Rising over 300 metres, Uluru is a red sandstone monolith that sits in the middle of the Australian Red Desert.

Uluru is without a doubt one of the most photographable landmarks in Australia. But there are a few things to keep in mind while you’re visiting to respect the traditional owners of the land, the Anangu people.

Sensitive sites

There are some sensitive sites around Uluru. At these sites, it is requested that you do not take any photos or videos. A tour guide will inform you, and there are signs leading up to these sites. As you can’t take photos here, simply put away your phone or camera and take in the sights with your own eyes.

Photography tips

There are still plenty of opportunities to take photos of Uluru outside of the sensitive sites. Along walks, you’ll come across areas where you can take photos, capturing the details of the sandstone monolith and the surrounding areas.

  • Bring your camera

Without a doubt, if you have a camera, you will want to bring it, along with your best lenses, a good tripod, and a cleaning cloth to remove the sand. If you don’t have these, your phone will work just as well to capture the magnificence that is Uluru.

  • Remember the road rules

Sometimes as you’re driving along, you can see a great photo opportunity. If you plan to stop to capture a photo, make sure your car is parked where there are white lines.

  • See the sunrise and sunset

Some of the best photo opportunities in Uluru are at sunrise and sunset. There are plenty of different locations to capture the perfect sunrise and sunset photos of Uluru. For both, the best spots are from the Kata Tjuta dune viewing area. For sunrise, you can go to Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, and for the sunset, there is the Uluru car sunset viewing area.

We recommend arriving early to get the best spot as these areas can get crowded, especially during peak season.

Are there tours available? 

There are different tours available to Uluru and the surrounding areas. From 1-day trips to multi-day tours, you’ll surely find something that best suits you and your budget. On these tours, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to take photos of Uluru and the surrounding landscape.

  • 1-day tour from Alice Springs

Departing from Alice Springs, this tour takes you towards Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park first thing in the morning. On arrival, you’ll learn about the traditional owners’ history and culture at the Cultural Centre. Next, you take on the Mala Walking Trail with a guide and another walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole.

Finish the evening with a beautiful Uluru sunset along with wine and dinner before traveling back to Alice Springs.

  • Sunset and sacred sites

This 1-day tour takes you around the base of Uluru on a coach tour, with a guide telling you information and history about the monolith. Afterwards, you’ll walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole and see the Aboriginal rock art, before making your way to the Cultural Centre. Finally, it’s time to watch the Uluru sunset, where you’ll have some nibbles and wine.

  • 4-day tour 

Spend 4 days exploring some of the best parts of Australia’s Red Centre. On the 4-day tour, you’ll see Uluru, explore Kings Canyon, learn about the traditional owner’s culture, and so much more.
On the first day, you’ll head down to Kata Tjuta (The Olga’s) and hike around the giant domes before you enjoy the beautiful sunset over Uluru.

You’ll start the second day by waking up early for a stunning sunrise over Uluru before you make your way to the rock itself to do the base walk. Later in the day, you’ll visit the Cultural Centre to learn about the traditional owners and purchase some handcrafted souvenirs.

On day 3, you’ll do a beautiful hike around Kings Canyon where you’ll see the hidden rock pools and a range of native flora and fauna. In the evening, you’ll have free time to do your own activity (sunset camel cruise, Wintjiri Wiru drone display, or Field of Lights) or watch the Uluru sunset again.

On your final day, you’ll pack up your campsite and head off on your next adventure. Snacks and meals are provided throughout the tour.

As you’re packing your bags for Uluru, don’t forget to bring your cameras! Always remember to be respectful of sensitive sites and avoid taking photos.

 

Cameron Ward
Cameron Ward
Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward began with a passion for travel and turned it into a thriving tourism business. He co-founded Sightseeing Tours Australia after starting out as a tour guide in Melbourne. Cameron delights in helping visitors get the most from their trip to Australia. Whether he's leading tours or writing about his favourite places, Cameron loves sharing his local insight with fellow travellers.

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