Tailor Made Tour The Ghan: Australia's Greatest Rail Adventure 11 nights

About this itinerary

Embark on one of the world's greatest rail journeys as you travel through the heart of Australia, discovering ancient landscapes, rich Indigenous culture and some of the country's most iconic natural wonders. From the elegant streets of Adelaide to the sacred monolith of Uluru and the tropical wilderness of the Top End, this carefully curated itinerary combines unforgettable experiences with exceptional luxury.

Journey aboard The Ghan, where all-inclusive dining, immersive off-train excursions and ever-changing Outback scenery transform travel into an experience in itself. Along the way, stay at Australia's most exclusive desert lodge, explore the spiritual landscapes of Uluru and Kata Tjuta, and venture into the spectacular national parks of Litchfield and Kakadu.

Blending luxury, adventure and cultural discovery, this is a truly once-in-a-lifetime journey through the very soul of Australia.

day 1-3 Adelaide

Your Australian adventure begins with an overnight flight to Adelaide, South Australia's elegant capital. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your hotel, perfectly positioned to discover a city renowned for its leafy boulevards, heritage architecture and thriving food and wine scene. Often regarded as Australia's most understated city, Adelaide effortlessly combines culture, history and relaxed sophistication. Over the next few days, immerse yourself in the flavours of the region with a guided tasting experience through the historic Adelaide Central Market. Home to artisan producers, local delicacies and family-run stalls for more than 150 years, it's the perfect introduction to South Australia's celebrated culinary heritage. +read more

Venture beyond the city on a private full-day tour to either the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale, where rolling vineyards, historic cellar doors and award-winning wineries await. Meet passionate local winemakers, enjoy exclusive tastings and indulge in long vineyard lunches showcasing the very best seasonal produce and world-class wines.

Back in Adelaide, spend leisurely evenings exploring the vibrant riverfront, enjoying rooftop cocktails overlooking the city skyline or taking a sunset stroll along Glenelg Beach before preparing for one of Australia's most iconic rail journeys.

Accommodation: The Mayfair Hotel

day 4 The Ghan - Adelaide to Alice Springs

Today marks the beginning of one of the world's most legendary rail journeys. Step aboard The Ghan and settle into your Gold Service cabin as the train departs Adelaide, beginning its remarkable journey through the heart of the Australian continent. As the landscape gradually transforms from rolling countryside to the vast ochre plains of the Outback, relax into the unhurried rhythm of life on board. Enjoy exceptional hospitality throughout the day, with all-inclusive dining inspired by Australia's unique landscapes and native ingredients, accompanied by premium wines from some of the country's finest wine regions. +read more

Between meals, unwind in the Outback Explorer Lounge, where fellow travellers gather to share stories over barista coffee, regional wines and evening cocktails while panoramic windows frame the ever-changing scenery beyond.

As sunset paints the desert in rich shades of crimson and gold, savour another outstanding dining experience before retiring to your private cabin. Tonight, the gentle rhythm of the train carries you deep into Australia's vast interior, where tomorrow's adventures await.

Accommodation: The Ghan – Gold Service

day 5-6 Uluru & Kata Tjuta

This morning, arrive in Alice Springs before continuing through the spectacular Red Centre to Uluru–Kata Tjuta National Park. As Australia's most recognisable natural landmark slowly rises from the desert, you'll begin to appreciate the immense scale and spiritual significance of this extraordinary landscape. Your home for the next two nights is Longitude 131°, Australia's most exclusive desert retreat. Perfectly positioned to overlook Uluru, this intimate luxury lodge blends effortlessly into its surroundings, offering beautifully appointed tented pavilions, exceptional dining and uninterrupted views across the desert. Spend your first afternoon unwinding before gathering for sunset drinks as Uluru glows brilliant shades of red, orange and purple beneath the evening sky. +read more

The following day is dedicated to discovering the cultural and natural significance of this sacred landscape. Join a guided sunrise walk around the base of Uluru, where ancient rock art, waterholes and sacred sites reveal the stories of the Anangu people, whose connection to this land stretches back tens of thousands of years. Later, explore the magnificent domes of Kata Tjuta, where dramatic gorges and spectacular walking trails provide a striking contrast to the surrounding desert.

As darkness falls, experience the internationally acclaimed Field of Light installation, where more than 50,000 illuminated glass spheres transform the desert into a breath-taking work of art beneath one of the clearest night skies on Earth. It's an unforgettable conclusion to your time in Australia's spiritual heart.

Accommodation: Longitude 131°

day 7 Alice Springs

Leaving Uluru behind, return to Alice Springs, the pioneering town at the centre of Australia's Red Centre. Rich in history and Indigenous culture, this remote outpost has long served as a gateway to the vast landscapes of the Outback and remains an important centre for Aboriginal art and storytelling.

Spend the afternoon exploring local galleries showcasing some of Australia's finest Indigenous artwork, discover the fascinating history of the Overland Telegraph Station or simply relax at your hotel before continuing your journey north.

As the sun begins to set, make your way to Anzac Hill, where panoramic views stretch across the MacDonnell Ranges and the surrounding desert landscape. Watching the colours change across this timeless scenery provides a fitting farewell before rejoining The Ghan for the next stage of your extraordinary adventure.

Accommodation: Crowne Plaza Lasseters

day 8 The Ghan - ALice Springs to Katherine

This morning, reboard The Ghan as your journey continues north through the heart of Australia. Leaving the Red Centre behind, watch the landscape gradually transform from vast desert plains to tropical savannah, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country's ever-changing scenery. Relax once again into the rhythm of life on board, enjoying exceptional cuisine inspired by the regions you're travelling through, paired with premium Australian wines and attentive service. Spend time in the Outback Explorer Lounge as fellow travellers gather to share stories from the journey so far, whilst panoramic windows frame the remarkable landscapes unfolding outside. +read more

Later in the day, arrive in Katherine, home to the Jawoyn people for tens of thousands of years. Here, you'll have the opportunity to step off the train and choose from a selection of immersive excursions. Cruise through the spectacular Nitmiluk Gorge beneath towering sandstone cliffs, discover ancient traditions through an Indigenous cultural experience, or upgrade to a breathtaking helicopter flight for unrivalled aerial views across this extraordinary landscape.

Returning to the train, enjoy your final evening aboard The Ghan as the journey continues towards Australia's tropical north.

Accommodation: The Ghan – Gold Service

day 9-12 Darwin

Arriving into Darwin, you'll immediately notice the contrast from the Red Centre. Palm trees replace desert oaks, warm tropical breezes drift in from the Timor Sea and the atmosphere becomes distinctly relaxed. After settling into your hotel, spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant waterfront or simply unwinding before discovering the natural wonders of the Top End. Your adventure continues with a full day exploring Litchfield National Park, one of the Northern Territory's hidden gems. Swim beneath the cascading waters of Florence Falls, cool off in the crystal-clear pools of Buley Rockhole and marvel at the towering magnetic termite mounds that have become one of the park's most fascinating natural phenomena. Surrounded by monsoon forest, rugged escarpments and ancient landscapes, Litchfield offers an unforgettable introduction to tropical Australia.

The following day is dedicated to Kakadu National Park, Australia's largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognised for both its extraordinary natural beauty and its immense cultural significance. Home to the Bininj/Mungguy people for over 65,000 years, Kakadu is a place where ancient traditions remain deeply connected to the land.

Cruise across the famous Yellow Water Billabong, where saltwater crocodiles, buffalo and an extraordinary variety of birdlife thrive amongst the wetlands. Continue to either Ubirr or Nourlangie, where some of the world's oldest Aboriginal rock art provides a remarkable insight into Australia's First Nations culture and history. Standing atop the sandstone escarpments, you'll be rewarded with sweeping views across the floodplains that stretch endlessly towards the horizon.

Returning to Darwin each evening, enjoy the city's laid-back tropical charm with waterfront dining, sunset harbour cruises and warm evenings beneath the stars. After travelling through Australia's ancient deserts, wetlands and national parks, Darwin provides the perfect place to reflect on an unforgettable journey through the country's spectacular interior.

For those wishing to continue their Australian adventure, why not extend your stay with a luxury safari at Bamurru Plains, a cultural escape to the Tiwi Islands or an expedition cruise through the spectacular Kimberley coastline?

Accommodation: Mindil Beach Resort

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