Journey beyond ...in style
Get to know the real NT and its rich culture and people with a rail adventure like no other on board The Ghan.
To really get the feel of a destination you need to take your time exploring it, preferably with someone who can bring its history and character to life and who knows the best places to go. When you’re travelling through an ancient land with a rich cultural heritage, there’s no one better to guide you on your adventure than those who have grown up surrounded by its myths and legends and the people who make it their business to deliver the best experiences possible through that destination, every week of the year.
One of the most famous rail journeys in the world, travelling on board The Ghan from Darwin in Australia’s Northern Territory to either Alice Springs in its red centre or down to Adelaide in South Australia, is a special way to connect with the land and its people. Select from holiday packages including The Ghan and The Ghan Expedition, which range in length from 2 to 16 days.
Immerse yourself in the indigenous culture
From the moment you step on board The Ghan, now in its 91st year of operation, there’s no doubting which part of the world you’re in. A sense of place is reflected at every step of the way, from the warm and friendly personalised service and knowledgeable guides leading the off-train excursions, to the regionally inspired five-star food you’ll enjoy at each mealtime.
Every departure out of Darwin includes the opportunity to immerse yourself in the NT’s rich indigenous Aboriginal culture with a cruise through the spectacular Nitmiluk Gorge at Katherine. Located on the lands of the Jawoyn people,you’ll visit ancient rock art sites and hear Dreamtime stories that will bring the beauty around you to life.
For those who are finishing their journey at Alice Springs, you can upgrade your Ghan Expedition to include a scenic flight to the World Heritage-listed Uluṟu – Kata Tjuṯa National Park. If you’re travelling between Adelaide and Darwin between June and August, consider breaking up your journey with a four-day tour of the Red Centre including Uluṟu.
Here you’ll see this majestic landform in all her glory up close, as well as learning about her history and cultural significance to the local people.
Enjoy your journey in sophisticated style
How does your own private lounge, access to an exclusive Platinum Club carriage, Bollinger champagne, Australian Appelles Apothecary toiletries, Haigh’s chocolates, a full-size ensuite and a nightcap at turndown sound to really elevate your experience on The Ghan? The premium Platinum Service also features panoramic windows and cabins twice the size of twin cabins in Gold Service, and your fare includes premium transfers at the start and end of your trip within a 60km radius of the terminal.
Both Gold and Platinum Service fares include all-inclusive dining, Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages, Off Train Excursions and Outback Experiences, while Gold Service guests have access to complimentary shuttle bus transfers in Darwin from selected hotels in the city centre and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge for socialising over a relaxing drink.
Select a package that’s right for you
For the quintessential Ghan adventure, the eight-day Taste of the Top End package includes four nights in the Northern Territory’s charming capital Darwin which is the jumping-off point for exploring the magnificent monsoon forests and weird and wonderful rock formations of Litchfield National Park and the famous Jumping Crocodiles of the Adelaide River. On Day 5 you’ll begin your rail journey to Adelaide with excursions at Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy en route.