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

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

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 Rockhampton can help you decide which place is right for you.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a spectacular, breathtaking, and other-worldly national park. It's considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. It's also popular because of the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a cultural, natural, and rural town. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Rockhampton: 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
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students


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

Tourists will generally find more to do in Rockhampton. Although Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Rockhampton are both popular with visitors, Rockhampton has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Rockhampton is more popular for its museums, nightlife, beaches, and small town charm, while Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known for its resorts, hiking, and impressive beauty. Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is popular for its natural beauty and its spiritual and sacred significance in the Anangu culture. Rockhampton is popular for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks. It is also home to the Rockhampton Heritage Village.

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

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Rockhampton specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Dining out at restaurants in both Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Rockhampton can be an enjoyable experience.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) has a huge number of terrific 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.

Dining out in Rockhampton is an experience not to be missed. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

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 Rockhampton Better for Resorts?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for its luxury resorts. However, Rockhampton is not a resort destination.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is known as a popular and fun resort destination. 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.

Rockhampton is not a resort destination.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for the beache. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Rockhampton to enjoy the beach. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not a beach destination.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for its hiking trails. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its hiking experiences.

People visit Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) specifically for its hiking, as the natural beauty is well-known. 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.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Rockhampton. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

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

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 Rockhampton to go shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.


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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Rockhampton.

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.

Rockhampton is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is a world-class destination for couples. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for romance.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) makes for a terrific place to visit as a couple. 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.

Couples visit Rockhampton frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Rockhampton is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.


Is Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) is not popular with students.

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

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

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 Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock)
Rockhampton

Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Rockhampton 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.

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable national park. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.


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

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

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

It's fun to spend time in either Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Rockhampton. In our opinion, Rockhampton has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Rockhampton than Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). 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 Rockhampton.

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

Couples should spend more time in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) than Rockhampton. 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.


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

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

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the other-worldly national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). You can also relax and pamper yourself at one of the resorts. Most people visit for the hiking. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the destination of Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the breathtaking destination of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This national park offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the rural destination of Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

The spectacular national park of Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) offers museums and food. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

You'll find museums and nightlife around the destination of Rockhampton. 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 Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the food and shopping when visiting Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock). Anyone can find something fun to do here. Travelers enjoy the resorts in the area as well. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Rockhampton is a great place to explore. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time 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 from Sydney, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Melbourne, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Australia, and The Best 10-Day Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton is $171. 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 Rockhampton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $58
    Rockhampton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $116
    Rockhampton $202
Compare Hotels in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Rockhampton

Looking for a hotel in Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) or Rockhampton? 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 Rockhampton


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: Rockhampton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $75
    Rockhampton $19

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

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

Prices for flights to both Rockhampton 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
    Rockhampton $50

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $37
    Rockhampton $40

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

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) $11
    Rockhampton $13


When comparing the travel costs between Uluru National Park (Ayers Rock) and Rockhampton, we can see that Rockhampton is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Pacific, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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 Rockhampton Expensive?.