Length of Australia Ghan Expedition

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.

On arrival, you will be met by a private driver outside baggage carousel and delivered to your Darwin accommodation.

Darwin has a fantastic mix of things to do, whether you are joining a tour or going the self-guided route. Make sure you head to Mindil Beach Sunset Market and wander the multitude of stalls. Join a sunset harbour cruise and soak up the sunset with drinks and canapes. Catch a film under the stars at the outdoor Deckchair Cinema (known as "The Deckie" to locals); all screenings start at 7:30pm and local eateries have food stalls to keep your hunger at bay.
There are more crocodiles in the Northern Territory than anywhere else in the world, so jump in a boat or visit Crocosaurus Cove and meet the real locals. If you're looking to stretch your legs, visit the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens. These beautiful, exotic gardens are home to some spectacular plant species that provide a tropical oasis where you can learn about their natural and cultural history.

Be introduced to the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles and some of the largest Saltwater Crocodiles in the world, right in the heart of Darwin City. Crocosaurus Cove is passionate about showcasing the huge array of reptiles found primarily in the Top End of Australia. Meet a variety of critters that you are likely to encounter at various times of the year across the Kimberley, Kakadu & Litchfield National Parks and Arnhem Land regions and further afield to the Central Australian desert. It is these unique landscapes that are home to the many varieties of species that you will encounter at Crocosaurus Cove. From the freshwater aquarium’s Barramundi, Whipray & Turtles to 70 reptile species on display in the Reptile House and the active juvenile crocodiles in the Fishing for Crocs area, Crocosaurus Cove provides the perfect introduction to your Northern Territory adventure.

Toast the top end’s legendary sunsets from a location like no other. On the city of Darwin’s doorstep, Darwin Harbour features incredible wildlife, historical landmarks, and unbeatable views of the tropical city. Sit back and soak up the water views and stunning sunset as you cruise in comfort. A range of delicious platters and beverages can be ordered throughout the two and a half hour cruise (at your own expense).

This legendary train evokes a frontier spirit, a romantic connection to the land, and travelling on it creates a moving and unforgettable life experience. The Ghan celebrates outback adventure, with its legend stemming from the 1930s when the first Afghan cameleers arrived in Australia. On that momentous journey, the train was dubbed ‘The Afghan Express’ and then shortened to the legend it is today, ‘The Ghan’.
Today you can become part of this celebrated history, following in the tracks of those pioneers as you journey through Australia’s red heart. Regarded as one of the world’s greatest rail journeys, The Ghan delivers so much more than an extended train ride. It promises access to parts of Australia no other holiday can come close to – the perfect balance of comfort and adventure culminating in an experience that will move you in every sense of the word.
Note: Throughout the course of your journey, there are a range off-train experiences at Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy. Preferences can be requested on booking, although not confirmed until onboard. It is best to indicate to your sales consultant as early as you can which experiences you would prefer to join. Alternatively, if you wish to upgrade your off-train experiences, these can be confirmed at the time of booking. Please ask your consultant which upgraded experiences are available to you.

Depart Darwin this morning and, once settled in your cabin, head to the restaurant carriage for lunch, including a selection of Australian wines. Your first stop is in the township of Katherine early afternoon, where you will hop off the train and head out to explore Nitmiluk Gorge on either a nature cruise or Indigenous art cruise.
You may also choose to upgrade your off-train experience today to a Nitmiluk Gorge Helicopter Flight. There is limited availability for this activity so please let your sales consultant know ahead of time if you would like to book this.
Back on board the train, you will journey through the night towards the Red Centre town of Alice Springs.

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.

Wake up this morning to stunning views of a sunburnt Red Centre. Spend your day off-train and exploring Alice Springs on either a coach tour of The Alice, an off-road cycle tour, a walking tour of the Alice Springs Desert Park, or a discovery walk of the magical Simpsons Gap.
Tonight you will meet your fellow travellers for dinner under a blanket of stars at the Old Telegraph Station, before boarding the train for your onward travel.
You can choose to upgrade your off-train experience today to an Uluru Fixed Wing Scenic Flight - please let your consultant know as soon as possible so that we can pre-book this for you to avoid missing out on this high demand activity.

This optional excursion will create incredible once-in-a-lifetime memories. Transfer to Alice Springs Airport to board a chartered Uluṟu scenic flight. Fly just south of Pine Gap where the United States and Australian Joint Defence Space Research Facility is located before heading directly to Uluṟu – Kata Tjuṯa National Park. Take in the spectacular outback scenery and vastness of Australia with a unique bird’s eye view.

This morning you will make a stop at Manguri before alighting at the outback town of Coober Pedy. More than half of the population of this opal mining town live underground to escape the summer heat. Your off-train activities today may include a tour of the dramatic landscape of the Breakaways Reserve, exploration of the Coober Pedy township, or a half day tour of the Umoona Opal Mine and Museum.
You can choose to upgrade your off-train experience today to a scenic flight over the Painted Hills & Lake Eyre. Please let your consultant know so that we can pre-book this for you to avoid missing out on this high demand activity.

This optional experience upgrade will see you fly over the dramatic outback landscapes of South Australia, a vision to be remembered forever. Transfer to Coober Pedy Airport to board a your flight and soar above the Anna Creek Painted Hills and the shimmering pink Kati Thanda (Lake Eyre), Australia's largest salt lake. Land at William Creek for a quintessential Aussie pub lunch, before taking to the skies again and circling back to Coober Pedy.

This morning wake up to the passing scenery as you travel through the many outback lakes near the remote towns of Tarcoola and Pimba, and watch as the landscape changes as you enter the small coastal city of Port Augusta. Farewell the sunburnt outback as you enjoy brunch on board with your fellow travellers, and welcome the farming plains and rolling countryside before you arrive into the beautiful city of Adelaide. Alighting at the Adelaide Parklands Terminal located 3km from the city centre, it is a short taxi ride to the heart of the Festival State.

With a growing small-bar scene, world-class art and music, and a festival calendar to rival that of any other Australian city, Adelaide is a destination worth discovering. Take time to explore its vibrant laneways, visit the iconic Adelaide Central Market, and go shopping in Rundle Mall. Slow things down and relax at the Botanic Gardens, jump on the iconic Popeye Cruise along the River Torrens, or take the tram out to Glenelg to explore the popular metropolitan beach, dine in one of the many foreshore restaurants, or even enjoy the beach cabanas in summer months.
Adelaide is also lucky enough to be surrounded by some of Australia's most famous wine regions, and a stop into one of the wineries or the National Wine Centre is highly recommended. A 30-minute drive east into the hills will take you to Hahndorf, the oldest surviving German settlement in Australia, home to incredible food, strawberry fields and streets lined with artisan stores. On the way to Hahndorf, stop in at the Mount Lofty Botanic Gardens and the Mt Lofty Summit for a coffee with a view. You may wish to return via Belair and stop at the iconic Windy Point Lookout on your way for even more phenomenal views over the city and beyond, especially at sunset.

Experience delightful sightseeing cruise down the River Torrens, while enjoying fresh scones served with whipped cream, jam and your choice of hot beverage, on a stunning heritage boat. Boarding at Elder Park, you will float down the beautiful river, relax and see Adelaide from the best seat in the house. The Popeye cruises through the heart of the city and passes by famed attractions like the Festival Centre, the Entertainment Centre and the SAHMRI. Admire the ever-changing landscapes that line the waterways as you listen to live commentary by a local guide about the history of the area. Soak up the relaxing atmosphere of Southern Australia's capital.

This tour uncovers the famous 150-year-old fresh produce market. Taste a delicious selection of foods from South Australian artisan food producers, meet the suppliers, Stallholders and producers whose families have traded the market for generations. This small-group tour is hosted by local guides and is serious fun for those with a passion for great food, and the people who grow and supply it to our tables.
After the tour, settle in for a delicious Market cafe lunch and watch the world go by, or if you are too full after the tour tastings, the guide can arrange a gourmet Italian panini picnic lunch to take away.

Venture off the beaten path with Small Batch to discover hidden-gem wineries on a premium share-group McLaren Vale wine tour like no other.
See, taste, smell and learn the difference between wine varieties like Grenache and Graciano, or Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon. Learn what effect the climate has on the taste of a wine. Ever wondered what happens between the grape and the glass? Why does Shiraz taste different depending on where it comes from? What makes a wine organic or vegan, and what difference does it make? Hear the answers to all your questions and more during an engaging day uncorking scenic McLaren Vale. Enjoy a flexible itinerary and a stellar lunch at The Salopian during the most personalised share-group McLaren Vale wine tour around!

Immerse yourself in the majestic Adelaide Hills with this exclusive hop on, hop off wine tour departing from Adelaide City. Just 30 minutes up the freeway, Hahndorf and its surrounds feel a world away from the hustle and bustle of Adelaide city. Make your way along this unique trail featuring the very best of the region and be captivated by the rich natural beauty, history, and, of course, some of the best food and wine in the country. Jumping on board with Trailhopper is a great way to make the most of your day in the Adelaide Hills and Hahndorf wine region. 

Farewell Australia today. If there is more of Australia or New Zealand you would like to explore, talk to your sales consult about planning your next stop!