It’s an experience that is a bucket-list item for so many, and for good reason. The Ghan Expedition train journey is an iconic trip traveling through the heart of Australia, linking Darwin and Adelaide by rail over 4 days and 3 nights. Recently, I was lucky enough to have had the experience of joining the train in Darwin with my mum. As the journey unfolded, it became clear why The Ghan Expedition is not just a train ride but a profound exploration of Australia’s vast and diverse terrain.

Let’s begin at the start; our transfer picked us up from the DoubleTree by Hilton Esplanade bright and early (6:15AM, so not too bright by that point), to take us to the welcome event at the Darwin Convention Centre. You’re provided with a light breakfast, tea, coffee & if you’re game at this time of the day, your first champagne or mimosa of the trip! With a musician providing entertainment, it makes for a lovely ambience, and you’ll also catch sunrise over the Darwin Waterfront if you go outside and watch as Darwin slowly wakes up. A welcome to country is performed before coaches take you to Berrimah station where you’ll meet up with The Ghan, home for the next 3 nights.