PACKAGE DETAILS
The Ghan with Darwin
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OVERVIEW
Solos Mix
SOLO TRAVEL GROUP TRAIN JOURNEY
An icon of Australian rail travel and one of the world’s great train journeys, ride the rails of history aboard The Ghan between Adelaide and Darwin.
This flagship rail journey is the ultimate way to explore the Australian outback. This three day and two night 2979km all-inclusive journey will take you to some of the most remote and captivating parts of Australia in style and comfort. One of the ultimate rail journeys, all in the company of other solo travellers.
Like to see more?
Add extensions in Adelaide and Darwin.
- From Adelaide join a day tour to McLaren Vale for wine tasting, then onto Handorf the oldest surviving German village in Australia.
- From Darwin, extend your travels in the Northern Territory with a 3 day/2night Darwin to Kakadu National Park tour.
HOLIDAY VIDEO
Adelaide to Ghan, The Ghan journey is a 2 night luxe train experience. Iconic stops include Alice Springs and Katherine.
INCLUSIONS
ACCOMMODATION & MEALS
- 3 days/2 nights aboard The Ghan, Gold Class Service including;
- Gold Sleeper cabins onboard The Ghan
- Regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local wines
- All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages - 3 nights quality hotel, Darwin
- 2 lunches included day tours from Darwin
SIGHTSEEING & GUIDES
- The Ghan Off Train experiences in Marla, Alice Springs & Katherine
- Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural tour
- Darwin Military Museum
- Full day guided tour to Litchfield National Park
- Jumping Crocodile Cruise
- Top End sunset over Fannie Bay with prawns and bubbly
TRAVEL
- Rail travel aboard The Ghan, Adelaide to Darwin
- Return group transfers for included touring & sightseeing from Darwin as per the itinerary
OPTIONAL EXTENSION: KAKADU EXPLORER
- 1 night lodge room @ Cooinda Lodge Kakadu with breakfast
- 1 night quality hotel, Darwin with breakfast
- 2 lunches
- Private group return travel Darwin to Kakadu
- Driver-guide for 2 days
Travel insurance is a mandatory requirement for joining this tour and is in addition to the package price.
Departure Dates for this tour
Departure
Status
Price from
Get a quote
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Prices per person in AUD |
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RAIL & DARWIN PACKAGES |
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SINGLE RAIL CABIN & HOTEL ROOM |
AUD $4775 |
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TWIN SHARE RAIL CABIN & HOTEL ROOM |
AUD $4525 |
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ADDITIONAL NIGHTS: PRE & POST HOTEL STAY |
OWN ROOM |
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PRE RAIL STAY ADELAIDE: Indigo Hotel |
AUD $290 |
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POST RAIL STAY DARWIN: Adina Apartments |
AUD $375 |
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OPTIONAL TOURS: PRE & POST RAIL |
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FROM ADELAIDE: DAY TOUR SAT 16 JULY 2022 |
AUD $225 |
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FROM DARWIN: KAKADU EXPLORER 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS 22-24 JULY 2022 |
AUD $1875 |
Trip Code: railghan22-7
Itinerary
OPTIONAL: ADELAIDE PRE RAIL STAY
Departing from Adelaide visit McLaren Vale and Hahndorf with lunch included.
VIEW DAY TOUR DETAILS
OPTIONAL: KAKADU EXTENSION
Why not the opportunity while you're in Darwin to stay a little longer with our 3 day / 2 night package departing from Darwin visiting Kakadu National Park?
THE GHAN VIDEO
DAY 1
Adelaide
DEPARTS 12:15PM Adelaide Central Train Terminal
Settle in for a relaxed afternoon journey onboard in Gold Service.
Once you’re settled into your private cabin, mingle with fellow travellers or sample the exceptional food, wine, and service onboard. When it’s time for dining savour the regionally-inspired menu accompanied by a selection of all-inclusive wines and beverages.
Some of the scenic journey will include majestic views of the Flinders Ranges, setting off for day one of the world’s great travel rail journeys.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2
Marla. Alice Springs
MARLA
While you may not have heard of outback town Marla before, it’s fair to say it’s worth the early start just to see the sunrise over this South Australian desert landscape. Located closer to Alice Springs than Adelaide, Marla is just shy of 1000 kilometres into the journey. The train arrives in the dark and guests are welcome to step off to stretch their legs as the sun light slowly bathes the surrounding outback and start their day with a steaming mug of coffee and bacon and egg roll.
Take a moment to enjoy the stillness on this short 45 minute stop with the promise of the day stretching before you. Re-board the train (you can even hop back into bed!) and brunch will be served from 10am.
PLEASE NOTE: This stop is only on northbound journeys from Adelaide to Darwin.
Continuing north, arrive to Alice Springs at 13:45 for an off-train afternoon experience included with your rail package. The train departs Alice Springs 6:15PM
SIMPSONS GAP DISCOVERY WALK
Included (limited availability)
A magical location where important elements of flora, fauna and Indigenous culture all come together, the Simpsons Gap area incorporates large stands of Mulga and is a major stronghold for over 40 rare and relict plants. Here you will enjoy walks that pass the native plants of the area including ancient Ghost Gums and views of the range.
Known as Rungutjirpa to the Indigenous, Simpsons Gap was the mythological home of a group of giant goanna ancestors. Several dreaming trails and stories cross at this important spiritual site. Enjoy the serenity and peacefulness as you watch the walls glow from reflected sunlight, creating a breath-taking display of stark form and rich colour.
The Simpsons Gap walks are on a natural site. While every precaution has been taken to ensure the walk is safe for everyone, we do insist that all walkers are of high fitness, do wear appropriate footwear, carry a water bottle and wear a hat and sunscreen.
Recommended Fitness Level: High – walking tour, approximately 4 kilometres of walking required.
PLEASE NOTE: Guests must wear long pants and enclosed shoes for this experience. If temperatures are forecasted to be 40 degrees or above, this experience will not go ahead.
DESERT PARK
Included*
Join your experienced guide for an exclusive guided walking tour to unravel ancient cultural stories, the science behind the region’s breathtaking landscapes, mysterious animal life and geological marvels. Your exclusive guided walking tour takes you through tall river red gums, enduring Spinifex or vibrant wildflowers for an unforgettable close-up exploration of outback flora and fauna.
Step inside the Nocturnal House to discover the mysterious lives of desert animals of the night including the iconic bilby and mala. Watch closely as these animals go about their natural interaction and foraging for food.
As a guest travelling on The Ghan there is a front row seat reserved for you at the spectacular free flight bird show. After the show your back stage pass allows you to get up close and personal with the birds and trainers during a private training session. See the resident dingoes before viewing a film on desert evolution on the big screen or alternatively take time to enjoy some retail therapy in the gift shop.
Recommended Fitness Level: Low to moderate – guided walking tour, approximately 2 kilometres of walking. Mobility scooters available on request from the Hospitality Attendant when booking.
*Inclusive for Platinum and Gold Service guests travelling the entire journey.
DAY 3
Katherine - to Darwin
MORNING EXCURSION, KATHERINE
Choose between two of the cruises through Nitmiluk Gorge’s ancient natural wonders, or opt to upgrade with a helicopter flight over the Gorge.
Nitmiluk First Gorge Art Cruise
As a more relaxed cruise experience, your guide will share some of the ancient secrets of the region as you gently cruise down the First Gorge, witnessing the awe-inspiring sandstone cliffs and sheer drops that reach amazing heights.
Listen to Dreamtime stories about the creation and significance the Gorge played in the lives of its traditional owners, the Jawoyn people.
Take a short walk to the top of the First Gorge to visit a stunning Indigenous rock art site where artwork remains even after thousands of years exposed to the elements. These works are ancient evidence of the existence of the Jawoyn culture in the area during the last Ice Age.
Recommended Fitness Level: Low – short walks required. Guests must be able to step on and off the boat.
Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise
Cruise down Katherine River as the large rock formations of the Gorge tower over the calm water. Nitmiluk is home to the Indigenous Jawoyn people and many of their stories centre around the Gorge.
Calls of the cicada resonate across the water between the massive sandstone cliffs while you cruise down the First and Second Gorges listening to stories about how the Gorge came to be named. The sheer walls of the Gorge, etched by time and the elements, are home to a myriad of plant and animal life, much of it unique to this area and all playing a role to the lives of its traditional owners.
A walk of approximately 500 metres over rocky terrain is required in both directions between the First and Second Gorges. It is suggested a good level of mobility is required to participate in this experience.
Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate to high – approximately a total of 2 kilometres of walking required. Guests need to be able to step on and off a boat.
Nitmiluk Gorge Helicopter FlightOptional Upgrade $220 (Limited Availability)
Early evening arrive to Darwin Berrimah Terminal. The Darwin Terminal is located 20 km from the City Centre. After disembarking at 17:30pm meet your local transfer service to our group hotel, and settle in for a relaxed evening in the Top End.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 4
Discover Darwin
This morning head out for a Darwin history and cultural tour, then onto Pudukul for a local indigenous experience.
The Pudukul visit provides an opportunity to engage with local Aboriginal people, the environment and wildlife, learn basket weaving, dilly bag making and the techniques used in the process. Have a go at throwing a spear or blowing a didgeridoo, play the clapsticks and learn about our local bush food and medicine. You will be served with damper (bush bread) and tea after the experience.
For lunch a stop at Humpty Doo Pub; an iconic outback pub, then return to Darwin with a final visit to the Darwin Military Museum. There will be some time free at the end of the day and the evening is at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 5
Discover Litchfield National Park
Your passionate and knowledgeable tour guide will take you to some of the spectacular waterfalls where you can explore on bushwalks and swim in our pristine waterways. Late afternoon, we head over to the Adelaide River for a crocodile cruise. You will spot for these magnificent creatures up close and get to know them through the eyes of our local wildlife conservationist, skipper Pat. Take the option on return to Darwin to be dropped off to the Mindil Beach evening markets.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 6
Darwin. End
Take away iconic memories of your journey from the south to the north and your Darwin Top End stay. Or, opt to explore more and join our Kakadu Explorer.
OPTIONAL EXTENSION: KAKADU EXPLORER
3 days / 2 nights
Darwin - Kakadu - Darwin
- Interpretive tour through Ubirr rock art site
- Culturally guided cruise through the Kakadu/ Arnhem Land East Alligator River
- Sunrise Yellow Waters Cruise
- Ancient Nourlangie rock art sites
- Park entry ticket
- Breakfast
- Snacks and lunches
DAY 6
Darwin to Kakadu National Park
After breakfast at our group hotel set off early (7AM) for Kakadu National Park. Enjoy two of the parks highlights; visiting Ubirr Rock art site and the Guluyambi Cultural cruise. The Guluymabi cruise is on the East Alligator River, with a local Bininj guide. Hear from the traditional custodians of the land and have the chance to step into Arnhem Land with your local guide and share an authentic cultural experience. At Ubirr Rock, the site of some of the world’s oldest rock art your guide will walk you through the ancient rock galleries, where you will hear about the history and culture of the traditional custodians.
Tonight, enjoy the surrounds of your lodge in Kakadu National Park and dinner at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 7
Kakadu National Park to Darwin
This morning, a sunrise cruise through the vast Yellow Waters , teeming with wildlife. Then today, visit Warradjan Cultural Centre and Burrungkuy (Nourlangie region).
You will be back in Darwin by the end of day where you will farewell your guide. Take the option to dine in house at the group hotel or at a nearby waterfront restaurant, or take a short walk to the main street of Darwin City for many restaurant options.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
DAY 8
Darwin
There are no touring services today. Departure from Darwin is at your leisure
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Itineraries may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. If there is any itinerary change prior to departure of significance we aim to inform you prior to travel. Itinerary changes while on tour will be informed by your tour leader/guide while on tour.
The rail journey is on The Ghan and operated by Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions. We have a Solos Only group onboard but the train journey is not exclusively solo travellers.
View Full Itinerary
ACCOMMODATION
TRAIN CABINS
GOLD SINGLE CABINS, THE GHAN
SEE IMAGES OF GOLD CLASS
Australia’s iconic rail journeys offer purpose-built carriages to do it in superb style.
The Gold Service Single is a comfortable (but compact) sleeper cabin option that offers all the luxurious inclusions of the Gold Service Twin such as fully inclusive dining with three gourmet meals per day, all-inclusive Australian wines, beers, base spirits and non-alcoholic beverages, and your choice of Off Train Experiences as you travel.
** note; gold class single cabins may not be comfortable for very tall or large passengers.
Gold class cabins are small; your stylish and ultra-modern cabin cleverly accommodates your belongings with a series of compartments and shelving options incorporated into the compact design. Your comfortable seat with full leg extension bench seat by day converts to a cosy bed by night. Your own complimentary, quality Australian-made toiletries are included. The soulful, reflective and contemplative nature of moving across the continent by train is ideally suited to travelling solo but you can be as quiet or as social as you wish.
Your Restaurant Manager arranges dining seating options to ensure you are always meeting fellow travellers over delicious meals, and the Outback Explorer Lounge is a focal point for all daily social interactions.
And, of course, your fabulous and included choice of Off Train Experiences mean you will be joining fellow guests as you experience the amazing places you visit together.
Inside your cabin, choose from six music and journey commentary channels to add background ambience to your travels, and you have numerous power supply outlets to keep your devices charged.
GOLD CLASS SINGLE CABINS WITH SHARE FACILITIES
VIEW IMAGES
There are 2 full bathrooms, with shower & toilet. Then also 2 other toilets. They are at each end of the carriage. There are 16 single cabins in the carriage.
GOLD SERVICE SINGLE INCLUDES:
- All-inclusive dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant (can’t guarantee dining time is same time for entire group)
- Off Train Excursions and Outback Experience
- Access to the Outback Explorer Lounge for beverages and socialising
- All-inclusive Australian wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
- A compact sleeper cabin featuring a bed that converts to a seat by day, private vanity, with shared shower/toilet facilities located at the end of the carriage
- In-cabin safe
- In-cabin music channels and journey audio commentary
- Complimentary Australian bathroom amenities
- Complimentary shuttle bus transfers available between Darwin Terminal and the city centre (certain hotels)
- 60 kg checked luggage allowance per guest (2 x 30 kg each).
PRE AND POST RAIL HOTELS
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Destination |
Hotel Name |
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Adelaide |
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Darwin |
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Kakadu (optional tour) |
Hotels may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. Should this occur, a hotel of a similar standard will be provided.
Single Sleeper, Gold Service, The Ghan
Premium Room, Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets
Single Sleeper, Gold Service, The Ghan (day time)
Restaurant @ Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets
Bathroom @ Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets
HOTEL DESCRIPTIONS
ADELAIDE: The Adelaide hotel is optional for a pre rail stay prior to embarking on The Ghan.
DARWIN: The Darwin hotel is part of the rail & tour package. Additional nights of stay can be booked
KAKADU: Part of the optional 3 day/2 night package
HOTEL INDIGO ADELAIDE MARKETS, ADELAIDE
Boutique hotel rooms in Adelaide’s CBD pay homage to the legendary festivals of the city.
We’ve selected the premium rooms for your stay.
King Premium Room: Get ready to take in enhanced vistas over the city, Central Market or district, along with premium amenities that are our way of saying, “We think you’re pretty great. You deserve the best. Here’s an espresso.” Because whether you’re in town for work or play, a capsule coffee machine is on hand for a pick-me-up so you’ll be ready to slay the day.
- 29 sqm
- WiFi / Chromecast
- Bluetooth radio / Espresso Machine / Minibar
- King with premium bedding
- 2-head rainfall shower / Pampering Biology Smart Skincare amenities
Restaurants and bars create innovative flavours, tapping into the best of Adelaide Market’s wonderful produce for seasonal appeal. The ground floor houses our modern Australian restaurant and bar, Market & Meander. Take the elevator to a spectacular rooftop for our raw food bar, Merrymaker, featuring an immaculate array of local seafood, cured and smoked meats.
Check In: 3PM | Check out: 11AM
Wi-Fi: Free
ADINA APARTMENT HOTEL DARWIN WATERFRONT, DARWIN
Premium Studio, or opt to upgrade with Premium Studio Room with View
The Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront provides is positioned amongst waterside restaurants and the wave pool with a lagoon on Darwin’s seafront promenade. It is only a stone’s throw away from the Darwin Convention Centre and within walking distance of Darwin’s CBD. It features stylish and spacious one and two-bedroom apartments or studio rooms, fully-equipped with all the comforts of home. Cook up fresh produce from the local markets in your kitchen, freshen up your clothes in your in-room laundry and spread out in your separate living area.
Room features:
- Room size: 35 sqm
- City view (or water view if opting for Premium Room with View)
- Kitchenette with microwave, bar fridge, plates, cutlery and kettle
- In-room safe / work desk / mini bar and tea & coffee amenities
- Individually controlled air-conditioning / Iron & ironing board
- Spacious bathroom with shower over bath
- Bathroom amenities and hairdryer
- Free WiFi at 512 Kbps / 32 inch LCD TV / USB Clock radio charging points
WiFi: Free @ 512Kbps
COOINDA LODGE, KAKADU
The village style property is located beneath a canopy of trees beside Yellow Water Billabong, home to world-renowned Yellow Water Cruises, where crocodiles and birds are seen on the flood plain amongst Paperbark, Pandanus and Fresh Water Mangroves. With its oasis style atmosphere, Cooinda Lodge offers an inviting shaded swimming pool, bistro-style dining, bars, petrol station and a store that offers locally-made crafts as well a wide range of essentials for touring. The Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre is just five minutes from Cooinda and many local attractions are within easy travelling distance.
Hotels may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. Should this occur, a hotel of a similar standard will be provided.
More About Accommodation
GETTING THERE
Starts In:
Ends In:
THE GHAN - 3 DAYS
Starts: Adelaide
Ends: Darwin
HOTEL CHECK IN /CHECK OUT TIMES
Consider the hotel check in time on arrival and the hotel check out time on departure.
Early check in or late check out can be requested but without payment cannot be guaranteed.
TRAIN EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION - ADELAIDE TO DARWIN DIRECTION
Train Embarkation: Adelaide
Afternoon departure 12:15PM from Adelaide Parklands Terminal.
Transfer to the train terminal is by your own arrangement.
Train Disembarkation: Darwin
Afternoon arrival 5:30PM from Darwin Rail Terminal
Coach transfers from Darwin Rail Terminal are available for Gold & Platinum Service guests.
ABOUT AIRFARES
On request we provide an airfare quote. If joining the tour from outside Australia it is usually most economical if you make your own flight arrangements or use the service of a travel agent located within your country of residence.
DETAILS
Read on for other key trip information that you should know before you decide on joining the group.
TRIP AVAILABILITY
If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to book early and secure your place with a deposit. Tour space is limited. Also, many services on this tour must be booked well in advance. To ensure your place, please check trip availability at your earliest convenience
FELLOW TRAVELLERS
You will enjoy this group experience with a maximum of 14 travellers in our group. This is a Solos Mix tour. We have a group onboard The Ghan but there are other travellers, not part of our group they will be couples or otherwise. The group is unescorted and suits an independent style traveller.
SOLOS MIX
We’ve hand picked a line up of tours with that are popular choices for solo travellers. There’s a mix of travellers, single travellers and couples travelling together – this is our SOLOS MIX offer. From our ‘know-how’ these are trips popular with solo travellers.
We only select small group tours for our Solos Mix selection. There’s a good likelihood of more than a few solo travellers joining the tour.
THE PACE [2 out of 5]
We require you to complete our Booking Form including a self-completed Fit to Travel declaration. Travellers of 70 years or over or with a pre existing medical condition or disability, may be required to return a Fit to Travel form that is completed by their doctor. See MORE ABOUT FITNESS in More Information section below
ABOUT THE MEALS
There’s nothing better than to share a meal with new friends and discuss the day’s adventures.
We request all group members dine together, at the same time onboard however this is not always possible and is an unguaranteed request; group members may be split across different dining times. However there are still opportunities to mingle and enjoy drinks together in the lounge on board before and after dining.
Sensational destinations are just the beginning – this is also a culinary journey starring regionally-inspired food, fine wines, and local specialities, on board the unique dining carriages. You’ll find yourself indulging in sumptuous cuisine, fine wines, and camaraderie in the dining carriages. The Ghan’s expert culinary team works closely with local suppliers, farmers and providores to source the best ingredients, creating an innovative, regionally-inspired menu accompanied by all-inclusive fine wines and beverages.
LUGGAGE INFORMATION AND RESTRICTIONS
ABOUT CHECKED LUGGAGE/CARRY ON LUGGAGE
Due to space constraints, guests are advised to take onboard only hand luggage containing the requirements for their rail journey. Checked in luggage cannot be accessed during the journey.
Guests should bring an overnight bag to their cabin containing everything needed for the journey.
Certain items are prohibited from being carried in your luggage at all. Valuables including your passport, medicine, fragile or perishable items must be carried onboard as cabin baggage. An additional fee may apply to excess luggage. Refer to the rail company’s Terms and Conditions for full conditions. Occupational Health and Safety legislation provides guidelines outlining the safe weight that staff can lift.
CARRY ON / CABIN LUGGAGE
GOLD SERVICE SINGLE CABIN
One piece of hand luggage plus a garment bag, cabin bag or briefcase per person.
GOLD SERVICE TWIN CABIN
One piece of hand luggage plus a garment bag, cabin bag or briefcase per person.
PLATINUM SERVICE TWIN AND DOUBLE CABINS
One piece of hand luggage plus a garment bag, cabin bag and/or briefcase per person.
The operator, Journey Beyond Rail Expeditions reserves the right to refuse any luggage item for travel. For full details visit their website, click here.
For airline luggage restrictions refer to your ticket details. Please note that the maximum luggage weight for touring may be less than the airline maximum limit.
