Kata Tjuta (The Olgas)★★★
Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) are Uluru's less famous but, in the opinion of many, even more impressive neighbors — 36 massive rock domes rising up to 546 meters high (200 meters higher than Uluru!) and separated by deep gorges. The name means "many heads" in the language of the Anangu.
Kata Tjuta is located only 25 km west of Uluru in the same national park (same entrance fee). The rock formations of conglomerate rock (cemented stones and pebbles) are 500 million years old and geologically completely different from Uluru — even though they are only a short distance apart.
Hikes
- Valley of the Winds Walk (7.4 km, 3–4 hours): The best hike in the Red Centre. The path leads through the gorges between the rock domes — narrow, dramatic, with wind whistling through the valleys (hence the name). At the Karu and Karingana lookouts, breathtaking panoramas over the red desert open up. Challenging — sturdy footwear and water are mandatory.
- Walpa Gorge Walk (2.6 km, 1 hour): An easy walk into a gorge between two of the largest domes. Cooler than outside, with rare plants and rock holes that hold water after rain. Suitable for all fitness levels.
Kata Tjuta at sunset is just as spectacular as Uluru — but with a fraction of the visitors. The official Sunset Viewing Areas west of Kata Tjuta offer the best view when the domes glow in gold and red.
💡 Tipp
Do the Valley of the Winds Walk as early as possible in the morning — the heat becomes oppressive from 10 a.m., and the walk is closed if it exceeds 36 °C. Ideally, start at sunrise when the light is magical and the red rocks glow. Visiting Kata Tjuta on the same day as Uluru is possible (sunrise Uluru, morning Kata Tjuta, sunset Uluru).