More than half of travellers surveyed after visiting Uluru say they’d change one thing about their holiday if they had the chance: they’d stay longer.

New research from Ayers Rock Resort has found that 52 per cent of former guests wished they’d allowed more time, while 72 per cent discovered there was far more to see and do than they’d expected.

And with 68 per cent recommending at least four nights, the findings suggest many visitors may be underestimating just how much the Red Centre has to offer.

Why two nights might not be enough

According to Ayers Rock Resort, its guests stay an average of just 2.5 nights. That’s not much time to explore Uluṟu, discover the towering rock formations of Kata Tjuta, enjoy a guided cultural experience or simply sit back and watch the desert change colour as the sun goes down.

“Many Australians still think of Uluṟu as a destination you can see in a day or two, but our guests consistently tell us they’ve underestimated both the scale of the landscape and the range of experiences on offer,” said Ana Sofia Ayala, Chief Marketing Officer at Voyages Tourism Australia.

“Visitors aren’t coming just to tick Uluru off a bucket list. They’re looking for a deeper, more meaningful connection with the destination, and that takes time.”

What visitors wish they’d known

The survey, conducted among 250 people who had stayed at Ayers Rock Resort within the previous two years, uncovered several common planning mistakes.

These included failing to book popular experiences in advance, trying to squeeze too much into a short stay, underestimating the number of activities available and visiting at the wrong time of year.

For Angelimar, from Victoria, the advice was simple: “Allow at least five days, four nights so you are not rushing.”

Judy, from South Australia, agreed.

“Do as much as you can, but don’t rush it. Give yourself time to take it all in.”

How to make the most of your Uluṟu holiday

Allowing four or five days gives visitors the opportunity to spread out their experiences rather than racing from one attraction to another. An early morning walk around Uluru’s base, a visit to Kata Tjuta, an afternoon learning about Anangu culture and an evening beneath the desert stars can each become highlights in their own right.

There are plenty of paid experiences, including camel rides, guided tours, special dining events and the spectacular Field of Light installation.

But you don’t need to book an expensive activity every day. Self-guided walks, designated sunrise and sunset viewing areas and the Cultural Centre offer opportunities to explore at your own pace, although national park entry fees apply.

Timing is important, too. Temperatures can be extreme during summer, making early morning activities particularly important. Starts at 60 readers should also consider their fitness and mobility when choosing walks and tours.

For those who prefer an organised holiday, Travel at 60 offers a selection of Uluru and Red Centre packages, from shorter guided stays to extended touring holidays. One option is the seven-day Central Australia Escape, which combines Uluru and Kata Tjuta with Kings Canyon, Alice Springs and the West MacDonnell Ranges.

Whatever your plans, it’s worth checking experience availability, seasonal conditions and travel distances before settling on your dates. An extra day or two could give you the freedom to explore something you hadn’t even considered when you booked.