Kata Tjuta / Mount Olga — Local services in Petermann

In my personasl opinion a less appreciated, but more interesting geographic formation than Uluru.

SERVICE Welcomed by friendly attendent and helpful.

COST Adults $25 ( 16 years +) Child $12.50 ( 4- 15 years) Family 2 x adults 2 x children $64.00

SIGHTS Ayers Rock (Uluru) Olgas (Kata Tjuta)

FACILITIES Drop / flush toilets Observation areas for both cars and buses Sunset Observation and picnic areas Undercover and open bench seating Well signed walk areas Big information boards Drink water station

WALKS Valley of the winds

The initial walkway leading to the Valley of the winds is in considerable disrepair, loose rocks, erosin and very rough until you reach the molded stone pathway. Even there after, its very obvious the walkway hasn't been well maintained since our last visit in 2011. In 2011 the walkways were in excellent condition. Disappointing that the same standard of care no longer exists with increased entry fees?

SUNSET OBSERVATION AREA Many of the undercover picnic areas do not have a view of the Olgas.

Sunset viewing is 100 - 600 meters further to the left. There are wooden seats, but not all allow clear view of the Olgas. Arrive early to ensure a clear view for photo taking.

2nd open area has less people due to tour buses catering for groups at the first open viewing area.

TIPS Take your own chairs Arrange for your own bottle of wine + nibbles Dont forget your camera or smart phone

REMARKS Toilets were pretty ordinary Toilet paper not always refilled Not all had handsoap

TIP If you have weak ankles ensure you allow twice the time stated in the tourist information.

Wear ankle support or good enclosed walking shoes

Take...

This is one of the most magical places in Australia.

As soon as you walk around Kata Tjuta the vibrations and energy from the land transfixes you.

I felt as though I could actually run up the sides of the Olgas (although I wouldn't dare offend our First Nations is such a way).

However it is magical, mysterious and has a healing power that I cannot put into words.

Arriving at Kata Tjuta you are faced with two walking trails. The first is into Walpa Gorge. It is shorter but still blessed with magnificence. Walpa means windy in Pitjantjatjara language. The second is a more challenging trail is through the Valley of the Winds. I highly recommend you do both as the experience is different in both.

Kata Tjuta is sacred to the Anangu people, who have inhabited the area for more than 22,000 years. The sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta are believed to be about 500 million years old.

Kata Tjuta is a Pitjantjatjara word meaning "many heads". There are many Pitjantjatjara legends associated with Kata Tjuta.

One tells the story of the great snake king Wanambi who is said to live on the summit of Mount Olga and only comes down during the dry season.

Kata Tjuta is actually a sacred site for Anangu men and therefore many of the legends surrounding the site are kept secret.

However, we are allowed to walk around Kata Tjuna. You really can feel the overwhelming energy in the area and I personally believe that it is more spectacular than Uluru and felt more alive at Kata Tjuna then I have felt...

Kata Tjuta was absolutely stunning and, in many ways, as mesmerizing as Uluru. This group of massive, ancient rock domes has such a unique and majestic presence, and walking among them feels like stepping into another world. The scale of the formations is incredible—you feel so small standing beneath these towering domes.

The Valley of the Winds walk was the highlight for me. It’s a moderately challenging hike, but the views along the way and at the lookout points are completely worth it. The contrast between the red rock, the vibrant green vegetation, and the endless blue sky is breathtaking. The peace and tranquility here are unmatched.

The cultural significance of Kata Tjuta is deeply moving. While the Anangu stories connected to the area aren’t widely shared with visitors, you can sense the sacredness of the place, and it made me appreciate the land even more.

If you plan to visit, make sure to bring plenty of water, wear sturdy shoes, and start your walk early in the day to avoid the heat. Sunrise and sunset views are magical—the colors on the domes shift from fiery reds to soft purples.

Kata Tjuta is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the region. It’s a place of immense natural beauty and cultural importance that leaves a...