A Travel Price Comparison for Australia Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) vs. Alice Springs for Hiking, Couples, Food, and Families

Should you visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a other-worldly, spiritual, and spectacular national park. Many visitors also come because of it's amazing beauty. It's also popular because of the museums, food, and hiking.

Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a friendly, laid back, and outdoorsy town. It offers plenty of small town charm along with sights and activities, too. The beauty of this spot is also one of the main reasons why visitors come. Visitors also love the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Nice resorts
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
  • Impressive beauty


Is there more to do in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Both Alice Springs and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) have plenty of things to do for visitors. Both offer a variety of sights, activities, and attractions for tourists. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more popular for its food, resorts, and impressive beauty, while Alice Springs is known for its nightlife and small town charm. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Alice Springs is popular for its desert landscapes, Outback setting, and location between the East and West MacDonnell Ranges.

How is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) different from Alice Springs?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Alice Springs and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The Cultural Center offers information on the local Anangu culture. Also make sure you visit Field of Light, which is an art installation that is impressive. Wintjiri Arts and Museum is another local spot that is worth visiting.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Alice Springs. There are several wildlife centers in town that let you experience the desert animals first hand. Make sure you check out the Alice Springs Reptile Center, the Alice Springs Desert Park, and the Kangaroo Sanctuary. Another highlight of the town is a visit to the Alice Springs School of the Air.


Is the Food Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its local cuisine and restaurants.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a number of nationally recognized food spots and restaurants. Many of the dining options are connected with the resorts in the area. A bucket list experience is to enjoy outdoor dining with a 4 or 5 course menu under the desert moon. Many visitors also enjoy the unique experience of an outdoor barbecue, complete with local foods and a stunning sunset view. There are several fine dining options in the area, and a handful of budget-friendly places to eat as well.

Alice Springs offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. There are casual eateries with local food and decent prices. While it's a small town, there are plenty of tourists passing through so you'll find enough places to eat with a decent selection.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Nightlife?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is very good for nightlife and partying. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its evening party scene.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Alice Springs. It's a laid back small town, but there are still places to hang out in evening. Pubs and taverns are popular with locals and tourists alike. You'll also find a couple of casinos and clubs in town.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. Dining under the stars is the best way to experience a night at Uluru.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for its luxury resorts. However, Alice Springs is not a resort destination.

In Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), you'll find some of the region's top resorts. While there is nowhere to stay inside the park, just outside there are many resorts and hotels. Many of the options in the area are run by one or two companies. There are also campgrounds nearby.

Alice Springs is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Hiking?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

You'll find amazing hiking in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs.

Many people visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking. There are countless walks in the area that pass by stunning viewpoints and surreal rock formations. You can feel the natural beauty and the spirituality of the park as you soak up the other-worldly landscape. Out of respect for the people and nature, always stay on marked trails.

Known for its hiking, Alice Springs draws a crowd to experience the nature and the trails. Just outside of town there are wonderful walking routes and hiking trails. You can visit gorges, waterholes, and wander through the stunning red desert landscapes. One of the most famous trails in the area is the Larapinta Trail.

Is the Shopping Better in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Shoppers can find a variety of good stores in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You'll find everything you need as far as forgotten essentials and tourist souvenirs nearby.

Many visitors go to Alice Springs to go shopping. There are many shopping areas around town, particularly at the Yeperenye Shopping Centre, Alice Plaza, and Todd Mall. Prices can be a bit high, so keep that in mind as you're browsing.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Families?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

You'll find superb kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will benefit from learning about the local Anangu culture. You can visit the Cultural Center or take an informative guided tour of the area. A visit to the Field of Lights is sure to impress as well. Other family-friendly activities include camel rides, beautiful hikes, helicopter rides and reptile shows.

Alice Springs is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the beautiful setting as much as adults. There are desert animals that you can see at Alice Springs Desert Park or the Kangaroo Sanctuary. The Earth Sanctuary has telescopes and unbeatable views of the night sky. In the area you'll also be able to take a camel ride or visit the National Road Transport Hall of Fame.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Couples?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Alice Springs is not as popular, but is still a nice town for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a great national park for couples, as it has plenty to offer. The natural and spiritual beauty of this sight make it a truly romantic destination. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular. There are also romantic resorts, adventure-filled activities, and unique dining opportunities that will make this an amazing honeymoon or anniversary trip.

Alice Springs is a very popular place to visit for couples. The red desert and stunning landscapes make for a truly one-of-a-kind romantic getaway. In addition to the area's natural beauty, there are hot air balloon rides and camel treks. Hiking and exploring is also at the top of many visitor's lists.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs are both superb destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many backpackers choose to stay at a hostel or campground near the sight. There are also some cheaper tour options that cater to the backpacker crowd.

Alice Springs is a very popular national park for backpackers and budget travelers. Many backpackers stop off here during their Australian adventure. There a few hostels in town as well as a laid back and friendly environment that is perfect for backpacking.

Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Alice Springs is a decent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Public transit is mostly limited in Alice Springs. Public transit options are limited but you will find buses that leave from the Yeperenye Shopping Center on Hartley Street. There are also taxis in town.

Public transit is limited or non-existant in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). There's no public transit or taxis in the area, but there is a hop-on hop-off bus as well as private bus tours and rental cars that you can arrange.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Alice Springs

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs are good when it comes to walkability.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a somewhat walkable place. There are many walks in the area, and seeing Uluru on foot is one of the most rewarding ways to explore.

Alice Springs is a somewhat walkable national park. The downtown area can be explored on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Worth Visiting? and Is Alice Springs Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Alice Springs or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

How long in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

It's fun to spend time in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs. In our opinion, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Alice Springs. In general, 3-4 days is a good amount of time for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), and 2-4 days is enough time in Alice Springs.

Families should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Alice Springs. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Alice Springs. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Alice Springs than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Alice Springs.


  • How many days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs? Ideal Length of Stay
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) 3-4 
    Alice Springs 2-4

One day in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the spiritual destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). It's also a relaxing resort destination. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

Alice Springs is a small town where visitors enjoy the food and shopping. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A weekend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. Don't miss the hiking, as that's what most people do. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. A weekend is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.

Alice Springs is a small town with plenty to do. It offers something for everyone. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the other-worldly destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. This national park offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.

Alice Springs is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Your budget might influence how long you stay. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

You'll find museums and food around the beautiful national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). People often spend their time relaxing at one of the resorts. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Alice Springs is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. Most people visit for the hiking. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia, The Best 2-Week Tours in Australia, and The Best Budget Tours to Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Alice Springs or Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is $152, while the average daily cost in Alice Springs is $95. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Alice Springs $50
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Alice Springs $100
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)


Hotels in Alice Springs


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Alice Springs Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Alice Springs $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Also for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Coach Transfer from Ayers Rock (Uluru) to Kings Canyon: $114

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Alice Springs

Also for Alice Springs, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Uluru to Alice Springs or Alice to Uluru 1-Way Luxe Transfer: $120
  • Alice Springs to Uluru (Ayers Rock) Coach Transfer: $123

Is it cheaper to fly into Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Alice Springs?

Prices for flights to both Alice Springs and Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $47
    Alice Springs $24

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Base and Sunset Half-Day Trip with Opt Outback BBQ Dinner: $131
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset + Outback Barbecue Dinner & Star Talk : $191
  • Uluru and Kata Tjuta Experience with BBQ Dinner: $205
  • Mount Conner 4WD Small Group Tour from Ayers Rock including Dinner: $237

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Alice Springs

For Alice Springs, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • From Day Trip to Uluru with BBQ Dinner: $220
  • Ayers Rock Day Trip from Alice Springs Including BBQ Dinner: $226

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Alice Springs $14

Tours and Activities in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

For Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock), here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • A Self-Guided Driving Tour in Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park: $13
  • Aboriginal Homelands Experience from Ayers Rock including Sunset: $237
  • Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour: $105
  • Discover Uluru: Aboriginal Art & Culture 4.5 Hours Tour: $170
  • Kata Tjuta Small-Group Tour Including Sunrise and Breakfast: $142
  • Small Group Uluru Sunset Viewing Tour: $65
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Field of Light Sunrise Tour: $60
  • Uluru (Ayers Rock) Sunset Tour: $67
  • Uluru Audio Tour App: $13
  • Uluru Small Group Tour including Sunset: $142

Tours and Activities in Alice Springs

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Alice Springs.

  • A Town Like Alice: Half-Day Tour of Alice Springs: $95
  • Alice Springs Camel Tour: $57
  • Alice Springs Desert Park General Entry Ticket: $27
  • Alice Springs Desert Park Nocturnal Tour: $22
  • Alice Springs Highlights Tour : $97
  • West MacDonnell Ranges & Standley Chasm Tour: $115
  • Alice Town And Country Half Day Sunset Tour - Small Group: $127
  • Alice Town and Country Half Day Sunset Tour -Small Group: $124
  • Australia’s Red Centre: A Self-Guided West Macs Driving Tour: $8.49
  • Best of Alice Springs Full Day Tour: $158
  • East MacDonnell Ranges Half day Tour -Small Group: $228
  • East MacDonnell Ranges Tour -Small Group: $236

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Alice Springs $17

Typical Alcohol Prices in Alice Springs

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Alice Springs:


  • Glass of Wine in Alice Springs
    $4.57


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Alice Springs, we can see that Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is more expensive. And not only is Alice Springs much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Alice Springs would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Alice Springs and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than you might in Alice Springs.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) Expensive? and Is Alice Springs Expensive?.


Related Articles for Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)