Pichi Richi

Picture of the historic steam train in Pichi Richi

Heritage Railway operating since 1878

In 1878, construction commenced on the Port Augusta and Government Gums (now known as Farina, which is north of the Flinders Ranges) Railway. The line was extended to Oodnadatta in 1891 and further to Alice Springs (771 miles or 1241 km) in 1929, establishing an important rail link to Central Australia. The famous Ghan passenger train travelled this way from 1923 to 1956, and on the northern part of this route until 1980.

You can enjoy a full-day or half-day trip aboard a restored steam or heritage diesel train on the original Ghan route between Port Augusta and Quorn on the Pichi Richi Railway.

Watch gum-lined creeks, bluebush-studded hills and ancient rocky outcrops roll past at the relaxed pace of years gone by. All trains use historic steam or diesel locomotives or railcars or immaculately restored timber carriages some more than 130 years old.

Since 1973, volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society continue to proudly restore and run the railway.

We operate on selected dates from March to November each year. Check our timetable, then book online or phone 1800 PR RAIL (1800 77 7245).

Please note our train services do book out, so to avoid disappointment we recommend booking early. For tickets and availability please refer to our Bookings page.

Picture of the historic steam train on a bridge in Pichi Richi

Bookings

Book early to ensure you can be part of these unique historic events.
Buy your tickets from:

WADLATA OUTBACK CENTRE
41 Flinders Terrace, Port Augusta.
Telephone 08 8641 9197.
Open 7 days -
Monday to Friday 9:00am - 5:00pm
Weekends & Public Holidays 10:00am - 4:00pm

2021 Tourism Award Winner