The Northern Territory’s vast and diverse landscapes are a big part of what makes it so remarkable. Whether it’s the dry, red ochre colours of the Red Centre or the lush green tropics of the Top End, the iconic Ghan journey showcases this transformation in the best way it can – traversing right through the middle. View the changing scenes through the train’s panoramic windows all while enjoying first-class service, all-inclusive dining, fine wines, private accommodations and immersive Off Train Experiences. Not to mention that comforting, unique camaraderie that comes with extended, classic train journeys.
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One of the most popular rail journeys in the world, The Ghan traverses the historic tracks between Adelaide and Darwin or vice versa over 3 days and 2 nights. Those on board will feel the never-ending beauty of the iconic Australian outback and watch as it changes to flourishing wetlands and thriving rainforests.
Watching the remote desert come to life at sunrise, freshly brewed coffee in hand, is a truly a one-of-a-kind experience to be had in Marla, an outback outpost in the remote reaches of South Australia. For those heading towards Adelaide, dinner on the train is followed by an extraordinary evening experience in outback Manguri where you will see the Milky Way like you have never seen it before. Simply breathtaking.
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A stop in Alice Springs, the ‘capital out of the outback’, offers numerous choices to explore the town’s historic legacy, culture and landscape. The Alice Springs Desert Park is an inspiring portrayal of Australia’s desert environment that effortlessly blends the plants, animals and people of the arid region. The Simpsons Gap Discovery Walk, just out of Alice Springs, is an enjoyable 4 kilometre walk through one of the most prominent gaps in the West MacDonnell Ranges. Or explore the town’s fascinating history on the Alice Explorer, visiting the School of the Air, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Base, the National Pioneer Women’s Hall of Fame plus a short trek up to ANZAC Hill for panoramic views over Alice and the West MacDonnell Ranges.
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Experience the iconic Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise in one of the Northern Territory’s most monumental natural wonders, when stopping in Katherine. Float along the serene Katherine River marvelling at the impressive sandstone cliff walls, encompassing the stories of the traditional Indigenous owners, the Jawoyn people. Another excursion option is the Katherine Outback Experience for a unique afternoon as it showcases Top End cattle station life via a fun and interactive show.
Between March and October, the Ghan journey above becomes the Ghan Expedition, travelling from Darwin to Adelaide with even more spectacular Off Train Experiences and an additional night in Coober Pedy resulting in a longer 4 day, 3 night journey.
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Enjoy time in Katherine and Alice Springs, as above, in addition to the added highlight of an authentic Outback BBQ dinner underneath a canopy of bright stars at the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station. A true pinch-me experience. Then on to Coober Pedy, in the South Australian outback, to explore the ‘underground’ town famous for opal mining and its unique homes, or ‘dugouts’ as they are called, beneath the surface. Be guided around the tunnels and places of interest followed by a spectacular golf club lunch at the only golf course with reciprocal playing rights to St Andrews in Scotland. To top it off, stop for a breathtaking view and photo opportunity of The Breakaways. Or, there is also the option for a half day Opal Experience for an immersive gemstone exploration or a guided walking and interactive tour of the majestic Breakaways and Umoona Opal Mine and Museum.
Click here for our range of rail holidays with The Ghan or contact our NT Now team on 1800 854 897 or email deals@holidaysofaustralia.com.au for more.
Image credit: Journey Beyond, Tourism NT, Shaana McNaught
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