Kata Tjuta: Valley of the Winds Circuit Hike

About This Experience

This tour is built around one walk: the full Valley of the Winds circuit at Kata Tjuta. It is a 7.4 km loop graded 4 by the park, with steps, steep sections and creek beds between the domes, and it takes about three hours of hiking.

A van collects you from your hotel at Ayers Rock Resort and drives you out to Kata Tjuta. On the trail your guide explains the natural and cultural history of the area, points out the wide range of plants and wildlife, and covers the European history of the region. The group is small, so you get personal attention.

The circuit passes Karu Lookout and Karingana Lookout, with drinking water available about halfway. Parts of this area are a sacred men's site for Anangu, so follow your guide and the signs about where photography is not allowed.

Morning tea and light refreshments are included, and audio guides in other languages are available on request. After the hike the van returns you to your hotel.

Highlights

• Full Valley of the Winds loop: 7.4 km, Grade 4, about 3 hours of hiking
• Karu Lookout and Karingana Lookout on the circuit between the domes
• Natural and cultural history of Kata Tjuta from your guide
• The European history of the region
• A wide range of desert plants and wildlife seen along the trail

What's Included

• ✓ Morning tea and light refreshments
• ✓ Expert guide
• ✓ Hotel transfers by van (about 1 hour of driving in total)
• ✓ Pickup from Outback Hotel, Ayers Rock Campground, Sails in the Desert or Desert Gardens Hotel
• ✓ Audio guide in other languages on request (ask when you book)
• ✓ Small-group hike

Not Included

• National park pass (adults A$38, under-18s free; buy online before the day)
• Lunch
• Gratuities

What to Bring

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Water

Good to Know & Caveats

• Heat rule: when the forecast or actual temperature reaches 36°C or above, the walk closes at Karu Lookout from 11 am, so the full loop can be cut short on hot days.
• SEIT asks for a high level of fitness. The loop has steps, steep spots and loose rock.
• Drinking water is available about halfway round, but carry your own from the start.
• SEIT's listing for the same hike shows departures to 31 October 2026, then again from 1 April 2027. Check dates when you book.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Meeting Point

Pickup and drop-off at Outback Hotel, Ayers Rock Campground, Sails in the Desert or Desert Gardens Hotel