When I decided to walk around the base of Uluru, I didn’t quite realise I was signing up for an 11km trek. 😅 I knew it would take a while, so I packed some water, laced up my comfiest shoes, and brought along a good dose of curiosity and excitement to see this sacred place up close.
Was it worth it? Absolutely. One of the best things I’ve ever done.
What makes the base walk so special?
Uluru is beautiful from afar — that glowing, iconic silhouette against the desert sky — but walking around the base is a whole other experience. You see the details up close. The way the colour shifts as the light changes. The textures and curves of the rock. The peaceful, sacred feeling in the air. It’s really hard to explain just how sacred that is.
There are signs along the way sharing cultural knowledge and stories, and several sacred sites where photography isn’t allowed (you’ll see signs for these, and it’s important to respect them). There are even a few places where you’re allowed to gently touch the rock, which felt really moving.
How hard is the walk, really?
Let me be honest: I’m not a regular bushwalker or particularly sporty person, and I found the walk very doable. It’s long, yes — but the track is flat, and you can go at your own pace.
I was definitely tired by the end, and a little sore (hey hips!) but nothing that a little rest couldn’t fix.
We stopped along the way to explore spots like Kantju Gorge and Mutitjulu Waterhole, and just under three hours later, we were done (and 17,000 steps richer).
If walking isn’t your thing, there are other great options too:
- 🚲 Hire a bike (around $80 pp)
- 🛴 Join a Segway tour (around $189 pp)
- 👨👩👧👦 Or just do part of the base walk — you don’t have to commit to the full loop
What you’ll need
Here’s what I recommend bringing:
- Exercise gear (you want to be comfortable walking 11km! Wear layers in winter)
- Comfy walking shoes (proper ones — it’s not the place for Birks or thongs!)
- Water bottles (there are refill stations along the way)
- Hat and sunscreen
- Fly net (we didn’t need one this time of year, but it’s usually essential)
- Snacks if you think the kids will need fuel
- Camera or phone — but keep in mind: some areas are sacred and shouldn’t be photographed
The details:
🟠 Length: Around 11km
🟠 Time it took us: Just under 3 hours
🟠 Steps clocked: ~17,000
🟠 Where to start: We began at the Mala Walk (you can go either direction — it’s a loop)
🟠 Toilets: Two bathroom stops along the way
🟠 Accessibility: Flat track suitable for prams, wheelchairs and bikes (though most parts are unsealed)
A few final tips:
- Go early in the day to beat the heat (and the crowds)
- Bring a light jumper if it’s cooler — but you probably won’t need your puffer like I did 🙃
- Take your time — this isn’t a race, it’s an experience
Final thoughts
This was one of those “once in a lifetime” things for me. I’ve seen Uluru in photos my whole life, but nothing compares to walking alongside it, feeling the stillness, and soaking in the stories of Country.
If you’re thinking about it — and your body will allow — do the walk. You won’t regret it. 🧡
We traveled as guests of Explore Uluru.
