The Ayers Rock, which the locals refer to as Uluru, is the centerpiece of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
Ayers Rock is many things to many people – in essence, this iconic monolith in the heart of Australia is a tourist attraction, a geological wonder, a cultural landmark, and a sacred place.
Not far away from Uluru is Kata Tjuta, a group of 36 rocky domes spread over an area of more than 20 km (12 Miles). Kata Tjuta is also known as The Olgas.
One of the best ways to experience both Uluru and the sprawling domes of Kata Tjuta is from the comfort of a helicopter seat.
In this article, we tell you everything you must know before you book your helicopter tour to Uluru.
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Best Uluru helicopter tours
Uluru helicopter rides come in many flavors.
You can decide to fly over only the Ayers Rock or fly over both Ayers Rock and Kata Tjuta.
If you want, you can combine both the rock formations with a flypast over the glittering Lake Amadeus.
We present below our favorite heli tours popular with vacationers in this part of Australia.
Extended Uluru & Kata Tjuta Helicopter tour
If you want to spend more time in the helicopter savoring views of Australia’s mesmerizing Red Centre, opt for this tour.
On this tour, you take to the skies by helicopter and soar high over Uluru and nearby Kata Tjuta.
There is no better way to capture the sheer size of these attractions, so don’t forget to bring the camera along.
The pilot explains the landmark’s fascinating history and Aboriginal significance.
Departure: Hotel pickup facility is available for this tour
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
Tour Operator: Ayers Rock Helicopters
Tour timings: 8.50 am, 10.10 am, 2 pm, and 3.20 pm
Cost of the tour: US$220 (336 AUD)
A shorter version of this tour is the Uluru & Kata Tjuta 25-Minute Helicopter Experience.
Uluru 15-Minute Helicopter Experience
Look upon the monolith and its wondrous surroundings from the air.
Red Centre, its vastness and its contrasts of the Australian desert landscape is sure to take you by amazement from a unique vantage point.
The tour works in your favor if you are short on time.
Departure: Hotel pickup facility is available for this tour
Duration: 15 minutes
Tour Operator: Professional Helicopter Services
Tour timings: 9.50 am and 1.50 pm
Cost of the tour: US$118 (180 AUD)
Uluru and Kata Tjuta Sunset Helicopter Tour
If you are a sucker for sunsets, this tour is perfect for you.
What sets this tour apart from the other Uluru and Kala Tjuta helicopter tours is the landscape bathed in a breathtaking warm and golden glow of the setting sun.
You will also fly over the western face of Mount Olga, the majestic Walpa Gorge, and the Valley of the Winds.
Departure: Hotel pickup facility is available for this tour
Duration: 36 minutes
Tour Operator: Professional Helicopter Services
Tour timings: 6 pm
Cost of the tour: US$235 (360 AUD)
What to expect on the helicopter tour
Both Uluru and Kata Tjuta are two major stone formations (and thus landmarks!) in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.
It isn’t easy to understand its size and scale from ground level, and that is where a helicopter tour helps.
This video by Ayers Rock helicopters gives you an idea of what to expect during the heli tour –
Restrictions strictly followed
Weight limits apply for safe and comfortable helicopter rides over Uluru.
A minimum and maximum number of passengers are required on these tours, failing which, it will be canceled.
Infants and children are allowed onboard, but infants must sit on the caregiver’s lap throughout the flight.
A valid photo ID is required.
Not wheelchair accessible.
No pets are allowed onboard except service animals.
Check-in at least 30 minutes early.
Flight times are approximate based on winds, weights, and conditions.
Seating arrangements may often be in the hands of the tour organizers for a safe and stable flight.
Exclusions of the air tour
Uluru heli tours do not include food and drinks.
Your ticket price also excludes gratuities.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before your tour date.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, a 100% percent cancellation fee is applicable.
No changes are allowed within 24 hours of the experience’s start time.
Helicopter tours require good weather.
If the tour is canceled due to poor weather or non-fulfillment of the minimum number of passengers, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.
Recommended Reading
# How to enjoy your first helicopter tour
# What to wear for helicopter tours
# Overcoming the fear of flying
# How long to wait after diving before flying
# Why helicopter tours are are excellent gifts
# FAQs about Helicopter tours