Kata Tjuta, about fifty kilometres west of Uluru, is a cluster of massive rounded domes, and the Valley of the Winds walk is the way to experience it from the inside. The track winds between the domes, rises to lookouts, drops into creek beds and passes through gorges where the air turns cool and the walls tower overhead. The full circuit is about seven and a half kilometres and takes around three to four hours; the park grades it as a difficult walk because it is steep and rocky in places. This guided small-group hike, limited to fifteen travellers, includes hotel pickup and transfers, a guide who explains the geology and the cultural significance of the area, and morning tea and snacks. The whole outing takes about five hours. A guide is particularly useful here because the track is demanding, the heat can be serious, and the Valley of the Winds is a culturally sensitive men's area, where visitors are asked not to photograph or film the rock formations.
The heat rule
The walk closes at the Karu lookout from eleven in the morning on days when the forecast or actual temperature reaches thirty-six degrees Celsius or more. In summer that means an early start, and in the hotter months the walk may be cancelled altogether, so build some flexibility into your plans and be ready for a refund or a swap. Water is available halfway along the track and at the start, but there are no toilets on the circuit.
Choosing your effort
The circuit has two lookouts. Karu is the first, a moderate walk of about an hour return. Karingana is the second, further and steeper, with many steps. The full loop is actually easier than going out to Karingana and back. Strong physical fitness is advised for the complete circuit, and the tour is not recommended for people with back, hip, leg or foot problems or heart conditions. Good shoes with grip, a hat, sunscreen and at least two litres of water are essential.
Respecting the place
You may take close-up pictures of plants, animals and people, but not photographs or video of the domes themselves, so enjoy them with your eyes. Stay on the track, carry out all rubbish and keep your voice low in the quiet gorges. The experience pairs well with a sunset or night activity, since the hike leaves the afternoon free. If you only have a day, choose between this and the Uluru base walk, because doing both in one morning is too much.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group guided circuit through the domes of Kata Tjuta, with hotel transfers, lookouts and a guide to explain the landscape.
Best time
Early morning, always; the walk closes at the Karu lookout from 11 am on days of 36 degrees or more.
How long
About five hours for the outing, with around three hours on the track.
Tips
Wear shoes with grip, carry at least two litres of water, expect steep rocky sections and do not photograph or film the domes themselves.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Fit walkers who want to see Kata Tjuta from the inside.
- Families
- Only for teenagers and older children with good fitness; the track is steep and rocky.
- Couples
- A shared challenge with big views, best done in the cooler months.
- Pair with
- A sunset tour or the Cultural Centre in the afternoon.
- Time needed
- A full morning, about five hours.
Good questions
How hard is the Valley of the Winds walk?+
The park grades it as a difficult walk, steep and rocky in places. The full loop is about seven and a half kilometres and takes three to four hours.
When does the walk close for heat?+
It closes at the Karu lookout from 11 am when the forecast or actual temperature reaches 36 degrees Celsius or more. Start early and check conditions on the day.
Can I take photographs?+
You can photograph plants, animals and people at close range, but the Valley of the Winds is a culturally sensitive men's area, so no photographs or video of the formations.
Are there toilets and water on the track?+
Drinking water is available halfway along and at the start of the Karu track. There are no toilets, so use the facilities before you start.
Is a park pass included?+
The tour page describes the fee in different ways, so check the inclusions when you book. Adults need a park pass, valid for three days.
