Experience train travel as it was a century ago in the South Australian countryside on the Pichi Richi Explorer, a half-day steam-train journey from Quorn.

As the track winds its way into the picturesque Pichi Richi Pass, you’ll get a close-up view of the ancient Flinders Ranges geology in the deep rock cuttings built in the 1870s.

The carriages, some dating back to the 19th century, were used on narrow-gauge trains such as the Great Northern Express, the Ghan, the East-West Express and services in the south-east of SA.

These carriages have been beautifully restored by our Pichi Richi Railway Volunteers.

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.

Departing Quorn at 5.00 pm, we travel through ranges painted sunset colours aboard our 1928-built Barwell Bull diesel railcar. This is the best time to see wildlife in the stunning Pichi Richi Pass.

It is not unknown for the train to have to slow down for kangaroos on the track!

Returns to Quorn at 7.30 pm.

Barwell Bulls were the former South Australian Railways’ US-designed Model 75 Brill railcars. This nickname referred to State Premier Sir Henry Barwell and the unique sound of their air horn. For over 40 years, they serviced virtually all of SA’s country lines.

Enjoy a unique heritage rail experience aboard our authentic Steam Motor Coach No 1.
Affectionately known as the “Coffee Pot”, this Edwardian-era steam railcar is more than 120 years old, and is the last operating example of its type worldwide. The Coffee Pot has been authentically and lovingly restored, and is maintained by our volunteers.

The Coffee Pot Heritage Rail Experience is limited to 22 passengers, who will travel through the heart of the Pichi Richi Pass, and stop en-route for a fully catered and delicious lunch.

Depart Quorn Railway Station at 12 noon, and return to Quorn at approximately 4.30 pm.