THE GHAN
RED CENTRE TO THE TOP END
2008 HOSTED GROUP TOUR
Departs: 11 September 2008

10 DAYS / 9 NIGHTS

Join a group of like minded people in search of new experiences to share with new found friends.

Our experienced tour leader not only shares their knowledge with you but also takes care of all your travel arrangements to ensure a hassle free and enjoyable holiday.

Experience Alice Springs, Ayers Rock, Kings Canyon, Darwin, Kakadu and The Ghan.

Day 1: Thursday, 11 September 2008
Fly to Alice Springs
Depart today from your home port to Alice Springs. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to Voyages Alice Springs Resort, your overnight accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure. This evening enjoy a Drovers Blowout welcome dinner at the historic Overlanders Steakhouse. A four course feast featuring beef, barramundi fish, crocodile, emu, camel and kangaroo. Tonight is an opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers.
Overnight: Voyages Alice Springs Resort (D)

Day 2: Friday, 12 September 2008
Ayers Rock & Kata Tjuta
This morning travel through the West MacDonnell and James Ranges. Stop to view majestic Atila (Mt Conner) before arriving at Ayers Rock. This afternoon visit Kata Tjuta and explore Walpa Gorge. Travel to the sunset viewing area. Enjoy nibbles and a glass of wine whilst watching the sun set and the changing colours of Uluru. Enjoy a traditional Australian barbecue dinner before time for stargazing (weather permitting).
Overnight: Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock (B,L,D)

Day 3: Saturday, 13 September 2008
Ayers Rock & Kings Canyon
Rise early this morning to travel to the Uluru sunrise viewing area. Watch the first rays of dawn set the Red Centre alight whilst enjoying a warming cup of tea or coffee. There is the opportunity to climb Uluru, Alternatively, you can take a peaceful stroll along the Mala Walk (non guided). Enjoy a tour around the base of Uluru before travelling to the Mutitjulu Walk to see the Mutitjulu Waterhole. View Aboriginal rock paintings and learn about the history of Uluru. This afternoon, travel to Kings Canyon.
Overnight: Kings Canyon Resort, Kings Canyon (B,D)

Day 4: Sunday, 14 September 2008
Kings Canyon to Alice Springs
This morning join a guided climb to the rim of Kings Canyon for marvellous views of Watarrka National Park (for those with a good level of fitness) or alternatively take an easier walk along the boulder-strewn canyon floor. Travel through the beautiful desert landscapes to Alice Springs. Stop at Mt Ebenezer Roadhouse and wander through the Aboriginal Art Gallery to see some local made craft. Continue on to Alice Springs to your overnight accommodation.
Overnight: Voyages Alice Springs Resort (B,L)

Day 5: Monday, 15 September 2008
Alice Springs, The Ghan
Tour the sights of ‘The Alice’ including the historic Telegraph Station and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Visit the School of the Air where you may have the opportunity to listen to the children take lessons on air. Stop at the Alice Springs Reptile Centre where you will see unique Central Australian reptiles. Conclude with a panoramic view of Alice Springs and the surrounding ranges from the top of Anzac Hill. Later today you will be transferred to Alice Springs Rail Terminal to meet The Ghan. Settle in to your Gold Service cabin as your travel north overnight.
Overnight: The Ghan (B,D)

Day 6: Tuesday, 16 September 2008
The Ghan, Darwin
In the morning you arrive in Katherine with around four hours to look around town or enjoy a spectacular Whistle Stop Tour (additional cost). Then it’s time to hop back on board for your journey north through the lush, Top End countryside before arriving in Darwin. On arrival in Darwin you will be transferred to the Crowne Plaza Darwin.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Darwin (B,L)

Day 7: Wednesday, 17 September 2008
Kakadu, Nourlangie Rock, Yellow Waters Cruise
Travel across Adelaide River and the Marrakai Plains and deep into Kakadu National Park. Take a guided walk to view ancient Aboriginal rock art at Nourlangie Rock. Join the famous Yellow Water Billabong Cruise to observe saltwater crocodiles and the colourful range of prolific birdlife that this region is renowned for. Visit the Warradjan Aboriginal Cultural Centre and view the informative displays and exhibits depicting the traditions of the Aboriginal people.
Overnight: Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn, Kakadu (B,L,D)

Day 8: Thursday, 18 September 2008
Kakadu, Ubirr, Guluyambi Cruise
Stop at Ubirr this morning with a short walk to view Aboriginal rock art. Join the Guluyambi Cruise along the East Alligator River in search of saltwater crocodiles. You will have an Aboriginal Guide with you and with the special permission of the local people, you will be able to go ashore in Arnhem Land. Visit the Bowali Visitor Centre before travelling back to Darwin later in the day.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Darwin (B)

Day 9: Friday, 19 September 2008
Darwin
Today is yours free to enjoy at leisure. Simply relax in the comfort of your accommodation or take in more of the sights of this beautiful cosmopolitan city. This evening enjoy a glass of sparkling wine and gourmet antipasto platters as you watch the sun set over Darwin Harbour aboard the 19 metre Tumlaren. Listen to the commentary on Darwin’s sites and points of interest.
Overnight: Crowne Plaza Darwin (B)

Day 10: Saturday, 20 September 2008
Darwin
Enjoy one last breakfast before checking out of your accommodation and bidding a fond farewell to your new found friends. (B)

To book your Hosted Group Tour call
Great Southern Rail Holidays
1300 769 222 or 8213 4535

Rail Only Bookings: Call 13 21 47 or book online click here

Click here for pdf flier