Arriving in Darwin, you will have time to explore the Top End city before embarking on your memorable journey straight down the centre of Australia. Settle into your Gold Class cabin as you begin travelling towards your first stop, Katherine, and enjoy an off-train experience in the magnificent Nitmiluk Gorge. Indulge in dinner on board, relax in the lounge carriage and retire for the night as you are carried onwards to awake in the heart of Australia - Alice Springs. Spend the day exploring this rocky landscape before enjoying dinner under a blanket of stars at Old Telegraph Station. The following morning you will have a short stop at Manguri before taking the day to immerse yourself in the underground, outback town of Coober Pedy - famous for its stunning landscapes and even more striking opals. Arriving in Adelaide, take a couple of days to explore its famous wine country and hills region before bidding farewell to your unforgettable Australian expedition.
Please note: Prices loaded are for The Ghan Gold Service Cabins and the single-person rate loaded is for sole occupancy of a Gold Twin Cabin. For sole occupancy of a Gold Suite Cabin or a more enhanced train experience with Gold Premium or Platinum Service Cabins, please reach out to one of our friendly sales consultants.
Aboriginal cultureLuxury touringNational parksScenic trainsWildlife & natureJourney Beyond Rail Expeditions
This suggested tour costs from AUD$6,900 per person (twin share, low season)
Starts in Darwin, finishes in Adelaide
9 days/8 nights
Bed & Breakfast (B&B)
Pre and post tour options? YES
Viewed 190 times in the last 7 days
**Please be advised that certain aspects of this tour may operate on specific days of the week. We recommend contacting one of our travel specialists to identify a departure date that suits your schedule.
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.
Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
Perfectly positioned amongst the entertainment and dining hub of Darwin’s seafront promenade, Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront is surrounded by great shopping, a range of Territorian pubs, as well as some of the most amazing restaurants and cafés in the NT. Whether you're tasting craft beers at The Precinct Tavern, enjoying hand crafted menus at Il Lido or Wharf One, or trying NT favourites at the Oyster Bar or Hot Tamale, you'll feel right at home at this picturesque location.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.
The Waterfront Precinct is Darwin's entertainment and dining hub, located within close proximity from Smith Street Mall and the Esplanade. Swim in the man-made (and protected) recreational beach, or take a plunge in the popular Wave Lagoon. This attraction rolls out 10 different wave patterns every 20 minutes, startling with gentle swells before increasing to waves up to 1.2 metres high. There are plenty of sun loungers and shady areas to hang out, or continue to explore the many eateries and bars surrounding the waterfront. Stokes Hill Wharf is a short walk away, and offers plenty of alfresco eateries and entertainment.
Two Iconic Territory Stories One Iconic Location. Experience and learn through the wonder of technology as the Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility brings history to life.
Experience a decommissioned RFDS Pilatus PC 12 aircraft that was completely aero medically equipped and learn about the activities of the RFDS's pilots, engineers, doctors, and nurses, and the experiences of the patients that are carried and cared for each day.
The second iconic story featured is the Bombing of Darwin on 19th February 1942. The bombing of the harbour brought destruction to the city of Darwin, and many of the stories have been brought to life through their innovative technology. This new and exciting world-class facility feature's never seen before cutting edge technology - a hologram cinema experience telling the story of Etheridge Grant, virtual reality and a projection window of the Japanese air attack on the harbour.
Darwin Gourmet Tours guides you to the best of Darwin’s food scene with an escorted four hour easy walking tour. Enjoy a welcome drink as chefs and staff present tasting plates (degustation) with an emphasis on local produce and Aboriginal bush foods. The rotating roster of restaurants includes Hanuman, Phat Mango, Aboriginal Bush Traders, PepperBerry Restaurant at the Hilton, Little Miss Korea, Moorish, Ruby, Char, Snapper Rocks, Roma Bar, Chow, Bannsang and other top dining places. Coffee, tea and standard soft drinks are included. During the short walks between venues, your guide will also show you cultural and historic landmarks and bring Darwin’s vibrant street artworks to life using clever augmented reality technology.
Your accommodation: Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
Perfectly positioned amongst the entertainment and dining hub of Darwin’s seafront promenade, Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront is surrounded by great shopping, a range of Territorian pubs, as well as some of the most amazing restaurants and cafés in the NT. Whether you're tasting craft beers at The Precinct Tavern, enjoying hand crafted menus at Il Lido or Wharf One, or trying NT favourites at the Oyster Bar or Hot Tamale, you'll feel right at home at this picturesque location.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.
Start your morning off with a 'Welcome Experience' where, after being transferred by coach to the Darwin Convention Centre, you will check in, enjoy a light breakfast and mingle with the other guests before being taken to the train station. Depart Darwin 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.
Your accommodation: The Ghan Gold Class
Step into a world of romance that epitomises rail travel. Gold Class cabins are the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of off-train experiences. Head for the lounge or dining cabin for your all-inclusive dining service and all the comforts of home.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 is the Central Australian aventure you’ve been dreaming of. Departing Alice Springs Airport, you will fly south of Pine Gap, the United States and Australian Defence Space Research Facility. Take in the spectacular outback scenery and vastness of Australia with a unique bird’s eye view as you fly directly to Uluru – Kata Tjuta. On arrival at Ayers Rock Airport, you will be met by your tour guide to commence an immersive experience of Uluru. Rising out of the surrounding desert, Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) dominate the landscape. World Heritage-listed Uluru is one of Australia’s most iconic natural landmarks. The ancient monolith is impressive; Uluru is 348 metres above the plain, more than 860 metres above sea level, and has a circumference of 9.4 kilometres.
Enjoy lunch at the Sunset Lookout and stop for a picture-perfect postcard photo – the one to wow your friends with. Travelling around the base of Uluru, you’ll visit the Mutitjulu Waterhole, home of Wanampi, an ancestral water snake. For centuries, Mutitjulu was an important campsite for Anangu people at Uluru. On this walk, you will learn about Kuniya Tjukurpa – the great battle between Kuniya (woma python) and Liru (poisonous snake man). On return to Ayers Rock Airport, board your aircraft and take to the skies again, flying around Uluru for a different perspective and seeing Kata Tjuta from the air.
Kata Tjuta is a Pitjantjatjara word meaning ‘many heads’. The formation is made up of 36 domes, spread over an area of more than 20 kilometres. The tallest is Mount Olga, which rises 546 metres above the plain, or 1,066 metres above sea level. The ochre-coloured shapes are a mesmerising sight.
Your accommodation: The Ghan Gold Class
Step into a world of romance that epitomises rail travel. Gold Class cabins are the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of off-train experiences. Head for the lounge or dining cabin for your all-inclusive dining service and all the comforts of home.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.
Your accommodation: The Ghan Gold Class
Step into a world of romance that epitomises rail travel. Gold Class cabins are the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of off-train experiences. Head for the lounge or dining cabin for your all-inclusive dining service and all the comforts of home.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.
Your accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide
Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide offers modern, refurbished and spacious rooms and provides friendly, professional services. It is located in the center of the city, just a short walk to shops, central markets and world class restaurants and bars. With ample room to relax, or play, enjoy your stay in South Australia thriving capital.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.
Your accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide
Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide offers modern, refurbished and spacious rooms and provides friendly, professional services. It is located in the center of the city, just a short walk to shops, central markets and world class restaurants and bars. With ample room to relax, or play, enjoy your stay in South Australia thriving capital.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!
This unique experience takes place in the Southern Hemisphere's largest open wine cellar, featuring wines from all around the country. In this tour, you will have the opportunity to browse the fine wine collection at the National Wine Centre, followed by a bespoke private dining experience with a four-course lunch or dinner, prepared and carefully curated by an Executive Chef. An expert Sommelier will match each dish to a wine, taking you on a memorable culinary journey catered to your preferences.
Your accommodation: Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide
Hotel Grand Chancellor Adelaide offers modern, refurbished and spacious rooms and provides friendly, professional services. It is located in the center of the city, just a short walk to shops, central markets and world class restaurants and bars. With ample room to relax, or play, enjoy your stay in South Australia thriving capital.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!
Starts | Status | Double (2 people sharing) | Twin Share (2 people sharing) | Single occupancy | You save | ||
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Oct 14, 2024
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Enquire | AUD$8,660 | AUD$6,900 | AUD$11,650 | ||
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Oct 21, 2024
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Apr 3, 2025
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Apr 14, 2025
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May 1, 2025
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May 5, 2025
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May 19, 2025
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May 22, 2025
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May 26, 2025
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May 29, 2025
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Jun 2, 2025
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Jun 5, 2025
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Jun 9, 2025
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Enquire | AUD$9,590 | AUD$7,790 | AUD$12,800 | ||
Jun 12, 2025
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Enquire | AUD$9,590 | AUD$7,790 | AUD$12,800 | ||
Jun 16, 2025
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Enquire | AUD$9,590 | AUD$7,790 | AUD$12,800 |