Pichi Richi Railway
Pichi Richi Railway
4.5
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
About
Watch the ancient landscape of the Flinders Ranges roll past as you relax in the style of a bygone era. Built in the 1870s, this unique 2021 SA Tourism award winning railway is the last remaining operating portion of the "Old Ghan" narrow-gauge line. After being abandoned in the 1950's the Railway was revived in 1974 by the volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society who have progressively restored a remarkable collection of heritage locomotives and carriages. Trains operate March - November. Visit our website for timetable and bookings.
Duration: More than 3 hours
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
184 reviews
Excellent
144
Very good
34
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
2
David B
Bruce, Australia996 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
This delightful train ride is a trip from Port Augusta to Quorn and return. Some days it goes the other way.
We arrived at Port Port Augusta station to the welcome of a rockabilly busker group. The members were all seniors but they were very modern, accepting electronic donations.
We had booked earlier. This is highly recommended. I don’t think there were any empty seats. I collected our real cardboard tickets from the booking office. They gave me carriage allocation. Our actual seats were provided by the conductor later on.
After a while the train backed into the platform. The engineer was very friendly and welcomed visitors onto the footplate. The engine made the most wonderful idling noises. There was no issue about walking on the tracks to see the locomotive up close and personal.
About 15 minutes before departure we were invited aboard our carriage. I think the seating capacity has been halved due to the virus.
The conductor shouted “all aboard” and we were off.
The trip took us past salt lakes, settlements, over trestle bridges, through narrow cuttings and past startled kangaroos. There was also no shortage of people taking photos from the road.
There was no restriction on opening windows and sticking our head out or standing at the carriage entry so photo opportunities abounded. I loved the smell of burning coal, the cinders and the occasional shot of steam. It all brought back lovely memories from my youth.
The train arrived in Quorn and we were allowed off. We spent about two hours here. The Austral Hotel offers diners from the train a complimentary drink with lunch. Many of the shops were not open. The best souvenirs are inside the railway station.
The train departed just a little late. A young girl raced up and told the conductor and the entire carriage that “mummy is in the toilet”. 😁
The return trip is, obviously, over the same route but you do get a different perspective going the other way.
We arrived at Port Port Augusta station to the welcome of a rockabilly busker group. The members were all seniors but they were very modern, accepting electronic donations.
We had booked earlier. This is highly recommended. I don’t think there were any empty seats. I collected our real cardboard tickets from the booking office. They gave me carriage allocation. Our actual seats were provided by the conductor later on.
After a while the train backed into the platform. The engineer was very friendly and welcomed visitors onto the footplate. The engine made the most wonderful idling noises. There was no issue about walking on the tracks to see the locomotive up close and personal.
About 15 minutes before departure we were invited aboard our carriage. I think the seating capacity has been halved due to the virus.
The conductor shouted “all aboard” and we were off.
The trip took us past salt lakes, settlements, over trestle bridges, through narrow cuttings and past startled kangaroos. There was also no shortage of people taking photos from the road.
There was no restriction on opening windows and sticking our head out or standing at the carriage entry so photo opportunities abounded. I loved the smell of burning coal, the cinders and the occasional shot of steam. It all brought back lovely memories from my youth.
The train arrived in Quorn and we were allowed off. We spent about two hours here. The Austral Hotel offers diners from the train a complimentary drink with lunch. Many of the shops were not open. The best souvenirs are inside the railway station.
The train departed just a little late. A young girl raced up and told the conductor and the entire carriage that “mummy is in the toilet”. 😁
The return trip is, obviously, over the same route but you do get a different perspective going the other way.
Written April 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your very detailed review and great you had a good trip.
Unfortunately our capacity is reduced to meet social distancing requirements although with groups, our capacity is about 75%
Guests are recommended to book ahead as far as possible so as to not be disappointed
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jordan M
Greater Sydney, Australia42 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
The Pichi Richi Railway is a fabulous train ride on a steam train from Quorn to Woolshed Flats.
The train has been remarkably restored and maintained by volunteers who are obviously passionate about what they do.
They perform their duties so professionally with detail to safety and comfort of passengers.
The train ride itself on this beautiful train is comfortable and fun.
On arriving in Woolshed flat we were greeted by more enthusiastic volunteers who had prepared beautiful, traditional yummy refreshments for sale. ( cash only) .
The train has been remarkably restored and maintained by volunteers who are obviously passionate about what they do.
They perform their duties so professionally with detail to safety and comfort of passengers.
The train ride itself on this beautiful train is comfortable and fun.
On arriving in Woolshed flat we were greeted by more enthusiastic volunteers who had prepared beautiful, traditional yummy refreshments for sale. ( cash only) .
Written April 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your review and glad you enjoyed the meeting.
Please note that we are now able to take card payments at Woolshed Flat following the completion of a new Telstra Tower in the region and a new antenna at our building.
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Big Brown Bear
Monash, Australia402 contributions
Oct 2020
This was recommended by a "train tragic" friend so we "had to do it". AND, so glad we did. The trip was awesome, the train was just like I remember when growing up in the 50s and the scenery fantastic. The trip from Quorn to Woolshed Flat and return takes about 3 hours. The carriages have all been fully restored and show the beautiful wood craftsmanship that was used when the carriages were originally made. The staff on the train were very helpful and informative considering that they are volunteers. Covid-19 were strictly adhered to. The scones and tea as Woolshed Flat was a great way to interrupt the trip whilst the train was turned for the return journey. There is no ATM at Woolshed as there is no phone connection.
Written November 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thanks for your great review and glad you had a good trip. We do now have the ability to take electronic payments at Woolshed Flat now that the Telstra tower has been completed and we have installed an additional antenna to ensure we have a strong enough signal.
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nathanfreeman82
Adelaide, Australia243 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
This was the first time that we have visited Quorn and been on the Pichi Richi Railway with our 4 year old. It was a fantastic experience, the carriages were clean and not overcrowded, the staff were extremely friendly and the scenery was amazing. The driver let our son sit in the front of the steam train in the driver's seat and watch them shovel the coal into the fire. Overall was a fantastic experience and a must for all!
Written June 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nathan
Thanks for your review and so glad you had a great trip and that your 4 year old had a wonderful time. It is a wonderful area to run a steam train through - we are so lucky.
Thanks again.
Written June 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dave R
6 contributions
Oct 2021
We rode the Pichi Richi from Quorn to Woolshed Flat and return as part of our family trip to the Flinders Ranges. Our Car Captain was Rob, a volunteer, was friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to have a conversation. The train itself was in great condition and our car "Sturt" was very comfortable and clean. Was quite an experience in this day and age to be able to open a train window and take photo's out of the open window.
The kids enjoyed climbing into the Loco after it changed ends at Woolshed Flat and the Kitchen Staff were very friendly and welcoming, waving to the train upon its arrival and departure, the scones were good too!
A great way to spend a day in Quorn, we highly recommend this experience to family's with children of all ages.
The kids enjoyed climbing into the Loco after it changed ends at Woolshed Flat and the Kitchen Staff were very friendly and welcoming, waving to the train upon its arrival and departure, the scones were good too!
A great way to spend a day in Quorn, we highly recommend this experience to family's with children of all ages.
Written October 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Better late than never.... apologies for our late reply.
Thank you for the positive feedback, and our volunteers will be happy to hear your family enjoyed the day out on the Pichi Richi Railway.
#teamPRR
Written April 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gracie2307
Adelaide, Australia176 contributions
Oct 2021 • Family
I’m not sure if the value for money is there with this attraction. $142 for a family of 4. The train ride is pretty but there is a feeling of nothingness. There is no narrative on the journey, no guide talks at Woolshed Flat. It’s just a bit empty to be fair.
Train is in spectacular condition and cabins are clean.
Make sure you try and get some time with the volunteers as they are a wealth of knowledge.
It would be good if you could order your meal when you pick up your tickets so you don’t have to line up for 30 minutes at Woolshed Flat. They could literally just send the order through over the phone.
Train is in spectacular condition and cabins are clean.
Make sure you try and get some time with the volunteers as they are a wealth of knowledge.
It would be good if you could order your meal when you pick up your tickets so you don’t have to line up for 30 minutes at Woolshed Flat. They could literally just send the order through over the phone.
Written October 9, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Better late than never.... apologies for our late reply.
Thank you for your feedback, unfortunately Covid has challenged many of the way we have done things and the points you raised have been passed onto our volunteers and we appreciate the time you took to let us know your concerns,
#teamPRR
Written April 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
777chrispy
Ararat, Australia109 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
Great fun day! Nothing like a steam train to make you feel nostalgic. The restored carriages were comfortable and authentic. Our guide was exceptional and very passionate about the railway. He answered all questions knowledgeably and with good humour. Lunch at Woolshed Flat was delicious and the accompanying ukulele music was fitting. Everyone on the train seemed to have a good time and it wasn’t spoilt by the slightly drizzly weather. We were sorry when it was over but will be recommending it to all our friends and family. Thanks to all the volunteers - particularly to our host.
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you 777chrispy for your kind note about the Port Augusta Musicians Club and the Pichi Richi Railway.
Glad you had a great day out, and sorry it took us a while to respond.
#teamPRR, Pichi RichI Railway
Written October 1, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BelWDuns
Dunsborough, Australia52 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
What a fabulous way to round out a great holiday. This was the best half day. This experience evokes so many nostalgic emotions. The scenery was beautiful. The engine and carriages are so beautifully restored and the fact that it’s all by volunteers is all the more impressive. All the volunteers were friendly and informative. Make sure you do this but make sure you book well in advance as it’s very popular.
Written October 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you BelWDuns for your very kind comments.
Our volunteers certainly appreciate hearing from our passengers especially when they appreciate us operating an iconic authentic heritage railway museum and keeping our rail heritage alive in the southern Flinders Ranges, South Australia.
#teamPRR, Pichi Richi Railway
Written November 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Graham E
Sydney, Australia127 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
So glad our trip to Port Augusta synchronised with the availability of a journey on the nearby Pichi Richi railway. While we might of been amongst the oldest passengers in our carriage, it was certainly a lot of fun with so many couples with the other children having the time of their life and enjoying a return to the era of steam.
Our journey on Easter Sunday was further highlighted by a number of Easter bunnies making special appearances along our journey.
Our journey on Easter Sunday was further highlighted by a number of Easter bunnies making special appearances along our journey.
Written April 4, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your great review and pleased that you had a great journey
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
mickrachel
Sydney, Australia35 contributions
Jun 2021
Really enjoyed this trip through the Southern Flinders on an old steam locomotive.
Things were a little different due to the covid guidelines, but the team still provided an excellent experience. 100% recommend if in or passing through the area
Things were a little different due to the covid guidelines, but the team still provided an excellent experience. 100% recommend if in or passing through the area
Written June 30, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Mick and Rachel
Thanks for your review and we are pleased that you enjoyed our trip on the train. COVID does provide a few challenges which we are trying to keep on top of. This of course reduces our capacity slightly and so booking early to avoid disappointment is a must.
Written July 12, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dawnj0nes1
Milsons Point, Australia
Does the train travel quoin to port Augusta every day.? Do you need to book.?
Written January 27, 2017
Hi. The Pichi Richi Railway is operated entirely by volunteers. We do not operate every day, but most weekends from March to October. We do not operate during the summer months due to the high temperatures and fire danger. We do not operate a scheduled service from Quorn to Port Augusta but you could book one way trip Quorn to Port Augusta on our Afghan Express service but you would need to make your own way back. Check out timetable on our website.
Written January 29, 2017
Hi Brenton are you interested in joining PRR? we would welcome enthuastic people like you. Some members including committee members reside as far away as NSW and VIC and can only visit Quorn once or twice a year. Every little bit helps.
Written July 23, 2015
We have all sorts of role available, too many to mention here, so please refer the Volunteering section on our website or feel free to give us a call.
Written October 3, 2022
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