Melbourne to Uluru road trip: Distance, driving time and attractions

Melbourne to Uluru drive: Into the Northern Territory

Outback opal mining town Coober Pedy is gloriously bizarre – most of the population lives underground. You can try fossicking for opals in rubble heaps, but it’s more fun to go on a mine tour and visit one of the underground show homes. Coober Pedy is one of the most memorable stops on the Melbourne to Uluru drive.

After Coober Pedy comes the frankly punishing Coober Pedy to Uluru leg of the Melbourne to Uluru journey. This drive is 756km long and takes the best part of eight hours.

The only real highlight before the Northern Territory border is the Breakaways mountain range. From there, continue on into the Northern Territory until the Erldunda Roadhouse. This is where the Stuart Highway meets the Lasseter Highway towards Uluru. Turn east, and drive 244km to the monolith formerly known as Ayers Rock.

Which Uluru accommodation should I book?

Let’s not sugar-coat it: Accommodation at Uluru is expensive. Specialist Australian accommodation website Wotif lists Uluru accommodation for from $300. Check the top deals page to search through the options.

However, if you stay for three nights rather than two, hefty discounts tend to kick in.

The Uluru accommodation options are designed with different target markets in mind. Book which one fits you best.

• For the lowest prices: Ayers Rock Campground.
• For best quality: Sails in the Desert.
• For families and self-caterers: Emu Walk Apartments.
• For mid-range solidity: Desert Gardens.