Following years of campaigning and limitless passion from the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, climbing to the summit of Uluru will be banned from October 26th, 2019. On the same day in 1985 the Australian government returned ownership of Uluru back to its traditional owners, the Anangu people. Now, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has decided to ban summit hikes to protect Uluru’s status as a sacred site and respect the ancestral beings that are believed to reside inside the fiery sandstone monument.
A new era for Uluru
“The land has law and culture. We welcome tourists here. Closing the climb is not something to feel upset about but a cause for celebration” says Uluru traditional owner and board chairman Sammy Wilson. “Let’s come together; let’s close it together.”
We’re 100% behind the move and couldn’t be happier for the Anangu people. But just because you’ll no longer be able to climb to the summit, it doesn’t mean you can’t experience the beauty of the heart and soul of the Red Centre. To get you inspired here’s 10 amazing ways to experience Uluru, without climbing to the summit.
- A simple stroll
One of the easiest, simplest and cheapest ways to enjoy Uluru is to stroll around its base. The 10-kilometre trail hugs the foot of the sandstone monolith, winding through grasslands, acacia forests and hidden caves. While the iconic view is of Uluru rising in the distance, nothing beats the sheer power of gazing up the ancient 836-metre rock.
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Image source: Ayers Rock Helicopters A bird’s eye view
Though Uluru was spectacular from the ground? Try a bird’s eye view? Only from the sky will you get a real feel for just how monumental the ancient sandstone rock actually is. With options to suit every budget Fly Uluru whisks passengers high above the fiery Red Centre desert.
- Cruise Uluru by Segway
From Singapore to Sydney, Segway tours are one of travel’s hottest new trends. And now Uluru is on the bandwagon. Run by Uluru Segway Tours, you’ll jump aboard self-balancing scooters (equipped for off-road adventures of course) and sail around one of Australia’s most incredible landscapes. As the company says, why walk when you can cruise?
- Sunrise splendour
There’s nothing quite as magical as watching Uluru shimmer in the glow of the rising sun. There are sunrise experiences for every budget, from extravagant Heritage Softail Harley-Davidson rides to budget friendly breakfast tours. For a no frills morning simply head to Imalung Lookout, where you’ll get stunning views of the crimson sunset.
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Image source: Sounds of Silence Sounds of Silence
Celebrating a special occasion? Nothing says outback luxury quite like the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner. Held at Ayers Rock Resort, you’ll enjoy a sumptuous night of food and wine under a canopy of Red Centre stars.
- Camel safaris
As the largest camel farm in Australia, Uluru Camel Tours is home to over 60 of the magnificent “ships of the desert.” As you trek over rolling red sand dunes you’ll be treated to cultural commentary, plenty of photo stops and of course, stunning views of Uluru.
- A sky full of stars
With almost zero light pollution and low humidity, the Red Centre offers some of Australia’s most enchanting stargazing opportunities. While Uluru is magnificent by day, there’s something utterly magical about seeing the outback sky ablaze with stars.
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Image source: Voyages Bush tucker journeys
Ever wanted to try a witchetty grub? Maybe you want to find out more about traditional bush herbs? Whatever your interests, bush tucker tours are guaranteed to tantalise your palate. Run by Ayers Rock Resort, Bush Tucker Journeys immerses visitors in the unique flavours of Indigenous food. Whether you wolf down a witchetty grub is entirely up to you…
- Guided cultural tours
Led by local rangers, the free 90-minute Mala Walk offers a unique glimpse at the significance of Uluru in traditional Anangu culture. From Dreamtime stories to rock art encounters, you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of the special place Uluru holds in the hearts of Indigenous Australians.
With so many incredible ways to experience Uluru, climbing to the summit really isn’t necessary. A huge congratulation to the Anangu people, and we look forward to ushering in a new era of tourism for the sacred Australian icon.
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