Valley of the Winds

The Valley of the Winds walk is a seven-kilometre, three-hour circuit that is classified as easy to moderate, but it is essential to start out early in the morning to avoid the heat of the Australian midday sun. When the weather is forecast to reach 36°C, trail access is closed, and this usually occurs by 11am. At first light, walkers appreciate the sounds of the wind and some 178 species of bird calls that are carried up through the valley, a spectacular natural amphitheatre. And like Uluru, these rock formations are most spectacular at sunrise and sunset when the changing light gives them a magical red glow.

Winding through gorges, creeks and canyons, the full loop encompasses two spectacular viewpoints. At Karu Lookout, hikers gaze out across the impressive rock formations and ancient scenery. Further along, after walking through the middle of two large boulders, Karingana Lookout reveals a breathtaking valley with a surprisingly green landscape in the middle of the dry Australian outback.

The Valley of the Winds is a very culturally sensitive area and is still used today for indigenous cultural ceremonies. Anangu ask that walkers don’t take any video or photographs of this walk for commercial purposes. By respecting Anangu’s wishes, visitors ensure the continuation of Anangu cultural beliefs and the protection of their spirituality.

A stay at Longitude 131° is inclusive of the Walpa Gorge walk at Kata Tjuta, a guided 2.6km hike that offers an insight into the geology of the majestic domes followed by a visit to the Uluru Cultural Centre. For guests who would like to truly immerse themselves within Kata Tjuta, the Valley of the Winds hike is offered as an additional bespoke experience and can be undertaken instead of the Walpa Gorge walk and with or without a Longitude 131° guide.