Witnessing Uluru at sunset is a breeze thanks to specially located viewing areas.
You haven’t truly experienced Australia until you’ve watched the sun dip below the horizon, casting its warm glow over the iconic red monolith of Uluru. Some consider it a rite of passage for visitors to Australia. Nestled in the breathtaking Red Centre of the country, this colossal rock formation is truly awe-inspiring. By day, it gleams under the Australian sun, while at night, it stages a performance that etches itself into your memory.
Over the course of a few hours, the remarkable landmark undergoes a striking transformation, transitioning from vibrant orange to deep red and rich black under the starlit sky. Watching this spectacle is one of the most popular ways to soak in the beauty of this region.
Where to View the Sunset
The most popular viewing platform to watch the sunset from is Talinguru Nyakunytjaku. This 360-degree lookout offers panoramic views of both Uluru and the nearby Kata Tjuta.
From here, you can watch the performance from one of three shelters. Alternatively, there are two exposed viewing platforms and a few kilometres of walking track you can meander down to find the perfect spot to watch from. Though it gets busy, you’ll be able to find your own slice of quiet paradise to watch the sunset from. Wherever you are you’ll have an uninterrupted view of Uluru and Kata Tjuta as they undergo their nightly transformation.
Check out our Uluru Sunset Tour!
Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing
If it’s Kata Tjuta you want to experience, head to the Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing platform. Prepare to be amazed by the towering rock domes, also known as The Olgas.
This is the perfect place to get 360-degree views of the landmark as the sun goes down. From here, you can witness the changing colour of the landscape with the silhouette of Uluru on the horizon ahead. It is also a particularly quiet place to watch the sunset from.
If you’re planning a visit to see the sunset at Kata Tjuta, ensure your timing aligns with the park’s closing hours. It’s crucial that you’re out before it closes.
Before sunset, take the opportunity to explore the surrounding area, and see the the crevices of the rock up close by walking around Uluru’s base.
What to do Before Sunset
Uluru Base Walk
Most walkers opt to complete this 10-km hike in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day. While you don’t need a high level of fitness to do it as it’s mostly flat, the heat will mean you’ll want lots of water! Walking clockwise is the best way to see the various ecospaces of the base. You might even spot wildlife and bush tucker! The walk is divided into several sections so you can navigate it better and choose to cover more or less as you like.
What to do After Sunset
Explore the Field of Light art installation
Field of Light. Credit: Tourism NT/Ray Reyes
Field of Light is a breathtaking art installation by globally-recognised artist Bruce Munro. What began as a temporary exhibit has now become a permanent feature of Uluru’s night-time landscape due to its enormous popularity. At night, you can see it illuminate the desert with a beautiful network of colours across the equivalent of over seven football fields. Tili Wiru Tjuta Nyakunytjaku or ‘looking at lots of beautiful lights’ in local Pitjantjatjara.
There are several ways to experience the Field of Light art installation at the Outback Hotel. You can take tours through it for either $48 or $118 per adult, or enjoy a ‘Sounds of Silence’ experience at, including a luxurious sit-down dinner with the fields of colour behind you, from $335.
Wintjiri Wiru light show
Wintjiri Wiru. Credit: Tourism NT/Ray Reyes
Over one thousand drones, lasers and projections take to the outback skies to tell stories of an ancient Anangu story with a breathtaking lightshow. With a traditional Imma soundtrack playing and narration in the local Pitjantjatjara language, you’ll be immersed in a moving show like no other. Ayers Rock Resort also offers tour packages to see the show with food, beverages and transport provided.
Seeing the sunset across Uluru is almost a rite of passage for anyone visiting Australia. Tucked away in the stunning Red Centre of the country, this incredible monolith is a sight to behold. During the day, it basks in the glow of the Australia sun. At night, when the sun dips below the horizon, it starts a performance you’ll never forget.
Over the course of a few hours, the impressive landmark undergoes a colourful transformation. Moving from a vibrant orange to a deep red and rich black under the cover of the stars. Watching this show unfold is one of the most popular ways to experience this beautiful part of Australia.