Ghan to Darwin with 6 days touring in Darwin and 3 day touring through Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Combine the adventure of the Ghan with luxury touring in the Northern Territory. Discover Katherine Gorge and visit places inaccessible to most in Kakadu and Arnhem Land. Explore the multitude of national parks in the Northern Territory and learn about Darwin’s amazing history. Cruise along the Yellow Water Billabong, the East Alligator River and Darwin Harbour in this package that is the complete Northern Territory experience Themes include: Northern Territory, South Australia, Departs from Alice Springs, Ghan, Luxury Coach, Returns from Adelaide. + Show more
Package Includes
Ghan Train Adelaide to Darwin (Gold Service)
All Flights (e.g. home to Adelaide & Darwin to home)
5 Nights Accommodation in Darwin
2 Nights Accommodation in Kakadu
2 Nights Gold Cabin Accommodation on Ghan (1 night ex Alice Springs)
5 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, Special Cruise Dinner
All meals onboard Ghan, FREE beverages throughout your journey, FREE toiletries kit, Cabin Steward service, in-cabin music and commentary, use of "Outback Explorer Lounge"
All Ghan Off-Train Excursions & Activities (eg Alice Springs, Katherine, Marla, Manguri)
Ghan 90th Birthday Celebration Surprises (special extras if you travel June, July or Aug 2019)
3 Day Luxury Kakadu & Arnhem Land Tour
Luxury Day Tours: Litchfield National Park, Jumping Crocodiles
Darwin Coach Tour
Sunset Harbour Cruise with Special Dinner
Cruise on Yellow Water Billabong, Cruise at Katherine Gorge, Cruise Along Adelaide River
Meet and Greet Personalised Return Transfers (Train Station, Hotel and Airport)
FREE DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Bonus Voucher Book ($500 Value discounts and bonuses in Northern Territory)
Highlights
The GhanAlice SpringsKatherine DarwinKakadu National ParkLitchfield National ParkJumping Crocodiles CruiseCruise on Yellow Water BillabongArafura SeaTimor SeaPalmerstonFlorence FallsWangi FallsTermite MoundsBuley RockholeAdelaide RiverMarrakai WetlandsArnhem HighwayHumpty DooWarradjan Aboriginal Cultural CentreWetlands Visitor CentreNourlangie RockRock Art Galleries (up to 50,000 years old)Cullen Bay MarinaMindil Beach Sunset MarketsMitchell Street restaurants and cafesWorld War II Oil Storage TunnelsCyclone Tracy MuseumCharles Darwin National ParkFannie BayUSS Peary Memorial Darwin Botanic GardensThe EsplanadeDarwin Convention CentreLyons CottageEast Point ReserveLake AlexanderCavanagh Street (old China Town)
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Descriptions
DAYS 1-3 Ghan Adelaide to Alice Springs to Darwin
Fly into Adelaide and be personally met at the airport by a DISCOVER AUSTRALIA representative and transferred from the airport to the Ghan railway station to begin your journey to Darwin.
Take a magical journey through the heart of the continent, for three days you'll be transfixed by the sheer beauty of Australia's ever changing landscape, the green rolling hills of Australia's fertile south, the vibrant ochre earth and cobalt skies of Australia's red-centre and the balmy tropical grandeur of Northern Territory's capital Darwin.
See below for full details on your Ghan journey.Note: passengers embarking in Alice Springs join on Day 2.
When you arrive into Darwin you can sense the cosmopolitan and thriving atmosphere of this historic tropical north Australian city. You will be personally met at the Ghan railway station by DISCOVER AUSTRALIA representative and transferred to your Darwin hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around the neighbourhood and central Darwin.
Meet and Greet Personalised Arrival Transfer, 2 Nights Gold Service Cabin on the Ghan (1 Night ex Alice Springs), 2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners, Luxury Alice Springs Coach Tour (Adelaide to Darwin customers only), Luxury Katherine Gorge Tour, Meet and Greet Personalised Rail Transfer, Overnight Darwin Accommodation.
DAY 4 Darwin Guided Tour, Sunset Cruise and Special Dinner
Darwin, remote romantic and refined. Set in Australia's scenic outback breathtaking vistas abound, home to outdoor festivals, WWII history and ocean-front eateries, the balmy and beautiful surrounds of Australia's 'Top End' are captivating.
Enjoy a leisurely start to your day today before your fascinating 4 hour guided tour of Darwin's rich culture and history.
Your friendly local driver will pick you up in the comfortable air-conditioned coach before sharing experiences, fascinating facts and enchanting stories in the on-board full commentary. Enjoy the colourful sights of our unique city, take in the devastation of Cyclone Tracy, marvel at the majesty of Darwin Harbour, tour through the World War II Oil Storage Tunnels (engineering feat built to protect Darwin's oil supplies from the Japanese, now also houses a collection of Allied wartime photographs), see Sweetheart (famous 5.1m crocodile responsible for a series of attacks on boats) at the NT Museum and Art Gallery, and see Historical Palmerston Town, Parliament House, Military Museum, Darwin Waterfront, Darwin Botanic Gardens, Fannie Bay Gaol, Botanical Gardens, the Qantas Hanger and much more.
Time to relax and take your time getting ready for your Special Dinner tonight. As the sun goes down you will cruise off into the balmy tropical evening on a relaxing 2.5-hour sunset cruise around the harbor. Take in the cool night air on the top deck, experience the early-evening views of Darwin's Harbour and the unforgettable Top End sunsets. For your Special Dinner tonight, dine onboard the vessel, savoring a delicious buffet dinner (with salad bar), a choice of complimentary drink and first-class service as you look out across the pristine Arafura Sea. What an amazing first full day in the Top End!
Breakfast, Darwin City Tour with Hotel Pick Up, Sunset Harbour Cruise, Buffet Dinner, Overnight Accommodation.
DAY 5 Tour from Darwin to Kakadu
Kakadu National Park is Australia in its purest form, timeless and beautiful, striking and emotive, stunning waterfalls such as Jim Jim Falls bring life to this wonder of nature, Aboriginal rock art (20,000 years old) gives a fascinating insight into the lives of ancient tribes who made their home here.
Your friendly driver will pick you up in the comfortable air-conditioned luxury coach before sharing experiences, fascinating facts and enchanting stories in the on-board full commentary throughout the day. Journey along the Arnhem Highway to Kakadu National Park, stop at Nourlangie to see the ancient Aboriginal rock art and after lunch, cruise along the Yellow Water Billabong. Visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre and learn about the Aboriginal people in Kakadu.
Breakfast, Kakadu Tour with Hotel Pick Up, Yellow Water Billabong Cruise, Lunch, Overnight Kakadu Accommodation
DAY 6 Kakadu and Arnhem Land Explorer
Arnhem Land is a vast and pristine wilderness, a place steeped in Aboriginal history and magical Dreamtime culture, spectacular and diverse vistas abound here, rugged coastline, lush rainforest, towering escarpments, dramatic rivers and savannah woodlands, see ancient Indigenous rock art and historical remains of early European settlement.
Travel by 4WD and discover Arnhem Land and the Mikinj Valley, visit ancient rock art sites and learn about traditional land ownership, bush skills, hunting, food gathering and bush tucker preparation.
Arnhem Land 4WD Tour, Lunch, Overnight Kakadu Accommodation
DAY 7 Kakadu and Arnhem Land Explorer
Visit Ubirr to view Aboriginal Rock Art, then join the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise along the East Alligator River. Visit the Bowali Visitor Centre before returning to Darwin.
This morning stop at Ubirr to view Aboriginal rock art. Later, join the Guluyambi Cultural Cruise along the East Alligator River. An Aboriginal guide will provide an insight into their culture, including local mythology, the river’s abundant food chain, as well as bush survival skills. Disembark on the Arnhem Land side of the river to see a display of traditional hunting and gathering implements before heading back downstream. Visit the Bowali Visitor Centre before returning to Darwin.
East Alligator River Cruise, Lunch, Return to Darwin, Overnight Accommodation
DAY 8 Jumping Crocodiles Luxury Day Tour & Cruise
Enjoy some free-time this morning to explore Darwin before you set off for an exciting afternoon.
Travel inland to cruise a section of the Adelaide River and witness saltwater crocodiles close up as they leap out of the water to snatch their food. The Adelaide River starts in Litchfield National Park and is well known for its high concentration of saltwater crocodiles, along with other wildlife including white-bellied sea eagles, whistling kites, freshwater crocodiles, bull sharks and black flying-fox. An excellent opportunity to observe these primeval creatures as you cruise along the Adelaide River.
Today you will cruise the Adelaide River in crocodile infested waters, watch as your guide entices wild saltwater crocodiles to jump and snatch their food (witnessing crocodiles in a relatively close situation), visit Window on the Wetlands Visitor Centre (educational display with sweeping views over the wetlands, plus see birds of prey scavenge for leftovers), see Fogg Dam Nature Reserve (Top End wetlands eco system with an abundance of birds and reptiles). Today is an amazing adventure.
Breakfast, Luxury Coach Tour with Hotel Pick-Up, Cruise Along Adelaide River, Overnight Accommodation.
DAY 9 Litchfield Luxury Day Tour
This is a truly beautiful and spiritual destination. The iconic Litchfield National Park is famous for stunning cascading tropical waterfalls, warm swimming holes, the Tabletop Range sandstone plateau, monsoon tropical rainforests, intriguing magnetic termite mounds and ancient aboriginal sites of the Wagait people. Significant attractions include Florence Falls, Buley Rockhole, Wangi Falls, Tolmer Falls, Tjaetaba Falls, Tjaynera Falls (Sandy Creek), Surprise Creek Falls, Blyth Homestead and Bamboo Creek.
Today you will discover Litchfield, including Florence Falls, the termite mounds, Wangi Falls, Tolmer Falls, Buley Rockhole and will have the opportunity to take a dip in refreshing natural plunge pools boarded by magnificent pandanas palms.
We skirt Francis Bay on Darwin Harbour, head south out of Darwin on the Stuart Highway, take a short break at the town of Batchelor, stop at the Meridean Termite Mounds (learn about Cathedral and Magnetic Termite Mounds), visit Florence Falls (stunning views, perhaps walk down to the plunge pool for a swim in this beautiful oasis), visit Buley Rockhole (cascades and many rockpools offer an opportunity for a refreshing swim), perhaps take a walk to Tolmer Falls (breathtaking valley with a waterfall and distant views toward the coast over cattle stations), see monsoon forests and woodland areas, enjoy a homestyle lunch (with cold meats, salad and tea or coffee), visit Wangi Falls and plunge pool (perhaps take a dip or a stroll through lush tropical forest or relax and just take it all in). Head back to Darwin, reflecting on your enchanting day of enriching experiences on this beautiful and spiritual land.
Breakfast, Luxury Coach Tour with Hotel Pick Ups, Picnic Lunch, Overnight Accommodation.
DAY 10 Say Goodbye to Darwin
Time to say goodbye to beautiful tropical Darwin, your fellow travellers and friendly hotel hosts. You will be personally met at your hotel by a DISCOVER AUSTRALIA representative and transferred from your hotel to the airport for your flight home.
Meet and Greet Personalised Departure Transfer.
Inclusions Onboard The Ghan
Relax in your private Gold Service Cabin and watch the red heart of Australia pass by through your large window. Enjoy all meals onboard the Ghan in the stylish Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car (flexible times, hearty breakfasts, two course lunches, three course dinners). Your package includes FREE soft drinks, beers, high-quality standard wines, base spirits, tea and coffee throughout your journey on board. You will also receive a FREE toiletries kit. You have Cabin Steward service, in-cabin music and detailed journey commentary (available from your cabin sound system) and you will love the cosy but exclusive atmosphere of the Outback Explorer Lounge. Your package includes Gold Service but can be upgrade to Platinum Service.
Upgrade to Platinum Service: Experience the luxury of larger cabin space (twice the size of a Gold Service Twin Cabin) along with private Platinum Transfers, in-cabin breakfasts and access to the exclusive new Platinum Lounge and Restaurant. See Upgrade Options below for details.
Upgrade to the Ultimate Ghan Expedition: Savour the Ghan experience with this extended Ghan journey. The epic Ghan Expedition special departures have four days of leisurely and immersive off-train experiences, adding an extra day. See Upgrade Options below for details.
Luxury Coach Touring
Your special overnight Luxury Coach Touring includes 2 lunches. The luxury vehicle has a personalised air-conditioning, a video system and an onboard toilet.
Flights Included
This package includes all flights as detailed below in the price section (including all fees, levies and taxes). However, we can tailor this package to include our special discounted 'package only' airfares from anywhere. Simply let us know.
Darwin Accommodation Included
You have 3 choices of accommodation in Darwin. Our "Good Standard" central Darwin hotel has great facilities, a comfortable room and friendly service (typically 3.5 stars). Alternatively, why not treat yourself? The "Deluxe" hotel has superior facilities, stylish room and first class service (typically 4 stars). The “Luxury” hotel is upscale with a more luxurious feel for the discerning traveller and great for celebrating an anniversary (typically 5 stars).
The package is priced on the "Good Standard" option. See Optional Upgrades below for more details, or simply ask.
Rail and Airport Transfers Included
You will be personally met by a DISCOVER AUSTRALIA representative and transferred from the airport to the railway station, from the railway station on arrival in Darwin to your hotel and from your hotel to the airport to meet your flight home.
DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Bonus Voucher Book
You receive the FREE DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Bonus Voucher Book that includes $500 value of discounts and bonuses throughout Darwin and Northern Territory at shops, restaurants attractions, wineries etc. It's a great way to save even more on your Northern Territory holiday.
All Off-Train Excursions & Activities Included
This package includes all Off-Train activities with various touring options:
Alice Springs: Choose from a selection of included tour options. (Upgrade to the Ghan Expedition and also experience the Outback Pioneer Dinner)
Katherine: Choose from a selection of included tour and gorge cruise options.
Marla (Ghan Classic Adelaide to Darwin): Disembark to enjoy a light breakfast and tea or coffee in this remote and tiny enclave.
Manguri (Ghan Classic Darwin to Adelaide): Disembark to enjoy a nightcap, served with premium chocolate, by the light of an Outback bonfire.
Coober Pedy (Ghan Expedition upgrade): Full day in Coober Pedy. Tour the tunnels and caves of this underground town, visit the underground Serbian Orthodox church, see Umoona Opal Mine, enjoy a gourmet underground lunch and visit the Breakaways stunning outback moonscape.
The Ghan in Detail
Use this tool for full details and images on the Ghan:
The legendary Ghan... This remarkable journey connects Darwin and Adelaide, travelling through the red heart of Australia. The contrast of the opulent Ghan journeying through the rugged outback is a memory you will treasure. From Adelaide witness South Australia's rolling green hills gradually change to the ochre red of the Flinders Ranges, then travel through the Red Centre to Alice Springs, before reaching the tropical Top End through Katherine to Darwin. You will feel the true spirit of our ancient land. Enjoy the off-train touring and activities. Savour the delicious food and wines.
Use this tool to discover more about the legendary Ghan (select sections above).
Optional Upgrades
Ghan Expedition Upgrade850*$
The Ultimate Ghan Experience. Upgrade to the ultimate “Ghan Expedition” for a special extended 4 day train journey allowing you to stop and really immerse yourself in some of the most remote yet captivating parts of Australia in style and luxury. Extras Include: extra night aboard The Ghan, extended off-train excursions and special BBQ dinner in Alice Springs, immersive Katherine touring/cruising options, full day in Coober Pedy where touring options come with gourmet lunch. The additional time taken creates an incredible, one-of-a-kind Ghan experience. The popular Ghan Expedition (4 day, 3 nights) operates from Darwin to Adelaide only between April to October for 2018 and 2019; and also March 2020. All touring options included in the price. Upgrade your package to incorporate the amazing “Ghan Expedition” from just $850 per person more.
Videos & Images
The Ghan - Off Train Activities
Darwin
Nitmiluk National Park, Katherine
Yellow Water Billabong Cruise
Jumping Crocodile Tour
Litchfield National Park
Cruise at Katherine Gorge
Ancient Rock Art, Arnhemland
Darwin Sunset Harbour Cruise with Special Dinner
Kakadu National Park
Darwin Coach Tour
Accommodation in Darwin & Kakadu
Outback Explorers Lounge
Crossing the Elizabeth River near Darwin
Anzac Hill, Alice Springs
Katherine Gorge Cruise
Stylish Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car
Cullen Bay Marina, Darwin
Historic Telegraph Station, Alice Springs
Northern Territory Parliament
Bowali Visitor Centre
Prices flying from
Ghan to Darwin All-Inclusive with Kakadu Stay
10 Day Train + Touring Package