At a Glance
Embark on a unique and epic experience, exploring the Northern Territory’s breathtaking natural wonders on this spectacular 11-day rail journey by The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin. Exploring the West MacDonnell Ranges, Kings Canyon, Uluru and Kata Tjuta, cruising Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, and witness the Territory’s remarkable landscapes and icons.
Departing from Adelaide, journey onboard The Ghan from Adelaide to Alice Springs. With a history dating back over 90 years to the first Afghan-Australian cameleers, this legendary train evokes a frontier spirit, a romantic connection to the land, and travelling on it creates a moving and unforgettable life experience.
From Alice Springs, venture out to Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta and Uluru, the beating red heart of Australia. Explore these otherworldly rock formations and learn about their cultural and spiritual significance to the ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 2-days/1-nights onboard The Ghan in a Gold Twin sleeper cabin (upgrade available), from Adelaide to Alice Springs including all meals, fine wines and beverages in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
- Off Train Experience in Marla
- Transfer from Alice Springs Rail Terminal to Alice Springs hotel
- 2 nights accommodation in Alice Springs including breakfast
- 5 nights intimate small-group Red Centre touring, travelling on board a state-of-the-art 4WD Mercedes-Benz vehicle, including accommodation, guided touring and meals
- Transfer from Alice Springs hotel to Alice Springs Rail Terminal
- 2 days/1 night aboard The Ghan in a Gold Twin sleeper cabin (upgrade available) from Alice Springs to Darwin, including all meals, fine wines and beverages in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
- Off Train Excursion in Katherine
- 9 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
- 60 kilograms of luggage allowance per guest for the Ghan Gold cabins
Itinerary
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Departing from Adelaide, begin your journey through the heart of Australia onboard The Ghan. From the comfort of your private cabin, you’ll look on in wonder as rolling pastural lands make way for some of the oldest rock formations in the world: The Flinders Ranges. Take time to explore the legendary train, to get acquainted with the first-class facilities – the Queen Adelaide Restaurant and the Outback Explorer Lounge – and mingle with your fellow travellers. As darkness swallows the rich ochre tones of the outback, it’s time to indulge in a regionally inspired dinner and all-inclusive fine wines and beverages. |
On board The Ghan
Lunch, Dinner |
Start your day with a freshly brewed coffee or juice as the day dawns at Marla, an outback outpost in the remote reaches of South Australia. Make sure to have your camera handy for when the sky begins to bleed red, yellow and pink across The Ghan and the surrounding landscape. A sunrise that will leave you bretahless. You are sure to feel as if you are on another planet! Continue on to Alice Springs, the beating red heart of Australia. Enjoy brunch on the train as you cross the border into the Northern Territory and pass through the majestic MacDonnell Ranges. Upon arrival into Alice Springs, join your choice of Off Train Experiences. Once complete, you will be transferred to your hotel to enjoy the evening at leisure. |
DoubleTree by Hilton Alice SpringsBreakfast |
Today your 5-night Red Centre adventure group tour starts. Early afternoon, you will be met by your friendly and professional crew before touring Alice Springs, including Anzac Hill, and learning about this unique outback town. |
DoubleTree by Hilton Alice SpringsBreakfast, Dinner |
Feel the anticipation build as you travel towards Kings Canyon. Depart Alice Springs and travel the Mereenie Loop through the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Visit Standley Chasm and uncover the hidden jewel of Ormiston Gorge, considered the most beautiful secluded waterhole in the area. Standley Chasm is an important cultural place of indigenous Australia, sacred to womens' dreaming of the Arrernte people. A perfect invitation for a refreshing afternoon swim amongst the serene surroundings. Keep your eyes peeled for wallabies while admiring the colourful, sweeping walls surrounding its waterhole before arriving at Kings Canyon. You will stay 2 nights Kings Canyon Resort nestled amongst the rugged bush setting. |
Kings Canyon ResortBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Experience the wonders of majestic Kings Canyon with your choice of walk, including the 6km rim walk, featuring breathtaking views of the Watarrka National Park. Be captivated by vast sandstone landscapes that mingle with ancient rock formations and gorges to create a surreal scene like nowhere else in the country. Plunging 270 metres/885 feet to the canyon floor, walking its rim reveals incredibly beautiful sandstone formations carved by wind and water. A climb of 500 steps is worth every effort, giving staggering views atop the canyon. Traverse the hidden Garden of Eden, a waterhole bringing abundant life to the area and considered an important men’s sacred place where their Dreaming stories can be shared in private. Be captivated by its lush greenery casting a stark contrast against the rock formations. While here, uncover The Lost City, a set of rock formations that resemble an ancient city. Alternatively, a less arduous 2.6km walk along the canyon floor give you up close encounters with its vast sandstone landscapes that'll leave you in awe. In the afternoon, there is an opportunity to take a thrilling helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and the Watarrka National Park. PLEASE NOTE: Additional costs are applicable and weight limits apply to all scenic flights. |
Kings Canyon ResortBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Pass through Kings Creek Station and enjoy an informative paper talk and lunch at Curtin Springs, before arriving at Uluru. You will stay at the award-winning Sails in the Desert Hotel for two nights. 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 menu. |
Sails in the Desert (5*)Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
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. |
Sails in the Desert (5*)Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
After a leisurely breakfast set your sights for Alice Springs. Marvel at spectacular scenery as you drive pass Atila (Mount Connor), known as the third giant of the desert before arriving at your hotel in Alice Springs this afternoon. |
DoubleTree by Hilton Alice SpringsBreakfast, Lunch |
It’s time to get back onboard The Ghan and get reacquainted with your cabin. As the train heads north, mingle with your fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge or simply relax, look out your window and watch the world go by. |
On board The GhanBreakfast, Dinner |
The landscape continues to transform as you head towards Katherine, where you’ll choose from Off Train Excursions you’ll never forget. You’ll visit the spectacular sandstone country of Nitmiluk National Park and the majestic Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge where mesmerising cliffs glow in the changing light. You’ll have the chance to explore the gorge where its sheer walls, etched by time and the elements, are home to a myriad of animal and plant life, much of it unique to this area and all playing a role to the lives of its traditional owners. Enjoy one final timeless and exquisite dining lunch affair onboard as you look out your window and watch the world go. You'll arrive into Darwin feeling inspired as you end your incredible journey through the Red Centre. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Departs Adelaide Wednesdays and Sundays Mar - Oct.
Price guide is based on Gold Twin/Gold Single. Please contact us for group bookings or cabin upgrade to Gold Superior and Platinum Service. Prices are subject to change.
Please contact us for availability checking and prices for different cabin types.
More Info
- The departure point is Adelaide, South Australia
- The finish point is Darwin, Northern Territory
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Adelaide and Darwin
Gold Twin
Gold Twin offers a comfortable sleeper cabin featuring private en suite and upper and lower berths that convert to a three-seater lounge by day.
Features:
- Power outlets in cabin
- In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary available
- All-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
- All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
- All-inclusive Off Train Excursions and Short Stops
- Luggage allowance is 60kg per guest
Gold Superior
Gold Superior cabins feature a ¾ size double bed plus an additional fold down upper berth, lounge area, TV and DVD player, mini-bar and en suite.
Gold Single
Gold Single offers a compact sleeper cabin featuring a bed that converts to a seat by day and shared shower/toilet facilities located at the end of the carriage.
Features:
- Power outlets in cabin
- In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary available
- All-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
- All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
- All-inclusive Off Train Excursions and Short Stops
- Luggage allowance is 60kg per guest
- Complimentary Shuttle bus transfers available in Darwin to selected hotels in the city centre
Platinum Service
As the highest level of service, Platinum Service offers guests a range of deluxe extras including Platinum Transfers, in-cabin breakfasts, personalised cabin steward service and access to the exclusive Platinum Club.
Features:
- Spacious Double and Twin cabins almost twice the size of a Gold Twin cabin
- By day, cabins are set up lounge-style with a moveable table and two ottomans, and by night, the lounges are converted to a double bed or two single beds
- Full-size ensuite equipped with shower, vanity with cupboard space, toilet and complimentary bathroom amenities
- Windows offering views from both sides of the train
- All-inclusive dining in the exclusive Platinum Club
- Relax in Platinum Club’s exclusive lounge area
- All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
- First priority for check-in and all-inclusive Off Train Excursions
- 75kg checked luggage per person (3 x 25kg)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
