The Ghan, Uluru & Great Barrier Reef Australia Rail Vacation

Day 1 Sydney | Arrival Welcome to Sydney! Upon arrival you’ll be transferred to your hotel in the heart of downtown, set within walking distance to major attractions like the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, Darling Harbour and the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney.

Day 2 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 3-4 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 5 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 6 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 7 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 8 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 9 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 10 Adelaide to Alice Springs | On board The Ghan Train Today, board The Ghan in Adelaide and settle into your cabin as this iconic rail journey begins. As the train eases out of the city and heads north towards the Flinders Ranges, the landscape gradually transforms 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 11 On board The Ghan Train | Afternoon Arrival in Alice Springs Wake this morning to a spectacular outback sunrise as The Ghan pauses at Marla, a remote outpost on the edge of the desert. Step off the train and take in the stillness of this extraordinary landscape, 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 scenery unfolds on the final stretch north to Alice Springs. Arrive this afternoon, bringing your Ghan journey to a memorable close in the heart of Australia. (Breakfast is included today.)

Day 12 Alice Springs to Ayers Rock | Coach Transfer + Evening Excursion This morning, journey from Alice Springs to Ayers Rock Resort on a scenic coach transfer through the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. Travel past rugged desert plains and the ancient MacDonnell Ranges, where rich red earth, hardy desert flora and immense open spaces create an unforgettable outback backdrop. Watch for native wildlife as you cross this remote and captivating landscape, with the striking silhouette of Atila (Mt Conner) rising in the distance before arriving at Ayers Rock Resort.

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 13 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 14 Uluru to Cairns | Flight Today, say goodbye to the Red Centre as you are transferred to Ayers Rock Airport for your mid-morning flight to Cairns. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, with the remainder of the day at leisure. Framed by rainforest-covered mountains and the Coral Sea, Cairns is the tropical gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. You may wish to spend the afternoon strolling along the Esplanade, relaxing by the lagoon or enjoying dinner at one of the city’s inviting waterfront restaurants.

Day 15 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 16 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 17 Cairns | Departure The time has come to say goodbye to Cairns, Australia. We have included a transfer to the airport from your hotel to begin your journey home.