Kata Tjuta Walks (The Olgas)
I came here for Uluru, but ended up falling in love with the Kata Tjuta instead. In particular, the Kata Tjuta walks! This place has a really unique landscape and is a bit less touristy than Uluru. Maybe that’s why it feels so special?
The majestic domes of Kata Tjuta can be found in the Uluru – Kata Tjuta National Park in the Red Centre of Australia ( Northern Territory ). I visited Kata Tjuta on an epic family road-camping trip from the East Coast to Central Australia.
See the route we followed from Alice Springs to Uluru along the Red Centre Way.
The Kata Tjuta walks were a total surprise to me! After experiencing the magic of Uluru the day before, I wasn’t expecting to top the experience. Walking among the high domes (much higher than Uluru), running my hands along their walls, I couldn’t help but imagine the stories they could tell.
Nothing is behind a barricade, but signage indicates to be respectful by staying on the path. You can really get up close to touch and feel the huge domes as you walk along the clearly marked paths. Mr Nearly Four was fascinated with touching the rock as he walked past, making observations about how hot or cold it felt.
Kata Tjuta Walks
Get your walking maps from the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre or online here. The walks are well marked and well trodden.
The Dune Viewing Area
As you drive towards Kata Tjuta, keep an eye out around the 26km mark for the Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing Area. There is a short wheelchair accessible (and therefore stroller friendly) 600m walk up to the viewing area and if you plant yourself here at sunset or sunrise, the view is just amazing.
The Valley of the Winds Walk
The Valley of the Winds walk was one of the highlights of our trip to Central Australia. The full circuit is 7.4 km and there are loose rocks underfoot to negotiate so you will need proper walking shoes and a reasonable level of fitness.
Young kids will not be able to do this walk on their own. It’s just too long and too challenging for little legs. My kids were 18 months and nearly four years when we visited.
Scroll down a bit further to see my section on Kata Tjuta with kids for how we managed the walks in Central Australia.
We intended to do the full walk, but I didn’t bring enough water for two adults and two kids so we ended up walking to the Karingana lookout. The Karingana lookout is the second lookout on the Valley of the Winds Walk and is 5.4 km return. It is challenging in spots due to valleys and steep sections but if you come prepared, it is definitely achievable.
The Karu lookout is the first lookout at 2.2 km return.
The Walpa Gorge Walk
This walk is only 2.6 km return and particularly lovely. Walpa Gorge is described as a desert refuge for plants and animals. The track has a gentle rise so is a lot easier than the Valley of the Winds walk.
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!
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 not suitable for strollers, so you will need a baby carrier if your kids are young. I used the Ergo Baby Carrier and the Piggy Back Rider here.
Resources for booking your getaway to Central Australia
Getting to the Red Centre of Australia
Most capital cities have flights to Central Australia, with flights landing in Alice Springs and Yulara, a smaller airport near Ayers Rock Resort. Find great deals on flights to Central Australia at Trip.com.
Getting around Central Australia
Car hire is available in Alice Springs. Compare car hire prices across major brands at Discover Cars. Don’t forget you will need a 4WD to drive the Mereenie Road Loop or see the entirety of the East MacDonnell Ranges.
Accommodation in Central Australia
Ayers Rock Resort in the obvious choice at Uluru Kata-Tjuta National Park, with a range of accommodations from camping to hotel rooms. For the ultimate in luxury at Uluru, stay at Longitude 131.
Kings Canyon Resort is a great choice for visiting Kings Canyon in the Watarrka National Park. Their glamping tents are divine, but the campgrounds are well-serviced if you’re on a camping road trip.
Glen Helen is the only non-camping option available in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Camping is also available at Ellery Creek, Ormiston Gorge, Finke 2 Mile and Redbank Gorge. Alternatively, you can book accommodation in Alice Springs and easily day-trip out to the West Macs.
If exploring the East MacDonnell ranges, check out Hale River Homestead and Ross River Homestead.
Tours and activities in Central Australia
Book your Central Australia tours and activities through Viator.
