Day 1
BOARD THE GHAN EXPEDITION IN DARWIN
Settle in to the comforts of The Ghan, relax in your cabin or mingle with fellow travellers in the Outback Explorer Lounge. Enjoy lunch ahead of your first Off Train Experience in Katherine. In a region renowned for jaw-dropping natural assets, Katherine boasts one of the Top End’s best – the incredible Nitmiluk Gorge.
OVERNIGHT: 3 nights The Ghan Expedition (L,D)
Day 2
THE GHAN EXPEDITION, ALICE SPRINGS
Your arrival into Alice Springs after breakfast provides you with time to explore the iconic town in the red heart of Australia. Prepare for a day of fascinating experiences and in the evening, dine under a million stars. (B,L,D)
Day 3
THE GHAN EXPEDITION, COOBER PEDY
From your morning stop at the outback outpost of Manguri, you’ll venture into the wonderful opal mining township of Coober Pedy. Discover the incredible diversity of Coober Pedy’s spectacular Breakaways on your guided walking tour and take in the colourful low hills that appear from a distance which look as if they are ‘broken away’ from the higher ground of the reserve. The landscape was once an inland sea and over time has been transformed into a dramatic landscape that changes colour with the passing of the sun creating an almost surreal panorama, a truly remarkable landscape and one not to be missed. Dinner is served back on the train where you can enjoy a night cap as your journey continues. (B,L,D)
Day 4
THE GHAN EXPEDITION, ADELAIDE AND MONARTO SAFARI RESORT
This morning, you’ll see a dramatic change in landscape as the rich ochre tones of the outback make way for the greenfields of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch as you pass through the Flinders Ranges before arriving in Adelaide, completing one of the world’s great rail experiences. Upon arriving in Adelaide, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Monarto Safari Resort, approximately 50 minutes from the city centre and nestled in South Australia’s expansive Murraylands. Monarto Safari Resort offers an unparalleled escape into nature’s embrace, combining premium accommodation with authentic experiences, during your stay you’ll be surrounded by Africa’s wildest animals. With some free time before checking in, you may choose to indulge in the luxurious day spa, laze by the two stunning pool areas or enjoy world-class dining at the onsite restaurant at Monarto Safari Resort. Settle into your new and well curated accommodation before joining the Sunset Wildlife Safari, soaking in the last rays of sun on your small group guided tour. Enjoy exclusive access to Monarto Safari Park after hours with ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast parklands and watch the free-roaming herds of African animals across 550 hectares. As you explore the lands from the comfort of the Safari Truck, you’ll have the opportunity to observe and photograph animals including Southern White Rhinos, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Eland, Ostriches, and Zebras. Drinks and canapes will be served during the tour, capping off the unforgettable experience.
OVERNIGHT: 2 nights Monarto Safari Resort (B)
Day 5
MONARTO SAFARI RESORT
Today is yours to explore Monarto Safari Park via the guided Zu-Loop bus experience, or a combination of the Zu-Loop bus and walking. Monarto is the largest open-range safari experience in the world outside of Africa and spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than 50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles. You can hop on and off the bus at the wildlife viewing platforms and spend time observing your favourite animal species, including Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, Cheetahs, Rhinos, Chimpanzees, and more. Additionally, you can enhance your visit by attending Daily Keeper Presentations and booking a range of intimate behind-the-scenes animal experiences. Later today you may choose to indulge in the luxurious day spa, laze by the two stunning pool areas or enjoy world-class dining at the onsite restaurant at Monarto Safari Resort. (B)
Day 6
FAREWELL
Today, your wild Monarto Safari Stay comes to an end. After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and transfer by private vehicle to your choice of the Adelaide Airport or Adelaide CBD Hotel. (B)