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Experience the Green Season on The Ghan
If you are interested in exploring Australia's spectacular Top End, a rail adventure on The Ghan during the Green Season might be exactly what you're looking for.
Whether you choose to travel from Adelaide to Darwin or vice versa the one certainty is that you will come face to face with some of the country's most diverse landscapes and remarkable natural wonders.
With a special Green Season package it is not just about travelling from one end of this amazing country to the other - Great Southern Rail want all our guests to feel like they have discovered a truly unique corner of the globe.
And what better time to embark on this amazing adventure than between January and March, when the terrain and plant life are lush, the rivers are deep and the animals abundant?
Green Season adventure on The Ghan
There is no better way to see the inspiring and breathtaking beauty of this region's Green Season than on a specially designed Great Southern Rail seven-day holiday package.
These once-in-a-lifetime adventures include the extraordinary journey on The Ghan - one of the world's most renowned rail tracks - as well as accommodation, tours and more.
You simply cannot go wrong with your choice of package - every Great Southern Rail option is an exciting itinerary packed with activities, great food and of course our team's top-class service.
Amazing Great Southern Rail holiday packages
With the Kakadu Alive package we take you deep into this breathtaking national park filled with ancient Aboriginal rock art, saltwater crocodiles and a prolific range of vibrant birdlife. You can also take an exciting trip down East Alligator River.
On our Top End Treat visit Crocosaurus Cove and get up close and personal with some of the largest of these amazing creatures living in captivity. Other highlights include a trip to the lush Botanic Gardens and Chinese Temple on a Darwin City tour, spear throwing on a secluded sand bar and a whole day exploring Kakadu National Park.
The bonus on our Wild and the Waterfalls tour is Litchfield Waterfalls, which offers incredible views down to pristine natural plunge pools below. This daytrip is sure to be one of the most memorable events of your whole itinerary.
The Best of Darwin package, as the name suggests, acquaints you with the very best this fascinating city has to offer. You will enjoy a bird's eye view of the famous Darwin Sunset on a delightful boat cruise, as well as take a wetlands adventure to Marrakai Plains and Fogg Dam Nature Reserve.
Your final option is An Island Summer, which involves an exciting trip to Kangaroo Island and Seal Bay where you will visit Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery and stroll along the beach among rare Australian sea lions. Other island highlights on this tour include Clifford's Honey Farm, Kelly Hill Caves and Flinders Chase National Park.
14 December 2012 -Top Adelaide adventures on your Great Southern Rail tour
With its superb parklands, interesting galleries and beautiful colonial buildings - set to a backdrop of hills and adjacent to some fine beaches - Adelaide should not be forgotten when planning your next big Australian journey.
This elegant city has plenty to offer and our guests will be lucky enough to join great tours to discover some of its hidden gems.
Arriving in the festival city
Adelaide was originally laid out by Colonel William Light in 1836 and over the decades developed into a charming, clean and delightful highlight of southern Australia free of the stresses associated with some of the bigger cities on the east coast.
Upon your arrival here you can take a tour through the heart of the city, familiarising yourself with major landmarks such as Montefiore Hill and Colonel Light's Lookout, which offers sweeping views of the charming buildings below.
You will also see picturesque Adelaide Oval - widely regarded as one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world and home to some enthralling Test matches over the years.
As your guide takes you past the magnificent stone buildings of North Terrace, peaceful Lake Torrens, the Festival Centre and the bustling Rundle Street cafe strip they will describe Adelaide's history and open your eyes to its interesting development.
Discover more of this beautiful city
Having settled in and got your bearings you will no doubt be excited to continue exploring South Australia's capital.
Take a transfer to the Adelaide Central Market in the heart of the CBD - the food, culture and lifestyle hub of the region for locals.
As the largest fresh produce market in the southern hemisphere - comprising of more than 80 specialist stalls - this is the state's most frequently-visited tourist destination.
The market is 135 years old and food lovers in particular will be revel in the vibrant atmosphere and huge variety of colourful produce available.
You can wander the aisles at your own pace and leave on a return transfer later in the day.
A change of pace on National Wine Centre tour
At the National Wine Centre you are taken through an interactive display that allows you to try your hand at virtual wine making, as well as the chance to speak to a winemaker through a unique computer hologram.
You will begin to appreciate the wine making process like never before and of course tastings are available - you may want to come prepared to buy a few bottles of your favourite.
Built in 2000, the centre has won numerous awards for architecture, lighting and its stunning use of wood.
See the pandas at Adelaide Zoo
Adelaide Zoo is home to over 1,800 animals and close to 300 species of exotic and native mammals, reptiles, birds, invertebrates, amphibians and fish - making it one of the best places in Australia to visit for wildlife lovers.
Unlike some zoos around the world the animals live among eight hectares of magnificent botanic surroundings and there is plenty to see and do throughout a full day of wandering.
The highlight of your visit is likely to be the zoo's Giant Pandas Wang Wang and Funi - the only two of their kind in the southern hemisphere and the first to live permanently in Australia.
These great whistle stop tours can all be arranged through your Great Southern Rail adventure team, as we aim to provide our guests with a comprehensive Australian travel experience.
14 December -Backpacking Australia? Try rail travel on for size
Perhaps it was only upon arriving in this vast and amazing country that you realised just how big it really is. Now that you have studied the map a little closer, it has probably become clear that at some point you are going to need a little help crossing those massive distances from coast to coast.
That is where we come in - providing you with an efficient, comfortable service through some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes and to exciting towns and cities.
As the experts in train travel, Great Southern Rail know how to make getting from A to B a genuine backpacking adventure that will go down as one of your most memorable and enriching holiday experiences.
West to East on an Indian Pacific adventure
A true backpacking trip across Australia is never complete without having crossed the continent from coast to coast and on our Indian Pacific tour you will achieve just that in as little as three days and three nights.
Over three million guests have already taken this remarkable train voyage, which leaves Perth, climbs the scenic Avon Valley, passes through Western Australia's expansive wheat belt and stops over in Kalgoorlie - and that is all just the first leg.
By the time you arrive in Sydney you will have either gazed upon or visited the ancient Nullarbor Plain, picturesque Adelaide, Broken Hill and the spectacular Blue Mountains.
This tour is also available in reverse, so if you have just flown into Sydney from overseas this could be a remarkable way to start your trip down under.
<b>You will not miss the highlights of the Australian Outback</b>
Australia is such a huge continent that it is virtually impossible to cover every beautiful corner and fascinating destination without travelling for months or even years.
As any backpacker will know, the key to a great trip is making the most of the time and money that you have available, rather than attempting to see absolutely everything.
On a Great Southern Rail adventure guests are lucky enough to enjoy the best of both worlds.
Not only will you cross thousands of kilometres each day and arrive to a different time zone, climate and way of life, but you will also get an up-close-and-personal insight into many of the natural wonders and rich historical regions along the way.
On the Indian Pacific, for example, you can pause at Cook in the middle of the Nullarbor Plain to reach a new level of appreciation for Australia's vast open spaces.
It is one thing to see photos and postcards of this amazing stretch of flat and challenging desert, but another thing entirely to witness it firsthand.
More benefits of a Great Southern Rail tour
You might have become accustomed to some harsh travelling conditions on your various travels around the world, but on the Indian Pacific you will enjoy comfortable sleepers or reclining chairs, video entertainment, showers, toilets and a comprehensive diner menu all at an affordable price.
Guests on a tight budget can also book excellent accommodation through our team, with a range of options available at each destination and the possibility of adding extra nights onto your holiday package.
Whether you are keen to explore Sydney, Adelaide, Perth or any other location further, let Great Southern Rail help to create your unique train holiday experience.
14 December 2012 - Mauboy moved to tears by her outback welcome
THERE was no lighting, no speakers or entourage and the location was down the road from a former atomic bomb testing site. But Jessica Mauboy was at ease on her outback stage.
The pop star literally embraced her fans at the Nullarbor Plain outpost of Watson.
The Darwin-born diva has been performing free acoustic concerts across Australia as part of the Indian Pacific Outback Christmas train journey, an annual fund-raiser for the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Read the Sydney Morning Herald story.
5 December 2012 - Experience the Australian gold rush in Kalgoorlie
If you are keen to get a taste of Australia's frontier spirit, a stop at Kalgoorlie is the perfect way to get in touch with our country's fascinating mining history.
Guests travelling on the India Pacific in either direction between Sydney and Perth will have the option of taking a Whistle Stop Tour here - a great opportunity to learn more about the gold rush that shaped Australia's modern resources industry.
Gold in Kalgoorlie
Gold was first discovered in Kalgoorlie in 1893 by Paddy Hannan, kicking off one of the country's largest gold rushes.
Of course, gold had previously been discovered over the three decades prior to the WA discovery, but these findings had largely centred on Australia's east coast and resources had been depleted by the 1890s.
Hannan's discovery kicked off a second wave of gold rushes in Western Australia and he was honoured by the people of Kalgoorlie in 1897 for his original find.
Today, a tree commemorating his discovery stands near the site where he first found gold - and you'll find a statue in his honour in the town of Kalgoorlie.
Kalgoorlie today
Gold mining is still very much a part of life in the city of Kalgoorlie-Boulder today. As the hub of Western Australia's goldfields region, the city currently has a population of more than 30,000, making it a sophisticated, dynamic regional centre.
The city is home to the Australian Prospectors and Miners Hall of Fame, which showcases the country's rich tradition of prospecting and mining that has lasted right up until the present day.
Here, you are able to experience interactive displays and a state-of-the-art mineral gallery, as well as the opportunity to meet a retired miner.
You'll find evidence of Kalgoorlie's rich mining history - especially Paddy Hannan's discovery - everywhere. You can enjoy a pint of Hannan lager at the Hannan hotel, and of course, you'll be able to see the Hannan railway station while you are in town too.
Kalgoorlie is still an active mining town and the Super Pit Mine produces an estimated 800,000 ounces of gold on an annual basis.
This incredible destination spans 3.5 km in length and measures 1.5 km wide - it is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in how this valuable resource is mined today.
Touring Kalgoorlie on your Indian Pacific adventure
If you are planning to tour Kalgoorlie on your Indian Pacific trip, you'll be able to get firsthand experience of what it might have been like to be among the first gold rush explorers more than a century ago.
Kalgoorlie, which still gives more than a passing nod to its illustrious gold rush heritage in its fine architecture - including the magnificent town hall - is Australia's largest Outback city that was built on gold.
As you make your way through the city, you can learn about the unique challenges that faced the gold rush settlers and view the heritage buildings and historic pubs located along Hannan Street.
During your tour, you may also be able to visit the massive Super Pit Mine, depending on the weather conditions.
This massive site is more than 400 metres deep and can even be viewed at night from the lookout - it is flood-lit for a fascinating perspective.
Weather in the Kalgoorlie area can be very extreme - highs above 30 degrees Celsius are regularly experienced in the summer months, and you'll want to ensure you have adequate sun protection and water when you head out on your tour.
However, winters can be considerably cooler - especially at night. Always make sure you are dressed for the weather and speak to the helpful Great Southern Rail team if you have any questions about what to wear or bring on any of our Whistle Stop Tours.
5 December 2012 - Step back in time with the old Ghan
On this incredible journey guests have the opportunity to not only travel in style between Adelaide and Darwin via Alice Springs - marvelling at the diverse scenery en route - but also to step back in time with a tour of the Old Ghan Train and abandoned track.
History of The Ghan
Originally known as the Afghan Express, the name The Ghan was inspired by pioneering Afghan cameleers who rode into the Red Centre of Australia over 150 years ago.
In doing so they opened up this inhospitable land to the rest of the nation - hence the train's emblem in recognition of their incredible feat.
On August 4, 1929 a crowd gathered excitedly at Adelaide Railway Station to wave off the first ever Ghan train, which carried supplies and over 100 passengers.
The train was steam hauled and had to contend with some difficult conditions, such as intense heat and flash flooding.
Frequently the old track was washed away entirely, with services stranded for days or even weeks.
Eventually in 1980, The Old Ghan rail track was abandoned for a new standard gauge rail line built to negate the threat of termite damage and avoid potential flooding.
Discover more on the Old Ghan Tour
For guests interested in learning more about this intriguing past, why not include the Old Ghan Tour as part of your Alice Springs stopover, when you have the chance to choose from a number of exciting activities.
You will visit the Old Ghan Museum and Heritage Railway, along with the National Road Transport Hall of Fame, in the process gaining a greater understanding of the history of rail in Australia.
Train aficionados, history buffs and casual travellers alike will enjoy a close-up look at the beautiful old train, along with an operational heritage railway and a great collection of photographs and memorabilia dating from its 1920s construction up to the closing of the narrow gauge in the early 1980s.
At the hall of fame you can explore at leisure the outstanding collection of old vehicles, which highlight the trials and tribulations of road transport pioneers.
Preparing for a great day out
The Old Ghan Tour will be one of the highlights of your journey, but it is important to remember that in this part of the country conditions can be extreme and you will want to be well prepared for a day out in the sun.
Although the tour only lasts about three-and-a-half hours and requires a minimum fitness level, it is essential to wear a hat and sunscreen as well as bring plenty of drinking water.
You don't want to be feeling dehydrated or sunburnt, as you will be re-boarding the train later in the evening for the next stage of your adventure.
How the times and tracks have changed
It was always intended for The Ghan to one day travel all the way to Darwin and on February 1 to 3, 2004 this dream became a reality when the train made its inaugural journey on the new Alice Springs to Darwin rail link.
The entire north-west transcontinental journey covers an amazing 2,979 kilometres and passes through some unrivalled scenery and truly diverse Australian landscape including the rusty reds of the MacDonnell Ranges and the tropical splendour of the Top End.
5 December 2011- Something for everyone on a Perth day out
30 November 2011- Highlights of Alice Springs
While the continent is blessed with wonderful coastlines and pristine beaches, a quintessential journey of Australia is not complete without a visit to Alice Springs - the heart of this diverse and spectacular nation and its most famous outback town.
Reach your destination in style
What better way to venture into the middle of the outback than as part of a magical overland train journey from Adelaide to Darwin? On The Ghan you will experience the beauty of this unique part of the world, as well as gain a newfound appreciation for the harsh landscape and climate.
As The Ghan makes its way north from South Australia's sweeping Adelaide Plains and breathtaking Flinders Ranges, you eventually find yourself gazing out the window to the sight of central Australia's rugged plains and earthy colours.
Enjoy everything The Alice has to offer
Leaving the train in Alice Springs you have the opportunity to explore some of the region's highlights on a Whistle Stop tour.
These organised tours are specifically designed to work around The Ghan's timetable so while you might only have a short amount of time to spend away from the train, you are guaranteed to get the most out of the experience.
On the Essential Alice Springs tour you will see up to five of the area's very best attractions.
Travelling to and from town by luxury coach and hearing a brief history of Alice Springs in transit, you will then visit the Royal Flying Doctor Service, National Pioneer Women's Hall of Fame and Telegraph Station to gain a unique insight into life in outback Australia.
Another important stopover is the Reptile Centre, which is home to a wonderful array of local wildlife. At the same time you will feel privileged to take in the stunning views from Anzac Hill - be warned that this is not the time to forget your camera.
Create your own itinerary
On the Alice Wanderer tour you can hop on and off the shuttle bus at your leisure, making this the ideal way to discover Alice Springs in your own way and include only the attractions you most wish to see.
An experienced guide will explain everything you need to know in between destinations, so you will be able to wander the sites armed with all the knowledge required to appreciate the history and culture.
There are gardens, museums, galleries, historic sites and much more to see on the 70 minute shuttle loop.
Experience the amazing deserts first hand on a tour taking in a red sand dune, salt lake and bird life searching for water. There is no better way to feel the vastness of this awe-inspiring country.
Whereas explorers once trekked across the hot desert by foot, modern visitors can view rugged Simpson's Gap, the steep Mount Gillen Ridgeline, crystal clear water holes and the Larapinta Trail from the comfort of a helicopter. Only from the air will you truly begin to appreciate the magnitude of this incredible landscape.
If you prefer to experience the outback through the eyes of the first explorers, why not take a camel ride from Pyndan Camel Tracks yards to White Gum Station, with sweeping views across the MacDonnell Ranges along with way.
The town of Alice Springs itself is also well worth some of your time. Located three kilometres from the rail terminal, the city centre is home to great shopping at Todd Mall, quaint local cafes and interesting streets.
21 November 2011 - Celebrate a special occasion in style with Great Southern Rail
21 November 2011 - Ring in the holidays on the Indian Pacific Outback Christmas
If you are looking for a uniquely Australian way to ring in the summer festive season, there is no better place to celebrate than aboard the Indian Pacific.
Imagine enjoying one of the country's most iconic journeys - with an exciting Christmas twist! With celebrity guests, special events and even a visit from the man in red himself, it's sure to be an unforgettable trip.
Now in its 11th year, the Indian Pacific Outback Christmas train is our opportunity to share a bit of festive cheer with some of our favourite remote communities right across the country.
A holiday tradition on the Indian Pacific
The Indian Pacific Outback Christmas train has become one of our favourite holiday traditions at Great Southern Rail and is a great way to thank local communities right across the country for supporting our mighty train over the past 12 months - and spread the spirit of the season right across Australia.
The 2011 holiday journey departs Sydney on December 7 and this year, we are delighted to welcome Jessica Mauboy as our onboard entertainer. As we make our way along the Indian Pacific route, we'll stop at some of our favourite destinations for a Christmas treat.
Our four-day east to west journey takes in all the traditional Indian Pacific sights - from the Blue Mountains to the Nullabor Plain.
Families from some of Australia's most remote Outback communities travel for many miles each year to meet our Christmas train - and during our stops in Sydney, Bathurst, Broken Hill, Adelaide, Watson, Rawlinna, Kalgoorlie and Perth, they'll be treated to a special seasonal show.
In an addition to a holiday performance from Jessica - which will feature some of her top ten hits, as well as a mix of favourite Christmas classics - our guests and local crowds will also be treated to a visit from Santa Claus himself!
The Indian Pacific Outback Christmas - supporting a great cause
In addition to saying a big thank you to the local communities that show their support for the Indian Pacific all year long, our holiday journey is also a great way to raise awareness of an important cause.
Guests attending our free series of coast-to-coast concerts are invited to show their support for the Australian Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) - an incredibly important organisation to many of Australia's most rural and remote communities.
Its current fleet of 60 aircraft provide invaluable medical assistance and support to more than 270,000 people right across the country each year.
While the RFDS is supported by the Commonwealth, territory and state governments, this not-for-profit organisation also relies heavily on community donations and fundraisers to purchase its aircraft and medical equipment.
An iconic cross-country journey
One of the best things about a journey on the Indian Pacific is experiencing the incredible diversity Australia has to offer.
The India Pacific has been travelling between Australia's east and west coasts for more than 40 years and is widely considered to be one of the world's favourite train journeys.
In fact, more than three million guests have joined us for a trip on the India Pacific, taking in the exciting, cosmopolitan cities of Sydney and Perth, as well as the remote Outback beauty of the Nullarbor Plain and the spectacular landscape of the Blue Mountains.
This three-night, four-day journey is an experience you'll remember forever - and with a dash of seasonal cheer, the Indian Pacific Outback Christmas is the perfect way to get in the holiday mood.
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