The Uluru Base Walk
To truly know Uluru, walk it — a flat 10 km loop past waterholes, rock art and sheer walls that shift with the light, experienced with respect for the Anangu.
The Uluru Base Walk
To truly know Uluru, walk it. The Base Walk is a flat loop of about 10 km that traces the foot of the rock, passing quiet waterholes, ancient rock art and sheer walls that shift colour with the light. Up close the monolith is anything but smooth — caves, ripples and hollows carry the stories of the Tjukurpa. Since the climb was permanently closed in 2019, this is how visitors meet Uluru: slowly, on foot, and with respect for the Anangu who have cared for this Country for tens of thousands of years.
What You’ll See
~10 km, Flat
A gentle 10 km circuit of the base — allow three to four hours in the cool of the morning.
Mutitjulu Waterhole
Still, green pools at the base, alive with the stories of the Tjukurpa.
Ancient Galleries
Ochre rock art in shaded shelters — some sites have photography restrictions.
Mala & Kuniya
Two short walks take in the finest sections in under an hour each.
Base Walk Tips
- Start at first light — desert days are hot; carry plenty of water
- The climb is permanently closed — the base walk is the way to experience Uluru
- Respect signposted photography restrictions at sacred sites
- Short on time? Do the Mala or Kuniya walk instead
- Pair it with sunrise or sunset, or a guided base walk tour
Base Walk — FAQ
How long is the Uluru Base Walk?
The full loop is about 10 km and largely flat, tracing the base of the rock past waterholes, rock art and its ever-changing faces. Most walkers allow around three to four hours; start early to beat the heat.
Are there shorter walks?
Yes — the shorter Mala and Kuniya walks take in some of the finest sections, including rock art and the Mutitjulu waterhole, in under an hour each. They’re ideal if the full loop is too long.
Can you climb Uluru instead?
No. Out of respect for the Anangu Traditional Owners, for whom Uluru is deeply sacred, the climb was permanently closed in October 2019. Walking the base is the way to experience the rock — up close, and far more rewarding.
Are there photography restrictions?
Some sacred sites along the walk have signposted photography restrictions requested by the Anangu — please respect them. Elsewhere the base is wonderful to photograph. Read our respecting Uluru guide.
When is the best time to walk?
Set out at first light: desert days are hot and the early hours are cool and quiet. Carry plenty of water. See the best time to visit.
Uluru, Planned Around You
Sunrise and sunset over Uluru, the base walk, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon — experienced with respect for Anangu culture, and with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
Call 0409 661 342 Plan My Trip — Free Enquiry