Grand Australia Rail Vacation: Reef, The Ghan & Indian Pacific

Day 1 Cairns | Arrival Welcome to Cairns! Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city, within easy reach of the Cairns Esplanade, waterfront lagoon, marina and a wide choice of cafés and restaurants. Framed by rainforest-covered mountains and the Coral Sea, Cairns is the tropical gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and a relaxed base for exploring Tropical North Queensland.

Day 2 Cairns | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 2 Cruise Excursions Personalize your Great Barrier Reef Cruise in Cairns by choosing one of the following carefully selected cruise excursions, each offering a different way to discover the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. Option 1. Reef Magic Reef Cruise | Larger Vessel - 200 Passengers Discover the Great Barrier Reef on a full-day cruise from Cairns to an outer reef pontoon, where a sheltered coral lagoon and excellent facilities make for a relaxed and enjoyable day on the water. Snorkel among colourful marine life, enjoy glass-bottom boat and semi-submersible tours, visit the underwater observatory and unwind over a tropical buffet lunch surrounded by one of Australia’s most spectacular natural environments. Option 2. Ocean Freedom Reef Cruise | Smaller Vessel - 75 Passengers Experience the Great Barrier Reef on an Ocean Freedom cruise to two unique reef sites, including Upolu Cay and the outer edge of Upolu Reef’s Wonder Wall. With time for snorkelling, diving and drift snorkelling, plus a glass-bottom boat tour and a seafood lunch, this smaller-vessel experience offers an intimate and immersive day among crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral gardens and extraordinary marine life.

Day 3 Cairns | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 2 Excursions Personalize your Northern Cairns Experience by choosing one of the following carefully selected excursions, each offering a different way to experience the natural wonders of Tropical North Queensland. Option 1. Kuranda Rainforestation & Kuranda Scenic Rail Gold Class Board the iconic Kuranda Scenic Rail for one of Australia’s most memorable rail journeys, travelling through World Heritage rainforest past waterfalls, deep ravines and the dramatic landscapes of Barron Gorge. In Kuranda, visit Rainforestation Nature Park for a historic Army Duck tour, close-up encounters with koalas and cassowaries, and the Pamagirri Aboriginal Experience, where local guides bring culture to life through dance, boomerang and spear throwing, and a Dreamtime walk. Option 2. Cape Tribulation, Daintree & Wildlife Tour Travel the spectacular Great Barrier Reef Drive from Cairns to Port Douglas and the Daintree on a full-day adventure through one of Australia’s most remarkable natural regions. Enjoy close-up wildlife encounters at Wildlife Habitat, cross the Daintree River by ferry, join guided rainforest walks, visit Mason’s swimming hole, Cape Tribulation and Alexandra Lookout, and finish with Daintree Ice Cream and a river cruise. This is a wonderful opportunity to discover where reef meets rainforest and to look for crocodiles, cassowaries and tropical birdlife

Day 4 Cairns to Uluru (Ayers Rock) | Flight + Evening Excursion Today, depart Cairns on your early morning flight to Uluru. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day at leisure. In the heart of the Red Centre, Uluru is one of Australia’s most iconic and spiritual landscapes, renowned for its vast desert scenery, rich Aboriginal culture and unforgettable light at sunrise and sunset. You may wish to spend the afternoon relaxing at your hotel or simply taking in the remarkable outback setting ahead of your Uluru experiences.

Yulara Evening | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 2 Excursions Personalize your time in Yulara by choosing one of the following carefully selected experiences, each offering a memorable way to discover the beauty of the Red Centre. Option 1. Afternoon Uluru Sunset Tour Experience Uluru at sunset on a memorable tour showcasing the ever-changing colours of this iconic monolith. With uninterrupted desert views, sparkling wine and light refreshments, this is one of the most magical ways to appreciate the scale, beauty and atmosphere of Australia’s spiritual heart. Option 2. Sunset Camel Ride Enjoy a peaceful one-hour camel ride through striking sand dune country, with awe-inspiring views of Uluru and Kata Tjuta unfolding around you. As the sun begins to set, watch the desert colours deepen from atop a dune while skilled cameleers share stories of the local flora and fauna. The experience concludes with sparkling wine or beer and light snacks, adding a relaxed finishing touch to this unforgettable outback evening.

Day 5 Yulara at Leisure | Evening Field of Light Dinner Experience Today is free for you to enjoy Yulara at your own pace. You may wish to explore Uluru independently, where interpretive plaques reveal the cultural significance of the surrounding caves and rock formations, or perhaps visit the local art gallery to admire works by regional artists. Other options include a didgeridoo workshop, a bush food experience or simply time to unwind by the pool and soak up the atmosphere of this remarkable desert setting. This evening, travel to a remote desert setting with magnificent views of Uluru for an unforgettable dining and light experience. As the sun begins to set, enjoy canapés and chilled sparkling wine against the dramatic backdrop of Australia’s spiritual heart. After dusk, the magic of Bruce Munro’s Field of Light comes to life as 50,000 illuminated glass spheres gently glow across the desert. Before exploring the installation, take your seat with fellow travellers for a memorable three-course bush tucker inspired buffet dinner, while your host shares insight into the artwork and its remarkable setting. Later, wander through the softly lit pathways at your own pace, then return to the raised viewing platform for a final look over the glowing landscape while enjoying a sweet treat, hot chocolate or port before your return transfer.

Day 6 Uluru (Ayers Rock) to Alice Springs | Scheduled Coach Transfer This afternoon, travel from Ayers Rock Resort to Alice Springs on a scenic coach journey through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Pass the striking flat-topped silhouette of Atila (Mt Conner) and continue across wide desert plains, where red earth, hardy desert flora and vast open spaces create a classic outback scene. Watch for native wildlife along the way as the ancient MacDonnell Ranges gradually come into view, marking your approach to Alice Springs

Day 7 Alice Springs to Darwin | Flight This morning, depart Alice Springs on your flight to Darwin. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day at leisure to begin exploring Australia’s tropical northern capital. Set on a broad harbour and known for its laid-back energy, multicultural dining and balmy evenings, Darwin is a wonderful contrast to the Red Centre. Perhaps spend the afternoon at the Darwin Waterfront or Stokes Hill Wharf, then head to Mindil Beach for sunset or dinner along the Esplanade.

Day 8 Darwin to Alice Springs | On board The Ghan Train Today, begin your journey in Darwin, where a warm welcome with light refreshments sets the tone for the days ahead. Step on board The Ghan Expedition and settle into your cabin as this iconic rail adventure departs south into the vast landscapes of the Northern Territory. After lunch on board, arrive in Katherine for your first Off Train Experience, where you may choose to cruise through the dramatic sandstone cliffs of Nitmiluk Gorge, discover life in the outback at the Katherine Outback Experience, or explore the limestone formations and cultural stories of Cutta Cutta Caves. Later, return to the train and relax into the rhythm of life on board as the journey continues through the outback. (Lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 9 Dinner under the stars | On board The Ghan Train Wake this morning to the wide-open beauty of Central Australia as The Ghan Expedition approaches Alice Springs. After breakfast, step off the train and choose from a range of immersive experiences that reveal the character of this remarkable outback town and its surrounding landscapes. You may opt for an off-road e-bike adventure, discover the local landmarks on the A Town Called Alice tour, explore Standley Chasm and Simpsons Gap, or encounter desert wildlife at Alice Springs Desert Park. As evening falls, one of the great highlights of the journey awaits at the historic Telegraph Station, where dinner is served beneath a canopy of stars amid the red earth of the desert, complete with fine food, white tablecloths and live entertainment. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 10 Manguri, Coober Pedy & The Outback | On board The Ghan Train This morning begins with a stop at remote Manguri, where the stillness of the outback and the colours of sunrise create a memorable start to the day. From here, continue to Coober Pedy, the extraordinary underground town known as the opal capital of the world. Spend the day discovering this fascinating desert settlement, where many homes and buildings are carved below ground to escape the harsh climate above. Highlights include a gourmet underground lunch, the striking landscapes of the Breakaways, quirky local sights and the chance to learn more about the town’s opal mining history. Later, reboard The Ghan for your final evening on board, with dinner in the dining carriage and time to reflect on the journey as the train rolls south towards Adelaide. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 11 Flinders Ranges to Adelaide | On board The Ghan Train Today, wake to a striking change in scenery as the rich red tones of the outback gradually give way to the greener fields and pastoral landscapes of South Australia. Enjoy a leisurely brunch on board as the train passes through the Flinders Ranges, offering a final opportunity to soak up the ever-changing views from your window. By late morning, arrive in Adelaide, bringing this unforgettable journey through the heart of Australia to a memorable close. (Breakfast is included today.)

Day 12 Adelaide | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 2 Excursions Personalize your stay in Adelaide by choosing one of the following carefully selected excursions, each offering a different way to experience South Australia’s celebrated wine country. Option 1. Uncork the Barossa Valley Winery Tour Discover the Barossa Valley on a small-group wine journey through one of Australia’s most celebrated wine regions. Visit boutique cellar doors for premium tastings, enjoy a chef’s selection lunch and sample the bold Shiraz and contrasting varietals for which the region is so well known. Framed by vineyard scenery and regional flavours, this is a relaxed and rewarding day in South Australia’s most iconic wine country. Option 2. Uncork McLaren Vale Winery Tour Explore McLaren Vale on a small-group wine tour showcasing one of South Australia’s most picturesque and acclaimed wine regions. Visit boutique cellar doors for premium tastings, enjoy a chef’s selection lunch and discover the region’s signature Shiraz, elegant Grenache and Mediterranean varietals. With vineyard views, coastal scenery and hidden-gem wineries along the way, this is a wonderful day of gourmet discovery just beyond Adelaide.

Day 13 Adelaide | Departure on board the Indian Pacific Train Your journey begins in Adelaide with an exclusive evening in the Barossa Valley, setting a wonderfully indulgent tone for the days ahead. Spend the evening at historic Seppeltsfield Estate, where fine wine, regional flavours and a memorable dining experience come together in one of South Australia’s best-known wine regions. Later, board the Indian Pacific at Adelaide Parklands Terminal, settle into your cabin and relax into the elegant rhythm of life on board as the train departs eastbound. (Dinner is included today.)

Day 14 Broken Hill | On board the Indian Pacific Train Wake this morning in Broken Hill, the legendary Silver City, where a choice of off-train experiences reveals the outback character, mining heritage and creative spirit of this remarkable town. Depending on your interests, you may delve into the region’s mining past, venture underground, discover local art or enjoy a food-focused experience highlighting native ingredients and regional flavours. Back on board, continue through the changing landscapes of regional New South Wales and spend the evening enjoying your final dinner on the Indian Pacific. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 15 Blue Mountains to Sydney | On board the Indian Pacific Train Your final day begins in the majestic Blue Mountains, where soaring sandstone escarpments, forested valleys and sweeping views create one of New South Wales’ most memorable landscapes. After breakfast, step off the train for your off-train experience and choose how you would like to explore this World Heritage-listed region, from Scenic World adventures and guided walks to high tea overlooking the mountains. Later, continue into Sydney on Journey Beyond’s chartered New South Wales rail service, arriving in the harbour city and bringing your Indian Pacific journey to a memorable close. (Breakfast & lunch are included today.)

Day 16 Sydney | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 7 Excursions Personalize your stay in Sydney by choosing one of the following carefully selected excursions, each offering a different way to experience this spectacular harbour city and its surrounding landscapes. Option 1. Panoramic Sydney & Bondi Beach Tour with Harbour Lunch Cruise Discover Sydney’s iconic highlights on a stylish tour taking in The Rocks, Mrs Macquarie’s Point, Bondi Beach, Watsons Bay and the Eastern Suburbs. Afterwards, enjoy a relaxing harbour lunch cruise with views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge, making this a wonderful way to experience both the city and the water. Option 2. Blue Mountains Full Day Tour Venture beyond the city to the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains, where dramatic valleys, waterfalls and sweeping lookouts create one of New South Wales’ most memorable landscapes. With visits to key viewpoints, a two-course lunch at the Hydro Majestic and time at Mt Tomah Botanic Garden, this is an excellent choice for nature lovers. Option 3. Northern Wilderness & Coastal Beach Adventure Explore Sydney’s spectacular north on a full-day journey through Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park and the Northern Beaches. With Aboriginal rock engravings, beautiful coastal lookouts, seaside lunch and time in Manly and Shelley Beach, this excursion combines bushland, beaches and local character in one memorable day. Option 4. Hunter Valley Full Day Wine Tour Escape Sydney for a day in the Hunter Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region, where boutique cellar doors and vineyard scenery set the tone for a relaxed gourmet experience. Private tastings, a cheese tasting and a light café lunch with wine make this a rewarding choice for food and wine lovers. Option 5. Sydney Harbour Bridge Summit Climb Take on one of Sydney’s most iconic experiences with a guided climb to the summit of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. From the top, sweeping 360-degree views across the Opera House, harbour and city skyline make this an exhilarating and unforgettable way to see Sydney. Option 6. Iconic Wildlife, Waterfalls & Wine Enjoy a wonderfully varied day south of Sydney, combining native wildlife, coastal scenery and boutique wine tasting. From koalas and kangaroos to the Sea Cliff Bridge, a waterfall walk and the Southern Highlands, this excursion showcases a beautiful mix of Australian landscapes and experiences. Option 7. Personalized Tailor-Made Excursion For a more tailored experience, speak with one of our local specialists to design a day in Sydney around your interests. Options may include guided walks, food tours, scenic bike rides, the Coogee to Bondi coastal walk or a behind-the-scenes Sydney Opera House experience.

Day 17 Sydney | Day at Leisure Today is yours to enjoy Sydney at your own pace. You may choose to spend the day around the harbour, wandering through the historic sandstone laneways of The Rocks, taking in the energy of Circular Quay and admiring the iconic views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. For a slower pace, stroll through the Royal Botanic Garden, enjoy a long lunch by the water or simply soak up the atmosphere of one of the world’s great waterfront cities. Whether your interests lean towards sightseeing, shopping, galleries or dining, Sydney offers an effortless and memorable day at leisure.

Day 18 Sydney to Melbourne | XPT Intercity Train | First Class Cabin Today, travel south aboard the scheduled NSW TrainLink XPT service, a classic long-distance rail journey linking two of Australia’s great cities. Departing Sydney Central Station, the train passes through the city’s outer suburbs before the scenery softens into bushland, sandstone cuttings and the rolling green hills of the Southern Highlands. From the comfort of your First Class cabin, wide windows reveal an ever-changing landscape of open farmland, grazing country, gum trees and quiet regional towns. As the journey continues, the scenery broadens into the expansive plains of the Riverina before crossing into Victoria, where rural paddocks, distant hills and country stations create a relaxed and distinctly Australian backdrop on the approach to Melbourne.

Day 19 Melbourne | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 7 Excursions Personalize your stay in Melbourne by choosing one of the following carefully selected excursions, each offering a different way to experience this vibrant city and the remarkable regions that surround it. Option 1. Great Ocean Road Day Tour Travel the spectacular Great Ocean Road on a full-day journey showcasing some of Victoria’s most dramatic coastal scenery. With wildlife spotting, rainforest walks, seaside towns and the iconic Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge, this is one of Australia’s classic touring experiences. Option 2. Phillip Island, Moonlit Sanctuary & Penguins Plus Discover Phillip Island on a memorable afternoon and evening excursion featuring native wildlife, coastal scenery and the famous Penguin Parade. From Moonlit Sanctuary to the Nobbies coastline, the day builds towards the magical moment when little penguins emerge from the sea at dusk. Option 3. Melbourne Lanes & Arcades Walking Tour Step into the heart of Melbourne on a guided walk through its celebrated laneways and heritage arcades. With stories of the city’s history, street art, boutique shops, cafés, chocolate and coffee along the way, this is a wonderful introduction to Melbourne’s creative soul. Option 4. Melbourne Café Culture Walking Tour Immerse yourself in Melbourne’s famed coffee scene on a leisurely walk through hidden laneways and local favourites. Along the way, enjoy coffee, tea, chocolate and sweet treats while discovering the story behind one of the city’s most beloved cultural traditions. Option 5. Yarra Valley Wine & Cheese Experience Escape to the Yarra Valley for a gourmet day of sparkling wine, regional produce and vineyard scenery. With tastings at Chandon and De Bortoli, a leisurely lunch at Soumah and beautiful views throughout, this is a refined and delicious taste of regional Victoria. Option 6. Mornington Peninsula Wine & Lunch Tour Discover the Mornington Peninsula on a full-day gourmet journey through one of Victoria’s most beautiful maritime wine regions. Premium tastings, a two-course lunch, sculpture walk, bay views and a scenic return via Arthur’s Seat make this a relaxed and rewarding day out. Option 7. Personalized Tailor-Made Excursion For a more tailored experience, speak with one of our local specialists to create a day in Melbourne around your interests. Possibilities include laneway walks, foodie tours, sunrise ballooning, Puffing Billy steam train journeys or a relaxing Yarra River cruise.

Day 20 Melbourne | Departure The time has come to say goodbye to Melbourne, Australia. We have included a transfer to the airport from your hotel to begin your journey home.