.

This writer travelled to Uluru as a guest of Virgin Australia

It’s a sight only a handful of visitors will ever experience in the Australian outback — and for Georgia Love, it’s one she will never forget.

Google searches for this Aussie town have skyrocketed with tourists desperate to know where it is, but there is one big problem.

This actress has seen her fair share of beautiful places across the world, but she insists this Aussie sunset is unlike any other.

• Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park
• Things to do
• Tours and activities

Cultural experiences

Women’s business. Photo: Tourism NT

Get a deeper insight into the lives and stories of Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a’s Traditional Owners with a cultural tour or activity in the park.

Learn about bush tucker, rock art, and the Tjukurpa creation stories from the people who have lived here for thousands of years.

You can also visit the Cultural Centre or join a ranger guided activity to learn more about A n angu culture.

Cultural activities in Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park

Ma r uku Arts dot-painting workshop

Sit down with a local A n angu artist and interpreter to learn about ancient symbols, traditional tools for hunting and gathering and more.

SEIT Outback Australia

SEIT Outback Australia offers exciting, adventurous and interpretive tours without the crowds. They run many different tours in Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park and the surrounding areas, including locations not available to any other tour company.

• Australian Government, Parks Australia
• Ulu r u-Kata Tju t a National Park is dual-listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its outstanding natural and cultural values
• Buy park pass
• Cultural Centre
• Tours & activities
• Itineraries
• Plan your trip
• Buy your pass
• When to come
• Getting here
• Hotels & lodges
• Shops & facilities
• About Ayers Rock Resort
• Latest news
• Media centre
• Frequently asked questions
• Kakadu National Park
• Norfolk Island
• Christmas Island
• Pulu Keeling
• Australian National Botanic Gardens
• Australian Marine Parks

© 2013–2024 Parks Australia (Commonwealth of Australia)

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners of country throughout Australia and recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Uluru's big tourism boost before land back anniversary

A s the 40th anniversary of Uluru being handed back to its traditional owners nears, the sacred site remains a booming tourist drawcard despite waning regional travel elsewhere. 

More than 200,000 visitors make the trek to Australia's ancient heartland each year, attracted by the sandstone monolith and its surrounds. 

Virgin Australia, in partnership with the Northern Territory government, is the latest carrier to start ferrying tourists from capital cities to the red centre. 

The flights will inject more than 62,000 seats per year to the region and run to and from Brisbane three times and Melbourne four times per week from Thursday, June 6. 

Historically the spot has been a tourism hub since a base camp to the west of the Uluru climb was first established in the early 1950s.

This led to leases being granted for a hotel, four motels, a store, and a service station near the rock in 1959. 

Ayers Rock, as it was then known, was declared a national park in 1950 before being renamed Uluru and Kata Tjuta National Park in 1977.

On October 26, 1985, following decades of campaigning, Anangu were recognised as the Traditional Owners after living in the region for more than 20,000 years. 

However, a government agreement required Anangu to lease the park to the Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service for 99 years.

The year before, Ayers Rock Resort opened and expanded accommodation options for tourists at Uluru, becoming the main provider in the region.

Virgin's expansion comes at a time of change within the industry.

Bonza, a low-cost domestic airline primarily servicing regional locations entered administration in May. 

The carrier was saddled with debts of more than $100 million after little more than a year in operation. 

It came as regional airline Rex, expanded its services with flights to Perth from Melbourne and Adelaide. 

Regional tourism in Australia experienced a renaissance during the pandemic when international borders were shut for almost two years.

However, many drawcard tourist spots struggled with the lack of foreign tourists and visitors to Uluru slumped to fewer than 100,000 in 2020. 

This triggered the then-Liberal government to bolster Uluru with $51 million in upgrades before the territory re-opened fully in 2022. 

The reporter was a guest of Virgin Australia and Ayers Rock Resort, Uluru .

• Trip Planner
• Private Tours
• Small Group Tours
• Two Capitals
• City Breaks
• Trans-Siberian
• River Cruises
• Russia & Beyond

4-star edition of the private 9-day tour of the Russian capitals

5-star edition fo the private 9-day tour of Moscow & St. Petersburg

13-day in-depth discovery of Moscow, Kazan, and St. Petersburg

7-day tour designed to harness the best of the Venice of the North

11-day private discovery of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Golden Ring

Your Russia Getaway

Fill out the short trip survey to receive a personalized itinerary from a destination expert.

• Travel guide
• Before you go
• What to see

Russia Trip Planner

Learn about the dos and the don'ts for your amazing trip to Russia

• Our Partners
• Reservation Policies

Rated 9/10 on the Trustpilot review platform

• My itineraries
• Chat with us
• Trip survey

Groups & Agents

• For Suppliers

+1 (888) 744-6056

• North America : +1 (888) 744-6056
• Oceania and Australia : +61261888118

You are here

Moscow escorted tours.

• Tips & Highlights

Tour Reviews

• Other Destinations
• Related Posts

• Reset filters

Moscow Vacation Packages

Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and, most importantly, feel relaxed and immersed in the Russian culture at all times. Wondering what the ideal way to see the best of Moscow is? Well, with a private tour to Moscow, of course! We will listen to your travel preferences and prepare a custom Moscow itinerary just for you. Let's start talking about your upcoming vacation to the gorgeous capital city of Russia.

Moscow Tour Highlights

Explore the capital of the largest country in the world, Russia.

Learn about the most visited sights in Moscow that are worth adding to your Russian itinerary. Create a fantastic tour to Moscow with a destination, choosing your wished activities.

• Moscow walking tour
• The Red Square
• St Basil's Cathedral
• Moscow Subway ride
• Tretyakov Gallery
• The Red Square in Moscow
• The Bolshoi Theater
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• Moscow's Kremlin exploration
• 'Seven Sisters' Skyscrapers

Tips for Moscow Travel

Take a look at the good-to-know tips before visiting Moscow and have a fantastic time in the capital.

What to pack

Make sure to check the weather prognosis before your trip and pack accordingly.

When to travel

Moscow is beautiful all around the year. Choose traveling time according to preferred activities.

We suggest to always have some cash with you. You will need Rubles (RUB) for Russia.

How much to tip

Tipping is not required in Russia, but it's considered good etiquette, tip 10%-15% of your bill.

The average summer temperature is approx 18°C (64°F), and winter is around -6°C (22°F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Moscow are caviar, Krasnaya Moska perfume.

Best Moscow Sights

One of the highest points in Moscow and one of its most breathtaking places - the Sparrow Hills.

See the 344-feet Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the tallest Orthodox church in the world.

Enjoy masterpieces of Russian opera and ballet in Moscow's legendary Bolshoi Theater.

Being the most recognizable symbol of Russia in the world, Red Square is an absolute must see when in Moscow. 

The famous GUM is a large department store in the Kitai-gorod part of Moscow facing Red Square.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is Moscow’s most famous artistic work of architecture set in the romantic Red Square.

History and luxury is revealed inside the Kremlin as the Armoury Chamber displays treasures like Faberge Eggs.

The symbol of Moscow and entire Russia, the Kremlin is often described as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Moscow Metro is like a whole underground city that holds the world's largest collection of Stalinist Art.

I am very satisfied.

I have been using the Firebirds (Travel All Russia) services for a while. I am very satisfied.

WOW. From the choice of hotels to...

WOW. From the choice of hotels, an itinerary that ran to plan, the amazing Guides and drivers, and of course the stunning cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. No long queues for entry to museums, churches, and palaces.  I would gladly recommend using Firebird Tours (Travel All Russia) to anyone.

THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

I must say from the day I started to book my tip till the day I got home I had one GREAT trip and experience I always felt safe and cared for help was seconds away not that I needed any I will defiantly highly recommend your company to any traveler to Russia WELL DONE to the Whole team THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

We enjoyed the whole trip a lot

Overall we enjoyed the whole trip a lot. Moscow is beautiful and clean. Thank you very much for your patience and excellent organization of this tour. Everything ran very smoothly and according to schedule. The guides met us on time at hotels or at our train carriage on arrival. They all spoke good English, had a good local knowledge and were very kind and helpful.

The tour lived up to all expectations

I’m most pleased with Travel All Russia in arranging our ‘Volga Dream’ Russia tour, I would recommend using your services again as every aspect of our tour went off without a hitch. The communication between our tour representative was excellent as we required additional days on both ends of our tour. The visa process and the logistics were flawlessly implemented.

We had a great time in Moscow!

Everything was perfect and we are very satisfied with services and accommodations.

Loved my time in Russia

The trip was great. Especially want to mention the guides I had on the extra days were exceptional. Both guides and drivers worked out well. Thanks again for all your help and attention. Loved my time in Russia, and still haven’t stopped talking about it.

Exploring Magnificent Russian Capitals, June 2017

Just want to say that our guide in St Petersburg was really outstanding. You really felt like someone was looking after you. Very observant - knowledgeable. We really enjoyed time spent with her.

Exploring Vibrant Moscow, June 2017

The experience was great!!! We had an excellent guide. The hotel was fabulous.

Thank you for your help !!! was an unforgettable trip.

Related destinations

More about moscow.

• Call us now
• Request a call
• Chat on WhatsApp
• Start Live chat
• Contact via email

Moscow & St. Petersburg Small Group Tours Private Tour Packages Trans-Siberian Trips Russian River Cruises Moscow Tour Packages St. Petersburg Tours All Russia Tours

Why Travel to Russia Best Time to Visit Russia Russian Visa Information Tips Before Traveling Tips on Arrival Russian Currency Moscow Travel Guide Read More in Our Blog

Hermitage Museum Church of the Savior on Blood The Kremlin Sergiev Posad, Golden Ring Kizhi Island The Red Square Siberia Lake Baikal

Fla. Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST39939 All Rights Reserved © 2024 About Us | Testimonials  | Our Blog  |  Terms of Service  | Privacy Policy  

THE 10 BEST Moscow Tours & Excursions

Moscow tours.

• Private Tours
• Walking Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3rd Transport Ring (TTK)
• District Central (TsAO)
• Garden Ring
• Boulevard Ring
• Good for Big Groups
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Honeymoon spot
• Hidden Gems
• Adventurous
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Moscow Private Tours

2. Mosstreets

3. Moscow through the Eyes of an Engineer

4. Flotilla Radisson Royal

5. Moscow Free Tour

6. Bridge to Moscow

7. Spanish Guide Moscow - Day Tours

9. Go Russia Travel Company

10. City Pub Crawl Moscow

12. Trans-Siberian Railway Network

13. Moscow Navigator

14. Privilege Tour

15. Moscow River Boat Tours

16. Put-in Tours

17. Walks With Folks

18. Moscow Bike Tours

19. Real Russia

20. Moskovskiye Gulyaki

21. Happy Moscow Tours

22. Tour of Moscow - Day Tours

23. Kremlin Tour

25. Excursions in Russia

26. Three Whales

27. Sup-Club

28. Tsar Visit

29. Guia de Moscú

30. IdeaGuide - Your Personal Guide in Moscow

What travelers are saying