Australia’s legendary transcontinental train, The Ghan, has secured its place among the world’s finest luxury rail experiences, recently ranked fifth in a global list compiled by Japan Rail Pass. This accolade comes as no surprise to seasoned travellers who’ve experienced its unique blend of heritage, comfort, and breathtaking outback scenery.
The list, which also includes other internationally renowned services like the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and South Africa’s Rovos Rail, was determined through a combination of TripAdvisor reviews, Instagram popularity, and global search interest. It reflects the growing global appetite for immersive, slow-travel experiences, particularly those that don’t compromise on luxury.
A Journey Through the Heart of Australia
Stretching nearly 3,000 kilometres from Adelaide in South Australia to Darwin in the Northern Territory, The Ghan offers a rare chance to traverse the beating heart of the continent. For three to four days, depending on the itinerary, passengers witness the dramatic transformation of the landscape—from the lush hills surrounding Adelaide to the rust-coloured sands of the Red Centre and the tropical top end.
Named in honour of Afghan cameleers who helped explore and open up Australia’s interior during the 19th century, The Ghan is more than just a train ride—it’s a journey through time, land, and story.
The Pinnacle of Luxury on Rails
Luxury is at the core of The Ghan’s appeal. Operated by Journey Beyond Rail, the train features multiple classes of service, but its Platinum and Gold Premium offerings are where indulgence truly reaches its peak.
In Platinum Class, guests enjoy spacious private cabins that by day are elegant lounges and by night convert into comfortable double or twin beds. Each cabin boasts a full en suite with shower, premium amenities, and expansive windows offering uninterrupted views of the outback. Personalised service, including in-cabin breakfasts and refreshments, elevate the sense of being pampered at every moment.
Gold Premium—a newer class introduced to meet growing demand for luxury—delivers an upgraded take on the classic Gold Service. It includes a more refined décor, exclusive lounge access, and enhanced dining options.
Dining with a View
Food on The Ghan is more than sustenance—it’s an experience in itself. The culinary offerings are regionally inspired, with ingredients sourced locally where possible. Dishes might include kangaroo fillet, saltbush lamb, barramundi, or native herbs and spices, all paired with wines from some of Australia’s best-known vineyards.
Guests dine in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car, where white linen tablecloths, polished silverware, and attentive staff evoke a golden age of travel.
Immersive Off-Train Excursions
One of the key features that sets The Ghan apart is its program of off-train experiences, designed to connect travellers with Australia’s cultural and natural wonders.
In Alice Springs, guests might enjoy a guided tour of the iconic MacDonnell Ranges or a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service. In the quirky opal-mining town of Coober Pedy, they can venture underground to see how locals live and work. At Katherine, near Darwin, passengers are taken on a river cruise through the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge, learning about the area’s significance to the Jawoyn people.
These curated excursions offer rare insight into regions many would never reach otherwise—adding depth to the luxury journey.
Why the Ranking Matters
The inclusion of The Ghan in the world’s top five luxury train journeys shines a spotlight on Australia’s burgeoning high-end tourism sector. While many still associate luxury travel with European capitals or tropical island resorts, experiences like The Ghan prove that the outback can rival the Alps or the Amalfi Coast when it comes to sophistication and uniqueness.
It also aligns with broader travel trends, where authenticity, sustainability, and slower-paced experiences are increasingly prioritised over flashy excess. Train journeys allow travellers to reduce their carbon footprint compared to air travel, while also encouraging a deeper engagement with the places they pass through.
What the Future Holds
As demand for meaningful travel continues to grow, The Ghan is well-positioned to capitalise. Journey Beyond has invested in upgrading cabins and refining service levels while exploring ways to enhance the environmental sustainability of their operations.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Australia or a local looking to rediscover the continent in style, The Ghan remains a symbol of the luxury travel experience done right: rooted in place, rich in history, and unforgettable in every sense.
Written By: Sarah Reid
Published: 5th of May 2025