Perth to Sydney: The Indian Pacific

Day 1

Your adventure begins the moment our friendly driver collects you from your front door anywhere in Greater Hobart. Settle in for a mid-morning flight to Melbourne, then stretch your legs and grab some lunch at Melbourne Airport before boarding the onward service to sunny Perth.

Touching down in Western Australia’s capital by late afternoon, you’ll be whisked along the Swan River foreshore to Crowne Plaza Perth, perfectly positioned for sweeping water views and gentle evening breezes. Check in, freshen up, and savour a two-course welcome dinner in the hotel restaurant as the city lights sparkle across the river. Toast the journey ahead, including tomorrow’s exploration of beautiful Rottnest Island.

Day 2

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel, we head to the historic port of Fremantle to board the Sealink Ferry for a scenic ride across sparkling waters to Rottnest Island, a paradise of white-sand beaches, turquoise bays, and the famous smiling quokka.

On arrival, step aboard the Bay Seeker Island Tour, a guided loop of Rottnest’s most iconic highlights. From rugged coastal cliffs and salt lakes to historic landmarks, this tour offers the perfect introduction to the island’s natural beauty and rich stories. Following the tour, you’ll have free time to enjoy lunch at one of the charming island cafés (at own cost) and explore Thomson Bay, the best place to spot Rottnest’s beloved resident, the quokka. Don’t forget your camera for that unforgettable quokka selfie! In the late afternoon, we return by ferry to Fremantle, then transfer back to Crowne Plaza Perth, where a delicious dinner awaits.

Day 3

Today, we commemorate ANZAC Day in the heart of Perth - a moving and memorable experience. Each year, the city pays tribute to Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women with an ANZAC Day Parade through the city streets. You’ll have the opportunity to attend and witness this powerful tradition, reflecting on the spirit of remembrance and unity it inspires.

After the parade, enjoy a relaxed Perth city highlights tour, taking in notable landmarks and points of interest including Optus Stadium, Matagarup Bridge, Claisebrook Cove, Gloucester Park, WACA, Queens Gardens and the State War Memorial. The State War Memorial located in Kings Park offers panoramic views over Swan River and a moment of reflection at one of Western Australia’s most significant commemorative sites.

Next you have time for lunch (at own cost) in Barrack Square. Then experience the stirring ANZAC Bell Tour at The Bell Tower, home to the 6.5-tonne ANZAC Bell cast to commemorate the centenary of the Gallipoli landings. Learn about its symbolism, sound it yourself, and hear stories that connect this bell to our national identity.

Taking a short walk to Government House Gardens view the spectacular field of handcrafted poppies, displayed in honour of fallen soldiers - a beautiful and symbolic sight unique to ANZAC Day. It is then time to head to the East Perth Terminal, ready for a once-in-a-lifetime rail journey. After check-in, join your fellow travellers at a welcome gathering, complete with drinks and live entertainment.

Then, step aboard the Indian Pacific, an icon of Australian rail. Settle into your private cabin as the train rolls out of Perth, heading east. Tonight, dine in style with a menu celebrating contemporary Australian cuisine, crafted with seasonal, regional ingredients, your first taste of the culinary delights to come.

Day 4

Awake to the golden hues of sunrise as the Indian Pacific rolls into Kalgoorlie, Australia’s largest outback town and a place steeped in gold rush history. Step off the train for your first immersive off-train experience, delving into the fascinating stories of fortune, hardship, and ingenuity that built this remote city. Discover how mining has shaped the region, from its bustling past to its high-tech present.

Option 1 - The Super Pit: First stopping at Hannans North Tourist Mine for light refreshments and a cuppa beside the resident Haul Truck, you’ll have a short Visitor-induction and the opportunity to take photos next to the massive truck. Donning Hi-Vis, you’ll then board the Mine-Spec Bus, for a Super Pit tour that goes through the workshop and to the internal viewing platforms. The bus will travel through the tracks of the site, waving at the impressive CAT 793 Haul Trucks as they pass, while the knowledgeable driver shares history of the Golden Mile’ and how the Super Pit operates today. After the tour, return to the Indian Pacific mid-morning to enjoy brunch as you continue the journey east.

Option 2 - Golden Treasures: As dawn breaks, step off the Indian Pacific and travel by coach to Hannans North Tourist Mine. Here, you’ll delve into the history of gold mining while exploring over 30 exhibits. You’ll have the chance to try your luck panning for gold or engage in a lively game of Two-Up, learning about its connection to the goldrush miners. The adventure continues as you get up close to the incredible super trucks that work tirelessly at the mine. Feel the power and size of these massive machines and learn about their role in one of the world’s largest open-pit gold mines. Enjoy morning refreshments as you’re welcomed by Jason, who shares stories connected to the history of the region. Listen to the story of Ancient Heats, a black-and-white Kalgoorlie love story as rich as the Golden Mile. Then, head to the impressive Super Pit Lookout, where you’ll stand on the edge of one of the richest gold deposits in the world, producing 800,000 ounces of gold annually.

Option 3 - Curious Kalgoorlie: Embark on a captivating journey through Kalgoorlie-Boulder, that delves into the unique and quirky stories of local characters. As the adventure unfolds, you’ll be treated to an interview-style commentary of deeply personal, historic, and rugged tales, offering an intriguing glimpse into the town’s colourful past. After a short stop at The Super Pit Lookout, you’ll travel through the charming main street of Boulder, alighting at the 1908 Boulder Town Hall to marvel at the rare and famous Goatcher Stage Curtain, a testament to the town’s rich cultural heritage. While there, enjoy light refreshments as you soak in the historic atmosphere of this iconic venue. The journey ends with a visit to Chunky Timber Co., where the charismatic and eccentric Chunky shares his story, providing a unique glimpse into his workshop and offering you the chance to acquire his signature "Nullarbor Beads". This enthralling experience promises an immersive blend of history, personal narratives, and rugged charm, leaving you with a deeper understanding of Kalgoorlie’s captivating character.

Back on board, sit down to a leisurely brunch as you glide eastward into the heart of Australia. The journey across the Nullarbor Plain is a spectacular experience in itself; flat, vast, and hauntingly beautiful. Whether you’re relaxing in your private cabin or enjoying the camaraderie of the lounge car, there’s no better way to witness the vastness of this ancient land.

As the sun begins to set, the train crosses into South Australia, shifting time zones as the landscape begins to subtly change. After dinner, the train makes a late-night stop at the remote town of Cook. Here, you'll be welcomed off the train for a special outback moment, a nightcap by the bonfire under the stars, surrounded by the silence of the Nullarbor and a sky ablaze with stars.

Day 5

Today, your journey continues through the ever-changing landscapes of remote South Australia. Gaze out at the passing scenery, from the rugged Flinders Ranges to the shimmering Spencer Gulf and the fertile Adelaide Plains. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and lunch onboard, with fresh, seasonal dishes served as the scenery shifts from outback to vineyard country.

In the afternoon, disembark for an unforgettable experience in the world-renowned Barossa Valley. Here, among rolling hills and ancient vines, you’ll explore the region’s rich winemaking heritage. You will spend the evening at the iconic Seppeltsfield Estate for an exclusive dinner event created especially for Indian Pacific guests. Set in stunning surrounds, this food and wine pairing experience is a celebration of the Barossa’s best flavours that reflect the land, the seasons, and generations of craft. It’s a night of indulgence, connection, and unforgettable regional hospitality. Return to the train, relaxed and satisfied, ready for the final leg of your cross-country adventure.

Day 6

This morning, the Indian Pacific crosses another border into New South Wales, arriving in the historic outback city of Broken Hill, Australia’s first heritage-listed city. After breakfast onboard, step out to explore your choice of off-train experiences, designed to showcase the town’s rich blend of mining history, artistic flair, and resilient spirit.

Option 1 - Silver City Highlight: Explore one of Australia’s most famous outback towns, this morning you’ll step off the Indian Pacific to discover the highlights of Broken Hill. This tour takes you on a scenic drive through the heart of Australia’s outback, and as you journey to the Living Desert State Park, knowledgeable drivers share fascinating insights about the rich history and unique landscapes surrounding Broken Hill. Arriving at the park, you will experience the famous Living Desert Sculptures, a collection of striking sandstone artworks set against the backdrop of the vast desert. While soaking in this captivating scene, enjoy the flavours of native teas and Wattleseed brew, adding a touch of local culture to the experience. Next, stop at the Sulphide St Railway & Historical Museum, where a guided tour reveals the town’s vibrant past. Explore exhibits showcasing Broken Hill’s mining heritage, early railways, and its role in shaping the region’s development. The tour concludes with a visit to the iconic Line of Lode Miners Memorial. Perched on a hill overlooking the town, the memorial offers breathtaking panoramic views, a moving tribute to the miners who contributed to the town’s legacy.

Option 2 - Paint Like a Pro: Pro Hart is one of Australia’s most recognised and beloved artists. His paintings have won international acclaim with his creativity and individual style depicting scenes of the Australian outback. During this Off Train Experience, you will visit the Pro Hart Gallery for a ‘paint and sip’ activity, to create your own masterpiece in Pro’s original studio. A member of Pro’s family will guide you through the art class, demonstrating different techniques. After the session, browse Pro Harts Gallery spread over several floors, viewing a wide range of pieces that capture the essence of Australian landscapes and culture. After your Pro Hart experience, you will be delighted by Broken Hill’s much-loved attraction, the ‘Big Picture’, the world’s largest acrylic painting by a single artist housed in the Silver City Mint and Art Centre. Conclude this Off Train Experience by returning to the Indian Pacific, enriched by the cultural and creative energy of the day- a blend of art, history and natural beauty.

Option 3 - Historic Day Dream Mine: Turn back the clock and get a glimpse of what life was like for early miners in Broken Hill with a visit to the historic Day Dream Mine near Silverton. Step off the Indian Pacific and travel to Silverton learning insightful details about the region along the way. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by the friendly Day Deam Mine staff, before donning a miner’s helmet and head lamp for an above and below the ground mine tour. Walk the same tunnels the Cornish silver miners did in the 1880s and visit a replica miner’s hut to learn about life in the mines and the harsh conditions the miners endured. Afterwards, enjoy light refreshments including freshly baked scones at the on-site tearoom, before making our way back to the Indian Pacific.

Option 4 - Taste of the Outback: Travel to Living Desert State Park for a lesson in bush tucker. On arrival, you’ll be greeted by celebrated local Chef, Lee Cecchin, who’s knowledge and passion for local and native produce is unmatched. You’ll be introduced to native plants and learn how to identify them with the help of Chef Lee. The very same ingredients encountered will then play an integral role in your culinary experience to follow. Then, enjoy some time wandering through the Broken Hill Sculpture Symposium, an outdoor gallery of sculptures created by artists from around the world. Conclude at the award-winning The Old Saltbush, where you’ll sip Mojito mocktails and sample a variety of native spices and fruits under the guidance of Chef Lee, who will explain their tastes, origins, flavour pairings, and traditional uses.


Option 5 - Shelita, Queen of the Outback’s Showstopper Town Tour: When the world fell in love with the blockbuster movie The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Broken Hill suddenly had more than mining and famous painters to put it on the map, it had a faceful of fluttering fake lashes and pouting lips coated in lurid lipstick to back it up. Join the fun with a tour of the main drag with fabulous local Drag Queen sensation, Shelita Buffet.

Day 6 cont.

This is a town tour with a difference, as Shelita educates and entertains on the mining history, iconic buildings, and art installations that represent the fascinating interfusion that makes up contemporary Broken Hill. Following a brief walking tour filled with historical and hysterical tales, you’ll embark on a dazzling bus tour like no other, with Shelita as the glamorous guide. The adventure continues at the historic Old Brewery with a Main Drag performance and a lively game of Drag Bingo, expect plenty of laughs, and fantastic prizes as you dab your way to victory. Enjoy morning tea with local flavour before re-boarding the coach back to the Indian Pacific.

Rejoin the train in time for lunch, and settle in as you travel through the picturesque farmland and small towns of regional New South Wales. This is the perfect time to soak in the scenery, share stories with fellow travellers, and reflect on the extraordinary journey across the continent. Tonight’s final dinner on board is a celebration of distance covered, friendships made, and memories created. Make the most of your last evening aboard this iconic train with fine dining, warm hospitality, and a toast to an unforgettable adventure.

Day 7

Your Indian Pacific journey concludes in spectacular fashion with a final stop in the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains. After breakfast, choose from a selection of off-train experiences that allow you to experience this breathtaking region, where dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and eucalyptus forests stretch as far as the eye can see.

Option 1 - Scenic World & Echo Point: After disembarking, you’ll transfer to Scenic World for four phenomenal mountain experiences. The Scenic Skyway takes you above ancient ravines, visible 270 metres below through the glass cabin floor. Your vista is 360 degrees and features the Three Sisters, the Jamison Valley, and Katoomba Falls. Then, join the Scenic Cableway and glide over the forest as you descend more than 500 metres to the valley floor before boarding the Scenic Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world. Next, travel to the Echo Point Lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, to enjoy a light lunch paired with award-winning wine and beer to complement more spectacular views.

Option 2 - Scenic World & Echo Point Cultural Experience: After disembarking, you’ll transfer to Scenic World for four phenomenal mountain experiences. Learn about Indigenous lore and culture with Uncle David King, a Gundungurra Custodian and Scenic World’s Indigenous Engagement Officer. Start your experience with a ride on the world’s steepest passenger railway, the Scenic Railway, descending into the valley where you’ll walk beneath the rainforest canopy with your Indigenous guide. Hear their stories and connections to Country, learn about native plants and animals, the different seasons, and more. Next, traverse up the ancient escarpment 500 metres above the valley floor on the Scenic Cableway. Enjoy a Dreamtime story of the formation of the Jamison Valley before stopping on the Scenic Skyway, 270 metres above the rainforest. Then, travel to the Echo Point Lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, to enjoy a light lunch paired with award-winning wine and beer to complement more spectacular views.

Option 3 - Blue Mountains Discovery Trail: Go off the beaten path and explore the Blue Mountains on an in-depth, 3km guided bush walk. After disembarking the Indian Pacific in the mountains, begin your walk from Scenic World along the Prince Henry Cliff path to Echo Point. Join your local expert guide and take in spectacular views of the World Heritage-listed area’s rugged cliffs, local fauna, forests, and formations from numerous lookouts along the trail. Connect with the serenity, witness towering eucalypts and ancient tree ferns, and get a glimpse of the famous Three Sisters. End the experience with a light lunch at the Echo Point Lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, taking in more spectacular views, perhaps accompanied by an award-winning wine or beer.

Option 4 - High Tea in the Blue Mountains: Begin your adventure in the charming village of Mt Victoria before journeying to Govetts Leap Lookout, a photographer’s dream with its sweeping views of dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Next, immerse yourself in the elegance of the historic Hydro Majestic. With over a century of stories to tell, this iconic venue comes alive through a guided history tour, offering an exclusive glimpse into its grand heritage. Indulge in a sumptuous High Tea, featuring delicate pastries, fluffy scones, and savoury delights, all enjoyed with panoramic views of the majestic Blue Mountains.

Rejoin the journey aboard a chartered New South Wales rail service, hosted by your Indian Pacific crew, and watch the mountains give way to the urban skyline of Sydney. Disembark at Sydney Central Station, where you'll be transferred directly to the airport for your flight home. Touching down in Hobart, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our Coal River Coaches team, ready to return you safely and comfortably to your front door.

B=Breakfast, MT=Morning Tea, L =Lunch, D=Dinner