13 Day The Ghan, Kimberley & Kakadu
This tour is categorised as 3 out of 5
Balanced exploration with walking tours: Our most popular style, this tour offers a good mix of planned activities and free time. Expect moderate daily walking tours, so pack comfortable shoes.
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
On these packages you will travel from city to city on your own, exploring at your own pace. We have arranged transportation in most cases and day tours for you to see the destination. Enjoy the time and flexibility to linger longer or pick up the pace and see as much as possible.
Inspiring Vacations has been globally recognised and awarded for its handling of COVID-19 during the pandemic. The safety and wellbeing of our guests is our highest concern during this time of uncertainty, and we are continuously monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation.
We have adopted the advice of the WHO to ensure all customers can travel with the knowledge of how to travel safely and with confidence.
Australian owned and operated with 100% Australian Customer Service support
We are proudly 100% Australian owned and operated, with our head office located in Melbourne, Victoria. When you make your booking, you will receive dedicated and ongoing support from our team of travel professionals throughout your booking, up until you are due to depart.
✓ Incredible sightseeing, travel on The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin through the fiery red centre, witness crocodiles in Kakadu & fly to the Bungle Bungles
✓ 2 nights on board The Ghan in a Gold Twin cabin (upgrades available). All-inclusive meals, fine wines, and beverages. A regionally-inspired menu paired with a selection of local wines
✓ 10 nights’ accommodation in 4 star hotels
✓ Included flights from Darwin to Kununurra to Broome
✓ Day tours to experience Kakadu, Katherine, Bungle Bungles, Ord River, Willie Creek & Broome
✓ 8 meals throughout
✓ Transportation included as per the itinerary
✓ In depth sightseeing as per itinerary
✓ Only $99 deposit per person. See 'How to Book & Payments' for more information
✓ 7 Day cooling off period. See under Fine Print for more information
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Your unbelievable journey on The Ghan begins today. Check in for your rail journey opens approximately two hours prior to your scheduled departure time. All guests are required to check in at least 60 minutes prior to departure to be welcomed onboard - please bring your itinerary and photo identification.
Departing Adelaide at approximately 12:10pm from Adelaide Parklands Terminal (Keswick Terminal), what lies ahead is rugged, beautiful and spectacular – through the Red Centre to the tropical north of Australia. Settle into your cabin and watch the rolling pastoral lands of South Australia from your window, or meet your fellow travellers in the lounge car.
Before long some of the oldest rock formations in the world, the Flinders Ranges, come into view. As darkness envelops the rugged outback, it’s time to indulge in a regionally-inspired dinner and all-inclusive fine wines and beverages.
Please note: off train excursions are booked upon boarding the train
Begin with a freshly brewed coffee or juice as the day dawns at Marla, an outback outpost in the remote reaches of South Australia. It is here, deep inland, that you will enjoy a one of a kind experience, as you watch the desert come to life at sunrise.
All aboard for brunch as you make your way through the MacDonnell Ranges to Alice Springs where a choice of Off Train Excursions awaits. 'Alice' is an iconic Red Centre outpost. 1,500 kilometres from the nearest major city, it may be remote, but offers plenty to explore – home to doctors who fly, rivers that run dry, and a cast of colourful characters. Your time in the ‘Capital out of the Outback’ offers numerous opportunities to explore its historic legacy and unique environment.
Your day dawns in the tropical north. The pristine wilderness of Katherine is stirring and powerful, and you’ll have the chance to explore it from the water or land with your choice of off train experiences. Cruise the jaw-dropping Nitmiluk Gorge, learn more about its ancient Indigenous rock paintings and gain insight into the culture of the traditional owners of Nitmiluk, the Jawoyn people, or discover authentic outback life on a cattle station.
As evening falls, arrive in Darwin to complete your epic train journey.
On arrival into Darwin, you will be transferred to a central location in Darwin. From here, make your own way to your hotel.
This morning you’ll be collected from your hotel. Travel across the Adelaide River and Marrakai Plains and deep into Kakadu National Park. Visit the Warradjan Cultural Centre and view the informative displays depicting the traditions of the Aboriginal people in Kakadu; we join our local guide for a cruise on the famous Yellow Water Billabong. Search for saltwater crocodiles and the colourful range of birdlife for which this region is renowned. After a lunch stop at Nourlangie Rock, your guide will lead a walk to view ancient Aboriginal rock art, before returning to Darwin this evening.
Today you begin the Western Australia leg of your journey. At the appropriate time, make your way to Darwin airport. Your hotel is located approximately 10km from Darwin Airport and a taxi ride will cost you between $25 and $35.
Kununurra is the gateway town to the East Kimberley, and a great base if you'd like to explore some of Western Australia's most remarkable natural attractions.
On arrival in Kununurra, board your included transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Today you will be collected from your accommodation at 11.30am to cruise the 55km to Lake Argyle, you will marvel at the spectacular scenery, wildlife, flora and fauna found along the way, including the elusive freshwater crocodile! Remaining on the boat at the base of the Ord Top Dam, you will cruise back towards Kununurra, stopping for afternoon tea at our riverside camp. Scenic photographers will appreciate the contrast in colours as the light changes the way the gorges and ranges look on the return journey. We will return you to your Kununurra accommodation at around 6.00pm after enjoying an East Kimberley sunset on board the boat.
Upgrade to a thrilling 30 minute helicopter flight over the Bungle Bungle Range, perfect for photos and an up close and personal look from above.
Today you’ll be collected from your hotel before boarding a 2 hour scenic flight that takes you on an unforgettable adventure over the Bungle Bungle Range, Lake Argyle, the Argyle Diamond Mine and the Ord River Irrigation Area. You will also fly over the stunning Carr Boyd and Osmand Ranges, the Ord and Bow Rivers before returning to Kununurra
Today, at the appropriate time, your transfer will pick you up from your hotel and take you to Kununurra airport in time to board your flight to Broome.
Where the red dirt meets the ocean, the colourful pearling capital of Broome beckons travellers from around Australia and the world
On arrival in Broome, please make your own way to your hotel. A taxi from Broome airport to your accommodation costs approximately $20-23 per car. Hotel check in is at 2pm. Should you arrive earlier than this, hotel staff will do all possible to check you in as soon as possible. If your room is not available before check-in time, you are welcome to leave your luggage in storage and explore the surrounding area.
This morning you will be collected from your hotel for a Willie Creek Pearl Farm Tour. You will follow the progress of the huge Pinctada Maxima shells as they are placed in panels and suspended to feed in the fast flowing tidal waters of Willie Creek. The world’s largest and most precious pearls grow on the Pearl Coast. After your tour including damper and tea, the Willie Creek Showroom reveals more insights into pearls and pearling, as well as offering affordable loose pearls, unique pearl farm jewellery and pearl shell products. Visiting the farm by air-conditioned coach is an excellent way to see some of the countryside with an experienced guide. Your coach captain will take the time to acquaint you with some of the more unusual native plants and wildlife on the 38km trip.
Today enjoy a half day guided tour of Broome main sites. Begin in Chinatown hearing fascinating stories of this colourful precinct. Learn about the ancient art of pearling from one of the local pearl producers, Cygnet Bay, and enjoy a historical sound show at the famous Sun Pictures, the worlds oldest operating open air picture garden (now listed in the Guinness World Records).
We take a drive through Old Broome to view typical Broome architecture and old Pearling Masters homes then view the aqua waters of Roebuck Bay at Town Beach and learn of Broome’s One Day War. We then stop at Matsos Broome Brewery to sample their hand made ales and famous ginger beer (complimentary tasting included). Afterwards, visit the tranquil Japanese Cemetery and take an easy paced walk at Gantheaume Point known for dinosaur footprints and the story of Anastasia’s Pool.
Drive down onto Cable Beach for sunset (subject to beach conditions). Relax and enjoy a stroll, swim or light refreshments (included) as you watch the sun disappear into the horizon.
A drop off to your accommodation is provided or you may like to enjoy a cocktail or dinner at one of the nearby cafes at approximately 6.00 pm.
Today is free for you to continue to explore Broome.
Perhaps, take on a one of Broome favourite day tours: a full day scenic flight and boat ride over the Horizontal Falls.
Itinerary note: Due to tidal conditions, this activity may be available a day prior or a day after.
Today you will be collected from your hotel to journey deep into the heart of pristine wilderness on a tour from Broome. Experience the Horizontal Falls and more via return scenic flights and fast boat cruise. Be amazed by the incredible forces of one of the world’s largest tidal movements. Be amazed by the incredible forces of one of the world’s largest tidal movements. Your highly experienced skipper navigates your boat back and forth through the Horizontal Falls. Have your camera ready as your one-hour return flight takes off from Cockatoo Island, flying low across the Horizontal Falls for an aerial perspective of your day in the Kimberley.
Tour departs: approx 5.30am
Tour concludes: approx 11.15am
Includes: Hotel pick up and drop off, return scenic flights, Kimberley cruise & breakfast
Make the most of another full day to relax or take on one of the many optional activities available in Broome. Perhaps join full day tour to one of the Kimberley's most recognised features: The Mitchell Falls.
Fly North over King Sound, home to Australia’s largest tides and amongst the highest in the world. Fly over Walcott Inlet estuary, the rarely seen Harding Range, and the impressive King Cascade on the Prince Regent River, before landing at Mitchell Plateau, home to the Wunambal, Gaambera, Kwini and Balangarra.
On arrival into Mitchell Plateau enjoy refreshments and a comfort stop before jumping back in the plane to overfly the Mitchell Falls and then track coastal southbound past Kuri Bay, Camden Sounds, Montgomery Reef and onto the spectacular Horizontal Waterfalls. Witness the amazing tidal shift through the natural phenomenon the Horizontal Waterfalls in Talbot Bay.
Then, track across the endless islands of the spectacular Buccaneer Archipelago including Cockatoo and Koolan Iron-ore mines before stopping at Cape Leveque.
Explore Kooljaman, Cape Leveque as we stop for refreshments, a swim and enough time to enjoy a walk along the beautiful beaches of red rock, white sand and turquoise waters.
See the spectacular bays and beaches of the Dampier Peninsula, Beagle Bay, James Price Point, Willie Creek and Broome's world-famous Cable Beach as we track coastal southbound back to Broome
*Landing at Mitchell Plateau subject to suitable conditions. The Horizontal Waterfalls is a natural phenomenon which is tide dependant with variable flow. Whilst we do our very best to arrive at a time of optimum flow, we cannot guarantee the amount or level of water flowing through the Horizontal Waterfalls at any given time.
Departing Broome, track North across King Sound, home to Australia's largest tides, fly over Walcott Inlet, the rarely seen Harding Range, and the Prince Regent River, before landing at Mitchell Plateau airstrip.
On arrival, you will be met by your tour guide from Kingfisher Tours. After a quick morning tea and refreshments, experience driving along one of the most remote Kimberley tracks in your comfortably airconditioned 4WD through the vast ancient Livistona Palm forest to the Mertens campground (Ranger Base) and the start of the 4.5km Punamii-unpuu Hiking Trail.
Guided by your Tour guide, enjoy a 4km cultural walk travelling past majestic waterfalls, spell-binding gorges, Aboriginal rock art and sites of cultural significance to the Wunambal people with swimming opportunities.
Admire the unforgettable view of Mitchell Falls whilst you enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch and rest.
After exploring the falls, a refreshing swim and many photo opportunities, enjoy an exhilarating helicopter scenic flight with HeliSpirit over the majestic Mitchell Falls and Mertens Gorge and be transferred back to the campsite.
After arriving back at the airfield, enjoy some well-earned refreshments before the homeward flight.
On the homeward flight, we track the coastline past Kuri Bay, home to the Paspaley Pearl Farm and the beautiful Montgomery Reef.
Fly over Horizontal Waterfalls described by David Attenborough as the 8th Natural Wonder of the World.
Marvel at the stunning Buccaneer Archipelago and it's 1,000 islands and the stunning northern tip of the Dampier Peninsula, Cape Leveque.
Coastal return flight along the bays and beaches of the Dampier Peninsula with views of Beagle Bay, James Price Point, Willie Creek Pearl Farm and world famous Cable Beach as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean. Morning Tea, Lunch & refreshments provided.
PLEASE NOTE: The 4km walk from Punamii-unpuu camp site to the Mitchell Falls will be the highlight of your visit, we allow 2 hours to complete the hike. The terrain on this walking trail can be difficult and requires a high level of fitness. Care should be taken due to uneven surfaces, water crossings, cliffs and gorges. The Horizontal Waterfalls is a natural phenomenon which is tide dependant with variable flow. We cannot guarantee the amount or level of water flowing through the Horizontal Waterfalls when overflying due to the structured tour schedule times.
Today your Kimberley and Top End discovery comes to an end. At the appropriate time make your way to the airport or continue your onward journey. A taxi from Broome airport to your accommodation costs approximately $20-23 per car.
Gold Service (Included)
Platinum Service - From $1,870 per person additional - SOLD OUT
Platinum Service promises and delivers a journey beyond expectations, it includes deluxe extras such as Platinum Transfers, access to the Platinum Club plus a superior food and wine offering.
Platinum cabins are almost twice the size of Gold Twin Cabins in both your room and private en suite. By day your cabin is configured as a private lounge with deluxe lounge seating, a table and two ottomans, by night the lounges convert into two comfortable twin beds.
From an additional $1,870 per person and is subject to availability upon booking.
Please note, there are no single rooms in the Platinum category
The Ghan offers a range of included off train experiences which can be viewed by CLICKING HERE
Off Train Experiences are included in your fare and can be booked on boarding the train (no pre-booking available).
Optional tours offered are paid. These optional activities are paid directly to The Ghan on board (no pre-booking available)
We offer two payment options – the choice is yours. Our advertised price is based on our 'Pay in Full' option, which includes a discount by making full payment at the time of booking. Alternatively, choose our 'Installment Payment Plan' option for the flexibility of incremental payments, beginning with a low deposit.
Please click 'Book Now' and proceed to the payment page to select your preferred option under the heading ‘Choose how to pay’. The total due will be reflected accordingly.
Pay In Full Option:
Installment Payment Plan Option:
Booking Process
Booking On Request
You can enhance your holiday by arriving early or staying longer upon conclusion of the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre and post tour accommodation
To enhance your journey, we are offering guests a choice of the following optional activities (prices are per person):
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability. We appreciate your understanding.
COVID-19
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure.
Fitness Requirements
While the itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”.
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.
Please note:
Gold Service - Available in twin configuration only. If selecting double upon check out, this configuration will only apply to your hotel accommodation.
Platnium Service - Available in double or twin configuration
Covid Itinerary Changes
Due to COVID there maybe disruptions to standard operating schedules of particular components of this itinerary. Should a component be effected a substitute will be confirmed prior to departure
Single Supplement on the Ghan
There is no single supplement for the Ghan if utilising a Single Room. Single Rooms on the Ghan are very limited and pricing is subject to availability. If the single cabins are not available at the time of booking, you will need to pay for a twin cabin at an additional cost of approx $2,700 for a Gold Twin in addition to the package price. This price is subject to change and as such, cannot be confirmed until after a booking has been made. If you are not happy with the price of the single supplement provided, you can request to cancel and receive a refund of your deposit. If the single supplement cost is suitable, this will be added to your invoice and part of the final balance payable. For an indicative cost prior to purchase, you are welcome to contact our Customer Service team.
Triple Share
Not available.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Children
Children must be 5 years old or above and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Group Size
This package is made up of multiple components which will be provided by different operators throughout your trip. As such, group size will differ between operators and can be as intimate as 2 people or as lively as up to 60 people, depending on the activity and advertised inclusions. There may be unique cases where your selected travel date exceeds the expected group size for special events or types of activities, particularly during popular times of travel. For packages that include a train or cruise, you will be travelling with other passengers up to the capacity of this component.
When travelling with a group, no matter the size, we ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience.
Bedding requests
We do our best to meet your bedding preference, however, bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only and cannot be guaranteed. All efforts will be made to meet your preference, however, any changes are beyond our control and limited by the hotel facilities and availability.
Tour Styles - This package is a Independent style.
To meet the needs of various types of travellers, we choose to operate various types of tours and depending on your selected package will mean different services are provided throughout your trip. The following descriptions of each tour style we hope will ensure that each traveller has appropriate expectations before they start their travels:
Who is operating this package
We have partnered with a wide range of third party operators who assist in fulfilling your booking and delivering an enjoyable on-tour experience. Each package will consist of multiple operators meaning both guides and fellow travellers may change day to day. But don't worry, regardless of the operator, you'll be in good hands to experience the most out of each destination.
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