The simplest way to see the so-called "face" on Zuma Rock is from one of the lay-bys on the southern side of the expressway between Madalla and the rock itself. Pull off the road, walk a few paces into the scrub, and the dark vertical shadows on the rock face resolve into the form of a closed-mouthed human profile staring back at the road. Late afternoon, when the western sun rakes across the face, gives the strongest effect.
There is no signage and the lay-by is informal — look for the cluster of parked cars and the hawkers selling pure water. Some of the local kids will offer to point out the eyes and the mouth for a small dash. It is a quick stop, ten or fifteen minutes, and the view of the full bulk of the rock from this angle is as impressive as anything closer in.