The Ghan Adventure Itinerary

Flanked by rugged hills and ridges, Alice Springs is the gateway to Central Australia and the outback. Spectacular Uluru awaits with its ever-changing hues. Explore its vast base and discover ancient Aboriginal art and waterholes that bring life to the surrounding desert. Take some time to learn about one of the oldest cultures in the world, and their relationship to Uluru, with a visit to a local cultural centre. In the evening, enjoy unforgettable sunset views of the magnificent monolithic rock.

View a spectacular sunrise over the Red Centre at Kata Tjuta. Hike through winding gorges and past sandstone domes in the Valley of the Winds. Enjoy a traditional camp oven dinner cooked in the hot coals of the fire at Kings Creek Station. Swap stories and be mesmerised by thousands of stars sparkling from the clear desert night sky.

Hike between sheer cliffs and diverse plant species at King's Canyon, a gem of the Northern Territory, then walk down to explore the Garden of Eden rock pool. After a picnic lunch, head to Hermannsburg - a mission famous for its Aboriginal art and crafts. Learn about the life of renowned Indigenous artist Albert Namatjira and view his unique artwork at the gallery. After a drive through the sands of the red centre, arrive at the Wallace Rockhole Aboriginal community for an unforgettable evening of tasty bush tucker cooked on the barbecue. Take this opportunity to indulge in some of Australia's more unusual culinary delights - kangaroo, emu and camel.

On the way to Alice Springs, visit Wallace Rockhole's ancient rock paintings and carvings with a knowledgeable local guide. There's also a chance to learn the special techniques behind traditional dot painting during a class. After getting creative, continue on to the Western MacDonnell Ranges. Explore the rich earthy beauty of Standley Chasm and Simpsons Gap. Enjoy a peaceful picnic in the beautiful surroundings and perhaps take a hike to spot local rock wallabies that inhabit the area. Say goodbye to new friends back in the outback town of Alice Springs, perhaps over a cold Aussie beer or delicious kangaroo steak.

It's time to jump aboard the legendary Ghan and embark on one of the world's great train journeys! Watch the sunburnt plains of the Red Centre roll by under a vast, clear sky, while enjoying a feast of food, wine and good company.

Stop off at Katherine before continuing the Ghan journey towards tropical Darwin.

Experience the natural spa at Buley Rockhole and discover the impressive termite mounds and head to Pudakul Cultural Experience to learn about Aboriginal culture and taste some bush tucker. Spend the night in the picturesque Mary River region.

Continue to the sandstone landscape of the Kakadu National Park and perhaps take a dip in a crocodile-free watering hole. Kakadu National Park holds great significance to the Indigenous people of this land - in fact, the word Kakadu is derived from an ancient local language. At night, be sure to look skyward to witness the star-fillled outback sky.

Take a 4WD trip to Twin Falls before returning to the fun and flamboyant Top End capital, Darwin.