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Journey Beyond Rail · Rail journey

Adelaide to Alice Springs (Red Centre Explorer)

Two-day all-inclusive rail journey across Australia on The Ghan

Illustration of Adelaide to Alice Springs (Red Centre Explorer)

Journey Beyond Rail's Red Centre Explorer is a two-day, one-night all-inclusive rail journey aboard The Ghan from Adelaide to Alice Springs. The train departs Adelaide in the evening, traversing the pastoral fields of South Australia's mid-north and the MacDonnell Ranges before arriving in Alice Springs in the afternoon. Passengers spend the night in a cabin aboard the train, enjoying a multi-course dinner with fine wines and an all-inclusive bar, followed by brunch the next morning. Day two includes an early morning off-train experience at Marla to watch the sun rise over the Australian desert. This compact journey suits first-time rail travellers seeking an all-in-one experience, couples wanting an intimate overnight escape, and food-and-wine enthusiasts drawn to regional menus and curated local wines. The journey offers a taste of Australia's interior without requiring multiple hotel changes or external logistics.

What to know before you look closer

  • Gold Single pricing is comparable to Gold Twin; the single supplement is modest (AUD 160 to 200 difference in most seasons).
  • Prices listed are for advance purchase fares subject to availability; everyday fares are higher.
  • The journey ends in Alice Springs in the afternoon; on-train experiences after arrival are optional and not detailed in the itinerary.

Day by day

  1. Day 1overnight: The Ghan

    Adelaide

    Board The Ghan in Adelaide, settle into the cabin, and travel through the pastoral fields of South Australia's mid north. Pre-dinner drinks and a multi-course dinner with regionally-inspired menu and all-inclusive fine wines and beverages.

  2. Day 2rail

    Marla and Alice Springs

    Alight at Marla to watch sunrise over the desert. Brunch on board while crossing into the Northern Territory through the MacDonnell Ranges, arriving at Alice Springs in the afternoon with a choice of off train experiences.

The moments this trip is built around

  • Day 1Board The Ghan in Adelaide and enjoy a multi-course dinner with fine wines as the train departs through South Australia's pastoral mid-north.
  • Day 2Alight at Marla for an early morning off-train experience to watch sunrise over the desert.

Included

  • All meals, fine wines and beverages aboard The Ghan
  • Early morning off train experience in Marla

Questions travellers ask

What is The Ghan?
The Ghan is a luxury passenger train operated by Journey Beyond Rail that travels from Adelaide to Alice Springs across Australia.
Is this a guided tour or independent?
You travel aboard The Ghan with an early morning off-train experience in Marla; the itinerary and on-board service are structured, though the journey ends with a choice of optional off-train experiences in Alice Springs.
What is included in the price?
All meals, fine wines, and beverages aboard The Ghan, plus the early morning off-train experience in Marla.
Which cabin classes are available?
Gold Twin, Gold Single, and Platinum Everyday options are listed. Gold prices range from AUD 1,235 to 1,775 (advance and everyday rates); Platinum Everyday from AUD 2,895 to 3,195, depending on season.
When does this journey run?
The Ghan operates year-round. Pricing varies by season: lower rates January to April and September to November; higher rates May to August.
How much walking is involved?
The journey involves minimal walking beyond train stations and boarding. The early morning off-train stop in Marla is the primary walking experience.

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