The Segway tour is the easy answer to a common Uluru problem: the full base walk is long, hot for much of the year and not for everyone, yet almost everybody wants to be close to the rock rather than only looking at it from a viewing platform. This small guided outing takes in roughly one quarter of the base, the section usually described as the most scenic, riding a Segway along the paths with a guide who talks through the landscape as you go. Hotel pickup is included, so you are collected from your resort accommodation, driven to the park and fitted with a helmet and safety equipment before a short lesson. Most people find the machine easy within a few minutes, and the pace is gentle enough that you spend your attention on the rock rather than on the controls. The itinerary is not only riding. It also includes a guided walk to the Mutitjulu Waterhole, where the cool, shaded pool is a world away from the open desert, and a guided Mala Walk along the base to hear about the rock art and Tjukurpa stories. All together the outing runs four to five hours, which makes it a half-day rather than a full commitment, and it leaves the rest of the day free for the Cultural Centre or a swim.
Who it suits
Riders must be at least twelve years old, and children need to be accompanied by an adult. There is also a weight range for the machines, so check it before you book if anyone in your group is near either end. Because the riding is smooth and the paths are flat, it works well for people who enjoy walking but find a ten-kilometre loop too much, for families with teenagers who want something more active than a bus tour, and for couples who like a bit of fun with their sightseeing.
It is less suitable if anyone has balance problems or very limited mobility, in which case the shorter walks at the Cultural Centre and Talinguru Nyakunytjaku are gentler options.
What is and is not included
The guide, the helmet and equipment, the guided walks and hotel pickup and drop-off are part of the tour, but the national park entry fee is not, so buy your park pass first and carry it with you. Bring a litre of water per person, closed shoes, a hat and sunscreen, and a layer if you are on a morning departure, since the desert is cold early. As everywhere in the park, follow the guide on where photography is not appropriate; some parts of the base are sacred and signs ask visitors not to take pictures.
Making the most of it
Choose the cooler months if you can, because the best part of the experience is staying outdoors comfortably, and in summer the departure times shift to avoid the worst of the heat. Pair it with a sunset tour or the Field of Light on the same day only if you are happy with a long one; many travellers prefer to do the Segway in one half-day and keep the other half for a quiet afternoon. If you would rather see the whole base on foot, the sunrise base walk covers the full circuit with a guide and breakfast, while the Segway trades distance for ease and a little novelty.
What to expect
The experience
A guided half-day outing that combines a Segway ride along part of the base of Uluru with guided walks to Mutitjulu Waterhole and along the Mala Walk, with hotel pickup.
Best time
Morning departures in the cooler months, when being outdoors is most comfortable and the light on the rock is soft.
How long
Four to five hours including the walks, with the Segway ride covering about a quarter of the base.
Tips
Bring your park pass, a litre of water each, closed shoes and a hat, and check the age and weight limits before booking.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want to be close to the rock without walking the whole base, especially teenagers and couples.
- Families
- Good for families with children aged twelve and over; younger children cannot ride.
- Couples
- A relaxed and slightly playful way to share the rock together, with a waterhole stop in the shade.
- Pair with
- The Cultural Centre in the afternoon and Field of Light in the evening.
- Time needed
- A half day.
Good questions
What part of Uluru does the Segway tour cover?+
It covers roughly one quarter of the base, which is described as the most scenic section. The tour also includes a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole and a guided Mala Walk.
Is there a minimum age?+
Yes. Riders must be at least twelve years old, and children need to be accompanied by an adult. There is also a weight range for the machines, so check it before you book.
Is the park entry fee included?+
No. The national park pass is separate, so buy it in advance and bring it with you. Hotel pickup and drop-off, the guide and the equipment are included.
Is it difficult to ride a Segway?+
Most people feel comfortable within a few minutes. You are given a short lesson and a helmet, and the paths are flat and the pace gentle.
How long does it take?+
Allow four to five hours in total, including the transfers, the riding and the two guided walks.
