Red Centre Spectacular 2023

Settle into the comforts of The Ghan, relaxing in your cabin or mingling with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Enjoy lunch ahead of your Off Train Experience in Katherine. In a region renowned for jaw-dropping natural assets, Katherine boasts one of the Top End’s best – the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge. (L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night The Ghan

After breakfast you’ll arrive into Alice Springs, where a day of fascinating Off Train Experiences awaits. Once your experience is complete, you will be transferred to your hotel to enjoy the evening. (B)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Today your 5-night Red Centre adventure with Outback Spirit Tours starts. You will be met by your professional crew and enjoy a brief afternoon tour of Alice Springs, including Anzac Hill. You’ll learn what makes this unique outback town tick before dinner at the hotel. (B,D)

Today, depart Alice Springs and travel the Mereenie Loop through the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Visit Standley Chasm and Ormiston Gorge before arriving at Kings Canyon. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Kings Canyon Resort

Experience the wonders of majestic Kings Canyon with your choice of walk, including the 6km rim walk, featuring breathtaking views of the Watarrka National Park, or a less arduous 2.6km walk along the canyon floor. After returning to the resort in the afternoon, there is the opportunity to take a 15-minute helicopter flight over Kings Canyon and the Watarrka National Park. PLEASE NOTE: Additional costs are applicable and weight limits apply to all scenic flights. (B,L,D)

Pass through Kings Creek Station and enjoy an informative paper talk and lunch at Curtin Springs, before arriving at Uluru. This evening’s unique ‘Sounds of Silence’ dining experience under the stars is a highlight. Beginning with canapes and chilled sparkling wine, listen to the atmospheric sound of the didgeridoo. The resident star talker will decode the southern night sky while you enjoy a premium bush tucker-inspired meal. (B,L,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights at Sails in the Desert Hotel

Early risers will experience the sun rising over Uluru and the colours of dawn spreading across the landscape. After breakfast, visit Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) and admire the stunning rock formations on a guided walk into Walpa Gorge. Learn about traditional Anangu culture on a guided tour around the base of Uluru.

This evening, head to an exclusive dune-top location with majestic views of Uluru. Enjoy drinks and canapes as artist Bruce Munro’s global phenomenon ‘Field of Light’ comes to life, before exploring the stunning display via dedicated pathways. PLEASE NOTE: Dinner this evening will be at approximately 9pm. (B,L,D)

After a leisurely breakfast, set your sights on Alice Springs. Pause at Mount Conner, known as the third desert giant, before arriving at your hotel in Alice Springs in the afternoon. (B,L)

OVERNIGHT: 1 night DoubleTree by Hilton Alice Springs

Checking out after breakfast, the day is yours to explore Alice Springs. Return to your hotel to join a scheduled transfer to the Alice Springs Rail Station to re-join the Ghan Expedition. This evening, enjoy a unique dining experience. Tuck into a mouth-watering meal as you sip on a cold beer or a glass of fine wine under a chandelier of stars at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. (B,D)

OVERNIGHT: 2 nights The Ghan

From your morning stop at Manguri, you’ll venture into the weird and wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy, where more than half of the residents live underground. Here, you’ll enjoy a day of discovery and lunch in the most unique of locations: underground.

Dinner is served back on the train, where you can enjoy a nightcap as your journey continues. (B,L,D)

This morning, you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the green fields of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the majestic Flinders Ranges before your arrival into Adelaide, completing one of the world’s great rail journeys. (B)