The Ghan Expedition

Welcome to Darwin, a vibrant tropical city brimming with charm. After checking into your accommodation, spend the day exploring at your own pace. Visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory to admire Indigenous art and maritime history, or stroll through the lush George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. For a more laid-back option, relax at the Darwin Waterfront Precinct, where you can swim in the wave pool or unwind with waterfront dining.

Spend your free day discovering more of Darwin’s highlights. Wander through the bustling Mindil Beach Sunset Market (seasonal) for unique crafts and delicious street food, or take a trip to Crocosaurus Cove for an up-close encounter with saltwater crocodiles. Explore the historical WWII Oil Storage Tunnels or enjoy a refreshing swim at Berry Springs Nature Park.

In the evening, experience Darwin’s iconic sunset on the Charles Darwin Dinner Cruise. Glide across Darwin Harbour as you soak in stunning views of the city’s skyline and the vivid colors of the setting sun. Indulge in a Territory-style buffet dinner featuring fresh Australian seafood and locally sourced produce, accompanied by relaxing background music. This two-hour cruise offers a serene and memorable way to enjoy Darwin’s natural beauty.

Start your journey aboard The Ghan with a welcome drink, canapés, and a photo opportunity with the iconic red locomotive. Settle into your cabin or mingle in the Outback Explorer Lounge as the train begins its southbound journey. Enjoy a chef-prepared lunch before an Off Train Experience in Katherine, exploring the stunning Nitmiluk Gorge on a cruise, discovering the lives of locals at the Katherine Outback Experience, or visiting the wildlife-rich Cutta Cutta Caves, rich in Indigenous culture and history. For a spectacular view, consider an optional helicopter flight over Nitmiluk Gorge.

Wake up to the breathtaking Australian outback as The Ghan nears Alice Springs. After a hearty onboard breakfast, embark on a day of Off Train Experiences tailored to every interest. Choose from an off-road e-bike adventure, the Alice Explorer tour featuring the Historic Telegraph Station and Royal Flying Doctor Service, a cultural visit to Standley Chasm, wildlife encounters at the Desert Park, or the stunning Simpson’s Gap. For an unforgettable view, opt for a scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. In the evening, dine under the stars at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, surrounded by red earth and elegance.

Begin your day with a sunrise stop at remote Manguri before venturing into the quirky opal mining town of Coober Pedy, where over half the population lives underground. Discover the town’s unique charm, enjoy a gourmet underground lunch, and choose from Off Train Experiences such as exploring the Breakaways, learning mining history on the Opal Experience, or an optional scenic flight over the Painted Hills and Lake Eyre. Conclude your final night aboard The Ghan with a delicious dinner, followed by a nightcap with newfound friends as the train journeys toward Adelaide.

This morning, watch as the vibrant ochre hues of the outback transform into the lush green fields of South Australia. Savor a relaxed brunch while passing through the picturesque Flinders Ranges, before arriving in Adelaide to conclude one of the world’s most iconic rail journeys.

As your journey comes to an end, take some time to soak in the charm of Adelaide before your departure. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and, if time permits, explore the city’s vibrant Central Market, known for its fresh produce and local delicacies, or take a stroll along the picturesque River Torrens. Bid farewell to the City of Churches with memories of your incredible adventure to take home.