Ayers Rock Helicopters Tour of the Giants

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Two hours in a small helicopter over Uluru and Kata Tjuta, then east to Mt Conner, the flat-topped mesa on a private cattle station that most visitors only see from the highway, with a landing on its summit when the pilot judges conditions right.

Days

2-hour flight; about 3 hours hotel to hotel

Age

All ages; under 3 on a parent's lap

Group size

3 or 4 passengers per helicopter

Start / finish

Ayers Rock Resort, Yulara / Ayers Rock Resort
Back about 11:30am or 4pm

Return

Back about 11:30am or 4pm

Transport

Helicopter, with pick-up from Ayers Rock Resort hotels

Meals

No meals are listed as included

Route

Map of Ayers Rock Helicopters Tour of the Giants

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Included experiences

Uluru — scenic flight alongside the rock
Kata Tjuta — the domes and gorges from the air
Mt Conner — flight east to the mesa on Curtin Springs station
Mt Conner summit — landing and time on top, at the pilot's discretion

Ayers Rock Helicopters Tour of the Giants

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Itinerary

Map

PICK-UP AND LIFT-OFF

Morning flights collect you from your hotel or campground at Ayers Rock Resort in Yulara around 8:30am, afternoon flights around 1pm. The helicopter seats three or four, so everyone gets a window, and your pilot talks you through the country over the headsets. Within minutes of lift-off the resort is behind you and the red dune country stretches away on every side.

ULURU AND KATA TJUTA

The first part of the flight takes in the two giants of the national park. Uluru rises 348 metres from the plain, and from up here you can see the caves and water streaks on its flanks. Kata Tjuta ("many heads") is 36 domes of conglomerate rock, the tallest about 546 metres high. National park rules keep all helicopters from flying directly over either, so you see them from alongside, with room to line up your photos.

EAST TO MT CONNER

Then the helicopter tracks east to Mt Conner, the third giant, known to Aboriginal people as Atila. This flat-topped mesa rises about 300 metres from the plain on Curtin Springs cattle station, and because it's on private land most travellers only ever see it from the highway, where many mistake it for Uluru. From the air you see its horseshoe shape and sheer sandstone walls.

ON TOP OF MT CONNER AND HOME

If the wind and weather suit, the pilot lands on the flat summit and you step out onto the top of the mesa. It's quiet up here, with views across the Red Centre in every direction and Uluru on the horizon. The pilot makes the landing call on the day, so it isn't guaranteed. You're back at your hotel around 11:30am or 4pm.

Map

Good to know

Meeting point: Pick-up from your hotel or campground within Ayers Rock Resort, Yulara.
Departure time: 8:30am or 1pm.
Finishes: Back at your hotel about 11:30am or 4pm.
Minimum age: No minimum; children under 3 can fly on a parent's lap.
Fitness: You need moderate to good mobility to climb in and out of the helicopter without help.
Please note: All landings on Mt Conner are at the pilot's discretion and depend on the weather. Flights usually need at least two passengers to go ahead, and solo travellers are matched with another booking. Helicopters do not fly directly over Uluru or Kata Tjuta.

What to bring

Camera
Sunglasses
Closed-toe, non-slip shoes
Long sleeves, when the temperature allows

What is included

2-hour helicopter flight
Views of Uluru, Kata Tjuta and Mt Conner
Landing on Mt Conner's summit, at the pilot's discretion
In-flight commentary from your pilot
Pick-up and drop-off within Ayers Rock Resort

FAQ

Preparing for the trip

What immunisations do I need?

For the latest information on immunisations, we strongly recommend you or contact the Travellers Medical and Vaccination Centre (www.traveldoctor.com.au) to discuss health requirements for your trip. They will advise you about appropriate inoculations.

Do I need to take any medical supplies?

It is not necessary to bring any medical supplies other than any personal items you may require. Each tour carries a first aid box, and the tour guides are all certified in First Aid.

Do I need travel insurance?

Insurance is important in protecting visitors from loss or damange of goods, medical problems, cancelation by passengers or other casualties. Its highly recommended. Some tours on this website require you to have travel insurance. If you are Australian then it is not necessary.

Where can I get more information about this trip?

If you find that this tour page doesn't answer all your questions, then please get in contact with us! Our passionate team are always available to answer any queries you may have.

Will I be able to use my mobile whilst on tour?

You can use your mobile while touring in Australia or New Zealand, but coverage may be limited in remote areas. For best connectivity, consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan.

How fit do I need to be?

These tours are designed to be fun, informative and active, and can be enjoyed by anyone with a moderate degree of fitness and agility. Travellers should be comfortable with hiking or walking up to 5km each day.

What should I pack?

Depending on where in Australia or New Zealand you decide to visit, your luggage will vary. For exact information please visit the "What to bring" section of each tour page.

Private tours and families

Is it possible to travel in a private group?

If you are looking for a private tour based on one of these trips, please contact us directly and we may be able to help. Over the years we have worked with families, groups of friends, schools, clubs and charities to put together the perfect trip.

Booking the trip

Does the tour price include flights?

No. Tour prices do not include any travel arrangements other than for the duration of the tour itself. If you need assistance with booking flights or buses our travel team and certainly help - Just ask!

How far in advance do I need to book my tour?

As a rule of thumb, try to book at least 2 weeks prior to departure, this will usually get you a seat on the date you want. That being said, we cannot guarantee that spaces will be available at the time of your booking so, if you can, book as soon as possible. Bookings can still be made right up until the departure date of the tour if seats are available. If you know when you'd like to travel, please contact us and we will let you know if you need to book soon or if you have time.

Do I have to book this tour online?

Definitely not. Our website is designed to make is easy and convenient for you to schedule your tour. However we understand sometimes its nice to talk to someone directly. So by all means give us a call and we can organise your trip over the phone.

If I book more than one tour can I get a discount?

Absolutely! If you are booking multiple tours then we may be able to offer you a discount. Send us an email at info@lostinaustralia.org and let us know what you thinking of doing and we can put together a price for you.Also, be sure to look out for monthly specials on tours. We often have some great bargains.

How do I know when a tour is available?

You can check the departure dates of tours by using our calendar on the top right hand corner of the tour page. This will tell you what days the tour departs. For availability of seats please contact us directly at info@lostinaustralia.org or call us.

If I make a deposit only, when will I need to pay the balance?

Balance on tours need to be paid at least 30 days prior to departure. Failure to do so could result is the cancellation of your seat with a fee charged. If you need more time to clear your balance then let us know ASAP and arrangements can be made.

Who travels with us

Is it ok to travel alone on one of these tours?

Plenty of travellers book these tours on their own. Solo travellers are very much welcomed and encouraged. During your outback adventure you'll meet new and interesting people and forge relationships that last a lifetime.Solo travellers will usually share a room with a travelling companion of the same sex, but even if you do get your own room you won't be charged extra. On camping tours there are generally enough tents available that you can have your own if you choose to.For more information please contact us directly.

Cost and Fees

Do I need to tip the guide?

If you had an amazing time on tour and wish to tip your guide, that is completely up to you. Tipping is not customary in Australia and is not at all expected.

Will I need additional money?

Travellers are advised to bring some cash, as ATMs and banks can be few and far between in the remote parts of the trip. It is handy to have some extra cash, as the tour does stop by local shops and cafes.

Are there any hidden fees I need to know about?

Our tour prices are completely transparent. There are no additional fees involved that are not included in the overall tour price shown. If you wish to do optional activities such as helicopter rides or wildlife safaris, then an extra cost may be needed. However, this will always be made clear at the time of your booking.

What does Paid Locally mean?

Some tours require you to pay national park fees directly, in cash, to the tour guide on the morning of departure. Rest assured this will be subtracted from the tour price when reserving your tour.

Whilst on tour

Can I book extra accommodation for the start and end of the tour?

We know our country inside and out and would be happy to give you good recommodations. Please contact us for recommendations.

Where do I meet the tour?

For pick-up times and locations, please check the "Start/Finish" section directly under the itinerary, which lists every pick-up point and its time.There is a lot of information there to help you plan your flights and arrival.Please review it carefully, as pick-ups can vary from tour to tour.