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Afghan Express
Highlights
- Experience the ancient Flinders Ranges as you journey from Port Augusta to Quorn on the Afghan Express.
- Gaze at rocky outcrops and dry riverbeds while travelling through the stunning Pichi Richi Pass.
- Discover the rich history of the Ghan railway, connecting Terowie to Oodnadatta since 1923.
- Enjoy family-friendly facilities, including carparks and public toilets, for a comfortable day out.
See the ancient Flinders Ranges landscape unfold before you on the full-day Afghan Express return trip from Port Augusta Railway Station to the historic outback town of Quorn.
Travelling the old Ghan route over red earth and bluebush plains from Port Augusta, you’ll watch the ranges creep ever-closer before entering the Pichi Richi Pass with its rocky outcrops, dry riverbeds and beautiful hilly scenery.
The Afghan Express is the name railwaymen gave to the passenger train that ran from Terowie to Oodnadatta, through Quorn, in 1923. In time, this was abbreviated to the Ghan.
The railway was ultimately extended to Alice Springs by 1929. The Ghan used the Pichi Richi Railway route until 1956 when a new standard-gauge railway from Stirling North to Brachina bypassed the narrow gauge railway through the Pichi Richi Pass.
Tour details
- On demand
Features
Service facilities
This business does not currently offer accessible facilities.
Operation information
Pichi Richi Railway | Historical Rail Experiences
Pichi Richi Railway, based in the historic township of Quorn in South Australia’s Flinders Ranges, offers an unforgettable heritage rail experience through one of the world’s oldest mountain landscapes. Located approximately 330 kilometres north of Adelaide (about a four-hour scenic drive), this iconic tourist railway invites travellers to step aboard beautifully restored steam and heritage diesel trains for a journey through rugged ranges, ancient gorges and timeless country charm.
Operating since 1973 and proudly maintained by dedicated volunteers, Pichi Richi Railway stands apart as South Australia’s oldest operating heritage railway. Each journey combines history, craftsmanship and storytelling—from the legendary “Afghan Express” to the exclusive “Coffee Pot” steam motor coach built in 1905. The attention to authenticity, coupled with friendly volunteer service, makes every trip a memorable connection to Australia’s pioneering past.
Situated in close proximity to the Ikara–Flinders Ranges National Park, the railway offers visitors an ideal base to explore the wider region’s natural beauty and heritage. Travellers can enjoy Quorn’s historic streetscapes, local art galleries, walking trails and country hospitality before or after their train ride. As a volunteer-run, not-for-profit organisation, sustainability and preservation are at the heart of every journey — keeping history alive for future generations. Discover the beauty, history and adventure of Pichi Richi Railway and experience where the outback spirit still runs on rails.
Winner Silver 2023 SA Tourism Awards
Tags
Memberships
- Regional Tourist/Tourism Association/Organisation
- Tourism Industry Council of SA
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