Monarto Safari Stay 2027

Your east coast adventure begins with a warm welcome experience in Brisbane, where you’ll check in and gather with fellow travellers for a celebratory start to your summer journey. Begin your journey aboard the Great Southern with lunch as the train winds south, then settle into the rhythm of your cabin and the passing landscapes.

In the afternoon, the train arrives at Grafton, where you’ll transfer by coach to the coastal town of Coffs Harbour. Here, the evening unfolds in true coastal style. As the sun sinks below the horizon, enjoy drinks and canapés on the sand at Charlesworth Bay before a signature outdoor dining experience (weather permitting) showcasing fresh seafood and regional produce paired with local wines. A live band and the gentle waves on the shore provide the ultimate soundtrack. After a few unhurried hours, reboard the train and settle in for your first night. (L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 3 nights Great Southern

The day begins with a hearty breakfast on board before your choice of Off Train Experience. Wine lovers can explore the picturesque Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region, tasting its signature semillon and shiraz before settling in for a leisurely lunch surrounded by rolling vineyards. For a different perspective, upgrade to a helicopter flight over the surrounding landscapes, soaring above the vines and rugged Brokenback Range before returning to the Hunter Valley for further tastings and lunch among the vines.

Alternatively, discover Port Stephens by land or sea. Venture by 4WD across the vast sands of Stockton Beach and discover the stories of this remarkable coastal landscape, with the chance to sandboard from the top of the dunes. Or take in the coastline from the water, cruising through Port Stephens to keep watch for bottlenose dolphins. Both experiences include a relaxed lunch overlooking the bay.

Closer to the city, discover Newcastle through its history, art, and architecture. Explore Fort Scratchley and the city’s military history before following Memorial Walk and discovering Newcastle Museum. Or uncover the city’s artistic and architectural heritage at Newcastle Art Gallery, City Hall, and Civic Theatre. Whichever experience you choose, enjoy a leisurely lunch overlooking Newcastle’s harbour before returning to the train for your first regionally-inspired dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board as the Great Southern travels through Victoria’s high country. After arriving at Broadmeadows Railway Station, transfer by coach into cosmopolitan Melbourne for your next Off Train Experience.

Experience the city your way. Explore the Australian art collection at the National Gallery of Victoria and go behind the scenes at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Uncover a historic chapter of the city’s past at the Old Melbourne Gaol or cruise along the Yarra River. Complete your Melbourne experience with a curated lunch at Eureka 89, high above the city with sweeping views across Melbourne, the Yarra River and beyond.

Alternatively, remain onboard and relax a little longer as the train travels past Melbourne to Inverleigh, where you’ll discover the cool-climate character of the Moorabool Valley at Clyde Park. Enjoy a relaxed lunch overlooking the vines, paired with elegant chardonnay and pinot noir, before returning to the train for a leisurely afternoon and delicious dinner as the Great Southern continues its journey south. (B,L,D)

Catch the morning light over regional South Australia and sit back to enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board, savouring the last moments of life on train. Soon the Great Southern will glide into Adelaide, where you will be transferred by private vehicle to Monarto Safari Resort, approximately 50 minutes from the city centre and nestled in South Australia’s expansive Murraylands. Monarto Safari Resort offers an unparalleled escape into nature’s embrace, combining premium accommodation with authentic experiences, during your stay you’ll be surrounded by Africa’s wildest animals.

With some free time before checking in, you may choose to indulge in the luxurious day spa, laze by the two stunning pool areas or enjoy world-class dining at the onsite restaurant at Monarto Safari Resort.

Settle into your new and well curated accommodation before joining the Sunset Wildlife Safari, soaking in the last rays of sun on your small group guided tour. Enjoy exclusive access to Monarto Safari Park’s Wild Africa area after hours with ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast parklands and watch the free-roaming herds of African animals across 550 hectares. As you explore the lands from the comfort of a custom built Safari Truck, you’ll have the opportunity to observe and photograph animals including Southern White Rhinos, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Eland, Ostriches, and Zebras. Drinks and canapés will be served during the tour, capping off the unforgettable experience. (B)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Monarto Safari Resort

Today is yours to explore Monarto Safari Park via the guided Zu-Loop bus experience, or a combination of the Zu-Loop bus and walking. Monarto is the largest open-range safari experience in the world outside of Africa and spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles.

You can hop on and off the bus at the wildlife viewing platforms and spend time observing your favourite animal species, including Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, Cheetahs, Rhinos, Chimpanzees, and more. Additionally, you can enhance your visit by attending Daily Keeper Presentations and booking a range of intimate behind-the-scenes animal experiences. (B)

Today, your wild Monarto Safari Stay comes to an end. After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and transfer by private vehicle to your choice of the Adelaide Airport or Adelaide CBD Hotel. (B)