Journey Beyond Rail has confirmed its 2027 season, with a significant enhancement to one of Australia’s most recognisable rail journeys.
From 2027, The Ghan’s northbound itinerary will shift to a three-night, four-day journey, marking its most significant expansion in decades.
The move follows a strong year for the operator, which it attributes to solid domestic and international demand, as well as ongoing support from the travel trade.
“The support we continue to receive from the travel industry is extraordinary, and we’re genuinely grateful for the role agents play in the ongoing success of our rail journeys,” Journey Beyond Executive General Manager Sales and Partnerships Alicia Triggs said.
“We’ve come off another record year in 2025, with demand across our portfolio stronger than ever. Many advisors are already holding waitlists for 2027, which speaks volumes about the appetite for immersive, all-inclusive train travel across Australia”.
Journey Beyond Rail says the longer northbound experience brings the service in line with the existing Ghan Expedition southbound itinerary. It will also offer travellers more time on the ground in key regions between Adelaide and Darwin.
Departing Adelaide, the updated itinerary launches with a signature dinner in one of South Australia’s well-known wine regions. Guests then spend a full day in the Flinders Ranges. The region, recently recognised by Lonely Planet as a top global destination for 2026, features dramatic landscapes, deep cultural significance and sweeping outback views.
The Ghan will continue north with stops in Alice Springs and Katherine for Off Train Experiences, before arriving in Darwin.
Prices start from AU$3,390 per person.
More details will be shared with the trade in the coming months.
Great Southern land
Elsewhere, Journey Beyond Rail has also announced two new 2027 packages for the Great Southern in partnership with Outback Spirit.
The first package – the seven-day Queensland Hinterland Spectacular – blends rail travel with touring through Mount Tamborine, Lamington National Park and Spicers Hidden Vale.
The second – the eight-day Spectacular Kangaroo Island package – includes stays at Monarto Safari Resort and two nights exploring Kangaroo Island.
Packages start from AU$6,490 and $8,390 respectively.
Meanwhile, the Aurora Australis Suites will again feature across the 2027 season, offering spacious private cabins with butler service and premium amenities following strong demand in 2026.
“Rail travel has always been about more than simply moving between destinations. It’s about discovering the character of a region through its landscapes, its food and its people, and our 2027 season leans even further into that,” Triggs said.
“From extending touring on The Ghan to introducing new Great Southern packages shaped around Australia’s world-class food and wine, we’re creating journeys that deepen connection and celebrate what makes each place truly extraordinary.”
Bookings are now open at Journey Beyond Rail.
KARRYON UNPACKS: This one’s a biggie for rail lovers and advisors with clients chasing something iconic (and bookable well ahead). The Ghan’s longer northbound itinerary feels like a smart play. Agents have been asking for more immersive outback time, and now there’s an expanded product that mirrors the southbound favourite.
