If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping back in time to a gentler age of travel, the Pichi Richi Railway — winding through the rugged beauty of the Southern Flinders Ranges, South Australia — offers a journey like no other.
Volunteers from the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society keep this living slice of railway heritage running, a labour of love that has endured for decades. In 2024, the railway celebrated 50 years of heritage‑railway magic — a milestone steeped in steam, camaraderie and community passion.
Timeless journeys with character
Whether you’re after a half‑day excursion or a full day of nostalgia, Pichi Richi delivers. The Pichi Richi Explorer departs from the historic town of Quorn and carries you gently along 32 km return to Woolshed Flat (with morning tea available for purchase) — a 2.5‑to‑3‑hour steam‑hauled journey through the dramatic rock cuttings of the Pichi Richi Pass, carved in the 1870s. Sit back in restored vintage carriages and watch the gum‑lined creeks, bluebush plains, and rugged ranges roll by.
For those longing for a longer voyage, the Afghan Express runs between Port Augusta and Quorn (return) — some 78 km there and back, with roughly six hours of total travel time including a stopover in historic Quorn for lunch or leisurely strolls. This ride recreates a flavour of the golden age of narrow‑gauge rail travel, timber‑bodied carriages and all. +2
Something special — the Coffee Pot Heritage Railway Experience & Sundowner Explorer
Fancy something truly unique? The Coffee Pot isn’t a café — it’s the affectionate name for Steam Motor Coach No. 1, an Edwardian‑era steam railcar built in 1906 — the last operating example of its kind in the world. Restored with loving attention by volunteers, this gorgeous little relic carries a mere 22 passengers for a vintage‑style day trip from Quorn to Tickle Belly Hill and back. The experience includes a welcome drink, canapés and a fully catered lunch — a perfect slow‑paced treat for those who appreciate heritage and quiet sophistication.
For a different vibe at dusk, there’s the Sundowner Explorer, a twilight diesel railcar ride (the 1928‑built “Barwell Bull”) through the Pass. Leaving Quorn in late afternoon, passengers cruise into the sunset as ranges glow gold and shadows lengthen — a peaceful, soulful way to see wildlife and enjoy the landscape’s colours in softer light.+2
Why the Flinders Ranges makes it more than a train ride
The railways may get you there, but the magic is enhanced by the fact that the Flinders Ranges themselves are widely recognised as one of Australia’s greatest natural wonders. In fact — and this is worth noting — the broader region including the Ranges has recently been named by Lonely Planet as the 4th best place in Australia to visit — a glowing endorsement for travellers seeking breathtaking scenery, peaceful outback charm, and old‑world atmosphere.
Heritage, heart and volunteer spirit
What makes Pichi Richi truly special is that 100% of its operations are driven by volunteers — passionate train enthusiasts who have dedicated their time, expertise and love of rail history to restoring steam and diesel locomotives, timber carriages and even a 1906 steam railcar. Their work ensures passengers don’t just ride — there immersed in living railway history – authentic, nostalgic and unforgettable.
Every moment echoing stories of the past.
So if you’re looking for a comfortable yet adventurous day out — whether it’s the steam‑powered nostalgia of the Pichi Richi Explorer, the full‑day immersion of the Afghan Express, the intimate charm of the Coffee Pot, or a golden‑hour Sundowner through the Pass — the Pichi Richi Railway offers something wonderfully different. And with the Flinders Ranges now drawing global attention, there’s never been a better time to climb aboard, breathe in the scents of eucalyptus and steam, and travel back to a time when going by rail was the very fabric of exploring Australia “
Visit our website Authentic outback railway in the Flinders Ranges – Pichi Richi Railway
Phone 1800 777 245
