Explore the Red Centre at Your Own Pace
Hiring a car is a great way to explore all the wonders of the Australian Red Centre, including Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Kings Canyon, and Alice Springs, at your own pace.
Schedule a convenient car hire pickup when you arrive at Ayers Rock Airport, and let the adventure begin.
Red Centre Itineraries
Gear up for an unforgettable road trip that takes you into Australia’s spiritual heart. Explore at your own pace, linger as long as you’d like, and experience the Red Centre’s stunning scenery, incredible culture, and a few hidden gems along the way. Fuel up, hop in, and find your drive.
Drive to Uluru
Uluru is just a 20-minute drive from Ayers Rock Resort. One of the best ways to explore Uluru once you arrive is to walk around the base of the ancient monolith, a moderate 10km stroll you can take on your own. A free ranger-guided Mala Walk departs daily at 8am between October and April, or 10am between May and September from the Mala car park.
Watch for car park signage around the base of Uluru, and remember to stay on marked paths and trails as you explore the park.
Visit Kata Tjuta
Kata Tjuta, meaning 'many heads' in the local Pitjantjatjara language, is located about 45 minutes' drive from Ayers Rock Resort, also within the national park. While access to most areas at Kata Tjuta are restricted to visitors, there are two walks available to the public, Walpa Gorge and Valley of the Winds.
Car park areas are clearly marked as you approach Kata Tjuta, and you’ll find public toilets located near the car park as well.
Beyond the Park
Here for a couple of days? Why not make your way to Kings Canyon, taking in many incredible sites along the way. From Ayers Rock Resort, King Canyon is approximately a 3.5 hour drive, covering 306 kilometres on sealed roads.
Time permitting, explore Central Australia on a drive out to the nearest town, Alice Springs. Located 450 kilometres from Ayers Rock Resort, approximately a 4.5 hour drive on sealed roads, it’s the largest town in central Australia and is surrounded by stunning landscapes perfect for exploring.
Fuelling Up
Fuel up at Yulara’s Shell service station – open daily from 7:00-20:00, located next to the resort at 257 Yulara Drive – then head out on your own to explore sandy red expanses at the nearby Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and beyond. The Shell has an ATM and a shop onsite for your convenience.
Have Fun Exploring!
