Journey Beyond Rail has today opened bookings for the 2027 season of its all-inclusive experiential rail journeys, unveiling an exciting new chapter for its most iconic journey. The Ghan’s northbound itinerary, an Australian legend for over 95 years, will be extended to a three-night, four-day experience, offering guests unprecedented time to explore the vast beauty, culture and connections of outback South Australia and the Red Centre. Guests are encouraged to secure their preferred travel date early and experience Australia in a way only Journey Beyond can deliver.
“The Ghan holds a special place in the story of Australian travel, and guests have been asking for more time to experience its remarkable landscapes,” says David Donald, Executive General Manager of Rail at Journey Beyond. “By extending the northbound journey, we’re allowing travellers to slow down, deepen their connection to Country, and discover Outback Australia in a way that is both immersive and unforgettable.”
A New Chapter for The Ghan in 2027
The Ghan’s legacy is etched into the outback’s ochre earth, carving a path through some of Australia’s most spectacular and culturally significant landscapes. The Ghan has continually evolved to become a hallmark Australian experience, and in 2027, this legendary journey takes its next step forward.
Currently a two-night offering, the new northbound itinerary will be extended to a three-night, four-day experience, bringing it in line with the popular Ghan Expedition southbound itinerary and forming a centrepiece of the 2027 program.
Heading off from Adelaide, the journey begins with a celebratory dinner in one of South Australia’s acclaimed wine regions, setting the tone for an adventure shaped by flavour and connection. Guests then spend a full day exploring the Flinders Ranges, recently named one of Lonely Planet’s top 25 destinations for 2026 and widely recognised as one of Australia’s most extraordinary landscapes. Here, ancient geology rises in dramatic folds, cultural stories stretch back tens of thousands of years, and sweeping vistas reveal the true scale and spirit of the outback.
From there, The Ghan continues its iconic passage north, pausing in Marla and stopping in Alice Springs and Katherine for Off Train Experiences that showcase the landscape, culture and spirit of the outback before arriving in the lush, tropical Top End. With more moments to savour and more stories to uncover, 2027 marks a new way to experience Australia by Train
Prices start in AUD from $3,390 per person.
New Great Southern Holiday Packages with Outback Spirit
The Great Southern, Journey Beyond’s summer rail adventure along Australia’s East Coast introduces two new holiday packages in partnership with sister brand Outback Spirit. These all-inclusive extensions blend coastal rail travel with short-break touring and premium stays.
The 7-day Queensland Hinterland Spectacular begins in Adelaide with guests boarding the Great Southern for an epicurean rail adventure. After arriving in Brisbane, the adventure continues with Outback Spirit through Mount Tamborine, Lamington National Park and a luxurious stay at Spicers Hidden Vale. Prices start in AUD from $6,490 per person.
For southbound travellers, the 8-day Spectacular Kangaroo Island package begins aboard the Great Southern from Brisbane. After arriving in Adelaide, guests stay overnight at Monarto Safari Resort for a sunset safari, then continue with Outback Spirit to explore Kangaroo Island’s wildlife, dramatic coastline and the famed McLaren Vale wine region. Prices start in AUD from $7,690.
“Rail travel has always been about more than getting from one place to another. It’s about discovering the character of a region through its landscapes, its food and its people,” says David Donald. “Our 2027 season leans into that even further. From extending touring on The Ghan to new Great Southern packages shaped around Australia’s world-class food and wine scene, we’re creating journeys that deepen connection and celebrate what makes each place truly extraordinary.”
Aurora Australis Suites: A New Era of Luxury Rail Travel
Available across the full 2027 season, the Aurora Australis Suites continue to build on momentum as the most refined way to experience Australia on The Ghan, Indian Pacific and Great Southern. Designed in collaboration with award-winning studio Woods Bagot and crafted in South Australia, these suites redefine Australian rail travel with spacious private bedrooms, custom beds, generous ensuites, and curated interiors inspired by the nation’s landscapes and heritage. Guests enjoy elevated in-suite comforts including butler service, a personalised bar, premium amenities, and expanded views through large picture windows that frame the passing scenery like a moving gallery.
Having almost now sold out in 2026, discerning travellers are encouraged to secure their preferred travel date to enjoy the pinnacle of Australian luxury rail travel.
City Stay Packages Return for 2027
Journey Beyond Rail’s popular City Stay packages return in 2027, offering guests the chance to extend their rail adventure with hand-picked stays in Australia’s most vibrant cities. Designed to complement each journey, these curated add-ons pair iconic hotels with meaningful local experiences, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the culture, cuisine and character of each destination. From boutique luxury in the heart of Adelaide to harbourfront elegance in Sydney or indulgent coastal escapes in Perth, City Stay packages provide the perfect bookend to a journey by train whether easing into your adventure or savouring a few extra days after stepping off the train, these thoughtfully crafted stays invite guests to explore Australia’s cities with the same spirit of discovery that defines every Journey Beyond experience.
Wildly popular in 2026, guests can also choose an unforgettable overnight stay at Monarto Safari Resort, to Stay Wild on the edge of South Australia’s Murraylands, to experience Australia’s very own Wild Africa Safari experiences through a Dawn or Dusk Wildlife Safari.
Book now at www.journeybeyondrail.com.au
There’s no better way to experience Australia than by train and now is the time to secure your place in 2027.
