The Ghan — Great Southern

The Ghan completed its first journey from Adelaide through the ruggedly beautiful Red Centre to Darwin in 2003, reviving a dream born in the colonial era.

It follows the trail blazed by the early explorers and Afghan ‘cameleers’ who tirelessly supplied the Overland Telegraph stations ensuring that the remote Outback and Red Centre kept in touch with the rest of the world.

The 1,850 mile two-night journey through the heart of Australia begins in Adelaide and proceeds to the Flinders Ranges before crossing the Simpson Desert and reaching Alice Springs in the Red Centre. The newest stretch of line heads across Australia’s arid heartland to Katherine, famous for its stunning gorges, before tracking through the lush tropical scenery of the Top End.

A twice weekly service operates the overnight journey between Adelaide and Darwin, while Adelaide to Alice Springs runs weekly. Guests boarding in Adelaide can connect with incoming train services from both Sydney and Melbourne.