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Kata Tjuta & the Valley of the Winds Walk

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, Northern Territory, Australia

View of the olgas shining bright red in the sunrise

Last updated: 02 April, 2024

After Uluru, Kata Tjuta (formerly known as the Olgas) is the second most visited place in Central Australia. This remarkable geological formation consists of 36 weathered domes dating back 500 million years. It is steeped in Aboriginal history and legend – there are many Dreamtime stories, notably the great snake king Wanambi, who is said to live on the summit of Kata Tjuṯa. His breath was said to be able to transform a breeze into a hurricane in order to punish those who did evil deeds. Evildoers beware – he only comes down during the dry season, which is when you are likely to be visiting.

The only way to explore Kata Tjuta is on foot and there are several hiking trails available, including the famous Valley of the Winds – a 7.4km circular walk that takes around four hours to complete and passes by some spectacular viewpoints. The 2.6km Walpa Gorge Walk is one of the easiest to complete.

People staying at Yulara (around 50kms away) can book a guided walking tour, a sunrise tour or a scenic flight.

Logistics

Price: Free

Minimum age: 0

Age suitable: 8+

When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

Kata Tjuta is a popular destination for independent travellers, especially at sunrise and sunset when the landscape is spectacular.

The main walking trails such as Karu Lookout, Karingana Lookout and Valley of the Winds are clearly marked and can be tackled independently, but you’ll miss out on the narrative of a guide. Organised tours are a better option – they will include a sunrise view of Kata Tjuta, a guided walk (complete with recounting of Aboriginal legends) and an Outback picnic breakfast.

When to do it

Dawn and sunset are the best times. The colours are dramatic, and the ethereal red rock changes hue from brown to purple to bright red.

Winter (June to August) is the ideal time to be in the desert. This is also the busiest time of the year, so spring and autumn can work well too. Desert summers (December to March) are too hot for physical activity, and the air is filled with relentless swarms of annoying flies.

Who to go with: organised tours

Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

Uluru Experience with BBQ Dinner

Uluru

Viator

Experience the wonders of Uluru as part of your Northern Territory adventure. Travel in air-conditioned comfort, hear intriguing stories and learn the secrets of this unique world-renowned destination. We provide BBQ, beverages and snacks so all you have to do is focus on your incredible surroundings. Combining luxury with exploration and discovery, this day tour is one of the most popular things to do during an authentic outback discovery holiday. All activities are considered very safe for all age groups. They do not require a high level of fitness or agility. You’ll enjoy: Watching the sunset over the sacred site of Uluru with a glass of bubbly ***We are only allowed to give each person 2 alcoholic drinks. Each person will be given 2 vouchers. Uluru: Guided Mala Walk Uluru: Guided Mutitjulu Waterhole Walk Aboriginal Cultural Centre

Price A$305

Min age 2

Rating 4.38 / 5 [273 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Uluru Sunrise (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta Half Day Trip

Uluru

Viator

The early rise is well worth it as you experience the two major landmarks in Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Start with an amazing sunrise at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku, the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Afterwards, on the 45 kms drive to Kata Tjuta your Driver Guide will provide you with an historical overview of the National Park. The walk through the sheer walls of Walpa Gorge won’t disappoint as you’re led into a world of rare plant species and lush evergreen scrubs.

Price A$179

Min age 0

Rating 4.36 / 5 [123 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Kata Tjuta Sunrise and Valley of the Winds Half-Day Trip

Uluru

Viator

View an outback sunrise at Kata Tjuta and a walk with your Guide to the Valley of the Winds. Hear fascinating stories of the geology, history and culture of Kata Tjuta. This incredible formation of rock domes extends six kilometres into the ground and is the remains of erosion that began more than 500 million years ago. The 5.4 kms walk to Valley of the Winds takes you down into a timeless haven within the domes through creek beds.

Price A$219

Min age 0

Rating 4.48 / 5 [102 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Afternoon Kata Tjuta Small Group Tour

Uluru

Viator

See one of the most dramatic natural rock formations in the world! Take a guided, small-group tour of the conglomerate rock domes of Kata Tjuta, one of Australia’s most iconic natural features! In the cooler months you'll travel to the famous Walpa Gorge and learn the history and myths surrounding this spiritual place!

Price A$165

Min age 0

Rating 4.44 / 5 [100 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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Kata Tjuta Sunset Half Day Trip

Uluru

Viator

This tour takes you to the inspiring red-hued sedimentary rock domes of Kata Tjuta to watch the sunset. They are thought to have originally been one huge piece of rock, much like Uluru, that has weathered over millions of years to become an intriguing series of individual formations. As evening approaches, each passing minute brings something new as the domes continue to change colour with the setting sun.

Price A$149

Min age 0

Rating 4.41 / 5 [85 ratings]

Tour supplied by:

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