One of the world's great train journeys — a 2,979 km transcontinental crossing through the heart of Australia, from the Southern Ocean at Adelaide to the tropical Top End at Darwin.
The Ghan runs the length of the continent, linking Adelaide and Darwin through the Red Centre. The full expedition takes three days and two nights northbound, with the train pausing for Off Train Excursions at Alice Springs and Katherine (and Marla / Coober Pedy region southbound), so the journey is as much about what you step off to see as the scenery rolling past the window.
Accommodation is all-inclusive: Gold Service offers private single or twin cabins with ensuite options and meals in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant, while Platinum Service adds larger cabins, double beds and premium dining. All meals, drinks and Off Train Excursions are included in the fare.
The name honours the Afghan cameleers who opened up the inland routes long before the railway. Today the line is operated by Journey Beyond, who also run the Indian Pacific, Great Southern and The Overland. Departures are seasonal (roughly February–November) and book out well ahead, so reserve early.