Ghan Train Australia

During the year I will be telling you a little about our nearest neighbour Australia. I have spent many great times in Australia from the outback to the Great Barrier Reef and everything in between. The country is very diverse and offers the traveler some fantastic experiences. Two of the greatest train journeys in the world are on your doorstep, namely the Ghan which travels form Adelaide to Darwin and the Indian Pacific connecting Sydney to Perth.
The Ghan follows the route of the explorer John McDouall Stuart and the Afghan camel trains, linking Adelaide to Darwin via Alice Springs. The Ghan is named after the original drivers of the camel trains operated by the Afghans, hence the name Ghan. Until recently it went only as far as Alice Springs but a couple of years ago the track was eventually finished to Darwin after a 70 year wait. It truly is one of the great train journeys and is extremely popular.
A stopover in Alice Springs is essential to explore ‘The Alice’, the outback, Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas).

There is lots to do in the ‘Red Center’ of Australia such as taking a camel to breakfast or maybe trying your hand at gem fossicking. Penny and I have spent many great evenings in the bush fossicking for gem stones such as peridot, garnet, zircon and a host of precious gemstones. Where else can you do this? Wild animals, birds and unbelievable sunsets can be seen if you want to give it a go.

The train connects with the Indian Pacific from Sydney and leaves behind the farming green area of Adelaide. Prior to going on the trip it is worth spending a little time in the city of the arts. The Ghan travels on up through the middle of Australia where you will see vast deserts and brilliant bush hues, dried up lakes (unless it has been raining). On and upwards to the ‘Top End’ to Darwin and the tropics of Australia. Darwin is a lovely, friendly city with a multi cultural feel to it being nearer Jakarta than to Sydney.

There are three classes to choose from. The Gold Kangaroo with sleeper cabins and all meals, the Red Kangaroo also in sleepers but with no meals included and the Daynighter seat, which is a recliner seat. If you have the money take the Gold Kangaroo and be spoilt.

You can read more information about the trains at http://www.packyabags.com/australia/great-southern-railways/ghan.htm

Ray Aucott

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