When heading to the Red Centre of Australia, one of the most asked questions is, “How far is Alice Springs from Uluru by train?” Uluru (Ayers Rock) is an Australian icon, and the nearby Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon are must-sees in the area. Alice Springs is the outback town and gateway to Central Australia, and Ayers Rock Resort has a range of accommodation options near Uluru. Whether you want to explore these amazing landscapes, experience traditional Aboriginal culture, or take day trips from Alice Springs to Uluru, getting there by train is the ultimate way to see Australia’s desert landscapes up close.
In this post we will look at the distance from Alice Springs to Uluru by train, how to get there, the options and tips for planning.
Distance From Alice Springs to Uluru
The direct distance is 450km (280 miles), but when you travel by train, the journey is longer as the train takes a different route. A scenic flight or luxury coach touring experience may be a better option if you want to get there quicker and see the outback town and rock formations.
Train From Alice Springs to Uluru
Travel by train in the Northern Territory is a scenic journey through Australia’s gorges and desert landscapes. However, there is no direct passenger train service from Alice Springs to Uluru. To get from Alice Springs to Uluru by train, you would typically need to take The Ghan to a nearby station, such as Tennant Creek or Marla, and then complete the journey by bus or coach transfer.
The Ghan, famous for its luxury service, takes you on a journey through the heart of Australia, through remote locations like Ooraminna Station Homestead and Simpsons Gap. The Ghan doesn’t go to Uluru, but the journey offers an immersive experience, and you can upgrade to Gold Service for a more luxurious experience.
Alternative Travel Options to Uluru
Option 1: Ghan Train + Bus Transfer
- Train Ride: Get off the Ghan at a station like Kulgera or Marla, about 450km from Uluru.
- Bus Transfer: From there, a luxury coach will take you to Uluru’s base. The bus ride is 4-5 hours, depending on transfer times and stops along the way. This is a great option for those who want to see the outback town.
Option 2: Direct Flight from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock Airport
If you’re in a rush, the direct flight from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock Airport is the way to go. The flight is 50 minutes, and once you arrive, you can get a personalised transfer or use airport transfers to get to Ayers Rock Resort or Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Option 3: Drive
Many people choose to rent a car and drive from Alice Springs to Uluru, a 17-hour drive that takes you through the desert and to the geographical centre of Australia.
Journey Time
- By Ghan Train (Alice Springs to Nearby Station): The Ghan Train journey from Alice Springs to nearby stations like Kulgera or Marla can take several hours, depending on the schedule.
- Bus from Nearby Station to Uluru: The bus ride from the station to Uluru is 4-5 hours.
Total travel time from Alice Springs to Uluru is 9-10 hours. It’s a great way to see the outback.
Booking Your Train and Bus Journey
Book your train and bus transfers in advance for your trip from Alice Springs to Uluru. Journey Beyond Rail offers luxury coach tours and Platinum Service. For those who want to do Alice Springs and Uluru on one trip, there are Alice Springs Uluru packages that combine train, bus, and flight options, guided tours, and luxury accommodations so you can have the ultimate Australian adventure.
Things to Do in Alice Springs and Uluru
Once you arrive at Ayers Rock Resort, you can add on the following:
- Sunset camel rides and scenic flights around Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
- Visit Alice Springs Desert Park to learn about the living culture of the traditional owners of the land.
- Mutitjulu Waterhole and Tjuta National Park.
If you have more time in the area the 5 day guided walk from Alice Springs to Uluru is a once in a lifetime experience of the monolith and Aboriginal culture.
Conclusion
There is no train from Alice Springs to Uluru, but the train and coach transfer is a scenic and immersive journey through the Australian outback. Whether you take a luxury coach, helicopter flight or direct flight from Alice Springs Airport to Ayers Rock Airport, each option gives you a different perspective of the desert landscapes and landmarks of this amazing part of the world.
Book your all inclusive touring options and have a luxurious adventure in the iconic Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park where the sunsets are majestic and sunrise’s are breathtaking.
FAQ
How long is the train journey from Alice Springs to Uluru?
Total travel time is 9-10 hours, including the Ghan Train and bus transfer.
Can I fly direct from Alice Springs to Uluru?
Yes, direct flights from Alice Springs Airport to Ayers Rock Airport are 50 minutes.
How do I see Uluru?
Helicopter flight, sunset camel ride or luxury coach Uluru tour of the Outback.
Is there a luxury coach from Alice Springs to Uluru?
Yes, luxury coach touring is available.
When to visit Uluru?
April to October. Cooler months. Outdoor activities.
