I came here for Uluru but fell totally in love with Kata Tjuta instead – all because of the beautiful trails walks we found here. In this article, we’ll talk about the two main walks (hiking trails), as well as the best spots to watch the sunrise and sunset after or before your Kata Tjuta walks.
Kata Tjuta, formerly known as the Olgas, is a magnificent natural wonder located in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Situated within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, this collection of 36 domed rock formations offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable walking experiences in the world. While Uluru often steals the spotlight, Kata Tjuta’s unique beauty and diverse walks make it a must-visit destination for adventurers.
The significance of Kata Tjuta
Kata Tjuta, meaning “many heads” in the local Anangu language, holds significant cultural and spiritual importance to the Anangu people. These towering formations have been shaped by millions of years of erosion, creating a rugged and awe-inspiring terrain. Visitors are encouraged to respect the sacred nature of the site and to tread lightly as they explore.
You can get up close to touch and feel the huge domes as you walk the marked paths, but signage asks that you be respectful and stay on the actual path. As you run your hands along the walls of the high domes (much higher than Uluru) on your Kata Tjuta walks, it’s hard not to imagine the stories they could tell.
The two main Kata Tjuta walks
The Valley of the Winds Walk
The Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip to Central Australia. This Grade Four walk is the most rewarding walking trail at Kata Tjuta, taking around 7.4 kilometres to do the full circuit. Allow around three to four hours.
This Kata Tjuta walk boasts two stunning lookout points. The first, Karu lookout, is around 1.2 kilometres from the parking lot and is considered moderately difficult to reach, with loose rocks to negotiate. The second, Karingana lookout, is around 2.7 kilometres from the parking lot and takes you down into the valley and creek beds. This section is challenging, with some steep spots and many steps.
Many people just walk to the first lookout and return, so if you plan on doing the full route, there’s a good chance it will be a peaceful walk. If you plan on walking to the second lookout and returning, consider doing the full circuit instead, as it’s actually harder to backtrack on this Kata Tjuta walk than it is to continue the circuit from this point of the trail.
The Valley of the Wings Walk at Kata Tjuta with kids
This walk is not suitable for those with young kids. Why? Because it’s a bit too long and challenging for little legs. However, if you have a child carrier and are willing to carry them when needed, then it can be managed. Active teenagers will be able to manage this more challenging walk.
Taking photographs on the Valley of the Winds Walk at Kata Tjuta
The Anangu people request that you don’t take any photographs or videos of Kata Tjuta throughout this walk as it’s a culturally sensitive men’s area. You are welcome to take close-ups of people, flora and fauna but should refrain from capturing images of the rock formations
The Walpa Gorge Walk
The Walpa Gorge Walk at Kata Tjuta is easier to manage at 2.6 kilometres return and a gentle rise. For those with younger kids, this walk is much more achievable. The trail meanders through a lush valley between two of Kata Tjuta’s stunning domes.
This Kata Tjuta walk is through an area that is a desert refuge for animals and plants. It’s also the better choice on hot days as the walk features a lot more shade than the Valley of the Winds Walk.
The Walpa Gorge Walk at Kata Tjuta with kids
Due to the shorter distance and easier terrain, the Walpa Gorge Walk at Kata Tjuta is the easier choice for those exploring with kids.
Taking photographs on the Walpa Gorge Walk
The Anangu people ask that you keep both sides of the gorge in frame when you film, paint, draw or photograph Walpa Gorge as it is a culturally sensitive area. By respecting these wishes, you will be contributing to the protection and continuation of some of the world’s oldest cultural and spiritual beliefs.
Best spots to watch the sunrise before your Kata Tjuta walks
Most people head to the Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing Area for sunrise views of the domes, with the added bonus of Uluru on the horizon. It’s around a 600-metre walk up to the viewing area. The sunlight doesn’t actually hit the domes directly at either sunrise or sunset, but it’s a top spot for a panoramic photo.
Best spots to watch the sunset after your Kata Tjuta walks
Most people head to the Kata Tjuta Sunset Viewing Area when the sun goes down. Here, you can take a picnic and watch the changing colours of Kata Tjuta as the sun sinks behind the valleys. This is the best spot to watch Kata Tjuta change from dusty pink to a deep red.
If it’s a little too crowded for your liking, there are often seats along Walpa Gorge empty at sunset, and the Dune Viewing Area is less crowded at sunset too.
Preparing for your Kata Juta walks
When planning a walk at Kata Tjuta, it is essential to be well-prepared. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
- Timing: Start early in the morning to avoid the heat, especially during the summer months. The park often closes some trails when the mercury rises.
- Hydration: Carry plenty of water, as there are no water sources along the trails.
- Footwear: Wear sturdy hiking boots to navigate the rocky terrain comfortably.
- Sun protection: Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect against the harsh desert sun.
- Respect: Stay on marked trails and respect cultural guidelines, including not climbing on or disturbing the rock formations.
Visiting Kata Tjuta with kids
Kata Tjuta is a fantastic place to take kids, purely for the cultural experience, the nature and the spectacular scenery. However, don’t expect special facilities for kids. This is the Red Centre of Australia and visiting is an adventure!
Kata Tjuta is not suitable for strollers, so you will need a baby carrier if your kids are young. Dehydration is a very real danger, so make sure you are prepared to carry a backpack with plenty of drinking water and some snacks. A hat, sunscreen and proper walking shoes are a must for all members of the family here.
Kata Tjuta is a captivating destination that offers a variety of walking and hiking experiences for all levels of adventurers. Whether you seek the challenge of the Valley of the Winds Walk or the tranquility of the Walpa Gorge Walk, Kata Tjuta promises an unforgettable journey through one of Australia’s most revered natural landscapes.
Getting to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park
We followed a route from Alice Springs to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park called the Red Centre Way. We loved this road trip so much that we’ve done it twice, travelling thousands of kilometres from the east coast of Australia to do so both times.
Where to next?
