Things To Do
in Yulara
Yulara is a purpose-built resort town on the edge of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park in the Northern Territory. It serves as the main base for exploring the Red Centre, offering a range of lodging from luxury hotels to comfortable stays. The area blends Indigenous culture, desert landscapes, and modern convenience in a compact, visitor-friendly zone.
Visitors can experience awe-inspiring monoliths, clear desert skies, and art that celebrates Anangu country.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up before dawn to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Uluru, with the vibrant colors painting the rock formation in shades of orange and red. As the sun rises, enjoy a warm cup of coffee or tea while soaking in the serene atmosphere of the Australian outback. Capture stunning photographs as the light changes and the landscape awakens around you.
After a hearty lunch at a local café, embark on the base walk around Uluru, which spans approximately 10 kilometers. Discover the cultural significance of the site as you stop at various points along the walk to learn about its sacred importance to the Anangu people. The afternoon sun provides perfect lighting for photography, allowing you to appreciate the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the area.
As dusk approaches, prepare for the iconic Sounds of Silence dinner under the stars. Experience an unforgettable evening with a gourmet bush tucker-inspired meal while listening to the sounds of the desert. End your night by stargazing, where the clear skies reveal a spectacular display of stars, planets, and the Milky Way.
Begin your day at the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre to learn about the rich heritage of the Anangu people through interactive exhibits and art displays. Participate in a guided tour to deepen your understanding of traditional customs and the significance of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Engage with local artists and perhaps pick up a unique piece of Aboriginal art to take home.
Spend your afternoon exploring the walking trails around Kata Tjuta, also known as the Olgas, where you can hike the Valley of the Winds trail. The breathtaking views of the domes and the diverse wildlife along the way will leave you in awe of nature's beauty. Make sure to take breaks to appreciate the unique rock formations and the vibrant colors of the Australian landscape.
Return to Yulara for a relaxing dinner at one of the local restaurants, where you can savor Australian cuisine with a modern twist. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in the peaceful ambiance of the desert night. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of native wildlife as they come out to play under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 AUD |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 AUD |
| 🍽️Restaurant main course (mid-range) | $25-60 AUD |
| 🚗Car rental (per day) | $60-120 AUD |
| 🗺️Local SIM card / data | $10-40 AUD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Uluru and Kata Tjuta
- Stunning desert landscapes
- Efficient resort-focused amenities
- Rich Indigenous culture and stories
- Remote location with limited nightlife
- Extreme heat in summer
- Limited dining options outside resort venues
Places to Visit in Yulara
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic spot to catch the first light hitting the rock with silhouettes of park visitors and the desert in the foreground.
Breathtaking colors as the rock shifts from pink to deep orange with the vast desert sky.
Rugged beehive domes provide dramatic lines for wide-shot landscape photography.
Close-up shots of the waterhole with the rock formation behind; ideal for late afternoon light.
A surreal light installation that glows softly and makes for magical night photography (arrange a viewing time in advance).
Food in Yulara
Yulara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional damper bread infused with native bush tomato and wattleseed, often served warm at resort cafés.
Must-Try!
Leaner red meat prepared with native fruit glaze, commonly available at Arnguli Grill.
Rare tourist-friendly dish featuring emu meat and foraged greens.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Occasional local markets near the Ayers Rock Resort where you can buy bush medicines, artwork, and some light snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Ask permission before entering cultural spaces; avoid photographing sacred sites or people without consent.
Climbing Uluru is now prohibited; respect park rules and instructive signs.
Dress modestly in sacred areas; speak softly in spiritual spaces; follow guides’ instructions during tours.
Safety
Tipping in Yulara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Australia; many service charges are included, but you may tip for exceptional service in bars or dining softly (about 5–10%).
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is also accepted where available; contactless payments common; ATMs available at major resorts.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days (often 35–45°C). Plan early morning activities or late afternoon; carry water, sun protection, and light clothing; afternoon storms can occur.
Gentle temperatures, clear skies, and comfortable conditions for hiking and photography.
Mild days with cold nights; bring warm layers; some nights can dip below freezing.
Warm days with blooming desert flora; good visibility for scenic views.
Yulara at Night
Hiking in Yulara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A 10.6 km circuit around Uluru with close-up views and cultural sites.
A challenging 7.4 km circuit through the domes with panoramic scenery.
A shorter 2 km stroll to a sacred site near the Cultural Centre.
Airports
How to reach Yulara by plane.
Main airport for Yulara; direct flights from major Australian cities; transfers to the resort by shuttle or taxi.
Alternative regional airport about 450-500 km away; longer drive or fly via AYQ.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Domestic and international visitors flock to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Indigenous community with deep ties to the land and strong cultural presence in tours and art.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular during summer with local clubs and casual games.
Occasional local matches and social leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Yulara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most resort restaurants offer vegetarian mains and sides; for the best choice, ask for chef recommendations and request sauces on the side. If staying in a self-contained unit, you can supplement with grocery options at the resort.
Ask for vegan adaptations; many dishes can be prepared without dairy or meat by customizing sauces.
Most venues can accommodate gluten-free diets; verify cross-contamination precautions with staff.