The Ghan Rail Experience - 11 Days

Experience the fascinating Ghan on this tour with two nights aboard the train. Marvel at spectacular landscapes from the fertile countryside surrounding Adelaide to the rusty hues of the Red Centre, and the tropical splendour of the Top End..

Tour Highlights

- Two nights on board The Ghan train through the heart of Australia

- Barossa Valley

- Alice Springs

- Ayres Rock

- Darwin

Day 1 Arrive Adelaide

On arrival in Adelaide, you will be transferred from the airport to your hotel by private car and driver. After checking in at your hotel, the remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight at the Medina Grand Treasury.

Day 2 Adelaide

A full day tour takes you to the famous wine growing region of the Barossa Valley. You will visit Richmond Grove Winery. Return to Adelaide for your overnight stay.

Day 3 The Ghan

A private transfer is included to the rail station. Board The Ghan and journey through the northern suburbs of Adelaide. Through the wheat belt of South Australia's mid North and pass the southern Flinders ranges. Lunch and dinner is served to you on board in the elegant Queen Adelaide restaurant. Overnight on board in Gold Service.

Day 4 Alice Springs

Wake up to the wonders of the red centre as your journey continues towards Alice Springs, your breakfast and lunch is served in the Queen Adelaide restaurant. On arrival at Alice Springs, a private transfer will take you to your hotel. Overnight at the Chifley Alice Springs Resort.

Day 5 Alice Springs to Ayers Rock

Depart Alice Springs and travel through the West MacDonnell and James Ranges. Visit a camel farm and stop to view majestic Atila (Mt Conner), before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort. This afternoon visit Kata Tjuta, and explore Walpa Gorge. Enjoy nibbles and a complimentary glass of wine while watching the sun set and the changing colours of Uluru. Overnight at the Sails in the Desert, Ayers Rock Resort.

Day 6 Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Kings Canyon

This morning travel to the Uluru sunrise viewing area, and watch the sun set the Red Centre alight, then tour around the base of Uluru. Travel by coach to the Mutitjulu Walk where you will be escorted to the Mutitjulu Waterhole then visit the Uluru – Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre before continuing to Kings Canyon. Rest of day free. Overnight at the Kings Canyon Wilderness Lodge.

Day 7 Kings Canyon to Alice Springs

Join a guided climb to the rim of Kings Canyon for views of Watarrka National Park (for those with a good level of fitness, sturdy shoes required). An easier walk along the boulder-strewn canyon floor is also available. Enjoy lunch at Kings Canyon Resort (own expense) before travelling to Alice Springs. Overnight at the Chifley Alice Springs Resort.

Day 8 Alice Springs, The Ghan to Darwin

From Alice Springs follow the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges. Pass the John Flynn Memorial (founder of the Royal Flying Doctor Service). Stop at Simpson's Gap then continue to Angkerle (Standley Chasm). Walk along the stony watercourse lined with ghost gums and acacias. A light lunch will be provided before you return to Alice Springs. Visit the Nocturnal House and witness free-flying birds at the Birds of Prey Presentation. You reboard the Ghan at 6pm. Settle into your cabin for the overnight journey.

Day 9 Arrive in Darwin

Enjoy time in Katherine this morning before arriving late afternoon into Darwin and transfer from the rail station to your hotel. Overnight at at the Mantra on the Esplanade.

Day 10 Darwin

The morning is at leisure. Join a city tour this afternoon for the perfect introduction to Darwin. Tour the historic sites of the city including the East Point Military Precinct, the Stokes Hill Wharf area and the Mooring Basin. After the city sights tour you will be dropped off at Cullen Bay Marina for a cruise on magnificent Darwin Harbour where you can relax and enjoy a beautiful sunset in paradise as well as an interactive cultural experience. Return to your hotel (transfer not included).

Day 11 Depart Darwin

A private transfer to Darwin Airport concludes your tour.

The Ghan

A transcontinental adventure offering unsurpassed views travelling North to South over 3 unforgettable days. Boarding The Ghan in Adelaide or Darwin, experience one of the most fascinating great train journeys of the world. (Connections are available on the Indian Pacific for guests travelling to or from Sydney). Enjoy 2 nights aboard this great train in either direction.

Marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes from fertile countryside surrounding Adelaide to the rusty hues of the Red Centre, onto the tropical splendour of the Top End. The Ghan is the ultimate journey through the heart of the continent.

Gold Service

Gold Sleeper Class consists of superior, well appointed overnight sleeper accommodation, with elegant twin and single cabins. Twin cabins have 3 lounge seats lounge which convert to upper and lower berths with ensuite facilities and toilet, washbasin and shower. Single Cabins feature a lounge chair converting to single sleeping berth with shower and toilet facilities located at the end of each carriage. 

Cabins are fully serviced by attendants with fresh sheets, pillows and duvets.  Facilities include wardrobe, full length mirror, reading light and a foldaway table. Meals are served in the elegant Restaurant Car and are included. The cosy Gold Lounge, is the ideal place to socialise or sit back and relax with a drink either before dinner or for a nightcap. 

Platinum Service

Platinum Cabins are approximately twice the size of the standard Gold Twin Cabins with each room offering deluxe accommodation featuring double beds, a spacious ensuite and 24 hour room service. The amenities include all the modern comforts, and the decor is rich in distinctly Australian character. Platinum Service has been designed to meet the needs of the discerning traveller looking for that next level of comfort that will truly be the ultimate way to travel in style by train through the heart of Australia.

Platinum Service passengers will also be able to utilise the Gold Lounge, Restaurant & Bar. Your cabin is a private lounge during the day with a moveable table and plenty of space to entertain or relax. By night your cabin converts to your choice of comfortable double or twin beds. All ensuite bathrooms have full size shower and toilet facilities.

Upgrade to Platinum Service is available - details and prices on request.

Departs Mondays: 03 June 13 - 26 August 2013

This tour not available during festival or sporting events, or at Christmas & New Year. Details available on request.

Price Includes:

- 8 nights accommodation as shown

- 2 nights on board the Ghan train in Gold Service with meals and drinks

- Transfers to / from hotels to airport / railstations as shown

- Full-day Barossa Valley sightseeing tourincluding lunch

- Sightseeing at Uluru and Kings Canyon as described

- Alice Springs and the Western MacDonald Ranges, Simpson’s Gap and visit to the Alice Springs Desert Park including lunch

- Half-day Darwin city sightseeing tour and harbour cruise

Not included:

- Flights to/from Australia*

- Meals other than specified above

- Gratuities / tips for sightseeing and transfer driver/guides

*  We can arrange your flights for you, please ask us for details when making your enquiry.