The Ghan train in Australia is one of the world’s great rail journeys, traversing the vastness of the Outback through Flinders Ranges and into the heart of the Red Centre from Adelaide to Darwin. It’s an elegant train with comfortable interiors and modern suites.
For first time train travelers, we usually recommend enjoying one leg of the journey by traveling from Alice Springs to Darwin or vice versa. It’s an easy way to experience the wonder without committing a bulk of your vacation to something you are unsure of.
However, once you get on the train and start your journey, you might end up wishing you’d spent more time on The Ghan and here’s why…
The Ghan Is Comfortable
Whether you’re socializing in the Outback Explorer Lounge, relaxing in your Gold Service suite or dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant, you are going to be comfortable.
The seats are wide, you have generous leg room and you can move from car to car with ease.
The attentive and professional staff will tend to your every need with a warm smile and friendly demeanor.
By night your cabin is prepared with comfortable bunks that will feel like you are sleeping on air.
With Gold Service, luxurious bathrooms and showers help prepare you for a restful night of sleep as you journey through the outback.
The Journey Is Relaxing On The Ghan
When you’re on The Ghan the only thing you need to do is sit back and enjoy the scenic ride.
There is no traffic to deal with and no worry that you’ll get lost in the Outback.
On The Ghan you get to see the countryside without the responsibility of navigating the journey.
Instead, you’ll spend your time reading, sleeping, writing, eating and enjoying choice beverages all while taking in the views.
Pass the time with fellow passengers as you trade travel stories and learn about each others’ home countries over a glass of wine and a plate of nibbles.
The Australian Outback Is Breathtaking
Sure, The Ghan delivers much more than an extended train ride when it comes to comfort and service, but the one thing that will leave you feeling truly inspired is the fantastic scenery.
You’ll likely find yourself staring out the window for long stretches of time.
But it’ll be difficult to tear your eyes away.
You’ll be transported from the lush green hills surrounding Adelaide into the rusty hues of the Red Centre, then on to the tropical splendor of Australia’s Top End.
Be on the lookout for wildlife hidden within the bush – you’re sure to spot kangaroos taking in the fresh, cool air at dusk!
Time to Explore Authentic Outback Destinations
The Ghan offers whistle stops where you can choose to catch a tour or explore on your own for a few hours. This gives you the opportunity to see and experience places off the beaten path.
Going Northbound, you’ll first stop in the pioneer town of Alice Springs.
Alice Springs is a great place to immerse yourself in Aboriginal history. You can visit a working camel farm, see the region’s birds and wildlife or opt for the Spirit of Mt. Gillen Helicopter Flight, a scenic flight that takes you over Simpon’s Gap and the Larapinta Trail.
Your next stop will be in Katherine. You can cruise down Katherine Gorge, hike in Nitmiluk National Park or maybe kayak down the Katherine River. You may just want to wander around town and explore the local attractions.
Travel Southbound and you’ll find yourself in Coober Pedy, the the opal mining capital of the world where more than half of the residents live underground!
It’s All-Inclusive!
Book the Gold Service or above and you can put your credit card away while you’re aboard The Ghan.
Enjoy three gourmet meals per day and have your fill of Australian wines, beers, base spirits and other non-alcoholic beverages.
Your fare also includes various off train excursions and whistle stop tours!
You can bring up to 110 pounds of luggage per person and you’ll receive complimentary shuttle service in Darwin.
Enjoy Some Privacy
During a busy vacation, sometimes all you want to do is find a place where you can be alone, decompress, and take a breath.
On The Ghan Gold Service, passengers can retire to their private sleepers, either a two-berth for traveling companions or singles-berth if you are traveling solo.
The sleepers are comfortable with freshly made-up beds in the evening and seats during the day.
Lay down and relax as the soothing sounds of those big steel wheels rolling down the track lull to you sleep.
The Food Is To. Die. For.
The Ghan serves fresh, regionally sourced Australian food, complemented by a range of all-inclusive wines, beer and non-alcoholic beverages.
You’ll taste everything from Top End barramundi, Margaret River cheeses, and native Australian fare including kangaroo, saltbush and wild rosella flower.
There’s no doubt many Aussie travelers rate the food in and of itself as a huge draw to experience The Ghan.
Journey Aboard The Ghan
The Ghan is one of the best ways you can experience the Red Centre in all its glory. It’s also a great way to travel to Uluru (Ayers Rock). Once you’re in Alice Springs, take a coach over to Uluru and experience the magic of this inspiring outback landscape.
Are you ready to plan your trip to Australia? Whether you want to include a journey on the Ghan in your Australia vacation or want to know more before you book, our travel experts will take care of all your arrangements.
We’ll make this once-in-a-lifetime rail journey happen.
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Phone us Toll Free on 1-888-359-2877 (CT USA, M-F 8.30am – 5pm).
Tags: Adelaide, Alice Springs, Cooper Pedy, Darwin, Katherine, The Ghan
