Grade 1

Uluru Base Walk (11km)

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Northern Territory

11km

3 hrs

Grade 3

Circuit

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Hike at a glance

Quick overview: Explore the heart of Australia with the Uluru Base Walk, located in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory. This 11km, Grade 3 moderate hike starts and ends at the Mala Car Park, taking you on a journey around the majestic monolith of Uluru. Experience unique cultural insights, vibrant ecosystems and geological wonders, including ancient rock art, the tranquil Mutitjulu Waterhole, and the awe-inspiring Lungkata Walk. Don't forget to take time to appreciate the spiritual significance of this sacred place for the Anangu Traditional Owners.

Hike length

Average duration

Trail Difficulty

Hike Type

Technical details

Max elevation: 616m
Min elevation: 507m
Total Ascent: 243m

Check current conditions
Track conditions, access and closures can change quickly due to weather, fire, maintenance or safety concerns. Always check the relevant land manager’s website before you visit. Trail Hiking Australia does not provide real-time track and closure monitoring, and land managers remain the authoritative source for current alerts, closures and access restrictions.

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Grade 3 (moderate) badge

Uneven terrain and steady climbs
These walks require a reasonable level of fitness and confidence on rough ground. Expect hills, rough surfaces, and sections with steps or short, steeper climbs.

While not technically difficult, these tracks are no longer "easy" and can feel demanding over distance, especially in heat or with a pack. Some bushwalking experience is recommended, particularly for managing footing and pacing. Distances can extend up to 20km.

Worth knowing: Many hikers underestimate Grade 3 when conditions change or fatigue sets in.

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Small oversights can compound quickly in Australian conditions. See how it happens in the Interactive Safety Scenarios. Then refer to the Hiking Safety Systems, planning calculators, and make sure a trusted contact has your trip plan before heading out.

Before you go, complete a trip intentions form and share it with a trusted contact. Agree on a Late-Back Time and ask them to call 000 (Police) if you have not checked in. A clear trip plan is one of the simplest and most effective safety steps you can take, and it only takes two minutes..

Planning something more serious? The comprehensive trip intentions form is designed for remote, overnight, and off-track trips where your emergency contact needs more detail. Register your advanced plans here →

Download the hiking preparation and safety checklists before leaving home to help you think through your plans. They help ensure important considerations are not overlooked and support safer decision-making on the trail.

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Need a rental car to get you to the hike? Find one here →

Get there with Google Maps

Find hotels, cabins, and campgrounds near the trailhead. Click the button below to open an interactive map automatically centred on this hike's location — no searching required.

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Or browse accommodation in nearby towns: Alice Springs, Curtin Springs, Kings Canyon, Yulara

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The map below shows the rain forecast for the trail area. Tap the toggle in the top right corner to explore other layers including wind, temperature, UV index, thunderstorms, fire danger, and weather warnings — all useful for planning a safe hike.

3 Reviews on “Uluru Base Walk (11km)”

Overall rating
  • Out of the three hikes we did at Uluru, the base walk offered a different perspective compared to the others (namely the Kings Canyon Rim and the Olgas Valley of the Winds).

    While being close to Uluru is awe-inspiring, some parts of the base walk can feel less engaging. The initial section is a significant distance from the rock and offers minimal shade. However, the diverse wildflowers along the trail were a pleasant surprise.

    In my opinion, the highlight of the walk is between the two carparks (likely the Lungkata section). Here, you’re close to Uluru’s base, surrounded by beautiful eucalyptus trees and birdsong. If you’re unsure about completing the entire loop, this section is a great option.

    The total distance is roughly 10-11 kilometers, and it took us 2 and a half hours, including plenty of photo breaks and a side trip to Kantju Gorge. We began at a moderate pace but picked it up towards the end (scenic flight back from Ayers Rock Resort loomed!).

    The walk itself is flat and easy. The main challenge is the lack of shade, so be prepared for extended sun exposure. Regular athletic shoes are perfectly suitable.

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Uluru base walk (11km) trail hiking australia

Trail Hiking Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we hike and pay respects to their Elders, past and present, and we acknowledge the First Nations people of other communities who may be here today.

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