Australia · Across a continent
The Ghan
When does the Ghan run from Adelaide to Darwin?
Running; the 2027 timetable is published. No trains from December to February.
We checked this with Journey Beyond on 29 Oct 2026. Dates, times and prices change: check journeybeyondrail.com.au ↗ before you book or travel.
Named after the Afghan cameleers of central Australia, it runs 2,979 km through the Red Centre. The first train left Adelaide in 1929, and the line reached Darwin in 2004.
- Takes
- 2 to 3 nights
- Distance
- 2,979 km
- From
- Adelaide
- To
- Darwin
- Operator
- Journey Beyond
When it runs
- Runs
- 2027: every Saturday from Adelaide from March to November, plus Tuesdays from April to October.
- Takes
- Adelaide to Darwin: 2 to 3 nights (2027: Saturday 15:00 to Tuesday 17:30). The Ghan Expedition, Darwin to Adelaide: 3 nights.
Book and stay
Stay the night before
Before you go
- Not in summerNo trains from December to February.
- Off the trainThe 2027 northbound trip includes a day in the Flinders Ranges.
- All inclusiveJourney Beyond describes Ghan journeys as all-inclusive.
Good to know
Does the Ghan run all year?
No: there are no trains from December to February.
How long is the Ghan?
Adelaide to Darwin takes 2 to 3 nights; the Ghan Expedition from Darwin takes 3.
Why is it called the Ghan?
It is named after the Afghan cameleers of central Australia.
More famous journeys nearby
Checked on 29 Oct 2026 with journeybeyondrail.com.au. Direct trains from our own timetable data.