Kata Tjuta

Once known as The Olgas, these dome formations are not quite as popular as Uluru, but stunning in the own way. 

It is about a 50 km drive from the Yulara campground. We did our first walk to Walpa Gorge. It was freezing.  A howling gale blowing into us made the eyes water.  There would have been no climbing on the Rock today. The walking track in was pretty rough, rock rather than red dirt. Good footwear needed!

At the Gorge, a young international couple asked if we were going to the Valley of the Winds walk. As we were, they asked if they could get a ride back to the car park. They had started out at the Valley, and took a wrong turn, and ended up at the Walpa Gorge. No problem, as we had room. He was French, and she was Norwegian. Both had been studying in Brisbane, met there, and are now spending a few weeks traveling (on a budget in a camper, using free camps).   Not sure how they took a wrong turn, hope their gps works better, getting to Darwin. It is amazing how you end up having conversations with people.  We also ran into several others from Coober Pedy and the Sunset viewing. 

The Valley of the Winds was not an easy walk either, as the surface was very uneven. It is amazing walking between the domes though. Fascinating rock formations. 

Kata Tjuta from afar. 

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The red dust is quite amazing. It does get everywhere.  Below are Russell’s boots and our campsite. No wonder we are dirty. 

Between the pine barriers (below) is another campsite. Tiny, although a camper trailer did get in there and opened up. A great effort. We thought it would only fit the smallest of camper vans. 

Filled up with diesel this morning. $2.13.5 per litre!  The first time Russell has tapped his card and had to add the PIN number as it was over $100!  Oh well. 

Seeing lots of Pajero Sports here. They must be the hire car of choice!  We have only seen 3 other Safari caravans, but every other type of van, camper, trailer, roof rack, tent, or camping set up that you can imagine. The queue at the gate was about 40 this afternoon (4pm). The reception checkin queue was out the door!  I don’t know how this place is coping. 

I have had a bit more success adding photos.  Enjoy. 

Off to Kings Canyon tomorrow.