The Ghan Rail Journey - Darwin to Adelaide

  • history
    DURATION
    4 days, 3 nights
  • history
    DURATION DAYS
    4 days
  • history
    DURATION NIGHTS
    3 nights
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    DEPARTURE MONTHS
    March 2026 - November 2027
  • All-inclusive rail journey – 4 days aboard The Ghan with dining, wines and premium service included.
  • Iconic off-train experiences – Nitmiluk Gorge, Alice Springs, Coober Pedy and a starlit outback dinner.
  • Epic coast-to-coast scenery – From the Top End to South Australia through the heart of the outback. 

Step aboard one of the world’s great rail journeys with the The Ghan Expedition, an unforgettable four-day adventure through the heart of Australia. Departing Darwin, this all-inclusive experience reveals the ever-changing landscapes of the Northern Territory and South Australia, from lush tropical surrounds to the vast, ochre-red expanse of the outback. On board, settle into the rhythm of rail travel with regionally inspired dining, fine wines, and relaxed social spaces, while expansive windows frame a moving panorama of remote and remarkable scenery.

 Beyond the train, immersive Off Train Experiences bring the outback to life. Cruise through the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Nitmiluk Gorge near Katherine, explore the iconic town of Alice Springs and enjoy a spectacular dinner under the stars at the historic Telegraph Station, then venture underground in the opal mining town of Coober Pedy. As the journey continues south, watch the landscape soften into the green fields of South Australia before arriving in Adelaide—carrying with you a deeper connection to the people, places, and stories that define Australia’s vast interior. 

Why not extend your time in Darwin or Adelaide - there's heaps to see. Please call our travel team for suggestions.

Photos

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Coober Pedy

Inclusions/Exclusions

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  • Transfer to Darwin Rail Terminal
  • Welcome experience with light refreshments, barista coffee and sparkling wine
  • 4 days / 3 nights aboard The Ghan Expedition, travelling from Darwin to Adelaide
  • All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages
  • A regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local wines
  • Off Train Experiences in Katherine, Alice Springs, Coober Pedy and Manguri
  • A spectacular dinner under the stars at The Historic Telegraph Station in Alice Springs
  • Explore Nitmiluk Gorge’s powerful natural wonders and rich Indigenous culture
  • Venture into the underground opal mining town of Coober Pedy
Your fare excludes:
  • Airfares
  • T​ravel insurance

Itinerary

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Day 1 - Darwin & Katherine

Celebrate the beginning of your journey with a welcome drink and light refreshments and pause for a photo with The Ghan’s iconic red locomotive before stepping on board, Settle into your home for the next few days, enjoying the comforts of your cabin, or mingle with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. As The Ghan begins to travel south, a chef-prepared lunch awaits before your Off Train Experience in Katherine. Here you’ll choose how to explore this remarkable region. Cruise through the towering sandstone cliffs and dramatic beauty of Nitmiluk Gorge and uncover its deep cultural significance. Alternatively, step into the Katherine Outback Experience for an authentic glimpse into the lives of those who call the outback home. Or venture underground at the Cutta Cutta Caves, where fascinating limestone formations, native wildlife and stories of Indigenous culture are waiting to be shared. For a different perspective, upgrade to a helicopter flight and take in the scale of Nitmiluk from above. (L,D)

Day 2 - Alice Springs

Wake to the wide-open skies of the outback as The Ghan draws closer to the iconic town of Alice Springs. After a hearty breakfast on board, step into the heart of Central Australia with a choice of Off Train Experiences designed to suit every traveller. Take to the red dirt on an off-road e-bike adventure, join the A Town Called Alice tour to uncover the town’s major landmarks, or immerse yourself in culture with a guided journey through Standley Chasm and Simpsons Gap. Here, sheer rock walls blaze red in the sunlight and ancient landscapes hold deep spiritual significance for the Arrernte people. Wildlife lovers can meet desert creatures at Alice Springs Desert Park, while those seeking a grander perspective can opt for a scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. As night falls, the hallmark experience of The Ghan Expedition awaits. At the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station, dine beneath a canopy of stars, surrounded by the red earth of the desert. With white tablecloths, fine food and live entertainment, it’s an evening you’ll never forget. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Coober Pedy

Today brings you to the extraordinary outback town of Coober Pedy, where life is anything but ordinary. Known as the opal capital of the world, this desert settlement hides its treasures both above and below, and more than half the population live underground. Your adventure begins with a morning stop at the remote outpost of Manguri to take in the sunrise, before continuing on to Coober Pedy for a day of exploration. A highlight is a gourmet lunch enjoyed underground, a dining experience as unique as the town itself. Off Train Experiences include visiting the striking Breakaways, uncovering the town’s quirky attractions, or learning the fascinating history of opal mining on the Opal Experience. For an unforgettable view, upgrade to a scenic flight over the Painted Hills and Lake Eyre. Back on board for your final night, dinner is served in the dining carriage before one last nightcap in the lounge with fellow travellers as The Ghan journeys towards Adelaide. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Adelaide

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 Flinders Ranges before arriving in Adelaide. Stepping off the train, you’ll carry more than memories of extraordinary landscapes. You’ll take with you the stories shared, the connections made, and the sense of wonder that only a journey through the heart of Australia can bring. (B)

Dates and Prices

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Departs Wed & Sat (March to November) from Darwin to Adelaide

Book your rail journey at least 6 months in advance and save!

Below prices are based on Advance Purchase Offer departing in Mar & Nov 2027

  • Gold Single Cabin from $3,390 pp* solo traveller
  • Gold Twin Cabin from $3,890 pp* twin share
  • Gold Premium Twin Cabin from $4,740 pp* twin share
  • Platinum Cabin from $7,090 pp twin share *
  • Aurora Suite from $11,790 pp twin share *
  • Australis Suite from $17,790 pp twin share *

Please note that prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change without notice. Advance Purchase fares are only available until sold out.

Accommodation

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Gold Single Cabin - by day

Facilities Available in all Cabins

  • All-inclusive dining throughout the journey
  • Selection of Australian wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • In-cabin music channels and journey commentary
  • Power outlets within the cabin
  • Comfortable bedding and quality linen
  • Access to lounge and dining carriages
  • Generous luggage allowance per guest

 Gold Single Cabin - A compact yet comfortable space designed for both day and night use. At night, the seat converts into a single bed, with shared bathroom facilities located at the end of the carriage.

Gold Twin Cabin - The most popular choice, offering a comfortable and private space for two guests. At night, the three-seater lounge converts into upper and lower sleeping berths. A compact ensuite with shower, toilet and vanity ensures convenience.

Gold Premium Twin Cabin - Premium offers a step up in comfort with additional cabin space and larger ensuite. By day, enjoy a comfortable lounge - at night, the lounge converts into twin beds.  

Gold Suite - Features enhanced space and comfort with a three-quarter double bed, an additional upper berth, and a small lounge area. Complete with a private ensuite, TV, and mini-bar, it provides a more spacious and upgraded experience. 

Platinum Cabin - Spacious and elegantly appointed with panoramic windows on both sides of the train. By day, it is configured as a private lounge with deluxe seating and table, while by night, it converts into a comfortable double or twin bedroom. Features exclusive access to the Platinum Club and elevated dining experiences. 

Aurora Suite - Introducing a new level of luxury in rail travel, this suite is double the size of a Platinum cabin. With refined interiors, a personalised in-suite bar, dedicated butler service, a fixed custom-sized bed, lounge area and spacious ensuite, it is designed as a private sanctuary to relax and unwind. 

Australis Suite - The pinnacle of luxury onboard, offering an expansive space at three times the size of a Platinum cabin. Designed with a separate bedroom, full lounge area and a large ensuite with double vanity, it delivers a truly residential-style experience on rails. Enhanced by personalised butler service, in-suite dining and a private bar, this suite is the ultimate indulgence.

FAQs

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All guests joining The Ghan in Darwin will begin the journey at the Darwin Convention Centre for a Welcome Experience.

The Welcome Experience will be held at Darwin Convention Centre, in a beautiful space that overlooks the Darwin Waterfront and wharf. After making your way independently to the Convention Centre and completing your check-in arrangements, you will have the opportunity to meet and mingle with your crew and fellow guests. There will be a special Welcome to Country experience as you enjoy a light breakfast offering and let the anticipation build. When the ‘All Aboard’ call comes, you will board a coach and be transferred to the Darwin Rail Terminal to board The Ghan.

  • The Darwin Convention Centre is located at 10 Stokes Hill Road, Darwin City.
  • Check in commences on Wednesday from 7:30am-8:30am and Saturday from 6:30am-7:45am
  • Transfer from Darwin Convention Centre to Darwin Rail Terminal included

Can I fly out the same day as the train arrives? We highly recommend that guests do not book flights same day as arrival without allowing for late running trains. This would mean allowing for at least 3-5 hours after the scheduled arrival time, and an overnight stopover.

What medical assistance do the on-train staff provide? Staff are trained to administer basic first aid, however our staff are not able to provide routine medical aid during a journey. Guests requiring medical attention or mobility assistance on board any of our trains are required to arrange for their own Carer to travel with them.

Can my necessary medication be refrigerated? Yes subject to space within our on-board fridge compartments - PLEASE INFORM US AT TIME OF BOOKING.

Luggage

Due to space constraints, guests are advised to take onboard only hand luggage containing the requirements for their rail journey. Guests who bring electronic devices, such as laptops, that connect to 240-volt power on the trains should also pack a surge arrestor. Checked in luggage cannot be accessed during the journey. Guests should bring an overnight bag to their cabin containing everything needed for the journey. Passengers travelling in Gold Service are able to take 2 x 30kg bags each. Please note luggage check-in opens 2.5 hours prior to departure and closes 60 minutes prior to departure.

Dress Code

Smart casual attire is suggested for guests travelling in Platinum Service and Gold Service. Neat casual attire is required. 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. Long, sturdy pants may be required for some Off-Train Excursions.

Can I take my walking frame/wheelchair/ scooter on board the train? No - these items must be checked-in as stored luggage. A specially modified pushchair can be requested for use on train (with the assistance of a Carer or travelling companion) - PLEASE INFORM US AT TIME OF BOOKING.

Does the train carry power outlets for CPAC machines? Cabins on the Indian Pacific have 240V power outlets installed which can be used for a CPAC machine. It is recommended that a surge arrestor/protector be used to protect the machine when it is plugged in case of a power surge. Surge protectors can be purchased from an electrical store.

T&Cs

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Payment & Cancellation Terms:

  • Advance Purchase fare rules apply: $100 deposit required at time of booking. Final payment is due 270 days prior to departure.
  • 100% cancellation fees apply 14 days after the booking date.

Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.

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Prices per person from

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Prices per person from

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A$3,890