Ultimate South Pacific with the Legendary Ghan Train

28 days
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USTOA

Small Group Tour
It’s easy to lose your train of thought on this all-encompassing, 28-day tour through Australia and New Zealand, especially when it includes world-class cities, extraordinary scenery, unique wildlife, and an incredible overnight rail journey on the legendary The Ghan train—an exhilarating crossing from South Australia through the heart of the Australian Outba...
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Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Very Easy

What's this trip about?

    It’s easy to lose your train of thought on this all-encompassing, 28-day tour through Australia and New Zealand, especially when it includes world-class cities, extraordinary scenery, unique wildlife, and an incredible overnight rail journey on the legendary The Ghan train—an exhilarating crossing from South Australia through the heart of the Australian Outback. Other moving experiences on this over-the-top Down Under vacation include an outback barbecue in the Red Center, a scenic cruise in Sydney Harbour, a snorkel excursion at the Great Barrier Reef, and a wetlands cruise on the Yellow Water Billabong. In New Zealand, prepare to be moved by a cooked-by-hot-stone Hangi dinner, a gondola ride to the peaks of Queenstown, a cruise through the towering rock walls of Milford Sound, and even a silent boat trip through Waitomo’s famous eerily lit Glowworm Caves. Board here for unrivalled views, unexpected experiences, and an unbelievable adventure.

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Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizeStandard Group - 25 + people
Age range6 years and up
Flights and transportN/A
Start City MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
End CityAUCKLAND

Travel Themes

  • 50 plus
  • Cultural

Destinations

Activities

  • Culture

View Similar Trips

Itinerary

Day 1: ARRIVE IN MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA

G’day – Welcome To Melbourne! Your hotel room is available for immediate check-in. A pre-night is not required for early check-in. Please schedule flights to arrive by 3pm in order to attend this evening’s welcome briefing and dinner. (Dinner)

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Day 2: MELBOURNE

Toasts of the Town Today’s sightseeing tour includes landmarks such as Parliament House and the Shrine of Remembrance, a tribute to Australia’s war heroes. Visit beautiful Fitzroy Gardens, then drive past the lush Botanic Gardens. You’ll discover the city’s differing...

Day 3: MELBOURNE

Cosmopolitan Cool Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore this multicultural and cosmopolitan city. Dine at a local restaurant and immerse yourself in Melbourne’s passionate food and wine scene or walk along Chapel and Brunswick Streets, famous for great shopping. (Br...

Day 4: MELBOURNE–HOBART

On the Waterfront Fly to Hobart, Tasmania, home of the famed Tasmanian devil. As the second oldest of Australia’s state capitals, Hobart has a wild convict past and a rich history still evident in its beautifully restored Georgian buildings and colonial cottages. Din...

Day 5: HOBART. EXCURSION TO THE TASMAN PENINSULA

Devilish Fun Travel to the remote and rugged Tasman Peninsula. Make stops at the scenic blowhole, Devil’s Kitchen, and Tasman Arch coastal formations. Visit Port Arthur Historic Site, which began housing convicts in the 1830’s. Then visit the Tasmanian Devil Unzoo. R...

Day 6: HOBART–ADELAIDE

Sweet Adelaide Today, fly via Melbourne to South Australia’s capital city. Adelaide is home to world-class art, live music, major festivals, must-try restaurants, and sits at the gateway to amazing wineries. Upon arrival, take a brief orientation tour along the wide,...

Day 7: ADELAIDE. EXCURSION TO KANGAROO ISLAND

Australia’s Galapagos Early this morning, depart Adelaide and travel by motorcoach and ferry to Kangaroo Island, one of the world’s last unspoiled habitats. Visit Seal Bay Conservation Park and Flinders Chase National Park, a sanctuary for native Australian animals, ...

Day 8: ADELAIDE–THE GHAN TRAIN

All Aboard Mid-day departure on the [LF] Ghan train for an overnight journey and unique perspective of the Outback. (Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)

LOCAL FAVORITE NORTHWARD BOUND The Ghan is an Australian legend and the ultimate journey through the heart of Australia....

Day 9: THE GHAN TRAIN–MARLA–ALICE SPRINGS

Into the Outback This morning you are invited to step off the train in the outback town of Marla. There’s time to stretch your legs as the sun light slowly bathes the surrounding outback. Take a moment to enjoy the stillness and sip on a steaming mug of coffee and sn...

Day 10: ALICE SPRINGS–ULURU (AYERS ROCK)

Rock Stars Today, travel through the heart of the Outback. Keep a lookout for red kangaroos, dingoes, camels, and feral horses, known as “Brumbies.” Visit the magnificent Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), a geological spectacle of some 36 brilliant domes. Tonight, [LF] dinner i...

Day 11: AYERS ROCK–ALICE SPRINGS–DARWIN

Sunrise and Wheels Up For an unforgettable experience, you may choose to rise early for an optional camel ride to watch the sunrise at Uluru. Later, travel to Alice Springs for your flight to Darwin. (Breakfast)

NOTE: Due to this remote location and limited fl...

Day 12: DARWIN

Remembrance & Resilience Enjoy an orientation tour of the capital of the Northern Territory. See the elegant colonial architecture of the city’s historic buildings that survived Cyclone Tracey in 1974. Visit the splendid Botanic Gardens, beautiful East Point and s...

Day 13: DARWIN. EXCURSION TO KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

Picturing History Journey to Kakadu National Park, Australia’s largest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to exceptional natural beauty and a unique biodome. Take a scenic cruise and then explore ancient Aboriginal rock petroglyphs at No...

Day 14: DARWIN–CAIRNS

Aussie Adventures Today, fly to Cairns, “Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.” Check-in to your Cairns hotel for a 3-night stay. Cairns is known for its mild winters, great nightlife, and plenty of fun things to see and do. Consider exploring the Cairns Night Markets, ...

Day 15: CAIRNS. EXCURSION TO THE OUTER GREAT BARRIER REEF

Below the Surface Prepare for the experience of a lifetime when you board a catamaran and cruise to the Outer Great Barrier Reef, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Explore this underwater world that is a brilliant kaleidoscope of coral and sea life. Ret...

Day 16: CAIRNS

Ticket to Paradise A full day at leisure in this tropical paradise. (Breakfast) ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE with an optional trip to Kuranda via the old scenic rail route. You may also wish to take a 4 wheel-drive excursion into the Daintree Rainforest, stroll C...

Day 17: CAIRNS–SYDNEY

Koalas, Crocs & Roos, Oh My! This morning, enjoy a special visit to [LF] Koala Gardens. Afterward, fly to Sydney, the largest city in Australia. Sydney is home to first-class restaurants, grand shopping arcades, and top tourist attractions such as the Sydney Oper...

Day 18: SYDNEY

Spectacular Sydney Explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Visit the Sydney Opera House and travel to Mrs Macquarie’s Chair in the city’s botanic gardens for a great photo opportunity and sweeping views of the harbor and Harbour Bridge. Next, visit world-fa...

Day 19: SYDNEY

Sights & Bites Enjoy a full day at leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow travel companions for dinner at a local restaurant. (Breakfast,Dinner)

ENHANCED FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE in Sydney with an optional excursion to Hunter Valley, one of Aus...

Day 20: SYDNEY–CHRISTCHURCH, NEW ZEALAND

New Zealand Bound Fly across the Tasman Sea to New Zealand and the very English town of Christchurch. Known as the “Garden City,” Christchurch has many beautiful parks and gardens. You’re sure to enjoy the possibilities in this cosmopolitan city of theatre, modern art galleries, great shopping, and fantastic festivals (Breakfast)

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Day 21: CHRISTCHURCH–MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK

Peak Perfection After an orientation tour of Christchurch, travel south to magnificent Mount Cook National Park, named after New Zealand’s highest peak. Weather permitting, you may wish to join a stargazing program this evening. The Mount Cook region offers some of the darkest skies in the world – perfect for viewing the southern night sky. (Breakfast,Dinner)

MOUNT-COOK.jpg

Day 22: MOUNT COOK NATIONAL PARK–QUEENSTOWN

Alpine Adventures Start the day with a visit to the Sir Edmund Hillary Alpine Centre for unique insight into the history and culture of this region. Then, time to explore on your own before continuing to Queenstown, the “Adventure Capital of the World.” Tonight, why...

Day 23: QUEENSTOWN. EXCURSION TO MILFORD SOUND

Fjords, Forests & Falls Today, travel into scenic Fiordland National Park. Boasting some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, this region of New Zealand has been named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was famously described by author, Rudyard Kipling,...

Day 24: QUEENSTOWN

Vineyards & Views A full day at leisure for your own discoveries. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT EPIC RIDE This evening, take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Bob’s Peak where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and breathtaking views of Queenstown, Lake W...

Day 25: QUEENSTOWN–ROTORUA

Earthly Wonders Fly north to Rotorua, known for its geothermal activity as well as being the heart of the Māori culture. The city has a mass of attractions and experiences for everyone from adventure-seekers to those just looking to unwind. Enjoy a [LF] Hangi dinner t...

Day 26: ROTORUA

Counting Sheep & Kiwis This morning, enjoy a special visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Then, visit the Agrodome to learn more about one of the country’s major industries – sheep! Continue to Te Puia, Rotorua’s most prominent thermal area. The remainder of the d...

Day 27: ROTORUA–WAITOMO–AUCKLAND

The High Life Depart Rotorua and cross over the Mamakue ranges to the famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Then, travel through the green pastoral region of Waikato to Auckland. This evening, enjoy a [LF] farewell dinner atop the Sky Tower. (Breakfast,Dinner)

LOCAL FA...

Day 28: AUCKLAND

Until We Meet Again! Your tour ends with breakfast this morning. You may also choose to extend your time in Auckland and explore more on your own. Extra nights are available for purchase. (Breakfast)

AUCKLAND-CITYSCAPE.jpg

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Dates & Availability

Price From $12,189
Price per day$435
Last Updated: 10/14/2024
Departure Date
Finish Date
Base Price
Availability
09 Apr 2025
06 May 2025
$13,139
23 Apr 2025
20 May 2025
$13,279
13 Aug 2025
09 Sep 2025
$13,419
07 Sep 2025
04 Oct 2025
$13,729
14 Sep 2025
11 Oct 2025
$14,219
01 Oct 2025
28 Oct 2025
$13,459
12 Oct 2025
08 Nov 2025
$13,819
26 Oct 2025
22 Nov 2025
$14,219
02 Nov 2025
29 Nov 2025
$13,819

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Globus.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

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Logistics

Accommodation

The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins

Situated in the heart of downtown Melbourne, The Savoy Hotel on Little Collins is ideally located for exploring the city. The hotel features an on-site restaurant, bar, gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Melbourne

Australia

630 Little Collins Street

The Old Woolstore Hotel

The hotel is centrally located within a stone's throw of the city center and just a block away from Hobart's waterfront. The hotel offers a restaurant, lounge, fitness center, and complimentary Wi-Fi in rooms and public areas. Rooms are apartment style with a separate bedroom, sitting room, and kitchen. Amenities include iron/ironing board, mini-refrigerator, hairdryer and bath amenities, air conditioning, flat-screen TV with satellite channels, DVD player, full kitchen, and washing machine and dryer.

Hobart

Australia

1 Macquarie Street

Majestic Roof Garden Hotel

Style and function are themes of the Majestic Roof Garden Hotel. As the Majestic's flagship, built in 2004, this award-winning hotel boasts simplicity, efficiency, and an eco-centric design. And as it sits just off of the lively Rundle Street, the convenience of bars, restaurants, shopping and museums is unparalleled. After a busy day of sightseeing and on-the-go activities, guests are welcomed back to comfortable accommodations and locally fresh cuisine in the hotel's restaurant - not to mention a great selection of wine! Follow it up with a view of the city from a relaxing garden roof-top, for which the hotel is aptly named.

Adelaide

Australia

55 Frome Street

The Ghan Train - Alice Springs to Darwin

The Ghan is an Australian legend and the ultimate journey through the heart of Australia. It takes its name from the pioneering Afghan cameleers who blazed a permanent trail into the "Red Center of Australia" 150 years ago. Experience this fascinating train journey in the comfort of Gold Service, featuring private overnight sleeper cabins, a separate restaurant car, and access to the Outback Explorer Lounge, the perfect place to gather with friends to enjoy a drink as you marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes. Twin cabins feature upper and lower berths, washbasin, toilet, and shower. Single cabins feature a single berth and washbasin with shared toilet and shower facilities.

Australia

Overnight Train

Crowne Plaza Alice Springs Lasseters

The modern Crowne Plaza Alice Springs is located at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges, in Australia's red center. The hotel features complimentary Wi-Fi, outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, on-site restaurant and bar, and in-room dining.

Alice Springs

Australia

93 Barrett Drive

Desert Gardens Hotel

Centrally located to all resort facilities, the hotel offers a range of accommodation, outdoor pool, coin-operated self-service laundry, and the popular Bunya bar. It's only a short stroll to the Resorts' numerous lookouts, where you can view what is arguably Australia's best sunset, with the spectacular play of colors across the face of Uluru and the surrounding desert.

Uluru

Australia

Yulara Drive

Hilton Darwin

Overlooking Darwin Harbour, Hilton Darwin offers fabulous Esplanade views and an ideal location in the heart of the city. The impressive, marble-floored lobby, surrounded by warm colors and Aboriginal artwork, immediately welcomes you with a touch of authentic Australian style. The attentive hotel staff always make for a great stay. Enjoy the sunshine at the 10th floor outdoor swimming pool, or sip drinks at the stylish bar before savoring a delicious meal in their restaurant, which features an innovative menu of local specialties, including kangaroo, crocodile and barramundi. Laundry is available through the hotel for a fee.

Darwin

Australia

32 Mitchell Street

Pullman Cairns International

Pullman Cairns International is an upscale hotel exuding the architectural grandeur of the city's rich colonial past. Overlooking Cairns Harbour and the lush mountain hinterland, this 321-room hotel is perfectly positioned in the CBD to take advantage of all the city has to offer. After a great day of sightseeing, dine in Coco's Restaurant, grab a drink at the Lobby Bar, or pamper yourself at Vie Spa. Laundry is available through the hotel for a fee.

Cairns

Australia

17 Abbott St

Sydney Harbour Marriott

Ideally placed in Circular Quay, the Sydney Harbour Marriott welcomes guests with elegant rooms, luxury amenities, and an award-winning commitment to outstanding service. Take advantage of the fitness center, indoor pool and on-site dining.

Sydney

Australia

30 Pitt Street

Distinction Hotel Christchurch

Ideally positioned in the heart of Christchurch, the Distinction Hotel offers an urban escape that combines sophisticated smarts with familiar warmth. The hotel features an on-site restaurant and bar, guest laundry, gym, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Christchurch

New Zealand

14 Cathedral Square

The Hermitage

A haven for adventurous travelers for more than a century, the world renowned Hermitage Hotel in the heart of Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a complete year-round alpine retreat. The hotel features self-service coin-operated laundry, outdoor tennis court, and a selection of on-site bars and restaurants.

Mount Cook

New Zealand

Mount Cook National Park

Copthorne Hotel & Resort Queenstown Lakefront

Within a tranquil, garden setting, the Copthorne Hotel and Resort Queenstown Lakefront blends superior facilities and comfort with friendly, personal service and offers panoramic views of Lake Wakatipu and surrounding mountain peaks. The resort is a short stroll from the town center, and minutes from Queenstown's key tourist attractions and adventure activities. After a great day of sightseeing, relax at the Impressions Cocktail Bar and Impressions Restaurant with views over the lake and mountains or take a dip in the two spa pools. Wireless broadband internet access is available in all public areas (fee may apply). The hotel also features coin-operated, self-service laundry.

Queenstown

New Zealand

Corner Frankton Rd & Adelaide St

Distinction Hotel Rotorua

Situated adjacent to the Whakarewarewa Forest, Distinction Hotel Rotorua is located minutes away from the city center of Rotorua. The hotel features a heated outdoor pool and spa, underground private grotto spas, on-site restaurant and bar, laundry facilities and dry cleaning, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Rotorua

New Zealand

390 Fenton St. PO Box 983

SKYCITY Hotel

This spacious hotel allows you to relax in style while enjoying more than 20 restaurants, cafes and bars, a theatre, free live entertainment on selected nights and the iconic Sky Tower - all right on your doorstep! Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in public areas. Additional amenities include a casino, spa services, and a fitness facility. This is a smoke-free property.

Auckland

New Zealand

Corner Victoria & Federal St.

Transportation & Flights

Participation in this tour requires a purchase of additional local flights. ,
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
Visa requirements vary depending on your country of origin and your country of destination. It is your responsibility to familiarize yourself with the relevant requirements. For a handy tool that can help you quickly find the requirements, please visit this link .
Age Requirements
6 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
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