Can you climb the Olgas?

The Olgas – or Kata Tjuta – is one of Australia’s most astounding natural landmarks, being the less-famous yet equally-impressive neighbour to the unmistakable Uluru!

This being said, Kata Tjuta is completely different in form to the great monolith, comprising a series of dome-like structures that bound out of the red earth below.

And, just as climbing Uluru was criminalised in 2019, the same went for Kata Tjuta, given its importance to the local Anangu people, who have a deep spiritual connection to the incredible, Mars-like structures.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t get up close to the wondrous mounds, as you can take numerous walks that traverse through its lush intersecting valleys. The two main walks are the Valley of the Winds walk and the Walpa Gorge walk, with both walks providing varying degrees of difficulty as well as spectacular scenery along the way.

The Valley of the Winds walk is the more challenging of the two, but provides some incredible views of the surrounding desert and domes. The Walpa Gorge walk, conversely, is more a meander through a tranquil valley, an incongruous respite from the desert heat where lush flora and fascinating fauna seek refuge from the balmy desert beyond!

So, as you can see, you really don’t need to climb Kata Tjuta – it’s just disrespectful – and you can experience the landmark’s wonders without putting yourself at risk whilst being a jerk.

Anyway, it’s an amazing experience, and one that must be shared alongside the unforgettable:

Uluru in the twilight hours

Of course, Uluru is the main attraction when venturing out to the Red Centre. It’s the gigantic monolith that towers above some of the world’s most famous landmarks, an incomprehensibly massive sandstone that can only be seen to really be believed!

Seeing it is one thing, but seeing it in the twilight hours is a natural light show you are never likely to forget. In the hours before dawn and dusk the rock comes alive in all glowing hues of red, purple, gold and orange.

It’s an awe-inspiring experience and something that shouldn’t be overlooked despite daytime tours around its massive circumference.

Mutitjulu Waterhole

For a respite from the buzzing crowds you should head to the Mutitjulu Waterhole, a gorgeously serene nature spot just a short cruise from Uluru. Take a perch, listen to the birds and allow the tranquil nature to wash over you in a way that only the Red Centre possibly could…

Cameron Ward

Managing Director at Sightseeing Tours Australia

Cameron Ward turned his travel passion into a thriving Australian tourism business. Before he co-founded his own business, Sightseeing Tours Australia, he was enjoying being a Melbourne tour guide. Even now, Cameron delights in helping visitors from all around the world get the most out of their incredible Australian trip. You’ll see Cameron leading tours or writing about his favourite Australian places where he shares his local insights.

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