Monarto Safari Stay & Great Southern Rail Brisbane to Adelaide

Your East Coast journey begins at Hanworth House in East Brisbane, where you’ll check in and be welcomed at a celebratory gathering. After setting off from Brisbane on the Great Southern, savour lunch on board and spend a relaxing afternoon settling into your cabin before arriving at the coastal town of Coffs Harbour.

As the sun dips beneath the horizon, enjoy drinks and canapes on the beach at Charlesworth Bay before a unique outdoor dinner – as long as the weather allows – where you’ll feast on local produce and fresh seafood paired with fine wines. Listen to the waves lapping at the nearby shore as the backing track for a live band playing the classics. After a few leisurely hours, you’ll reboard the train and set off for your first night on board.

Start the day with breakfast on board before setting off on your choice of Off Train Experiences. You may choose to meander through the picturesque vineyards of the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine regions, or explore Port Stephens by land or sea. Alternatively, explore Newcastle and discover the vibrant mix of old and new in the beautiful coastal city. Late afternoon, return to the train along with the rest of the
guests to enjoy a regionally inspired meal and relaxing time on board before retiring for the night.

After a leisurely breakfast on board as you travel through Victoria’s high country, you’ll again have a choice of Off Train Experiences.

Victoria is well-known for its excellent food and wine scene, which is on show at Clyde Park in the Moorabool Valley. Clyde Park is a beautiful vineyard, cellar door and bistro set among rolling hills. Here, you’ll enjoy a long lunch and sample cool-climate wines while being entertained on the glorious lawns.

Alternatively, opt to visit cosmopolitan Melbourne to find out why it’s considered the cultural and sporting capital of Australia. Explore the highlights of the Ian Potter Centre at NGV Australia, home of Australian art or opt to check out the “Cats & Dogs” exhibition featuring more than 250 works of art and design exploring humanity’s deep connection to these animals. Visit the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on an insightful tour with an Melbourne Cricket Club member, where you’ll be regaled with the highs and lows of sporting history. If you’re a history buff, head to the Old Melbourne Gaol, which, from 1842 until its closure in 1929, was the scene of 133 hangings, including Australia’s most infamous citizen, Bushranger Ned Kelly.

Having worked up an appetite, visit Melbourne Skydeck, taking in the soaring views 88 floors above sea level, and then ascend one more floor to Eureka 89, where you’ll dine on a beautifully curated menu showcasing local and seasonal produce. After lunch, you’ll make your way back to the train to continue your journey south

Upon arrival into Adelaide, you will be transferred by private vehicle to Monarto Safari Resort, approximately 50 minutes from the city centre and nestled in South Australia’s expansive Murraylands. Monarto Safari Resort offers an unparalleled escape into nature’s embrace, combining premium accommodation with authentic experiences, during your stay you’ll be surrounded by Africa’s wildest animals.
With some free time before checking in, you may choose to indulge in the luxurious day spa, laze by the two stunning pool areas or enjoy world-class dining at the onsite restaurant at Monarto Safari Resort. Settle into your new and well curated accommodation before joining the Sunset Wildlife Safari, soaking in the last rays of sun on your small group guided tour. Enjoy exclusive access to Monarto Safari Park’s Wild Africa area after hours with ample opportunity to immerse yourself in the vast parklands and watch the free-roaming herds of African animals across 550 hectares. As you explore the lands from the comfort of a custom built Safari Truck, you’ll have the opportunity to observe and photograph animals including Southern White Rhinos, Giraffes, Cheetahs, Eland, Ostriches, and Zebras. Drinks and canapes will be served during the tour, capping off the unforgettable experience. 

Today is yours to explore Monarto Safari Park via the guided Zu-Loop bus experience, or a combination of the Zu-Loop bus and walking. Monarto is the largest open range safari experience in the world outside of Africa and spans more than 1,500 hectares and is home to more than
50 species of exotic and native mammals, birds and reptiles.
You can hop on and off the bus at the wildlife viewing platforms and spend time observing your favourite animal species, including Giraffes, Elephants, Lions, Cheetahs, Rhinos, Chimpanzees, and more. Additionally, you can enhance your visit by attending Daily Keeper Presentations and booking a range of intimate behind-the-scenes animal
experiences.

Today, your wild Monarto Safari Stay comes to an end. After breakfast, check out of your accommodation and transfer by private vehicle to your choice of the Adelaide Airport or Adelaide CBD Hotel