If your dream is to see the best of the Australian outback and immerse yourself in the heart of it with hands-on experiences, this is the ultimate escape.
It doesn’t come any better than travelling on The Ghan, exploring Uluru and Kata Tjuta, cruising Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine and exploring Kakadu and Litchfield National Parks, all in one sensational journey through the nation’s heartland.
DAY 1 – DARWIN
You’ve arrived in Darwin – it’s yours to explore. Spend the day at your leisure before checking in to your accommodation.
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Hilton Darwin
DAY 2 – LEISURE DAY, DARWIN HARBOUR DINNER CRUISE
Explore Darwin at your leisure. Tonight, enjoy a dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour Cruises’ Charles Darwin catamaran in air-conditioned comfort. View the spectacular Darwin sunset while savouring a delicious Territory-style dinner. (B,D)
DAY 3 – DARWIN TO KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
Depart Darwin heading towards Kakadu National Park. Much of the route is along the Arnhem highway, passing the productive region of Humpty Doo, where a vast array of tropical fruits is grown, and crossing the Adelaide River, with its vast wetlands, which attract migratory birds. At the Mary River, take to the water on a cruise that showcases the local wildlife, including saltwater crocodiles and the abundance of birdlife in the region. Continuing east, you’ll arrive at World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park and check in to the Crocodile Hotel at Jabiru, so named for the crocodile shape it takes. (B,L,D)
*During April, the cruise will be on Adelaide River in place of Mary River, with crossings at Mary River, West & South Alligator Rivers
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel.*Due to availability, some stays may be at Cooinda Lodge
DAY 4 – KAKADU NATIONAL PARK
Begin the day with a drive to the East Alligator River region, known as the gateway to Arnhem Land. Take a walk to the World Heritage Ubirr art site, home to some of the world’s most outstanding rock art. There will be time for those feeling fit to climb to the top of the escarpment for a magnificent view across the Magela floodplain. Next up, take a local indigenous cruise on the East Alligator River. Hear the stories of the region as you spot the large saltwater crocodiles that dwell in these waters. Returning to our sturdy yet comfortable vehicle, we’ll traverse Cahill’s Crossing to visit the town of Oenpelli, stopping at the Injalak gallery to admire the indigenous artworks.
Returning to Jabiru, you’ll gain another perspective on the incredible environments you experienced today on a 60-minute scenic flight that takes you over ancient escarpments, floodplains and winding rivers and exhibits the results of 1.8 billion years of continuous erosion. This flight includes live commentary from your pilot as you glide over these spectacular ancient lands. (B,L,D)
**During April, touring may visit Nourlangie Rock Art, the Bowali Visitor Centre, and cruise the South Alligator River, in place of Ubirr, Injalak Gallery and cruising the East Alligator River. The order of sites is subject to change due to weather conditions.
DAY 5 – KAKADU NATIONAL PARK, LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK, DARWIN
Check out after breakfast to return to the Arnhem highway, diverting towards the town of Batchelor, the gateway to Litchfield National Park. Litchfield National Park contains several types of typical Top End habitats, including lush monsoon forests, termite mounds, unusual rock formations, waterfalls, and cascades. Your first stop is Florence Falls, but one waterfall is never enough, so you’ll continue on to Wangi Falls. After a light lunch, you can take a dip in the large, crystal-clear pool of the waterfall before returning to Darwin and checking in to your hotel. (B, L)
OVERNIGHT: 1 night Hilton Darwin
DAY 6 – BOARD THE GHAN EXPEDITION IN DARWIN
Settle into the comforts of The Ghan, relax in your cabin or mingle with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Enjoy lunch ahead of your Off Train Experience in Katherine. In a region renowned for jaw-dropping natural assets, Katherine boasts one of the Top End’s best – the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge. (B,L,D)
OVERNIGHT: 1 night The Ghan
DAY 7 – THE GHAN EXPEDITION, ALICE SPRINGS
After breakfast you’ll arrive into Alice Springs, where a day of fascinating Off Train Experiences awaits you. Once your experience is complete, you will be transferred to your hotel to enjoy the evening at leisure. (B)
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs
DAY 8 – ALICE SPRINGS
Your 5 night Red Centre adventure with Outback Spirit Tours starts when you are met at your hotel by your friendly and professional crew early afternoon. Enjoy a brief afternoon tour of Alice Springs, including Anzac Hill, learning what makes this unique outback outpost tick, before dinner at the hotel. (B,D)
DAY 9 – ALICE SPRINGS TO KINGS CANYON
Today, depart Alice Springs and travel the Mereenie Loop through the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Visit Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge before arriving at Kings Canyon. (B,L,D)
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights at Kings Canyon Resort
DAY 10 – KINGS CANYON – WATARRKA NATIONAL PARK
Experience the wonders of the majestic Kings Canyon with your choice of walk, including the 6km rim walk, featuring breathtaking views of the Watarrka National Park or a less arduous 2.6km walk along the canyon floor. Returning to the resort this afternoon, there is an opportunity to take a helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and the Watarrka National Park. PLEASE NOTE: Additional costs are applicable and weight limits apply to all scenic flights. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 – KINGS CANYON TO ULURU
Pass through Kings Creek Station and enjoy an informative paper talk and lunch at Curtin Springs, before arriving at Uluru. Enjoy this evening’s unique ‘Sounds of Silence’ dining experience under the stars. Beginning with canapes and chilled sparkling wine, listen to the sound of the didgeridoo and the resident star talker decode the southern night sky while enjoying a premium bush tucker inspired buffet. (B,L,D)
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Sails in the Desert
DAY 12 – ULURU KATA TJUTA NATIONAL PARK
Early risers will experience the sun rising over Uluru and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. After breakfast, head off to discover Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge. Learn about traditional Anangu culture on a guided tour around the base of Uluru. This evening, head to an exclusive dune-top location with majestic views of Uluru. Enjoy drinks and canapes as artist Bruce Munro’s global phenomenon ‘Field of Light’ comes to life before heading off to explore the stunning display via dedicated pathways. PLEASE NOTE: Dinner this evening will be at approximately 9pm. (B,L,D)
DAY 13 – ULURU TO ALICE SPRINGS
After a leisurely breakfast, set your sights for Alice Springs. Pause to view Mount Connor, known as the third desert before arriving at your hotel in Alice Springs this afternoon, where your Outback Spirit tour concludes. (B,L)
OVERNIGHT: 1 night DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs
DAY 14 – THE GHAN EXPEDITION, DEPART ALICE SPRINGS
Checking out after breakfast, the day is yours to explore Alice Springs before returning to your hotel to join a scheduled transfer to the Alice Springs Rail Station to rejoin The Ghan Expedition. This evening, enjoy a truly unique dining experience. Tuck into a mouth-watering meal and enjoy a cold beer or fine wine at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, under a chandelier of stars. (B,D)
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights The Ghan
DAY 15 – THE GHAN EXPEDITION, ARRIVE ADELAIDE
From your morning stop at Manguri, you’ll venture into the weird and wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy, where more than half of the residents live underground. Here, you’ll enjoy a day of discovery, and a gourmet lunch in the most unique of locations: underground. Dinner is served back on the train, where you can enjoy a nightcap as your journey continues. (B,L,D)
DAY 16 – THE GHAN EXPEDITION, ARRIVE ADELAIDE
From your cabin window this morning, you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the green fields of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the majestic Flinders Ranges and prepare for your mid-morning arrival into Adelaide, completing one of the world’s great train journeys. (B)
*Itinerary subject to change during the wet season (April)
March, April 2024
May, June, July, August 2024
September 2024
October 2024
Call today on 1300 414 198 and speak with our of our travel advisors for details.
Please note that prices are subject to availability at time of booking and may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
The Ghan - Platinum Service
Platinum cabins offer premium extras, like a full-size en suite, expansive window views from the train, and exclusive use of the Platinum Club carriage. Add to that the luxurious linen, French Champagne, Bracegirdle’s chocolates, a nightcap at turndown and more, and you’re in for an exceptional experience.
The Ghan - Gold Service
Gold includes hearty breakfasts, two-course lunches and three-course dinners. You may also choose to complement your meal with our selection of premium wines and beverages, all included in your fare.
Standard of dress onboard the train:
It is your holiday and we want you to be comfortable, so smart casual attire is recommended. Warm clothes are recommended for evenings onboard the train, as the air-conditioning can be cool. It is recommended that guests pack a hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes for off-train touring. Sensible shoes are advisable for walking between carriages.
Cabins onboard the train:
Single Gold Cabins - compact sleeper cabin featuring a bed that converts to a seat by day, private vanity, with shared shower/toilet facilities located at the end of the carriage.
Twin Gold Cabins - comfortable sleeper cabin featuring upper and lower sleeping berths that convert to a three-seater lounge by day. Private compact en suite featuring a shower and toilet.
Luggage Allowance:
Guests should bring an overnight bag to their cabin containing everything needed for the journey. Each guest travelling is entitled to checked in luggage, however checked in luggage cannot be accessed during the journey. In Gold Service, guests are allowed 2 bags x 30kg and guests travelling in Platinum Service are allowed 3 bags x 30kg.
Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.
Journey Beyond Everyday Holiday Fare - a 25% deposit is due upon booking.Final payment is due 45 days prior to departure and will result in loss of deposit.100% cancellation fees apply if cancelled 45 days or less than departure.
Journey Beyond Advance Saver Holiday Fare - This fare is a discounted fare made for bookings 6 months in advance and is subject to availability. Loss of deposit when cancelling more than 180 days prior to departure.100% cancellation fees apply when cancelled less than 180 days prior to departure.
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