The Ghan Expedition: Journey through the heart of Australia

Explore the wonders of Australia’s vast interior by train aboard one of the world’s most renowned rail journeys – The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide. Operating from April to October, this all-inclusive four-day, three-night journey will take you to some of the most remote and captivating parts of Australia in style and comfort, leaving lasting memories for years to come.

Day 1

Your journey begins with a morning departure from Darwin. Once you are settled into your private cabin, you are free to mingle with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge, whilst enjoying the exceptional service. When it’s time for lunch, savour the regionally inspired menu accompanied by a selection of all-inclusive wines and beverages, before an early afternoon arrival at the Top End township of Katherine. Take a relaxing cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge’s ancient natural wonders and explore the region’s rich Indigenous culture. Enjoy dinner back on board as the sun sets over the outback, then retreat to your cabin and fall asleep as the train rolls soothingly onwards.

Day 2

After your first night on The Ghan, you are greeted by a morning view of the spectacular Red Centre. A full day of experiences awaits you in the outback town of Alice Springs.

For travellers who enjoy a more active experience, join the guided e-bike tour through Alice Springs or enjoy a guided walk to Simpsons Gap or Standley Chasm where you will discover important elements of flora, fauna, and Indigenous culture. You may even spot the yellow-footed rock wallabies that call this place home. Guests can also partake in a special dot painting workshop.

For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, a visit to Desert Park awaits. Unravel ancient cultural stories, the science behind the region’s breathtaking landscapes, mysterious animal life and geological marvels before taking your front-row seat at the spectacular free-flight bird show. See the resident dingoes before purchasing a special souvenir from the gift shop.

For guests who would like to learn more about the town of Alice Springs, the Alice Explorer experience will take you on a relaxing journey by coach. Visit The School of the Air, the first school to use two-way radio broadcasts to educate students in remote areas who were unable to attend face-to-face lessons. Then visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service Base to learn about the vital medical care provided to thousands living in outback Australia, before a visit to the Reptile Centre, home to the largest reptile display in Central Australia.

An optional upgrade is a scenic flight to Uluru, returning in time to meet the rest of your fellow guests at a spectacular barbeque dinner under a million stars at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station – a truly unique, all-inclusive, authentic dinner experience. Become immersed in the spirit and grandeur that is the history of the Australian Outback. You can also watch the blacksmith crafting away using traditional tooling and methods, or maybe take the opportunity to climb aboard a camel for a short ride into the sunset!

Day 3

Upon waking, your final Off Train Experience awaits. After a sumptuous breakfast, step off The Ghan onto the remote outback outpost of Manguri. Here you will venture into the unique and wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy, where more than half of the residents live underground. You will enjoy a day of discovery, and a gourmet lunch in the most unique of locations: underground. Dinner is served back on the train where you can enjoy a nightcap as your journey continues.

Day 4

On the final morning of your journey, enjoy a leisurely brunch whilst taking in the scenic pastoral hues of the Flinders Ranges and South Australian plains, as you prepare for your mid-morning arrival into Adelaide.