posted on May 23, 2024
The Adelaide to Uluru drive promises to deliver some of Australia’s most breathtaking scenery. From rugged landscapes, mountain ranges, and lush rainforests, you’ll be stunned by Australia’s iconic attractions, renowned national parks, and rich cultural heritage on this epic outback adventure.
Whether you’re looking to explore popular attractions in South Australia’s capital before venturing into the outback, or you want to soak up the natural beauty of the Red Centre, this road trip is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience. No matter what your travel preferences, we have the ultimate Adelaide to Uluru drive itinerary to suit your needs.
In this complete guide, we’ll be covering:
- An overview of the Adelaide to Uluru drive
- Your road trip map from Adelaide to Uluru
- Tips for driving from Adelaide to Uluru
- The top driving itineraries for the Adelaide to Uluru drive
- The top places to stop between Adelaide and Uluru
- Frequently asked questions about the Adelaide to Uluru drive
Plan your drive: An overview of the Adelaide to Uluru drive
Before you hit the road, here are all the quick-fire stats you need to know about this interstate road trip that will see you travel through the country’s famed Outback.
- Route options:
- Adelaide to Uluru explorer (8 days): 1,970 kilometres, 20 hours and 45 minutes total driving time
- The ultimate Adelaide to Darwin adventure (14 days): 4,173 kilometres, 43 hours and 13 minutes total driving time
- Top stops: Flinders Ranges, Port Augusta, Woomera, Coober Pedy, Marla, Kings Canyon, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Clare Valley.
- Best time to drive from Adelaide to Uluru: Temperatures in the Northern Territory can soar during the summer months, so it’s best to make the Adelaide to Uluru drive during the cooler months of July to September. Though it can be chilly during this time of year when the sun sets, you will beat the crowds that tend to gather at outdoor attractions and national parks during summer.
Tip from the author: The Northern Territory has several festivals throughout the year, so you may want to plan your road trip around these dates. Key events include Partjima (a festival in light) held in Alice Springs for ten nights in May or April, which celebrates Aboriginal art, culture, and storytelling. The Alice Desert Festival, which typically takes place in August or September, includes music concerts and film screenings along with art exhibitions, while the Finke Desert Race is held over the Queen’s Birthday long weekend in June and is one of Australia’s most famous off-road racing events.
Adelaide to Uluru drive time
The direct route drive from Adelaide to Uluru will take approximately 16 hours and 16 minutes hours, however, this is driving time and doesn’t include any detours or stops made along the way.
Adelaide to Uluru road trip distance
The drive from Adelaide to Uluru covers a distance of 1,581 kilometres (via the National Highway A1 and Stuart Highway).
Road trip from Adelaide to Uluru map
What to know before you go: Tips for the road trip from Adelaide to Uluru
As you depart South Australia and venture further into the Outback, the terrain changes considerably. You’ll go from smooth, well-maintained roads to having to navigate wildlife as well as heavy passing road trips. With this in mind, consider these expert tips to ensure a seamless and stress-free driving experience.
Driving conditions and staying safe on the roads
If you’re driving from Adelaide to Uluru, you can expect a range of road conditions for your journey as you venture out of the city and further into the Outback. With a significant distance to cover, we suggest planning ahead to avoid any unnecessary stress and potential delays.
- Share the drive: Stay alert behind the wheel by taking plenty of breaks and sharing the drive with a second driver. If taking on the road trip alone, be sure to pull over frequently to stretch your legs and refuel every two hours.
- Avoid driving at peak times: The summer months between December and February are peak tourist season, so you can expect the roads to be busy. If possible, avoid tackling this road trip during peak season.
- Book a car: If you’re not using your own vehicle, consider booking a hire car in Adelaide (or South Australia more broadly) that suits your preferences and travel needs.
- Check fuel levels before departure: Given the remote nature of some areas on this drive, you need to carry supplies with you at all times. Petrol stations in the outback can be difficult to find or located at a sizeable distance from each other. Be sure to check fuel levels and road conditions before departing for your next stop for the duration of your journey.
- Consider a national parks pass: If you want to experience the beauty of nature in the Northern Territory’s stunning national parks, consider purchasing a Park Pass for access. You’ll also need a pass if you want to visit Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, which can be purchased online. In addition to paying for entry, the money for passes also helps to maintain the park’s facilities, preserve its beauty and cultural history, and support the traditional owners and their community.
Tip from the author: Driving in the outback, you can expect to come across plenty of Australian wildlife like kangaroos and other animals roaming on and near the roads. Drive at a safe speed that leaves adequate time for braking. It’s also best to avoid driving at night, which is when wildlife is most active and poses a greater risk to your safety.
Petrol stations and EV chargers along the way
You’ll find plenty of petrol stations located throughout the drive from Adelaide to Uluru, including Port Wakefield and Port Pirie, before you come to the Northern Territory, where roadhouses also sell fuel and supplies along the route.
For those driving an EV, fast chargers can be found throughout the drive, including Yulara, which is just a short drive from Uluru. That said, the infrastructure is less developed in certain areas, so consider using an app like PlugShare that can alert you to the location and distance between each EV charging station so you’re well prepared.
What kind of vehicle is best for this epic road trip?
The best vehicle for your road trip depends on what you feel comfortable driving and where you want to visit.
With sealed roads throughout the drive, a small car or compact SUV like the Land Rover Range Rover Sport is more than capable of seeing you through the journey. On Turo, you can browse a wide selection of vehicles to suit your travel needs and itinerary.
Choose your Adelaide to Uluru road trip itinerary
Option 1: Adelaide to Uluru explorer (8-day road trip itinerary)
- Driving time: 20 hours and 45 minutes of driving
- Driving distance: 1,970 kilometres
- Day-by-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Adelaide to Clare Valley (1 hour 48 minutes, 142 kilometres)
- Day 2: Clare Valley to Mount Remarkable National Park (1 hour 34 minutes, 148 kilometres)
- Day 3: Mount Remarkable National Park to Glendambo (3 hours 34 minutes, 339 kilometres)
- Day 4: Glendambo to Coober Pedy (2 hours 36 minutes, 254 kilometres)
- Day 5: Coober Pedy to Kulgera (4 hours 9 minutes, 414 kilometres)
- Day 6: Kulgera to Kings Canyon (3 hours 33 minutes, 348 kilometres)
- Day 7: Kings Canyon to Uluru (3 hours 27 minutes, 324 kilometres)
- Day 8: Explore Uluru
- Best for: Nature lovers looking to take in the top attractions South Australia’s capital has to offer before exploring the Outback and Uluru’s rich Aboriginal heritage.
Don’t venture out of South Australia before enjoying its top sights. From its thriving art scene to incredible cafes and restaurants, spend time at the Adelaide Botanic Gardens and Central Markets before visiting Clare Valley, where you can enjoy wine tastings amidst unbeatable views. At Mount Remarkable National Park, be sure to visit Alligator Gorge which has stunning scenery.
In the opal mining town of Coober Pedy, take a tour of its mines and underground homes or drive up to Big Winch Scenic View Cafe for views over the entire town. You’ll need plenty of time to explore Kings Canyon, where you can visit the Watarrka National Park or camp at Kings Creek Station for a view of the stars.
Next, you’ll find yourself entranced by the magic rock that is Uluru and the magnificent Kata Tjuta, a rock formation that’s one of many sacred sites to the local Anangu people. Be sure to visit the Cultural Centre, where helpful visitor guides will tell you the best places to visit, suggest guided tours to learn more about the rich culture and traditional owners of the land and inform you of when to do the Uluru base walk.
Option 2: The ultimate Adelaide to Darwin adventure via Uluru (14-day road trip itinerary)
- Driving time: 43 hours and 13 minutes of driving
- Driving distance: 4,173 kilometres
- Day-by-day itinerary:
- Day 1: Adelaide to Pimba (5 hours 17 minutes, 483 kilometres)
- Day 2: Pimba to Coober Pedy (3 hours 46 minutes, 368 kilometres)
- Day 3: Coober Pedy to Kulgera (4 hours 9 minutes, 414 kilometres)
- Day 4: Kulgera to Uluru (3 hours 34 minutes, 343 kilometres)
- Day 5: Explore Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
- Day 6: Uluru to Kings Canyon (3 hours 25 minutes, 324 kilometres)
- Day 7: Kings Canyon to Alice Springs (3 hours 31 minutes, 332 kilometres)
- Day 8: Explore Alice Springs
- Day 9: Alice Springs to Devils Marbles (4 hours 4 minutes, 412 kilometres)
- Day 10: Devils Marbles to Daly Waters (5 hours 8 minutes, 502 kilometres)
- Day 11: Daly Waters to Katherine (2 hours 50 minutes, 276 kilometres)
- Day 12: Katherine to Kakadu (3 hours 10 minutes, 309 kilometres)
- Day 13: Kakadu to Litchfield National Park (3 hours 5 minutes, 304 kilometres)
- Day 14: Litchfield National Park to Darwin (1 hour 14 minutes, 106 kilometres)
- Best for: Travellers and nature lovers with more time to spare. You’ll soak up all the natural beauty the region is known for and venture further as you take in Darwin’s top attractions.
Before visiting Coober Pedy, stop at Pimba via Port Augusta to soak up the small town friendliness. Then, make your way to Kulgera before finally visiting Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park with its unforgettable sunsets.
You’ll want a full day to experience the beauty of Uluru, where you can also visit the Maruku Arts gallery at the Culture Centre for an exhibition of traditional Aboriginal art and crafted tools. Then, visit Kings Canyon, where you can complete the Kings Canyon rim walk for panoramic views and wildlife spotting. In Alice Springs, visit the Alice Springs Reptile Centre and Alice Springs Desert Park or take a detour to the West MacDonnell Ranges, where you can take a refreshing dip in the natural waterhole Ellery Creek Big Hole.
Next, you’ll head to Karlu Karlu (Devil’s Marbles), with its unique rock formations, before driving to Daly Waters. You can enjoy nearby detours, including a walk through Jim Rennie Memorial Park or a pit-stop at Lake Woods. Then, visit Katherine and Nitmiluk Gorge, where you can enjoy incredible hikes under waterfalls.
At Kakadu, you’ll find Kakadu National Park with its swimming holes and crocodile tours before arriving at Litchfield National Park with incredible scenery, hiking trails, and waterfalls leading to secluded swimming spots. When you arrive in Darwin, continue to soak up the incredible scenery with a trip to the Territory Wildlife Park, Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory and Aboriginal tours.
Top places to stop between Adelaide and Uluru
Best national parks between Adelaide and Uluru
Fancy a hike with panoramic views of Australia’s diverse landscape? Check out these picturesque national parks dotted along the drive from Adelaide to Uluru.
- Kanku Breakaways Conservation Park: A must-see for those visiting Coober Pedy, this sacred site is situated on the traditional lands of the Antakirinja Matuntjara Yankunytjatjara Aboriginal people and features colourful rock formations in an arid landscape that changes colours with the sun.
- Flinders Ranges National Park: Located just over five hours from Adelaide, Flinders Ranges National Park is not to be missed. With incredible mountain ranges, breathtaking views, gorges, and a natural ampitheatre, its natural beauty will leave a lasting impression.
- Gawler Ranges National Park: Northwest of Port Augusta, Gawler Ranges National Park has rocky gorges, vast plains, and volcanic landscapes that will have you feeling like you’re on another planet. With its unique outback landscape, it makes for an incredible visit and with off-roading tracks, those in a 4WD will have plenty to explore.
- Kings Canyon National Park: Known for its sandstone cliffs and the rim walk which gives visitors sweeping views of the surrounding area, Kings Canyon National Park is a must for those venturing to the Northern Territory and beyond.
- Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: Home to Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) – massive rock formations that hold significance for Indigenous Australians – Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is a must visit for anyone. From breathtaking sunsets and sunrises to guided tours offering insights into the cultural heritage of the site, there’s much to explore here.
Best foodie destinations between Adelaide and Uluru
From local flavours and fresh produce to Australia’s top wineries, we’ve rounded up the best dining destinations to add to your route when making the journey from Adelaide to Uluru.
- Jim Barry Wines: Located in South Australia’s Clare Valley, this renowned winery offers tastings of its exceptional produce that includes Rieslings, Shirazes and Cabernet Sauvignons. You’ll be able to sip and savour flavours while enjoying mesmerising views of the vineyards.
- Lookout Cave: In Coober Pedy, this underground motel and restaurant offers a unique experience to those who visit.
- Sounds of Silence: Treat yourself to an award-winning outdoor dining experience in Yulara with Sounds of Silence. The bush tucker-inspired cuisine isn’t complete without a didgeridoo performance, all of which is performed under the stars.
- Tali Wiru: Specialising in seasonal produce and fresh flavours, Tali Wiru treats guests to delicious meals overlooking the rugged landscape. You’ll be treated to only the best native ingredients, all of which is paired with premium Australian wine.
- Pira Pool Bar: In the mood for something a little more casual? Relax poolside at Sails in the Desert and treat yourself to a cocktail (or two) and some share plates or light meals thanks to Pira Pool Bar.
Adelaide to Uluru drive: Frequently asked questions
Can you complete the Adelaide to Uluru drive in reverse?
Of course, you can! Simply reverse the itinerary outlined above and you’ll be treated to an incredible Northern Territory road trip itinerary as you drive towards South Australia. From there, you can keep the road trip going with an epic day trip from Adelaide.
Can I get a flight from Adelaide to Uluru?
Yes, you can fly from Adelaide to Ayers Rock (Uluru). Several airline operators offer direct flights between the two, with a flight duration of six hours and five minutes.
What’s the closest airport to Uluru?
The closest airport to Uluru is the tiny Ayers Rock Airport, located near Yulara. This is just a short drive from Uluru and typically takes about 20 minutes. You can also get a two-hour flight from Adelaide to Alice Springs, which is the nearest town to Uluru. Though it makes for a five-hour drive from Alice Springs to Uluru, there are connecting flights. This is also a great option for those looking to soak up the scenery of Alice Springs.
Is it worth driving from Adelaide to Uluru?
Absolutely! No matter which routes you choose or the stops made along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to explore the surrounding region. Whether you want to hike through Australia’s top national parks or learn more about the rich Aboriginal culture with a guided tour, this is sure to be a memorable road trip for all.
Final advice for the Adelaide to Uluru drive of a lifetime
It may be a multi-day adventure, but the Adelaide to Uluru drive promises an unforgettable road trip filled with gastronomic delights at South Australia’s world-renowned wineries and restaurants and stunning panoramic views of the diverse landscapes. From rolling hills and open plains to the lush greenery of the mountain ranges and turquoise waters found in charming coastal towns, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Sure to leave an impression on every travel enthusiast, it’s not hard to see why this road trip sits high atop the list of many a local and international tourist alike. Want to secure the perfect ride for your Adelaide to Uluru road trip? With Turo, you’ll find unique cars you can’t find anywhere else, ready to be delivered to you from a local Turo host.
Jess Campbell
Jess is Sydney-based and loves the outdoors. While she likes to think she has what it takes to compete on ‘ALONE’, her survival skills need some work. Born in Singapore and raised in South Africa, she’s hiked across Ireland, surfed in Hawaii, spent six months in Kenya and covered much of Africa. Having spent a year in the north of Spain, she’s resolved to come back to tackle the Camino de Santiago. Until then, you can find her providing the best snacks and playlists on Aussie road trips.
