The Formation Of The Domes Of Kata Tjuta
The sandstone domes of
Kata Tjuta are formed approximately 300 million years ago. When the huge slab of rock that is
Kata Tjuta was being folded and faulted, fractures cracked through the rock. Water then seeped down the cracks and eroded the rock to form valleys and gorges that spilt the rock slab into blocks.
Through time, weathering and erosion wore away the rocks above the cracks to produce the rounded domes we see today. Hence, the
Pitjantjatjara name
Kata Tjuta which means “many heads” was given to the unique rock formation.
Erika posing midway on the 5.5 km Karingana Lookout Walk at Kata Tjuta
The walk in Kata Tjuta takes one through a scenic journey over flat and rugged terrains
The impressive landscape of Kata Tjuta
People looking like ants in comparison to the massive size of the sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta
A pair of comfortable walking shoes will help you get though the stony and rugged terrain of Kata Tjuta with ease
Walk, stop, take photographs, rest and repeat the routine when in Kata Tjuta
The Valley Of The Winds
From afar, the domes of Kata Tjuta looked relatively small in size but as we got closer, its massive size is revealed. After crossing the flat and wide open terrain, we came to an opening between two domes known as the Valley of the Winds.
Like its name, the Valley of the Winds is a very windy geological area. We endured constant blow of strong winds as we made our way through the valley. It made walking difficult especially if one is going against the wind’s direction.
The howling of the strong winds passing through the valley echoed throughout our journey. Whether we enjoyed or loathed it, it was indeed an unforgettable experience – uniquely at the Valley of the Winds, Kata Tjuta. I happen to enjoy the strong winds as long as it does not send piles of dust and debris flying straight into my face and eyes or knock me off track.
Visitors will enjoy a beautiful scenery like this during their walk in Kata Tjuta
The huge and impressive sandstone domes of Kata Tjuta
Daphne and Danielle having a conversation at Kata Tjuta
Several sections of the walk at Kata Tjuta take visitors through areas rich in desert shrubs and plants
The 5.5 km Karingana Lookout Walk took us through the Valley of the Winds
Through the Valley of the Winds, Kata Tjuta
A steep climb to the top to reach Karingana Lookout
The challenging path to Karingana Lookout, Kata Tjuta
A Steep Climb To The Top To Reach Karingana Lookout
The most challenging part of the walk I would say is the steep climb to the top of the valley to reach Karingana Lookout. I remember having to keep my balance as I walked carefully across the hundreds of loose rocks on the steep trail, besides battling the strong gusts of wind.
After much effort – huffing and puffing along the way, the group and I made it to the top in one piece. We finally reached the scenic Karingana Lookout in Kata Tjuta! There, we took a 15-minute break to catch our breaths and enjoy the panoramic view.
Rhea, our Emu Run tour guide distributed a fruit (an apple or orange, I cannot remember) and an energy bar to everyone in the group to munch on. While some were snacking, others were busy taking photographs of the impressive view in front and all around us.
There is lush desert vegetation around the Valley of the Winds, Kata Tjuta
A close look at one of the huge sandstone domes around Karingana Lookout, Kata Tjuta
A steep climb to the top to reach Karingana Lookout, Kata Tjuta
Erika admiring the breathtaking view at Karingana Lookout, Kata Tjuta
Do, Re, Mi! Our group members having the time of their life capturing Kata Tjuta's beauty in photographs
Visitors get to enjoy breathtaking views like this at Karingana Lookout, Kata Tjuta
Weathering and erosion wore away the rocks above the cracks to produce the rounded domes we see today at Kata Tjuta
Awe-Inspiring Towering Red Rocks & Outback Plant Life
Standing in front of the towering red rocks of Kata Tjuta, I was made to realise how small we are on this planet, and in the universe. I felt a huge sense of gratitude for being able to experience first-hand the indescribable beauty and wonders of the Australian outback and desert landscape in Kata Tjuta.
After that, we continued our walk downhill and made our way back to the parking lot. Along the way, we passed by interesting-looking desert plants that provide shade for us from the blistering heat. Once again, we walked on a stony, rugged and isolated path littered with loose rocks of all shapes and sizes.
In the end, all of us made it back to the parking lot slightly past noon. We felt tired, but happy to have completed the 5.5 km Karingana Walk in Kata Tjuta, Central Australia. We took nothing but photographs as our souvenirs in an effort to preserve the land for the generations to come. As a Native American quote goes, "We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children."
A Native American quote goes, "We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children."
Walking back on the trail towards the direction of the parking lot, Kata Tjuta
Loose rocks and boulders of all shapes and sizes littered the landscape of Kata Tjuta
Awe-inspiring moments like these take my breath away, Kata Tjuta
The 5.5 km Karingana Lookout Walk is a highly recommended activity at Kata Tjuta
The map and way to the Valley of the Winds, Kata Tjuta
Up next: A trip to Curtain Springs, an Australian outback barbecue, stargazing and sleeping in a safari tent at Kings Creek Station
