5 incredible highlights of The Ghan railway journey
Immerse yourself in the harsh yet magnificent landscape of the outback from the comfort of your cabin, and feel right at home in your own private oasis as you travel from Darwin to Adelaide with this once-in-a-lifetime expedition.
The Ghan railway journey is one of the most iconic train trips in Australia and is often ranked among the finest in the world which fully captures the heart of Australia, showcasing the raw and brutal beauty of the outback.
During the late 1800s and early 1900s, more than 2,000 cameleers from modern-day Afghanistan, Pakistan, and India, and around 20,000 camels, came to Australia to provide a method of transportation that could withstand the incredibly harsh conditions of the Australian outback.
Where other animals, like horses, died because of the heat and lack of water, the camels survived and provided a way to transport materials and also explore remote areas of the centre of the country. The so-called “Afghan men” were instrumental in proving goods to remote communities, but it was incredibly tough work, and sadly, they were later unable to bring their families with them to Australia due to restrictions and the White Australia Policy.
This journey is a truly humbling experience, with 2,979kms of railway tracks, which took close to 50 difficult years to build, and is perfect for those wanting to delve into the rich history of Australia and life in the outback and comes with inclusions like a breathtaking dinner under the stars at the historic Telegraph Station in Alice Springs and a venture into the unique underground community of Coober Pedy.
The Ghan is also an ideal pick for solo travellers. With dedicated single cabins, you’ll pay less than the per-person twin share rate!
If you have your heart set on this bucket-list experience, here are five unforgettable highlights of the extended expedition itinerary that will leave a powerful and lasting impression.
1. The Top End
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A southbound Ghan journey begins at the Darwin Rail Station, but if you have the time to explore Darwin for a few days before you jump aboard, it’s well worth it. After you spend some time taking in the view of Mindil Beach and the markets, head out to Kakadu National Park and take a tour of the Nourlangie Rock and take in the ancient rock art created by the local indigenous communities.
2. Katherine
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As you make your way down to Alice Springs you’ll make a stopover in Katherine. You simply cannot miss Nitmiluk, or Katherine Gorge. Don’t forget to bring your swimmers, because during the winter the rangers remove any crocodiles from the area to ensure it’s safe for visitors. There are also walking tracks, kayaking activities and the opportunity to hear some indigenous storytelling, too.
3. Alice Springs
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The remote town of Alice Springs is worth exploring on foot, so be sure to take a look at how the locals live, perhaps you can try your hand at making some traditional damper, but this is also where you can catch a glimpse of the iconic Uluru.
4. Coober Pedy
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Coober Pedy is known for being the world’s best opal producer, but it’s not just this colourful stone that brings people to the small town. Because of the extreme heat, must of the town is famously located underground.
Your fare on the Ghan Expedition includes an unforgettable guided walking tour of the region. The Breakaways (a unique rocky landscape of flat-topped mesas) will offer an amazing view of the region from above. You’ll also head underground to the Opal Mine and Museum, where you can explore the striking caverns, hand-dug shafts and tunnels.
5. Adelaide
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Adelaide may be the last stop of your Ghan railway journey, but there is much to see in the beautiful city. As the train comes into South Australia, you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape with bright greens blanketing the fields extending out to the horizon. If you wish to extend your stay in the region, the Barossa Valley, Kangaroo Island, Hahndorf and Glenelg will give you many days, or even weeks, of extra delights.
Seats for the 2023 expedition have all but sold out, but you can book early for 2024 with a reduced early bird fare here.
Have you been on The Ghan? What were your personal highlights? Let us know in the comments section below.
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