Grand Australia Rail Vacation: The Ghan & Indian Pacific

Day 1 Melbourne | Arrival Welcome to Melbourne! Upon arrival you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of the city, within easy reach of major attractions such as Federation Square, the Yarra River, Southbank, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Melbourne’s famous laneways, cafés and boutiques.

Day 2 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 3 Day at Leisure in Melbourne Today is free to discover Melbourne in your own style. Perhaps spend the day exploring the city’s celebrated laneways and arcades, where heritage architecture, independent boutiques, coffee culture and ever-changing street art give the city its distinctive personality. You may wish to browse the elegant Royal Arcade and Block Arcade, wander through Degraves Street and Hosier Lane, or make your way to Federation Square and Southbank for river views, galleries, bars and restaurants along the Yarra. Cosmopolitan, creative and wonderfully easy to explore, Melbourne is the perfect city for a relaxed day at leisure.

Day 4 Melbourne to Adelaide | The Overland Train | Red Premium Class This morning, board The Overland at Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station and settle into Red Premium, where extra legroom, in-seat dining and attentive hospitality make this classic interstate rail journey feel relaxed from the outset. Soon after departure, the train curves out through Geelong and into the broad farming country of western Victoria, with ever-changing views of open paddocks, regional townships and distant glimpses towards the Grampians. Crossing into South Australia, the landscapes shift once more to mallee scrub, Murray River country and the picturesque Adelaide Hills before arriving into Adelaide in the early evening, bringing this charming daylight rail journey to a memorable close. (Breakfast, lunch & afternoon tea are included today.)

Day 5 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 6 Depart Adelaide | On board The Ghan Train Today, board The Ghan in Adelaide and settle into your cabin as one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys begins. As the train departs the city and heads north towards the Flinders Ranges, the landscape gradually shifts from fertile South Australian plains to the rich ochre tones and vast horizons of the outback. Spend the afternoon relaxing into the rhythm of life on board, perhaps with time in the lounge before your first dining experience, where regionally inspired cuisine and Australian wines set the tone for the journey ahead. Tonight, retire to your cabin as The Ghan rolls deeper into the heart of inland Australia. (Lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 7 Marla, Alice Springs | On board The Ghan Train Wake this morning to a spectacular outback sunrise at Marla, a remote outpost on the edge of the desert and gateway to the legendary Oodnadatta Track. Step off the train and take in the stillness of this extraordinary place, where red earth, wide skies and the cool morning air create one of the journey’s most memorable moments. Back on board, enjoy a leisurely brunch as the desert landscape unfolds on the journey north to Alice Springs. Here, a range of Off Train Experiences awaits, from discovering the town’s landmarks and cultural stories to exploring the dramatic beauty of Standley Chasm, Simpsons Gap or the Desert Park. Later, return to the train, refresh in your cabin and enjoy another memorable evening on board as the journey continues north. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 8 Katherine, Nitmiluk Gorge and Darwin | On board The Ghan Train Your final day begins in the tropical north, where the scenery changes once more to rocky escarpments, lush vegetation and fast-flowing streams. In Katherine, step off for one of the journey’s signature experiences and discover the natural and cultural significance of this remarkable region. Cruise through the majestic Nitmiluk Gorge and learn about its deep connection to the Jawoyn people, or choose from other immersive experiences that reveal the character of the Top End. After your morning adventure, reboard The Ghan and continue onwards to Darwin, where this unforgettable journey through the heart of Australia comes to a memorable close. (Breakfast & lunch are included today.)

Day 9 Darwin | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 6 Excursions Personalize your stay in Darwin by choosing one of the following carefully selected excursions, each offering a different way to experience the Top End’s wildlife, landscapes, culture and local character. Option 1. Darwin City Sights with Adelaide River Jumping Crocs Cruise Discover Darwin’s tropical character on a tour of the city’s key landmarks, cultural sights, harbour lookouts and Botanic Gardens before travelling south to the Adelaide River. There, an exciting wildlife cruise offers the chance to see powerful saltwater crocodiles and experience one of the Top End’s most iconic natural attractions. Option 2. Kakadu National Park Explorer Tour Explore World Heritage-listed Kakadu on a full-day journey through one of Australia’s most extraordinary natural and cultural landscapes. Highlights include Yellow Water Billabong, Aboriginal cultural insights, ancient rock art and the region’s exceptional birdlife and wetlands. Option 3. Litchfield National Park Waterfalls Spend the day exploring Litchfield National Park, where waterfalls, swimming spots, monsoon forest and striking termite mounds reveal the beauty of the Top End. This is a wonderful choice for those wanting a relaxed day immersed in nature. Option 4. Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise & Edith Falls Journey south to Nitmiluk National Park for a scenic day of dramatic sandstone gorges, peaceful waterways and beautiful outback landscapes. With a cruise through Nitmiluk Gorge and time at Edith Falls, this is one of the region’s most memorable natural experiences. Option 5. Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural Tour Travel to the Tiwi Islands for a fascinating cultural experience featuring local art, community visits and traditional stories. This is a rare opportunity to gain a deeper insight into Tiwi life, heritage and artistic traditions. Option 6. Darwin Outback Gourmet Food & Art Tour Experience Darwin through its food, art and local stories on a guided evening tour that combines multiple tasting stops with a look at the city’s vibrant creative side. It is a relaxed and flavour-filled way to discover Darwin from a different perspective.

Day 10 Darwin to Perth | Flight Today, leave behind the tropical charm of Darwin as you are transferred to the airport for your evening flight to Perth. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Set on the beautiful Swan River and framed by the expansive green spaces of Kings Park, Perth is one of Australia’s sunniest and most appealing cities, known for its stylish waterfront precincts, vibrant dining scene, elegant city parks and easy access to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches. Sophisticated yet wonderfully relaxed, it is a fitting introduction to Western Australia.

Day 11 Perth | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Personalize your stay in Perth by choosing one of the following carefully selected excursions, each offering a different way to experience Western Australia’s extraordinary landscapes. Option 1. Margaret River, Cave, Wine, Lighthouse & Busselton Tour Discover the Margaret River region on a full-day journey from Perth, taking in some of the south-west’s best-loved natural and gourmet highlights. Visit Busselton Jetty, Mammoth Cave, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse and the township of Margaret River, while also enjoying local wine tastings and lunch at a boutique brewery with beer and cider tastings. Scenic drives through coastal towns, farmland and the towering karri forest of Boranup add to the appeal of this wonderfully varied day. Option 2. Pinnacles, Koalas & Sand Boarding 4WD Adventure Venture north from Perth for a full-day adventure combining wildlife, coastal scenery and desert fun. Enjoy animal encounters at Caversham Wildlife Park, take in the relaxed seaside atmosphere of Cervantes and walk among the remarkable limestone formations of the Pinnacle Desert. The day also includes thrilling 4WD driving and sand boarding on the vast Lancelin Sand Dunes, making this a lively and memorable West Australian experience. Option 3. Pinnacles Sunset Dinner & Stargazing Tour with BBQ Dinner Experience the Pinnacles in a different light on a memorable sunset and stargazing tour from Perth. Travel via Lancelin for sandboarding and scenic stops along Indian Ocean Drive before exploring the dramatic landscapes of Nambung National Park. As dusk falls, enjoy a traditional Australian BBQ dinner in the desert, followed by telescope viewing, Aboriginal Dreamtime stories and a brilliant night sky filled with stars. Option 4. Discover Rottnest with Island Tour & Frankie’s Lunch Enjoy a scenic return ferry to Rottnest Island and discover the charm of this much-loved offshore escape. A 90-minute island bus tour reveals historic sites, lighthouses, rugged coastline, salt lakes and, if you are lucky, the chance to spot a quokka. Later, relax over lunch at Frankie’s on Rotto in the settlement, where casual island dining beneath the Morton Bay Fig Trees provides a perfect finishing touch.

Day 12 Depart Perth | On board the Indian Pacific Train Today, board the Indian Pacific in Perth and settle into your cabin as one of Australia’s most iconic rail journeys begins. As the train departs the west coast and heads east, relax into the rhythm of life on board, meet fellow travellers in the lounge and enjoy your first evening dining experience, with regionally inspired cuisine and Australian wines setting the tone for the days ahead. Tonight, retire to your cabin as the train rolls into the outback. (Dinner is included today.)

Day 13 Kalgoorlie, the Nullarbor & Cook | On board the Indian Pacific Train Wake this morning to sunrise over the vast interior before arriving in Kalgoorlie, Australia’s largest outback town. Here, step off the train to explore the region’s rich gold rush heritage before returning on board for the journey east across the Nullarbor Plain. As evening falls, arrive in the near-ghost town of Cook, where a guided stargazing experience beneath the immense outback sky adds one of the most memorable moments of the journey. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 14 South Australia & the Barossa Valley | On board the Indian Pacific Train Today, continue through the pastoral landscapes of South Australia, with expansive views unfolding beyond your window as the Indian Pacific makes its way towards the Barossa Valley. In the afternoon, leave the train at Long Plains and transfer to historic Seppeltsfield Estate, where an evening of fine wine and dining awaits in one of Australia’s best-known wine regions. This signature dining experience is one of the standout highlights of the journey before you return to the train later tonight. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 15 Broken Hill | On board the Indian Pacific Train This morning, wake in Broken Hill, the legendary Silver City, where an included off-train experience reveals the mining history, artistic energy and outback spirit of this iconic town. Depending on your interests, you may choose to explore the town’s heritage, discover local art or enjoy a culinary experience celebrating regional produce and native ingredients. Reboard for lunch and continue through regional New South Wales, before enjoying your final dinner on board this evening. (Breakfast, lunch & dinner are included today.)

Day 16 Blue Mountains to Sydney | On board the Indian Pacific Train Your final day begins in the spectacular Blue Mountains, where sandstone escarpments, eucalypt valleys and sweeping views create one of New South Wales’ most memorable landscapes. After breakfast, step off the train for your final off-train experience and discover this World Heritage-listed region, whether by guided exploration, Scenic World adventure or an indulgent high tea overlooking the mountains. Later, continue by Journey Beyond’s chartered New South Wales rail service into Sydney, arriving in the harbour city and bringing your Indian Pacific journey to a memorable close. (Breakfast & lunch are included today.)

Day 17 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 18 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 19 Sydney | Departure The time has come to say goodbye to Sydney, Australia. We have included a transfer to the airport from your hotel to begin your journey home.