Kata Tjuta & the Valley of the Winds
Uluru’s great companion — a maze of red domes west of the rock, where the Valley of the Winds and Walpa Gorge walks thread between the walls of this sacred place.
Kata Tjuta & the Valley of the Winds
Kata Tjuta — the Olgas — is Uluru’s great companion, a cluster of red domes rising from the spinifex a short drive to the west, within the same national park. Where Uluru is a single monolith, Kata Tjuta is a maze of rounded walls and hidden valleys, deeply sacred to the Anangu. The Valley of the Winds walk threads between the domes to sweeping lookouts, while Walpa Gorge offers a shorter path into a soaring desert cleft. Both reward an early start — and, like everywhere here, they are best walked with respect for the Country and its stories.
What to Do
Valley of the Winds
A rugged loop between the domes to sweeping lookouts — start early.
Walpa Gorge
A gentler path into a dramatic gorge between two of the tallest domes.
36 Red Domes
Great rounded walls of conglomerate rock, glowing at dawn and dusk.
Dune Viewing Area
A dedicated spot to watch Kata Tjuta colour at sunrise and sunset.
Kata Tjuta Tips
- Start early — the walks are exposed and desert days get hot
- Parts of the Valley of the Winds close in the heat — check current conditions
- Carry plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes for uneven ground
- Short on time or energy? Walk Walpa Gorge instead
- Pair it with sunrise or sunset, or a guided Kata Tjuta tour
Kata Tjuta — FAQ
What is Kata Tjuta?
Kata Tjuta — also known as the Olgas — is a group of great domed rock formations west of Uluru, within the same Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. Sacred to the Anangu, its rounded red domes are just as striking as Uluru itself.
What is the Valley of the Winds walk?
The Valley of the Winds is Kata Tjuta’s signature walk, winding between the domes to a series of lookouts. It is more rugged and undulating than the Uluru base walk; sections may close in the heat, so start early and check current conditions.
Is there a shorter walk?
Yes — Walpa Gorge is a shorter, gentler walk that leads into a dramatic desert gorge between two of the tallest domes. It’s a good option when time or the heat is against you.
How far is Kata Tjuta from Uluru?
Kata Tjuta lies a short drive west of Uluru within the national park, with its own dune viewing area for sunrise and sunset. Many visitors pair the two over a day or two — see Uluru in two days.
When is the best time to walk?
Start early: the walks are exposed and desert days are hot, and parts of the Valley of the Winds close once temperatures climb. Carry plenty of water. See the best time to visit.
Uluru, Planned Around You
Sunrise and sunset over Uluru, the base walk, Kata Tjuta and Kings Canyon — experienced with respect for Anangu culture, and with the driving and bookings handled by the family that’s toured Australia since 1974.
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