Australia’s Most Iconic Train Journey Is Entering a New Era

Australia Travel Hub contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See our Disclosure Policy for more information.

The Ghan holds its place as one of Australia’s most iconic travel experiences.

The northbound journey runs from Adelaide, through the vast outback, into the Red Centre, and up to the tropical Top End.

Its global reputation continues to grow, with the train ranked among the world’s leading luxury rail journeys in 2025.

From 2027, the experience undergoes a significant change.

The classic two-night journey expands into a three-night, four-day itinerary. The focus shifts toward slowing down and spending more time across Australia’s interior.

The Legendary Ghan 2027 Experience

The Ghan
Photo Credit: Journey Beyond Rail

Journey Beyond Rail introduces The Legendary Ghan 2027, a new chapter for this famous route.

The journey still travels between Adelaide and Darwin but now includes extra nights and longer off-train experiences.

The pace feels more intentional, with space to properly absorb the landscapes along the way.

The journey starts in South Australia with a premium dining experience in a well-known wine region. From there, the train heads north into remote country.

A Longer Stay In The Flinders Ranges

Flinders Ranges

One of the standout additions is a full day in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges.

These ancient landscapes stretch back more than 600 million years and sit on the traditional lands of the Adnyamathanha people.

The experience offers a deeper look at both the natural formations and the cultural stories tied to the region.

Lunch is served in Quorn, a historic railway town closely linked to Australia’s rail past and classic Australian films. The journey then continues north.

Travelling Through Australia’s Heartland

A panoramic view of Alice Springs, showing a mix of buildings, roads, and surrounding hills under a cloudy sky. The town’s remote location and small-community feel are key factors when weighing the advantages and disadvantages of living in Alice Springs.

The route moves through Marla and Alice Springs before reaching the sandstone country around Katherine.

Each section brings a clear change in scenery, shifting from arid desert to greener northern landscapes.

The journey ends in Darwin, where the tropical climate signals the final transition.

These off-train experiences add depth to the journey, rather than feeling like quick stops along the way.

Dates And Pricing

The three-night, four-day journey starts from $3,390 per person.

Departures run on Saturdays from March to November, with additional Tuesday departures between April and October 2027.

This extended itinerary positions The Ghan as a slower and more immersive way to experience Australia’s interior, where the journey itself becomes the main focus.