When returning your rental vehicle to one of our locations please ensure to re-fuel your hire car to the agreed level. Allow an additional 10-15 minutes prior to the flight check-in time for car rental return. Park in the terminal car park in the Thrifty bays and return keys to a Rental Cars staff member at the Thrifty office in the terminal.
Ayers Rock Airport
Monday:09:30-16:00
Tuesday:09:30-16:00
Wednesday:09:00-16:00
Thursday:09:30-16:00
Friday:09:30-16:00
Saturday:09:30-16:00
Sunday:09:30-16:00
Where is the branch located?
If you are coming off a flight at Ayers Rock, you can pick up a vehicle from the counter at the airport terminal. If you are already in the resort you can pick up a vehicle from the Tourist Information Centre at our Town Square in Yulara. If you have booked a vehicle and are already in the resort and you have been advised to collect from the airport, please contact us prior to going out to the Airport so that we can arrange for pick up at our Downtown office. The airport counter only operates when a commercial flight is arriving at the Resort at the times specified by the airline.
After hours drop off is available at this location.
Ayers Rock Airport Information
Available at this location.
Not available at this location.
If you are running late and you won't be able to collect your rental car at the allocated time, it is important to get in touch with the branch you are collecting from so that we can make alternate arrangements. If you have arrived at the branch and it is closed and if you haven't made prior arrangements for an after-hours collection you will need to pick-up your rental car the following day. Please contact our branches during business hours to arrange an alternative pick-up time.
Car Rental Ayers Rock Airport
Arriving at Ayers Rock Airport places you in the heart of Australia, just minutes away from the iconic Uluru. Whether you’re here to experience awe-inspiring landscapes, ancient Aboriginal culture, or thrilling desert adventures, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.
Take a flight into the heart of Australia and touch down at Ayers Rock Airport. From here, you’re just a short drive from Uluru, Australia’s most iconic natural landmark. And with a Thrifty rental car, exploring the Red Centre is simple, easy, and affordable. Whether you want to watch Uluru’s colours shift at sunrise, hike through the domes of Kata Tjuta, or take a scenic drive through one of the world’s most striking landscapes, this guide has you covered.
Experience the Magic of Uluru
Witness the Ever-Changing Colours of Uluru
Rising 348 metres above the desert, Uluru is a sight to behold. The best way to appreciate its grandeur is by driving the Uluru Base Loop or walking the 10.6km Uluru Base Walk, which allows you to see the rock from every angle.
Uluru is famous for its sunrise and sunset views, where it shifts between shades of deep red, orange, and even purple. For the best views, head to Talinguru Nyakunytjaku or the Uluru Sunset Viewing Area—just be sure to bring your camera.
Take the Ultimate Skydive Over Uluru
For the most exhilarating view of Uluru, try a tandem skydive from 3,000 metres above the desert. As you freefall at 200 km/h, you’ll get a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of this sacred monolith and the vast red landscape that surrounds it.
Explore Kata Tjuta: Uluru’s Ancient Neighbour
The Domes of Kata Tjuta
Just 40km west of Uluru, Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) is a collection of 36 massive rock domes formed over millions of years. This site holds deep cultural significance for the Anangu people, who have lived here for over 22,000 years.
There are two main walks that take you through the breathtaking terrain of Kata Tjuta: Valley of the Winds Walk (7.4km), a challenging but rewarding trail that takes you deep between the towering domes, and Walpa Gorge Walk (2.6km), A shorter, more accessible route that leads to a beautiful, shaded lookout.
Kings Canyon: A Must-See Natural Wonder
If you have time for an extended journey, drive 3.5 hours west to Kings Canyon. Known for its 600 native plant species, towering cliffs, and dramatic desert scenery, it’s a place that deserves more than just a day trip.
The Rim Walk is the best way to experience Kings Canyon, taking you along 6km of spectacular views over sheer rock faces and lush valleys. For a relaxing end to your adventure, stop by Kings Creek Station for a meal or stay overnight at Kings Canyon Resort, where you can dine under the stars.
Drive the Legendary Red Centre Way
Red Centre Way: One of Australia’s Greatest Road Trips
For those with a week or more, the Red Centre Way is one of the most unforgettable road trips in Australia. Spanning over 1,100km, this scenic loop takes you from Uluru to Alice Springs, covering Kings Canyon, West MacDonnell Ranges, and Ormiston Gorge along the way.
Stops along the way include Kings Creek Station, a working cattle and camel station where you can take a camel ride through the desert; Ormiston Gorge , a beautiful swimming spot with towering red cliffs, and Tjoritja / West MacDonnell National Park, home to Simpsons Gap, Standley Chasm, and a variety of scenic hiking trails.
Unique Ways to Explore the Red Centre
Take a Camel Ride Across the Desert
For a truly authentic outback experience, book a camel tour and ride through the desert at sunrise or sunset. Camels were introduced to Australia in the 1800s, and today, they offer a peaceful way to explore the vast landscapes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta.
Quad Biking and Motorcycle Tours
If you prefer something faster-paced, quad biking and motorcycle tours are popular ways to explore the rugged outback terrain. These guided adventures take you off the beaten track for a thrilling ride through the Red Centre.
Curtin Springs: A Hidden Gem Near Uluru
Just 85km east of Uluru, Curtin Springs is a family-owned cattle station and roadhouse where you can grab a meal, take a paper-making workshop, or simply enjoy the remote beauty of the outback.
Discover Uluru with Thrifty
Uluru and its surroundings offer a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, from sacred landscapes and incredible hikes to thrilling skydives and camel rides. With a Thrifty rental car, you can explore it all at your own pace—whether you’re watching the sunrise over Uluru, hiking through Kata Tjuta, or driving the legendary Red Centre Way. Ready to start your outback journey? Book your Thrifty rental car today!