18 DAYS, 16 NIGHTS
$$$$$
Grand Australia Ghan Travel Package
The Ghan Travel Package
Booking Code: AA-31029
Train operates April – October. Alternative itinerary available March & November.
Go back in time and indulge in luxury train travel on Australia’s iconic Ghan rail journey. This Grand Australia Ghan Travel package offers an unparalleled exploration of Australia’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Ideal for those with a love for train travel and a desire to uncover the beauty of the Outback, Great Barrier Reef, and Australia’s wildlife, this trip promises unforgettable moments aboard one of the world’s most iconic trains.
With meticulously curated excursions and immersive experiences along the way, this journey offers a deep dive into Australia’s unique culture, history, and natural wonders.
Grand Australia Ghan Travel Package
Day 1: International Flight to Brisbane
Days 2 – 5: Cairns
Days 5 – 7: Darwin
Days 7 – 10: The Ghan Darwin to Adelaide
Days 10 – 12: Adelaide
Days 12 – 15: Melbourne
Days 15 – 18 Sydney
Day 18: International Flight from Sydney
What’s included in your Grand Australia Ghan Travel Package
Accommodation
Cairns (3 Nights), Darwin (2), The Ghan (3), Adelaide (2), Melbourne (3), Sydney (3)
Flights
Australian Domestic – Brisbane to Cairns, Cairns to Darwin, Adelaide to Melbourne, Melbourne to Sydney
Transfers
Private – Darwin Airport to Accommodation, Adelaide Accommodation to Airport, Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return), Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return)
Day Tours
Darwin – Litchfield Tour
Adelaide – Kangaroo Island Tour
Sydney – Opera House Tour, Harbour Cruise Express
Train Journey
4 All Inclusive Days Aboard The Ghan, Darwin to Adelaide with Off Train Touring:
– Cruise through ancient Nitmiluk Gorge in Katherine or take a guided historic tour
– Explore Alice Springs, with options like an off road e-bike adventure and historic town tour
– A day of underground discovery at the opal mining township of Coober Pedy
All Taxes and
Fuel Levies
(Except where noted)
Itinerary is
flexible
Itinerary outside of train journey can be tailored to suit your needs
VISA ISSUANCE
REQUIRED (NOT
INCLUDED)
your itinerary details
DAY 1
International Flight, Los Angeles to Brisbane
Your journey starts with an exciting flight from Los Angeles to Brisbane. As you soar through the skies, enjoy a delicious dinner and breakfast before touching down in sunny Brisbane. Sit back, relax, catch up on your favorite movies, and drift off to sleep. When you wake up, you’ll be in Brisbane!
DAYS 2 – 5
Cairns – Dive into the Great Barrier Reef
Next up, hop on a domestic flight from Brisbane to the tropical paradise of Cairns. Once you land, a convenient shuttle will whisk you away from Cairns Airport to your cozy accommodation.
You’ll spend three nights at a fabulous 4-star hotel in Cairns. With its warm hospitality, top-notch service, and stunning views, this place is more than just a hotel – it’s a tropical oasis!
Now, onto the highlight of your Cairns stay – the Great Barrier Reef Cruise! Dive into an unforgettable snorkeling and diving adventure on the outer reef. Snorkel among colorful coral gardens, where every nook and cranny is filled with a fascinating variety of fish and marine species. Marvel at the intricate shapes and patterns of the reef, and watch as curious sea turtles glide effortlessly through the water.
Indulge in delicious meals prepared by expert chefs onboard. Enjoy freshly caught seafood, mouthwatering tropical fruits, and gourmet dishes. After a day of exploring the depths, there’s nothing better than coming back to the vessel to refuel with a sumptuous meal!
With delicious eats, stunning underwater vistas, and even opportunities to contribute to reef conservation efforts, this experience is truly one for the books.
Finally, take a day to explore Cairns at your own pace. From the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef to the lush beauty of the Daintree Rainforest, there’s no shortage of adventures to be had in this tropical paradise.
You might like to venture into the enchanting Daintree Rainforest. This ancient rainforest is one of the oldest in the world and is teeming with biodiversity. Take a guided tour to learn about the unique flora and fauna that call this World Heritage-listed site home. Walk along the elevated boardwalks and experience the lush greenery, listen to the symphony of bird songs, and keep an eye out for elusive wildlife like the tree-dwelling cassowary
Photo Credit: Tourism & Events Queensland
Crocodile at Litchfield National Park
Darwin Waterfront
DAYS 5 – 7
Darwin – Australia’s Tropical Outback
Crocodile at Litchfield National Park
Your adventure continues as you bid farewell to Cairns and hop on a shuttle to the airport.
Next up, it’s time for another Australian domestic flight, this time from Cairns to Darwin. Upon arrival, enjoy a private transfer from the airport to your vacation accommodation in Darwin.
Welcome to Darwin, the captivating capital city of Australia’s Northern Territory. Prepare to be mesmerized by not only its vibrant culture and rich history, but also its awe-inspiring natural beauty. From lush, verdant national parks to mesmerizing, unspoiled beaches, there is an abundance of breathtaking natural wonders waiting to be explored in and around Darwin.
Get ready to be impressed by your 4-star hotel in Darwin! Whether you’re exploring the seafront promenade, indulging in delicious cuisine at nearby restaurants, or relaxing by the pool, you’ll feel right at home.
Then, immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of Litchfield National Park as you embark your included thrilling day tour. With its stunning waterfalls, verdant rainforests, and significant sacred sites, this park will delight nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
The first stop is Florence Falls. As you approach the falls, you’ll be captivated by the sound of thundering water and the sight of crystal-clear pools surrounded by lush greenery. Take a refreshing dip in one of the plunge pools and let the cool water rejuvenate your senses.
Next up are Tolmer Falls, known for its dramatic cascades that plunge into a deep gorge. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the rim of the gorge and soak up the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Wangi Falls, with its picturesque setting and inviting swimming lagoon, is the perfect spot for lunch and relaxation. Sit back and bask in the sun while enjoying a delicious picnic amidst the natural beauty that surrounds you.
With an experienced guide leading the way, this day trip promises unforgettable memories.
DAYS 7 – 10
The Ghan – The Ultimate Australian Rail Journey
The Ghan Rail Journey
The next leg of your journey kicks off with a taxi or ride-share transfer (pay as you go) from your Darwin accommodation to the train depot. With options like Uber, Ola, DiDi, and Shebah, getting there is a breeze!
Then, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime aboard The Ghan Expedition! Over the next three nights, you’ll embark on a whopping 1,846-mile journey from Darwin to Adelaide, traversing through some of Australia’s most remote and captivating landscapes.
Highlights include all-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages, as well as off-train experiences in Katherine, Alice Springs, and Coober Pedy. Picture yourself dining under the stars at the historic Telegraph Station and choosing between exploring the natural wonders of Nitmiluk Gorge or experiencing authentic outback life with a horse and working dog demonstration.
Enjoy lunch onboard as you head to Katherine, where you can opt for a relaxing cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge or immerse yourself in the Indigenous culture, local wildlife and European history. Or you can indulge with an optional upgrade helicopter flight over Nitmiluk. Then, dine against the backdrop of an Outback sunset before drifting off to sleep in your cozy cabin.
The following day welcomes you to Alice Springs, where a full day of excursions awaits. There’s an experience to suit everyone, including an off-road e-bike adventure, the Alice Explorer tour that takes in the historic Telegraph Station and Royal Flying Doctor Service, a cultural experience at Standley Chasm, meeting the wildlife at the Desert Park, or taking in the astounding beauty of Simpson’s Gap. Alternatively, spot Uluru and Kata Tjuta from the air, with an optional upgrade scenic flight.
Then, you’ll go to the opal mining town of Coober Pedy, where you’ll discover its unique underground lifestyle and indulge in a gourmet lunch below the earth’s surface. Off Train Experiences on offer include exploring the majestic Breakaways, touring the town, learning more about mining history on the Opal Experience, or an optional upgrade with the Painted Hills and Lake Eyre scenic flight. Back on the train, savor dinner as your journey continues.
Finally, wake up to the lush green fields of South Australia as you approach Adelaide. Enjoy a leisurely brunch while passing through the majestic Flinders Ranges before arriving in Adelaide, completing your epic Australian adventure.
So sit back, relax, and let The Ghan Expedition whisk you away on a journey you’ll never forget!
The Ghan Rail Journey
Photo Credit: South Australia Tourism Commission
Kangaroo Island. Photo Credit: Tourism Australia
DAYS 10 – 12
Adelaide – The Food & Wine Capital of South Australia
Kangaroo Island. Photo: Tourism Australia
Begin your Adelaide adventures with a smooth ride from the Adelaide Parkland Train Terminal to your vacation accommodation in a private luxury sedan.
Settle into your accommodations in Adelaide, a vibrant city bursting with charm and culture. Your 4-star hotel, conveniently located in the heart of the CBD, offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern comforts. Explore the city’s culinary scene, from the bustling Central Market to cozy wine bars and cellar doors.
Then experience an unforgettable Kangaroo Island Highlights Tour! Experience the island’s magnificent flora and fauna, from native wildlife to stunning coastal landscapes.
A highlight of the tour is a visit to Seal Bay, where you can walk among Australian sea lions in their natural habitat. As you stroll along the pristine beach, you will have the chance to observe these graceful creatures as they rest, play, and socialize. It’s an enchanting experience that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of these marine mammals.
Another must-see destination on the tour is Flinders Chase National Park. This sprawling park is a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, wallabies, and echidnas.
The park is also home to two iconic landmarks, Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. The Remarkable Rocks, with their unique shapes and granite formations, provide a breathtaking backdrop for stunning photographs. These gigantic granite boulders have been sculpted and weathered by the elements over millions of years, resulting in unique shapes and formations that are truly awe-inspiring.
Admirals Arch is stunning formation was created by years of erosion and is a popular spot for New Zealand fur seals to rest and play. You’ll witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat, as they bask on the rocks and play in the waves.
The Kangaroo Island Highlights Tour also includes a visit to the Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park, where you can get up close and personal with native Australian animals. Here, you can observe adorable koalas as they snooze in eucalyptus trees and kangaroos as they hop around their enclosures.
So, get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of Adelaide and Kangaroo Island – it’s going to be an adventure to remember!
DAYS 12 – 15
Melbourne – Urban Adventures Await
Photo Credit: Visit Victoria
Your journey continues with a private transfer from your Adelaide hotel to the airport for your flight to Melbourne, a city celebrated for its culture, culinary scene, and stunning architecture. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you to your centrally located hotel.
You’ll have two full days to explore everything Melbourne has to offer. Start with a visit to Federation Square, the city’s cultural heart. This iconic meeting place is home to world-class galleries, museums, and the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI). The striking architecture of Fed Square contrasts beautifully with the historic Flinders Street Station across the road, creating a perfect backdrop for exploring the city. From here, you can easily walk along the Yarra River or discover the nearby laneways full of vibrant street art, cafés, and boutique shops.
For nature lovers, the Royal Botanic Gardens offers a peaceful retreat, or hop on a tram to the artsy Fitzroy district to explore independent galleries and trendy cafés. If you’re looking for something unique, Queen Victoria Market provides a lively atmosphere with its fresh produce, handmade goods, and local delights.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take an optional day trip to Phillip Island to witness the enchanting Penguin Parade or enjoy a tour that takes you on a scenic drive down the Great Ocean Road to see the towering 12 Apostles.
After your stay in Melbourne, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your next stop: Sydney!
Photo Credit: Visit Victoria
Photo Credit: Visit Victoria
Photo Credit: Anson Smart
Photo Credit: Jamie Davies
DAYS 15 – 18
Sydney – The Sparkling Gem of Australia’s Coast
Photo Credit: Anson Smart
Your next destination is Sydney, Australia’s top travel destination. And for good reason! A private car transfer will take you from your Melbourne hotel to the airport for your flight to Sydney.
Once you arrive, experience seamless transfers from your Sydney accommodation to the airport, ensuring a stress-free departure.
In Sydney, relish three nights of accommodation at a sleek and contemporary hotel in the heart of the city. Unwind in style with rooftop pool views and delicious dining options made from locally sourced ingredients.
Immerse yourself in Sydney’s cultural delights with a guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House. During your guided tour of the Opera House, learn about the rich history and fascinating architectural design of this iconic landmark. Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through the various theaters, concert halls, and exhibition spaces, sharing stories and insights about the Opera House’s construction and the artists who have graced its stages.
As you explore the Opera House, you will be captivated by its unique sail-like sails and the stunning waterfront location. From every angle, this architectural masterpiece offers breathtaking views of Sydney Harbour, the Harbour Bridge, and the city skyline.
Once your guided tour of the Sydney Opera House concludes, use your two-day ferry pass to explore Sydney Harbour at your own pace. This pass allows you to hop on and off a sightseeing ferry, providing you with a convenient and scenic way to access a variety of attractions and destinations.
As you cruise along Sydney Harbour, take in the stunning views of the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and the picturesque waterfront. You can disembark at popular spots like Darling Harbour, the Taronga Zoo, or Shark Island, each offering unique experiences and sights.
If you are a nature lover, you can ferry to Manly or Watsons Bay, where you can stroll along beautiful sandy beaches and explore scenic coastal walks.
With the two-day ferry pass, you have the flexibility to create your own itinerary, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Sydney’s cultural and natural delights.
Your last day in Sydney is free to explore this stunning city. For a taste of nature within the city limits, head to the Royal Botanic Garden and immerse yourself in the lush greenery and colorful flora. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of sightseeing and get in touch with the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Dive deeper into Sydney’s culture by attending a show at one of the city’s many theaters or galleries. From contemporary art exhibitions to live music performances, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to entertainment options in this vibrant city.
DAY 18
International Flight from Sydney
Conclude your Sydney adventure with a private transfer to the airport, setting the stage for your international flight back to Los Angeles. As you depart from Sydney, gain a day upon crossing the International Date Line, arriving in the USA on the same day you leave Australia.
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