The Ghan and Top End Experience

Not a formal Off Train Experience as such, but an added bonus that we like to include if we can! While you may not have heard of the outback town Marla before, it is fair to say it is worth the early start just to see the sunrise over this South Australian desert landscape. Located closer to Alice Springs than Adelaide, Marla is just shy of 1000 kilometres into the journey. The train arrives in the dark and guests are welcome to step off to stretch their legs as the sun light slowly bathes the surrounding outback and start their day with a steaming mug of coffee and bacon and egg roll. Take a moment to enjoy the stillness on this short 45 minute stop with the promise of the day stretching before you. Re-board the train and brunch will be served from 10am.

After your first night enjoying the fine dining and relaxed comfort of this iconic train, you’ll wake to an unforgettable outback sunrise at Marla – a remote outpost 160 kilometers from the Northern Territory border that marks the start of the Oodnadatta Track. With red dirt at your feet and a bonfire warming the morning air, you’ll have some time to appreciate the remote part of Australia you find yourself in. Reboard the train for brunch and enjoy the magnificent scenery as you make your way onwards to Alice Springs. Here you’ll have a selection of Off Train Experiences to choose from. There’s an experience to suit everyone, from an off-road mountain bike adventure across ochre-colored earth, to the Alice Explorer tour taking you to the town’s major attractions, a cultural experience at Standley Chasm, meeting the wildlife at the Desert Park, or taking in the astounding beauty of Simpson’s Gap. Alternatively, take it all in from the air, with an optional upgrade helicopter flight. You’ll return to the train late afternoon where you’ll have time to rest and refresh before dinner is served.

Step off The Ghan and explore the heart of the outback in Alice Springs! Tailor your journey with these exciting off-train adventures:

A Town Called Alice: Get face-to-face with Terry the mighty Saltwater Crocodile and his fascinating reptile friends at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre. Witness the crucial work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service, saving lives across vast distances. Finally, journey back in time at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, Australia's best-preserved telegraph outpost. Explore how this 1872 marvel bridged the outback's communication gap, connecting remote towns and changing lives forever.
 
Desert Park: Unveiling the secrets of the Red Centre, Alice Springs Desert Park is a living museum unlike any other. Nestled at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges, the park honors the Arrernte people's deep connection to the land. Immerse yourself in three distinct desert habitats – Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland – each teeming with native plants and animals. Witness the thrilling free-flying bird show, where desert raptors soar overhead showcasing their incredible hunting prowess. Go behind the scenes for an exclusive training session, where you'll get up close to these magnificent birds and the dedicated trainers who care for them.

Simpsons Gap: Stroll through Simpsons Gap, where towering red walls cradle a haven for rare flora. Ancient Ghost Gums and over 40 unique species thrive amidst the vast Mulga stands. Known as Rungutjirpa by the Arrernte people, this land holds deep spiritual significance. Feel the serenity as sunlight paints the canyon walls in a breathtaking display of color and form, a testament to the beauty and power of this sacred site.

Standley Chasm Cultural Walk: Standley Chasm is a significant cultural icon in Central Australia. Traditionally called Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water’, itis a 3-metre-wide, 80-metre-high gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Embark on a discovery walk where the towering walls showcase the vibrant geological palette of the outback in a way that will leave you breathless.

Cycle Alice: Pedal across the Ilentye Trail on the ochre-colored dirt and soak up the stunning Alice Springs countryside alongside the famously dry Todd River.Your guide will lead you to a picturesque spot in the sandy riverbed for a breather and a chance to truly immerse yourself in the beauty of this unique landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for black-footed rock wallabies, known to hop across the rocks.

Roads and Railways: Take part in an unforgettable off-train adventure that explores Australia’s rich transport heritage, starting at the National Road Transport Hall of Fame. Enjoy a guided journey through the Buntine Pavilion, home to a fascinating collection of historic cars and trucks, each telling its own story. Visit the Kenworth Dealer Hall of Fame to see the first Australian-made chassis, 400008, alongside iconic trucks that highlight the evolution of road transport. Explore exhibits like “Trucks in Action” and the RSL Military Museum, showcasing road transport’s significance. Finish the tour at the Old Ghan Heritage Railway, reliving the golden age of rail travel.

You can submit your preferences for the off-train experiences you will join on each day. Please indicate these to your sales agent as soon as possible.

This optional upgrade will see you experience the sheer magnitude of this ancient, sunburned land. Transfer to the Crowne Plaza Alice Springs and enjoy a drink by the pool while you wait for your flight. On boarding the helicopter, your pilot will take you up and over Alice Springs to experience once in a lifetime views and detailed commentary of the region's early explorers, now ingrained in Australian history and culture.

Your day dawns in the tropical north and when the landscape transforms into rocky gorges and fast-flowing canyon streams, prepare to experience one of the Top End’s most impressive natural wonders on a boat cruise along Nitmiluk Gorge. Making this experience even more memorable is the commentary that explains the significance of Nitmiluk to the Indigenous Jawoyn people and the many stories that celebrate their spiritual connection to the gorge. There is also a helicopter flight upgrade available, for those wishing to see Nitmiluk from an aerial perspective. Alternatively, the Katherine Outback Experience lets you into the lives of those who call the outback home, with a fascinating day of discovery showing what it’s like to live and work on a huge cattle station. After the day’s activities, you’ll reboard the train and continue to Darwin, where your journey exploring Australia by train concludes

This optional upgrade will provide views of the magnificent Nitmiluk Gorge unlike any other. Arriving in Katherine, alight the train and be taken to your awaiting helicopter. The Dreamtime story of the Traditional owners of this land tells of the gorge system's creation by Bula, an important figure of the Jawoyn people, who is said to have carved these gorges with his two wives as they were hunted across the lands. Flying over all 13 gorges, see if you can follow Bula's path as you appreciate the enormity & complexity of this landscape.

While the views of the outside world from the comfort of your cabin are captivating, sometimes it’s good to step off the train and stretch your legs to explore the remote pocket of Katherine! Tailor your journey with these exciting off-train adventures:

Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise Wind your way down the Katherine River on a relaxing cruise. Immerse yourself in ancient wonders as you find yourself surrounded by towering gorge walls. Sculpted by time and water, each bend unveils a more breathtaking vista. Listen to the cicadas serenade the canyons as your expert guide navigates the First and Second Gorges. These age-worn walls, etched by nature, cradle a wealth of unique plants and animals, all woven into the traditions of the Jawoyn people. Hear their captivating stories and gain a deeper understanding of their profound connection to this sacred place, Nitmiluk.

Nitmiluk Rock Art Cruise Nitmiluk Gorge offers a front-row seat to ancient Jawoyn stories. Cruise the First Gorge, where towering sandstone giants whisper secrets of the past.  Your guide will unveil Dreamtime tales of creation and the gorge's deep meaning to the Jawoyn people.  A short walk leads to a breathtaking rock art site, a testament to Jawoyn presence here for millennia, even during the Ice Age. 

Cutta Cutta Caves (April - October) Descend 15 meters below the surface into Cutta Cutta Caves, a network of caverns formed millions of years ago and teeming with life. Sparkling stalactites and stalagmites adorn the caves, which are home to a rich tapestry of wildlife, including rare Ghost Bats. "Many stars" in the Jawoyn language, Cutta Cutta holds deep cultural significance, linked to the Dreaming stories of the Barrac Barrac.

Katherine Outback Experience (April - October) Gain Insight into those who call outback home and discover what it is like to live and work on a huge cattle station. Witness the age-old tradition of horse-breaking firsthand. Marvel at the skill of working dogs wrangling not just cattle, but even ducks! Meet the salt-of-the-earth folks who run the show, their resilience etched in their faces and their stories woven into the land. As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the unique music scene, with Aussie classics performed by true outback characters, some even on horseback!

You can submit your preferences for the off-train experiences you will join on each day. Please indicate these to your sales agent as soon as possible.

Welcome to the Northern Territory's unhurried capital, Darwin. The city is a melting pot of cultures, with rich Aboriginal connections to country as well as strong Asian influences in its cuisine, thanks to its close proximity to Asia. Spend a balmy night at the buzzing night markets, see crocodiles up close, or slow things down with a cruise on the harbour.

You will be transferred on a private air charter from Darwin Airport to Bamurru Plains.

Discover the untamed beauty of Bamurru Plains with expert field guides who reveal the secrets of this extraordinary landscape. As part of the Complimentary Experiences at Bamurru Plains, enjoy twice-daily guided wilderness safaris with fellow guests, exhilarating airboat rides across the floodplains to open-top 4WD adventures and river cruises. Each experience brings you closer to the remarkable wildlife, birdlife, and raw natural beauty that define this unique corner of the Top End.

Enhance your stay at Bamurru Plains with an unforgettable full-day adventure to Kakadu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and living cultural landscape that has been home to Aboriginal people for over 65,000 years. Your journey begins with a scenic charter flight to Kakadu, including a breathtaking 30-minute loop over the park. Explore Ubirr, renowned for its ancient rock art, and take a short walk to a stunning lookout over the Nadab floodplain. Enjoy the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise on the East Alligator River, guided by an Aboriginal expert who shares insights into local mythology, traditional uses of flora and fauna, and bush survival skills while spotting crocodiles along the riverbanks. This immersive experience includes return flights, park entry, lunch, and a visit to the Bowali Visitor Centre, where you’ll learn more about Kakadu’s unique landscapes and wildlife. A truly enriching encounter with Australia’s cultural and natural heritage.

Enjoy the Complimentary Activities the retreat has to offer while truly relaxing and switching off from everyday life. Immerse yourself in the wilderness on guided safaris, airboat adventures, and wildlife-spotting excursions, then unwind in your private accommodation or by the infinity pool. At Bamurru Plains, every moment is designed to let you disconnect, recharge, and fully embrace the peace and beauty of this remote Top End sanctuary.

This optional upgrade will see you experience all the “must-do” highlights of Australia’s largest national park. Begin with a one-hour scenic flight from Bamurru Plains to Kakadu, complete with expert commentary, before joining a 90-minute Yellow Water Billabong cruise to explore the park’s stunning wetlands, wildlife, and landscapes. Enjoy lunch at Cooinda Lodge, then visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre to discover fascinating stories, artifacts, and browse the gallery gift shop. The adventure concludes with a 25-minute return flight to Bamurru, arriving just in time to join late-afternoon and evening activities back at the lodge.

You will be transferred on a private air charter from Bamurru Plains to Darwin Airport.

Your tour comes to an end today, but if you are itching to explore more amazing sights, we can customise your holiday to include more days or additional destinations. Our trusted travel specialists can book transfers to your onward flight, and even assist in booking these flights for you. Our team can't wait to help you design your ultimate getaway!