Alice Springs

A TOWN CALLED ALICE

INCLUDED IN FARE*

Alice Springs invites you to uncover its rich history, vibrant culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes at the heart of the Australian outback.

Begin at the Alice Springs School of the Air, the world’s largest classroom, where innovation has delivered education across 1.3 million square kilometres since 1951. Discover how this iconic institution continues to inspire students in the remote outback.

 

Next, explore the Royal Flying Doctor Service, a lifeline for Australia’s most isolated communities. Interactive exhibits reveal the critical healthcare and emergency services connecting the outback to lifesaving care.

 

Finally, visit the Alice Springs Reptile Centre, home to fascinating native creatures like frill-neck lizards and thorny devils. Learn from experts about their unique behaviours and habitats, celebrating the region’s remarkable biodiversity.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – multiple coach stops through your experience, some walking and standing for short periods required.

*Inclusive for Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests travelling the entire journey. Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests leaving The Ghan Expedition in Alice Springs are required to pay $100 per person.

DESERT PARK

INCLUDED IN FARE* (MOBILITY FRIENDLY)

Nestled at the foot of the West MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs Desert Park offers an immersive journey through Central Australia’s unique landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Discover the deep connection between the land, wildlife, and the traditions of the local Arrernte people.

 

Explore three distinct desert habitats – Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland – each highlighting the resilience of life in the arid outback. See how each environment sustains its flora and fauna.

 

Step into the Nocturnal House to witness iconic creatures like the bilby and mala wallaby, observing their fascinating nocturnal behaviours.

 

Be amazed by a thrilling free-flight display of desert raptors, showcasing their hunting and survival techniques. Get exclusive behind-the-scenes access to meet the birds and their trainers, gaining insights into their care and remarkable adaptations for desert life.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – guests walk approximately 4km over gravel and sandy pathways broken into short distances.

*Inclusive for Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests travelling the entire journey. Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests leaving The Ghan Expedition in Alice Springs are required to pay $100 per person.

WEST VENTURES

INCLUDED IN FARE*

Discover the stunning landscapes and cultural heritage of Standley Chasm, traditionally known as Angkerle Atwatye, meaning ‘Gap of Water.’ This striking 80-metre-high gorge in the West MacDonnell Ranges, just 50 km from Alice Springs, was shaped over millions of years by rain and flooding.

As sunlight filters through the narrow chasm, it illuminates the towering sandstone walls, creating a vivid display of reds and oranges—a photographer’s dream and a must-see for lovers of the outback.

 

Continue your journey at Simpsons Gap, known as Rungutjirpa to the Arrernte people, a serene site rich in Indigenous lore. Surrounded by Mulga woodlands, it’s home to rare plant species and is said to be the mythical home of giant goanna ancestors. Wander the tranquil paths, where the canyon walls glow golden, and immerse yourself in the deep cultural connection between the Arrernte people and their land.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – approximately 2.5km of walking over uneven and rocky terrain, with standing required. We are unable to accommodate passengers who require the use of wheelchairs or walkers on this experience.

*Inclusive for Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests travelling the entire journey. Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests leaving The Ghan in Alice Springs are required to pay $100 per person

ALICE BY E - BIKE

OPTIONAL UPGRADE EXPERIENCE - $49 per person for Gold & Gold Premium, included in fare for Platinum (LIMITED AVAILABILITY)*

Discover Alice Springs’ vibrant landscapes and history with an exciting e-bike tour that blends adventure and ease. Begin at Red Centre Adventures, where you’ll be fitted with a state-of-the-art electric bike designed for comfort and effortless exploration of the desert terrain.

 

Ride along the historic Ghan railway line, passing Heavitree Gap with stunning views of the MacDonnell Ranges, and head towards the dry Todd River, where you may spot local wildlife amidst the outback’s serene beauty.

 

Stop at the Telegraph Station, the birthplace of Alice Springs, to explore its preserved buildings and learn about the challenges early settlers faced. Relax at the Trail Station Café, enjoying a light lunch with locally sourced ingredients.

 

Recharge before heading back on your e-bike to Red Centre Adventures, reflecting on a day of stunning scenery, rich history, and a unique perspective of the Red Centre.

Recommended Fitness Level: High – guests need to be confident and capable cyclists with approximately 20km of riding through the experience. Electric bikes can reach speeds up to 25km/h and weigh up to 30kg. We are unable to accommodate passengers who require the use of wheelchairs or walkers on this experience. Minimum age of participation is 14 years old.

*Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests leaving The Ghan Expedition in Alice Springs are required to pay $100 per person

ULTIMATE ULURU EXPERIENCE - THURSDAY ONLY

OPTIONAL UPGRADE EXPERIENCE - $1,549 per person (LIMITED AVAILABILITY)*

Experience the breathtaking beauty and cultural significance of Central Australia on a flight that blends stunning landscapes with ancient stories. Departing from Alice Springs Airport, fly over the rugged outback, passing Pine Gap, the US-Australian Defence Space Research Facility, and sweeping desert vistas.

As the desert colours shift from ochres to vibrant reds, your journey takes you to Uluru – Kata Tjuta, a World Heritage site. Upon landing at Ayers Rock Airport, a guide will lead you on an immersive exploration of Uluru, sharing stories of the Anangu people, traditional custodians of this sacred monolith. Discover the Mutitjulu Waterhole and hear legends like that of Wanampi, the water snake.

Enjoy lunch at the Sunset Lookout, offering spectacular views of Uluru, before flying over Kata Tjuta. The 36 domes, including Mount Olga, create a striking contrast against the desert. As your aircraft circles back, take a moment to reflect on the incredible landscapes, the cultural insights, and the unforgettable memories of your journey to the heart of the Red Centre.

To avoid disappointment, we highly recommend guests pre-book this tour. For more information on how to pre-book, please contact our travel centre on 1800 703 357 or contact your travel agent.  If you choose this experience, you will not be able to participate in the included Off Train Experiences.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – guests required to board and disembark aircraft unassisted, walking and standing required. Weight restrictions apply – a maximum weight of any individual cannot exceed 100kg. We are unable to accommodate passengers who require the use of wheelchairs or walkers on this experience.

PLEASE NOTE: This tour is subject to availability and conditions; all upgrade optional experiences are non-refundable.

Guests are advised to take appropriate clothing with them for the Telegraph Station Outback Dinner as they may not return to the train prior.

*Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests leaving The Ghan Expedition in Alice Springs are required to pay $1549.00 per person.

ULURU SCENIC FLIGHT - SUNDAY ONLY

OPTIONAL UPGRADE EXPERIENCE - $1,199 per person (LIMITED AVAILABILITY)*

Soar over the Australian Outback on an unforgettable aerial adventure, starting with a flight south of Pine Gap, the US-Australian Defence Space Research Facility. As you climb, the rugged beauty of the outback unfolds beneath you, with your expert guide sharing stories of the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.

Approach the iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta, two World Heritage landmarks sacred to the Anangu people. Touch down briefly at Ayers Rock Airport to stretch your legs before flying around Uluru’s towering silhouette, watching the shifting sunlight cast dramatic shadows over its vibrant reds and oranges.

 

Marvel at the 36 domes of Kata Tjuta, followed by Kings Canyon’s towering cliffs and the lush Garden of Eden waterhole. Each landmark reveals stories of the land and its ancient custodians, making this experience a true celebration of the Australian outback.

 

To avoid disappointment, we highly recommend guests pre-book this tour. For more information on how to pre-book, please contact our travel centre on 1800 703 357 or contact your travel agent.   If you choose this experience, you will not be able to participate in the included Off Train Experiences.

Recommended Fitness Level: Moderate – guests required to board and disembark aircraft unassisted, walking and standing required. Weight restrictions apply – a maximum weight of any individual cannot exceed 100kg. We are unable to accommodate passengers who require the use of wheelchairs or walkers on this experience.

PLEASE NOTE: This tour is subject to availability and conditions; all upgrade optional experiences are non-refundable.

Guests are advised to take appropriate clothing with them for the Telegraph Station Outback Dinner as they may not return to the train prior.

*Platinum, Gold Premium & Gold Service guests leaving The Ghan Expedition in Alice Springs are required to pay $1199.00 per person.

View of Uluru from the Scenic Flight Tour

Telegraph Station Outback Dinner

INCLUDED IN FARE

After a day of touring, sit back and relax under a blanket of stars at a truly unique dinner experience. Be immersed in the history and grandeur that is the Australian Outback.

Step back in time as you walk around the historic Telegraph Station site, gaining an understanding of early settler life. Learn about the importance of the Telegraph Station in building a communication network across the country and connecting to the rest of the world.

You can also watch the local blacksmith crafting away using traditional tooling and methods, or maybe take the opportunity to climb aboard a camel for a short ride.

Recommended Fitness Level: Low – seated outdoor dinner. Wheelchair accessible. 

PLEASE NOTE: Temperatures can drop significantly at night time. Please bring a warm jacket or shawl with you.

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