Welcome to the Jersey Gypsy column, where our resident travel reporter, Valentina, roams the globe in pursuit of stories.
Planning a trip to Australia, I knew I couldn’t skip the Outback. Ayers Rock, or Uluru, was a name that kept popping up – famous, yes, but I wanted to see beyond its postcard reputation.
What makes it so special? That’s what I aimed to find out.
In my travels, I’m always after those moments when a place truly reveals itself beyond the tourist brochures. So, armed with curiosity and my trusty notebook, I set off to experience Uluru up close.
Here’s the story of my time at Ayers Rock – through the lens of a traveler eager to uncover the real stories and unexpected highlights of one of Australia’s most talked-about destinations.
First Days at the Ayers Rock Resort
I flew to Uluru from Melbourne, a journey that took a little over 3 hours. As expected, the Ayers Rock Airport was small and easy to navigate. What caught me off guard, though, was the intense heat as I stepped off the plane – so, trust me, staying hydrated is a must during your visit.
The airport was about 20 minutes away from the place I booked in Ayers Rock Resort. Now, when I say “Resort,” it’s actually the name of the town – it’s a mini-town with a variety of hotels, apartments, and even campsites that you can book.
I stayed at The Lost Camel Hotel, a mid-range option that perfectly captured the quirky, retro vibe of 1970s accommodations, yet had a modern feel to it. I was very happy that the hotel was close to everything – shops, cafes, restaurants, everything was just a few minutes away.
For those on a tighter budget, the Outback Pioneer Lodge offers a range of accommodations that suit the needs of adventurers looking to maximize their travel funds.
Located conveniently within the Ayers Rock Resort, it provides easy access to essential services and facilities, making it an ideal choice for travelers who plan to spend their days exploring and their evenings relaxing in a comfortable, no-frills setting.
Rich Cultural Heritage in Uluru and What to Expect
Visiting Uluru, I was immediately struck by its mix of history and spirituality. This sacred site, revered by the Anangu people, connects deeply to one of the world’s oldest living cultures. During my visit, I had the opportunity to speak with several Anangu locals who shared insights into their rich traditions and spiritual connections to the land.
Wanting to soak in Uluru’s peaceful early morning atmosphere, I opted for a sunrise viewing. There’s something truly special about watching the first light touch this ancient landscape. Standing there as the sun peeked over the horizon, the colors shifting across the rock face, it was easy to feel a deep connection to the land.
Of course, I jumped at the chance to join a free walking tour led by an indigenous guide while at Uluru. It felt essential to hear the Dreamtime stories firsthand and learn about Anangu’s cultural connection to the site. The guide’s storytelling about their creation myths and the importance of Uluru made the landscape come alive in a whole new way.
My Favourites Eats When Visiting Ayers Rock
Now, I’m not gonna lie; dining out in Uluru can be a bit pricey. I mean, you’re in the middle of the outback, so everything has to be flown in.
What’s great is that there’s a decent grocery store in the town square. This was where I stocked up on essentials like bread, cheese, fruit, and snacks. I basically lived off supermarket sandwiches and salads for most of my stay, which saved me some cash.
But of course, I couldn’t resist trying a few restaurants for some food and drinks. Of course, nothing compared to Melbourne’s speakeasy bars, Ayers Rock still has some decent food and drink options. Here are the ones that tickled my fancy:
- Arnguli Grill at Desert Gardens: I considered staying at the Desert Gardens Hotel, which is why I knew about this restaurant. I tried their Handmade Ricotta Gnocchi ($40) and Rum N Date Pudding ($22) for dessert.
- Outback BBQ and Bar: This casual restaurant was perfect for a laid-back lunch or dinner. They had a great selection of burgers, steaks, and salads, all cooked on an open grill. Overall, great place for a quick lunch or dinner.
Hiking and Other Activities in the Ayers Rock
No trip to Uluru is complete without a hike around the rock’s base. There are trails you can take, but I had to experience it all and went with the Uluru base walk. This 6.5-mile walk took me around 4 hours to complete – I started early, so I still had enough daylight to enjoy the pool at my hotel.
Throughout my travels across Australia, few experiences have matched the unique blend of adventure and culture found in Uluru. While hiking around the iconic rock formations is a must, the area offers much more to do, especially activities that honor the true culture of the land.
Another unforgettable experience was the Field of Light installation. Walking among thousands of shimmering lights under the stars truly felt like stepping into another world.
This Is Why I’d Love to Go Back
My Ulutu trip was definitely one for the books.
I left the place feeling humbled and inspired. I would love to return someday and explore more of the surrounding area – maybe I’ll try staying at one of the campsites or splurge on a luxury tent with a private plunge pool.
If you’re considering visiting, I’m just excited for you. It’s the perfect place to take a break from your busy life in the city or squeeze in a nature trip in between your city strolls in Australia.
Recently, I also visited Narawntapu National Park, which was also one of the most amazing experiences I’ve ever had.
Trip to Ayers Rock – FAQs
When is the best time to visit Uluru?
The best time to visit Uluru is during the dry season (April to October) when the weather is mild and sunny. However, flights and accommodations are usually cheaper from June to August.
What should I pack for a trip to Uluru?
Pack comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water. You may also want to bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
Are there any restrictions on photography at Uluru?
Yes, there are some restrictions on photography at Uluru. It is important to respect the Anangu culture and avoid taking photos of sacred sites without permission.
