Australian Adventure Vacation: Train and City Highlights

This Australian Adventure Vacation was planned for 2 friends from Seattle who wanted to ride the iconic Ghan and relax in a city at the end. This trip to Darwin, through the Red Centre to Adelaide was the perfect Australian outback adventure!

They started their Australian Adventure Vacation in Darwin, the capital of the Northern Territory. They took an incredible wildlife cruise to see crocodiles up close, and even saw giant crocs jumping out of the water!

From Darwin, they rode the legendary Ghan luxury rail to Adelaide. Their journey took them through stunning outback scenery, and they stopped at an authentic cattle ranch for a taste of outback living.  They got to enjoy some beautiful off train excursions and dine on delicious food on board the train.

Finally, they stopped in Adelaide for three nights of exploring, shopping and dining. Their Australian Adventure Vacation was a perfect introduction to Australia’s outback and culture. They flew back home with incredible stories to tell from their great adventures!

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Australia’s Northern Territory—the real outback! Start your adventure in the Northern Territory’s vibrant capital city, Darwin. Darwin is famous for its fabulous food, colorful outdoor markets, and a diverse bag of adventure activities. Mix with the locals at the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, visit Aboriginal art galleries, learn about Darwin’s WWII military history, or witness a spectacular sunset onboard a harbor cruise or at one of many waterfront restaurants, cafés, or bars.
Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Day 2
Today is yours to explore Darwin. A laidback blend of top-end outpost and modern city, a vista of palm trees and shimmering blue ocean welcomes you. Enjoy the unique seaside eateries of Stokes Hill Wharf. Visit Aboriginal art galleries and museums, explore the historic WWII tunnels or watch a spectacular sunset over the harbour.
Adina Apartment Hotel Darwin Waterfront

Day 3
Enjoy one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys today aboard The Ghan. Step aboard the legendary luxury train at noon. With room to stretch out and all the comforts of home, Gold Service provides private cabin accommodation together with all-inclusive dining, beverages and a range of fascinating Off Train Excursions at key stops. During the day, the compact Twin Berth Sleeper Cabins offer a comfortable three seater lounge, converting to an upper and lower sleeping berth at night.. Twin Berth Sleeper Cabins have private en suite facilities with a hide-away compact toilet, wash basin and shower. Your Gold Service fare includes a hearty breakfast, two course lunch and three course dinner in the classically styled Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car.

Listen to Dreamtime stories about the creation and significance the Gorge played in the lives of its traditional owners, the Jawoyn people on your off train excursion.
Onboard The Ghan

Day 4
Come the morning, you’ll have time for breakfast as you continue your journey on the train.  For your off train experience you will journey to Simpsons Gap, A magical location where important elements of flora, fauna and Indigenous culture all come together, the Simpsons Gap area incorporates large stands of Mulga and is a major stronghold for over 40 rare and relict plants. Here you will enjoy walks that pass the native plants of the area including ancient Ghost Gums and views of the range.
Onboard The Ghan

Day 5
Today, after breakfast you will arrive in Adelaide, South Australia’s cosmopolitan coastal capital. Nestled between the hills and the ocean, this elegant city is undergoing a rapid transformation with a lively small-bar scene, world-class festivals and amazing eco-adventures. Its ring of parkland on the River Torrens is home to renowned museums such as the Art Gallery of South Australia, displaying expansive collections including noted Indigenous art, and the South Australian Museum, devoted to natural history. Soak up Adelaide’s colonial elegance in the spacious city squares, join the locals at the bustling Adelaide Central Markets or take the short tram ride to Glenelg Beach.
Mayfair Hotel 

Day 6
This morning marks the end of your Australian adventure vacation. Enjoy a transfer from your hotel to the airport, where you’ll begin your journey home.

About this vacation
Cost Per Person

Does not include the cost of airfare


Based on
6 day stay
2 travelers

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