The Ghan

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The Ghan

Train Reviews

The Ghan

The Ghan Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Train for You?

Operated by Journey Beyond Rail, The Ghan is not just a train; it is a moving luxury hotel and an iconic Australian adventure. Traveling straight through the fiery Red Centre of Australia between Adelaide and Darwin, this legendary transcontinental journey spans nearly 3,000 kilometers over three days (or four days on “The Ghan Expedition” from Darwin to Adelaide).

In 2026, The Ghan reached an entirely new level of luxury with the launch of the highly anticipated Australis and Aurora Suites, offering unprecedented space and private butler service for the ultimate rail experience.

The Ghan at a Glance

  • Operator: Journey Beyond Rail
  • Route: Adelaide – Alice Springs – Katherine – Darwin (and vice versa)
  • Duration: 3 Days / 2 Nights (Regular), 4 Days / 3 Nights (The Ghan Expedition)
  • Best For: Luxury experiential travel, witnessing the Australian Outback in supreme comfort, and all-inclusive off-train excursions.
The Ghan

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

The Ghan operates on an all-inclusive model. Your fare covers all meals, fine wines, and daily off-train experiences (such as cruising Nitmiluk Gorge or dining under the stars in Alice Springs).

Gold Service

The most popular way to travel, Gold Service offers a mix of Twin and Single cabins. By day, cabins feature comfortable lounge seating; while you are at dinner, attendants convert them into upper and lower sleeping berths (Twin) or a single bed (Single). All meals are served in the beautiful Queen Adelaide Restaurant, featuring regionally inspired menus.

Platinum Service

For a significant step up in luxury, Platinum cabins are almost twice the size of Gold Twin cabins. They feature a full-size en suite, expansive windows on both sides of the train, and access to the exclusive Platinum Club carriage for dining and socializing.

The New Australis & Aurora Suites (Launched 2026)

These are the undisputed pinnacle of Australian rail travel.

  • The Aurora Suite: Double the size of a Platinum cabin, featuring a queen-size bed, personalized bar, and in-room dining.
  • The Australis Suite: Three times the size of a Platinum cabin, featuring a separate bedroom, full lounge set, and premium Jurlique amenities. Both suites include a dedicated butler and unlimited luggage allowance.

 

Luggage Allowance & Policies (Updated 2026)

Because cabin space is limited (even in luxury tiers), you are advised to bring a small carry-on/duffel bag for your time onboard and check your large, heavy suitcases into the luggage van. You cannot access your checked luggage during the journey.

Service Level Cabin Luggage (Per Person) Checked Luggage (Per Person)
Gold Service 1 small piece + 1 garment bag 2 pieces (Up to 30kg each)
Gold Premium  1 small piece + 1 garment bag 3 pieces (Up to 25kg each)
Platinum Service 1 small piece + 1 garment bag 3 pieces (Up to 30kg each)
Australis / Aurora As much as fits comfortably Unlimited (Max 32kg per bag)

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: The onboard staff, from the restaurant servers to the train managers, provide world-class, intuitive hospitality. The food is spectacular, often matching high-end restaurants in major cities.
  • The Lows: Given the immense popularity of the train, Gold and Platinum cabins book out months (sometimes over a year) in advance. It is not a trip you can easily plan at the last minute.

Pros & Cons of Traveling on The Ghan

Pros:

  • All-inclusive dining, premium alcohol, and curated off-train excursions.
  • The new 2026 suites offer unparalleled space and privacy.
  • A highly relaxing, romantic way to cross the Australian continent.

Cons:

  • Fares are very expensive, making this a “bucket list” luxury trip rather than simple transit.
  • Cabins (specifically in Gold Service) are compact, and the bunk beds require climbing a small ladder.
  • Wi-Fi availability is extremely limited and drops out entirely in the remote Outback.

Have You Journeyed on The Ghan?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About The Ghan

How much does The Ghan cost?

Prices vary wildly by season and cabin class. In 2026, Advance Purchase Gold Twin fares generally start around $3,500 – $4,500 AUD per person, while Platinum Service can exceed $8,000 AUD per person. The new Aurora and Australis Suites command premium luxury pricing upwards of $12,000+ AUD.

Is food and alcohol included on The Ghan?

Yes! Once you step onboard, all your multi-course meals, snacks, barista coffee, and premium alcoholic beverages (including fine Australian wines and spirits) are completely included in your fare.

Do The Ghan cabins have private bathrooms?

If you book Gold Twin, Gold Premium, Platinum, or the new Suites, your cabin includes a private en-suite bathroom with a shower and toilet. If you book a Gold Single cabin, you will have a private vanity in your room, but the showers and toilets are shared at the end of the carriage.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the operator before booking.