Days 1 & 2 (March 1-2)

Your journey begins with a long-haul flight from Omaha to Melbourne, Australia’s cultural capital. These first two days are dedicated to travel and rest, arriving refreshed and ready to start your adventure.

Day 3 (March 3)

Arrive in Melbourne and check into your hotel in the morning. After a brief rest, enjoy a guided excursion to the Royal Botanic Gardens—an oasis of tranquility and native flora right in the heart of the city. Breathe in the eucalyptus-scented air and get grounded in this beautiful, welcoming space. In the evening, gather for a welcome dinner to meet your fellow travelers, followed by time to explore the city on your own or relax at the hotel. (D)

Day 4 (March 4)

Begin the day with a guided city tour of Melbourne, including its vibrant laneways, Federation Square, and historic arcades. After lunch, head into the nearby Yarra Valley to treat your senses at the Yarra Valley Chocolaterie & Ice Creamery—home to delicious artisan sweets and lush views. Continue your indulgent afternoon at Domaine Chandon, renowned for its elegant sparkling wines and luxurious estate setting. After a relaxed tasting, return to Melbourne for a free evening to enjoy dinner at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 5 (March 5)

Fly to Adelaide. Settle into your boutique hotel. In the afternoon, visit Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Stroll its quaint streets lined with artisan shops, traditional bakeries, and galleries. Return to Adelaide for a relaxed evening.(B)

Day 6 (March 6)

After a wonderful breakfast and time around Adelaide, board The Ghan Train for an unforgettable 3 night, 2 day northbound journey through Australia’s rugged interior as we head for Darwin. Settle into your Gold Cabin, enjoy gourmet dining, and marvel at the changing desert landscapes as you journey toward the Red Centre. In the evening, step off the train in the Long Plains wine region and enjoy a special dinner with a curated wine tasting. After dinner return to the train to relax and enjoy the scenery as you journey North. (B, D) **Upgraded cabins available for additional cost. Please inquire Excite for more details!**

Day 7 (March 7)

As dawn breaks, The Ghan pulls gently into Port Augusta—South Australia’s welcoming gateway to the outback. After a relaxed breakfast onboard, step off the train into a land shaped by time: the legendary Flinders Ranges. Today’s journey takes you deep into this ancient terrain, where red rock gorges, weathered peaks, and sweeping vistas tell stories carved over millions of years. With every turn, you’ll discover dramatic landscapes, native wildlife, and that soul-stirring silence only the outback can offer. By evening, rejoin your fellow travelers aboard The Ghan. As the sun dips below the horizon, toast the day’s discoveries with a glass of wine and a heartfelt dinner—your spirit full, your senses awakened. (B,L,D)

Day 8 (March 8)

Awaken this morning to the golden hush of an outback sunrise at Marla—an isolated outpost nestled 160 kilometers from the Northern Territory border. Step off the train and feel the red earth underfoot as a bonfire crackles nearby, casting a gentle glow into the crisp morning air. Enjoy a leisurely brunch back on board as the vast desert landscape rolls by en route to Alice Springs. There, choose from immersive Off Train Experiences—ride an e-bike across ochre trails, explore local landmarks, connect with Aboriginal culture at Standley Chasm, or marvel at the beauty of Simpsons Gap and the Desert Park. For a spectacular finish, take to the skies on a scenic helicopter flight before returning to the train for another unforgettable evening. (B, L, D)

Day 9 (March 9)

Your final day aboard the Ghan begins in the tropical north, where lush landscapes give way to rugged escarpments and swift canyon streams. Enjoy a plethora of options of off train excursions. Return to The Ghan for one last journey north to Darwin, where your extraordinary adventure aboard comes to a close. Disembark the train and check into your hotel in Darwin and enjoy a restful evening strolling the town and having dinner at your leisure. (B, L)

Day 10 (March 10)

 Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before boarding your flight to Cairns. Once arrived, check in and unwind for a free afternoon at your tropical resort. (B)

Day 11 (March 11)

Today, embark on an extraordinary full-day adventure to the Great

Barrier Reef, one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. Board a premium catamaran and cruise out to a beautiful reef site for snorkeling and observation. A tropical buffet lunch is served on board. This is a once-in-a lifetime chance to connect with the magic of the reef. (B,L)

Days 13–21  are packed with unforgettable moments! Download the brochure for all the details and surprises still to come!