The Wild and Windy Scenes of Walpa Gorge

Walpa Gorge is a not to be missed when you venture into the Red Centre.

The landscape surrounding Uluru is packed full of fascinating sights. Huge rock formations rise up in a rusty orange and deep valleys with rough greenery and snaking trails. Throughout the region, there are plenty of viewing points to discover and enjoy, as well as plenty of native flora and fauna to look out for.

Near to Kata Tjuta, one of the most prominent landmarks in the area, is a leisurely walk that takes you through some of the most surreal scenery in this part of Australia. The walk cuts through Walpa Gorge, a spectacular show of vibrant red and orange cliff faces that jut up towards the blue sky.

Soak up the spectacular scenery and immersing yourself in the deep gullies cut through the formations. Here you can see the 36 majestic domes of Kata Tjuta with unrivalled views.

Valley of the Winds walk

The Valley of the Winds offers a great shortcut through the scenery that is perfect for adults and kids alike. The unusual terrain makes for great play spots, and towering cliffs offer a little respite from the searing sun.

Though this walk is a popular activity, it isn’t always open to the public. Sometimes, they are closed off for preservation purposes or to allow the local Aboriginal owners to carry out ceremonies. This is common in this part of Australia, which is still heavily imbued with a rich cultural heritage. As well as marvelling at the landscape, there is ample opportunity to get to learn about the regions traditional cultures.

When you embark on a journey through Walpa Gorge, you follow a picturesque trail that runs alongside a natural creek. The creek flows between two of Kata Tjuta’s largest and most impressive domes. The 2.6-kilometre track lets you get up close and personal with some of Australia’s most breath-taking monuments. It places you in between the sheer rugged walls and within touching distance of a fascinating historic narrative.

While walking through, you’ll discover a desert landscape with pops of verdant greenery. Look for native animal species, including a large number of sun-seeking reptiles. After you pass through, you’ll emerge in a grove filled with spear wood. Keep walking and you’ll be fed out onto a viewing platform that peeks out from between the two domes. At the end of the walk, you’ll have ample time to soak up the views and listen out for the gentle wind. It was this soft wind which gave the Gorge its name.

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.