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Experience the best of Australia’s Top End and outback on these iconic journeys from Adelaide to Darwin or vice versa.
Journey aboard The Ghan for a legendary rail adventure, where exceptional hospitality, all-inclusive dining, and immersive Off Train Experiences showcase the heart of Australia in unforgettable style. Stay in tropical Darwin, enjoying time at leisure, a relaxing harbour cruise with Territorian-style lunch, and the vibrant excitement of the Darwin Cup with exclusive access to The Ghan Marquee.
Adelaide to Darwin
7 days | The Ghan | Departs 29 July 2026
Gold Twin from $6,365pp twin share
Begin your journey by train on one of the country’s most iconic trains, The Ghan. Settle into your cabin and watch the landscape shift as you ease into all-inclusive dining and considered hospitality. Spend four nights in Darwin, including a harbour cruise aboard the Charles Darwin catamaran with a Territorian-style lunch. Then step into the vibrant energy of the Top End as Darwin comes alive for the Darwin Cup. Enjoy exclusive access to The Ghan Marquee at one of the Northern Territory’s most anticipated social and sporting events.
Inclusions
2 nights aboard The Ghan, Adelaide to Darwin, including all meals, beverages and Off Train Experiences in Marla, Alice Springs and Katherine
Transfer from Darwin Rail Terminal to hotel
4 nights’ accommodation in Darwin including breakfast daily
Darwin Harbour Lunch Cruise, with return hotel to wharf coach transfers
The Ghan Marquee entry at Darwin Cup Carnival,
Monday 3 August, including a deluxe buffet luncheon,
6-hour select beverage package and return hotel to
racetrack coach transfers
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Highlights
Explore the outback town of Alice Springs
Cruise through ancient Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine
Enjoy a Territorian style grazing platter on your Darwin Harbour Lunch Cruise
Experience the vibrant energy of the 2026 Darwin Cup
Carnival with reserved table seating in a Marquee, a deluxe buffet luncheon including a selection of fresh seafood, and a 6-hour beverage package
Itinerary
Day 1 – Board The Ghan in Adelaide
Board The Ghan in Adelaide for an incredible showcase journey of inland Australia. As the train leaves the city heading for the Flinders Ranges and beyond, the dramatic changes in landscape from pastoral land to arid outback scenes will ignite your imagination. Lunch is served on board – this is the first of many superb, chef-prepared gourmet meals, showcasing regional flair and season flavours. (L,D)
Overnight: 2 nights The Ghan
Day 2 – The Ghan, Alice Springs
After your first night enjoying the fine dining and relaxed comfort of this iconic train, you’ll wake to an unforgettable outback sunrise at Marla – a remote outpost 160 kilometres from the Northern Territory border that marks the start of the Oodnadatta Track. Enjoy the magnificent scenery as you make your way onwards to Alice Springs, where you have a selection of Off Train Experiences to choose from. There’s an experience to suit everyone, from an off-road mountain bike adventure, to the Alice Explorer tour, a cultural experience at Standley Chasm, meeting the wildlife at the Desert Park, or taking in the astounding beauty of Simpson’s Gap. Alternatively, take it all in from the air, with an optional upgrade helicopter flight. (B,L,D)
Day 3 – The Ghan, Katherine And Darwin
When the landscape transforms into rocky gorges and fast-flowing canyon streams, prepare to experience one of the Top End’s most impressive natural wonders on a boat cruise along Nitmiluk Gorge. Alternatively, the Katherine Outback Experience lets you into the lives of those who call the outback home. There is also a helicopter flight upgrade available, for those wishing to see Nitmiluk from an aerial perspective.
A few hours later as evening falls, you’ll arrive in Darwin and transfer to your accommodation, where you can settle in and reflect on your outback adventure thus far. (B,L)
Overnight: 4 nights Hilton Darwin
Day 4 – Darwin Harbour Cruise
A late morning transfer from your hotel will take you to the departure point of your harbour cruise. See, taste and embrace the Top End lifestyle as you cruise the magnificent waters of Darwin Harbour. Sit back and relax on board the Charles Darwin in air-conditioned comfort, as you learn more about the Top End with commentary provided. Lunch is a Territorian style grazing platter, featuring local produce - beverages are available to purchase onboard.
The evening is at your leisure. Perhaps explore the Darwin waterfront and its top-notch restaurants, taking in the relaxed pace of life in the north. (B,L)
Day 5 – Darwin
Stroll around Darwin today, taking in the fascinating history of the northern capital at your own pace. Take a walk through the Botanic Gardens or and don’t forget a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory visit the Chinese Temple.
This evening you might wish to visit the iconic Mindil Beach Sunset Markets and soak up the atmosphere, flavours and famous Mindil Beach sunset. Located less than 3km from Darwin City Centre and easily accessible by taxi or uber, with public transport options also available.(B)
Day 6 – Darwin Cup Carnival Day
Today you’re off to one of the biggest social and sporting events in the Northern Territory – the Darwin Cup!
As part of your entry to The Ghan Marquee, you’ll have reserved table seating and a deluxe buffet luncheon. Included in entry is a selection of fresh seafood, a 6-hour beverage package with selected beers, premium wines, soft drinks, basic spirits and entertainment. Upon conclusion of the days race events, you will have the choice of returning to your hotel with the included coach transfer or staying on to enjoy the after-race entertainment. (B,L)
Day 7 – Farewell
After breakfast check-out of your accommodation and say farewell to Darwin. You’ll take with you the stories shared, the connections made, and the sense of wonder that only a journey through the heart of Australia can bring. (B)
*Itinerary is subject to change. Advertised price is based on per person twin share on this departure.
Darwin to Adelaide
7 days | The Ghan Expedition | Departs 2 August 2026
Gold Twin from $8,045pp twin share
Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the Top End as Darwin comes alive for the excitement of the Darwin Cup. Enjoy exclusive access to The Ghan Marquee at one of the Northern Territory’s most anticipated social and sporting events, where fashion, festivities, and world-class racing take centre stage. Unwind with three nights’ accommodation in this tropical capital, allowing ample time to soak up the relaxed atmosphere. To farewell Darwin, step aboard the Charles Darwin catamaran for a leisurely harbour cruise, complete with a Territorian-style lunch as you glide across the shimmering waters of Darwin Harbour. Then, shift from tropical escape to outback adventure as you board the legendary Ghan. Travel in style from Darwin to Adelaide, traversing breathtaking landscapes and enjoying immersive Off Train Experiences that bring the heart of Australia to life.
Inclusions
3 nights’ accommodation in Darwin including breakfast daily
The Ghan Marquee entry at Darwin Cup Carnival, Monday 3 August, including a deluxe buffet luncheon, 6-hour select beverage package and return hotel to racetrack coach transfers
Darwin Harbour Lunch Cruise, with return hotel to wharf coach transfers
Transfer from Darwin hotel to Darwin Rail Terminal
3 nights aboard The Ghan Expedition, Darwin to Adelaide, including all meals, beverages and Off Train
Experiences in Katherine, Alice Springs and Coober Pedy
6 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 3 dinners
Highlights
Experience the vibrant energy of the 2026 Darwin Cup Carnival with reserved table seating in a Marquee, a deluxe buffet luncheon including a selection of fresh seafood, and a 6-hour beverage package
Enjoy a Territorian style grazing platter on your Darwin
Harbour Lunch Cruise
Cruise through ancient Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine
Explore the outback town of Alice Springs and the unusual underground town of Cooper Pedy
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive Darwin
You’ve arrived in Darwin – it’s yours to explore. Spend the day at your leisure before checking in to your accommodation.
Overnight: 3 nights Hilton Darwin
Day 2 – Darwin Cup Carnival Day
Today you’re off to one of the biggest social and sporting events in the Northern Territory – the Darwin Cup! As part of your entry to The Ghan Marquee, you’ll have reserved table seating and a deluxe buffet luncheon. Included in entry is a selection of fresh seafood, a 6-hour beverage package with selected beers, premium wines, soft drinks, basic spirits and entertainment. Upon conclusion of the days race events, you will have the choice of returning to your hotel with the included coach transfer or staying on to enjoy the after-race entertainment. (B,L)
Day 3 – Darwin Harbour Lunch Cruise
Stroll around Darwin today, taking in the fascinating history of the northern capital at your own pace. Take a walk through the Botanic Gardens or visit the Chinese Temple and don’t forget a visit to the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory.
A late morning transfer from your hotel will take you to the departure point of your harbour cruise. See, taste and embrace the Top End lifestyle as you cruise the magnificent waters of Darwin Harbour. Sit back and relax on board the Charles Darwin in air-conditioned comfort, as you learn more about the Top End with commentary provided. Lunch is a Territorian style grazing platter, featuring local produce - beverages are available to purchase onboard. The evening is at your leisure. Perhaps explore the Darwin waterfront and its top-notch restaurants, taking in the relaxed pace of life in the north. (B,L)
Day 4 – Board The Ghan Expedition In Darwin
Begin your journey with a seamless transfer from your hotel to the rail terminal, where you’ll celebrate the start of your adventure with a welcome drink and light refreshments. Pause for a photo with The Ghan’s iconic red locomotive before stepping on board.
Settle into your home for the next few days, whether relaxing in the comfort of your cabin or mingling with fellow travellers in the lounge. As The Ghan journeys south, enjoy a chef-prepared lunch on board before arriving in Katherine for your first Off Train Experience. Here, you’ll choose how to explore this remarkable region. Cruise through the towering sandstone cliffs of Nitmiluk Gorge and discover its natural beauty and cultural significance. Alternatively, step into the Katherine Outback Experience for an authentic glimpse into outback life, or venture underground at the Cutta Cutta Caves, home to fascinating limestone formations, native wildlife and rich Indigenous and European history. For a different perspective, you may choose to upgrade to a helicopter flight and take in the scale of Nitmiluk from above. (B,L,D)
Overnight: 3 nights The Ghan Expedition
Day 5 – The Ghan Expedition, Alice Springs
Wake to the wide-open skies of the outback as The Ghan draws closer to the iconic town of Alice Springs. After a hearty breakfast on board, step into the heart of Central Australia with a choice of Off Train Experiences designed to suit every traveller.
Take to the red dirt on an off-road e-bike adventure, join the A Town Called Alice tour to uncover the town’s major landmarks, or immerse yourself in culture with a guided journey through Standley Chasm and Simpsons Gap. Here, sheer rock walls blaze red in the sunlight and ancient landscapes hold deep spiritual significance for the Arrernte people. Wildlife lovers can meet desert creatures at Alice Springs Desert Park, while those seeking a grander perspective can opt for a scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta. As night falls, the hallmark experience of The Ghan Expedition awaits. At the historic Alice Springs Telegraph Station, dine beneath a canopy of stars, surrounded by the red earth of the desert. With white tablecloths, fine food and live entertainment, it’s an evening you’ll never forget. (B,L,D)
Day 6 – The Ghan Expedition, Coober Pedy
Today brings you to the extraordinary outback town of Coober Pedy, where life is anything but ordinary. Known as the opal capital of the world, this desert settlement hides its treasures both above and below, and more than half the population live underground. Your adventure begins with a morning stop at the remote outpost of Manguri to take in the sunrise, before continuing on to Coober Pedy for a day of exploration. A highlight is a gourmet lunch enjoyed underground, a dining experience as unique as the town itself. Off Train Experiences include visiting the striking Breakaways, uncovering the town’s quirky attractions, or learning the fascinating history of opal mining on the Opal Experience.
For an unforgettable view, upgrade to a scenic flight over the Painted Hills and Lake Eyre. Back on board for your final night, dinner is served in the dining carriage before one last nightcap in the lounge with newfound friends as The Ghan journeys towards Adelaide. (B,L,D)
Day 7 – The Ghan Expedition, Adelaide
This morning, you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the green fields of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the Flinders Ranges before arriving in Adelaide.
Stepping off the train, you’ll carry more than memories of extraordinary landscapes. You’ll take with you the stories shared, the connections made, and the sense of wonder that only a journey through the heart of Australia can bring. (B)
*Itinerary is subject to change.Price is based on per person twin share.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
