Uluru/Kata Tjuta National Park - Kata Tjuta Section

Before exploring Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park we recommend that you visit the fabulous Cultural Centre to learn from the Aboriginal Traditional Owners (Anangu) about this twice registered World Heritage listed National Park. The park covers 1325 hectares and has been World Heritage listed not only for the importance of its natural phenomena, but also for its cultural significance.

Mt Olga (Kata Tjuta)

Just 48 km west of Ayers Rock, and standing some 200 metres taller, are the 36 individual domes known to the Anangu as Kata Tjuta - the place of many heads.

Also known as the Olgas, you can stroll through the Valley of the Winds or Olga Gorge and catch a glimpse of some of the captivating creatures of the region - such as the Thorny Devil. Sunsets at the Olgas are also striking, so plan to spend a while in the area if you can.

Uluru and Kata Tjuta both reveal the depth of their moods at the rising and setting of the sun. Witness a display of colours from gentle, dusky blues and purples to fierce oranges and reds, glowing with the last remnants of the day.

A collection of giant weathered red domes with fissures, gorges and valleys carved between them, experienced walkers can take the three to four hour walk through the Valley of the Winds. An easier alternative is the Olga Gorge (Walpa Gorge) walk taking approximately one hour.

Walking Tracks


The Valley Of The Winds Walk: 7km full circuit. Gives you the opportunity to walk through the spectacular country of Kata Tjuta. Two good lookout points can be found along the walk. There are many shady spots to rest as you go.

The Olga Gorge Walk: 2km return. Takes you to the shady end of the Gorge where spearwood vines flourish. The track gently rises as you go giving a good view of the surrounding country to the west.

Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing Area: This 300m walk is 26kms along the Kata Tjuta road. It offers a magnificent view of Kata Tjuta and a relaxing place to sit for awhile. Interpretive panels give you an understanding of the natural life around you. Wheelchair accessible.
Remember on all walks it is important to be well prepared so wear a hat, strong shoes, long sleeves and sunscreen for protection. Walkers should drink 1-2 litres of water per hour.

Climate

During the winter months nights get very cold and temperatures may drop to several degrees below freezing. The winter days are balmy. In contrast, the days during the summer months can reach well over 40 degrees Celsius.

During summer you should carry (and drink) two litres of water per hour and conduct all strenuous activities in the cooler early morning hours. For your safety, on days when the forecast maximum temperature is 36°C or more, the Valley of the Winds walk is closed at Kata Tjuta Lookout from 11 am, and the Uluru climb is closed from 8 am.

The highest temperature recorded at Uluru was 45.5 degrees Celsius on 17 February 1992.

At Uluru the long-term average rainfall is about 22 centimetres. Seasonal and annual rainfalls are extremely variable throughout the region, and rain may fall at any time of the year. However, heavy rains are more likely during the months from November to March.

Safety

Please consider your fitness before undertaking activities in the Park.

Heat Stress: Summer days are extremely hot. Remember to carry and drink plenty of water where ever you go in the Park and rest in the shade. A brochure on Safety and Comfort is available at the Cultural Centre. Please read this carefully.

Do not attempt the more lengthy or strenuous walks if you suffer from:


Heart Condition
Breathing Difficulties
Park Opening And Closing Times


Month Open Close
December, January and February 5.00am 9.00pm
March 5.30am 8.30pm
April and May 6.00am 7.30pm
June and July 6.30am 7.30pm
August 6.00am 7.30pm
September 5.30am 7.30pm
October 5.00am 7.30pm
November 5.00am 8.30pm

Looking After The Park


No camping in the Park. Facilities are available in the Ayers Rock Resort.
Do not feed the wildlife or souvenir rocks. Dogs must be kept on a leash and are not permitted on the climb area.
Rubbish must be carries out with you including cigarette butts, tissues and food scraps.
Walk only on marked paths. Drive only on public roads.
Commercial photographers and film crews require permits to operate in the Park.