Driving Sydney to Uluru in September

Driving Sydney to Uluru in September

by Fran
(Sydney)

Uluru

Hello,
We're about to leave Australia to return to Europe and would love to make this road trip...even with four boys (2, 3, 9 & 14).
ANY and ALL advice would be gratefully accepted.

Probably do the trip in September and there is no strict time limit. We have no outback experience.

Our car is a Toyota Kluger and we're planning on sticking to the sealed roads route.
Would prefer to keep the driving down to 5 hours per day and book accom in advance.

Thanks for taking the time to read this.
All the best

Response to Driving Sydney - Uluru in September

by: Rita

Hi Fran,
Now this is a great decision to travel to the heart of Australia before you return to Europe. You will love the journey.

Another reader did exactly the same tour, from Sydney to Uluru, and they were travelling with three kids.
Check out Jeannie's questions and my tips in the following posts:
Epic trip to Uluru
Bush flies in the Australian Outback
There are suggestions about highlights along the route that might be interesting for the kids as well.

September is a good time, it is getting warmer in the south, and it is not too hot in the centre.
You don't need to worry, your car is fine for the trip. Refuel in time, take some snacks, water and the kid's favourite soft drinks to keep them in good mood between stops.

The Stuart Highway main page has all info about accommodation in towns and roadhouses between Port Augusta and Yulara.

As for the New South Wales section of your journey, depending on the route you take, you'll probably want to check accommodation for Wagga Wagga, Narrandera, Hay and Mildura.
You can also drive the Mitchell / Barrier Highways via Dubbo, Cobar and Broken Hill.

Don't hesitate do ask more questions using the comments button. Have a wonderful trip.

Rita

Books & maps to plan your trip:

The map features fuel stops, rest & camping areas & more info for the long drive, while the book gives more information for this region.

Comments for
Driving Sydney to Uluru in September

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Aug 02, 2009

Desert country in September
by: Desertgirl

From someone living in Alice Springs, I'll endorse what Rita says about the weather in September. It will be warm - hot most days.

My observations over the years here is that most European travellers adore the extra warmth found in the desert during September - December. Just remember to drink more water than usual once you're in the outback. Don't obsess over it, but be aware you do need to carry & drink more water than you would in cooler climates.

It's a great drive, no matter which route you take to the Centre. So enjoy! :)

Aug 03, 2009

driving sydney to uluru in september
by: Fran

That's reassuring advice. Thank you both.

Am going to start planning accom along the route as we're in no hurry to get to Uluru and back so can take the pain (laugh) out of the car journey for the kids by stopping off often.

Many thanks again,

Fran

Aug 10, 2009

Uluru Tours
by: Rita

Hi Fran,

Good to see you're reassured. That's my motto, be prepared, and you'll have a great trip. :) Leave some time for the little extras you'll come along en route, and you all have a good time.

Just for your info, I've just finished a page with some recommendations for Uluru Tours. These are mostly half-day tours, and perhaps you'll find something that would be fun for you and the older kids.

Happy planning.

Rita