Australian East Coast & Indian Pacific Rail: Sydney to Perth - 20 Days

Highlights

• Discover the highlights of beautiful Sydney and Melbourne
• Sleep overnight on the Great Barrier Reef
• Embark on a transcontinental rail journey from Sydney to Perth
• Taste your way through the Margaret River and Swan Valley wine regions
• Swim with whale sharks at the UNESCO-listed Ningaloo Reef

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Melbourne, Free Time

G'day and welcome! You've landed in Melbourne, the cultural capital of Australia. On arrival, collect your luggage and meet a shuttle transfer, which will drop you at your hotel. The rest of the day is yours to explore this sophisticated city as you please. It's no surprise Melbourne is ranked as one of the world's most livable cities—its vibrant center is filled with world-class restaurants, café-filled laneways, trendy bars, art galleries, and spacious parks, while its village-like inner suburbs each boast their own special character.

You could hop on the City Circle, a free tram that runs throughout the central districts and along the waterfront, to explore Melbourne's top sights. On these routes, you can visit highlight attractions like St Paul's Cathedral, Parliament House, and the 19th-century Royal Exhibition Building.

Day 2: Lanes & Arcades Tour, Evening Tales & Cocktails Tour

Get lost in Melbourne's back streets, laneways, and arcades with a guide who will show you the city's greatest secrets. This city is famous for its laneway culture, and on a three-hour morning walk, you'll discover local designers and specialty retailers, quirky cafés, and cool street art—all while hearing fascinating tales from your local guide. These 19th-century arcades and alleyways have been reinvigorated with world-famous street art, and you'll find hidden gems at every turn.

This evening's tour takes you into the heart of Melbourne's elegant and lively nightlife. It's a stark contrast with the city's dark past, which was shaped by curious characters on both sides of the law. Begin with a dinner that reflects Melbourne's fantastic culinary scene, and learn about the city's history from a local guide. Next are some of the best spots in town, many of which are deliberately hard to find, and you can enjoy this firsthand insight into all that Melbourne has to offer. 

Day 3: Full-Day Phillip Island Tour

Today you'll join a day trip to Phillip Island to witness the evening ritual of the "Penguin Parade." Stop first at the Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park, where you can see endangered species, greet adorable kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas, and admire an array of colorful birds and reptiles. After two hours, you'll reach Phillip Island, famous for the cute wild penguins that waddle up the beach every night—but there's much more to explore on the small island.

This afternoon you might visit Woolamai Beach to watch the surfers. From here, head to the western corner of the island to enjoy magnificent views of Bass Strait and the Nobbies, home to Australia's largest colony of fur seals. Before evening falls, you'll stroll along the boardwalk to the Penguin Plus viewing platform at Summerland Beach to witness the phenomena of the Penguin Parade. Watch the adorable little penguins come ashore as they hurry off to find their burrows. After, sit back and nap on the return drive to Melbourne.

Day 4: Melbourne Balloon Flight, Fly to Cairns

Rise early this morning to spend a peaceful hour drifting gently over Melbourne before the city wakes up. This is the only major city in the world you can float directly above by hot-air balloon—so don't miss this unique and memorable way to take in the skyline. After your relaxing flight, enjoy a hot breakfast with a glass of sparkling wine. Pack your bags and check out—it's time to go north!

Catch a 3.5-hour flight to Cairns, a tropical paradise and the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef and the 135-million-year-old Daintree Rainforest. Over the next few days, you'll experience some of the most remarkable natural wonders and attractions in Australia. Check into your hotel, refresh, and enjoy the rest of the afternoon at leisure. You could start your adventure in Far North Queensland at Cairns ZOOM & Wildlife Dome, an enclosed wildlife exhibit and adventure park with high ropes, koalas, and crocodiles.

Day 5: Full-Day Mossman Gorge Adventure

Immerse yourself in the rainforest today with this unique full-day tour. You'll travel inland to nearby Mossman Gorge, the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park. Here, you'll have traditional rainforest boy paint applied and join a traditional Kuku Yalanji smoking ceremony designed to cleanse you of bad spirits. Then, you'll enter the rainforests of Daintree, which are estimated to be more than 135 million years old. Enjoy an easy 90-minute hike across boardwalks, tracks, and bridges that offer spectacular views of mountains and waterfalls.

Day 6: Great Barrier Reef Overnight Sail (Day 1)

Picture yourself waking up on the Great Barrier Reef—then pinch yourself because it isn't a dream. Today you'll set sail on a small boat overnight cruise with access to 30 moorings at nine different reefs. You'll reach the outermost reefs around midday, stopping at a location with shallow coral gardens, reef walls, and deeper coral fields to explore—something for all levels of snorkel or dive experience. Witness an unbelievable amount of marine life, including turtles, small reef sharks, playful clownfish, and colorful reef fish, before moving to another location in the afternoon.

As the sun sets over the Great Barrier Reef, enjoy nibbles and a refreshing drink on the deck, followed by dinner with your small group. Just after sunset, you'll have the chance to jump back into the water with a night dive, where you might see anything from sharks and red bass hunting to sleeping turtles, dazzling luminescence, and glowing corals. Unwind after the night dive and hear stories of the reef and life at sea with the crew. Then venture out to the deck and take in the endless night sky free of light pollution.

Day 7: Great Barrier Reef Overnight Sail (Day 2)

Awake at dawn and watch the sunrise over the Coral Sea, then dive back into the warm tropical waters—the ultimate wake-up! This is also the perfect time for more snorkeling or diving, as the early morning brings illuminating shards of light through the water, and the reef fish are active as they start their hunt for breakfast. Use the whole morning to snorkel and dive on the reef, read a book in the hammock, or work on your tropical tan. At midday, it's time to make the long journey back to Cairns. 

Day 8: Fly to Sydney, Sunset BridgeClimb

It's time to swap the relaxed tropics for buzzing Sydney. A driver will collect you from your accommodation and transfer you to the airport in time for your three-hour flight. On arrival in Sydney, a private transfer will take you to your accommodation. Use the afternoon to explore before this evening's nail-biting adventure. See Sydney turn from day to night atop the famous coathanger—the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Strap on a harness and let a BridgeClimb leader take you 439 feet (134 m) above sea level. The adrenaline-pumping journey provides stunning 360-degree views of the city!

Use your evening to soak up Sydney's world-class culinary scene. You'll find great restaurants in Circular Quay and Darling Harbour.

Day 9: Panoramic Sydney Sights, Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk

Wake up, ready to explore Sydney. Hear fascinating stories of early convict history in The Rocks area, and see breathtaking views of the famous Opera House and bridge. Shop till you drop at the Queen Victoria Building and explore the trendy Oxford Street district. Head east for a stunning walk around Tamarama and Bronte, and enjoy a refreshing drink at the famous Bondi Beach while admiring bronzed Aussie lifesavers. Then wave goodbye to your guide and find somewhere for lunch by Bondi Beach.

After eating, lace up your sneakers and walk the famous cliff-top walk from Bondi to Coogee, a 3.7-mile (6 km) coastal walk with breathtaking views. It usually takes two to three hours to complete, depending on how often you stop—there's the temptation of a swim at every beach you pass! Begin at Sydney's Bondi Beach, pass the stunning Bondi Icebergs swimming club, marvel at 2,000-year-old traditional Aboriginal rock carvings at Marks Park, grab a coffee at Tamarama Beach, walk past the heritage-listed Waverly Cemetery, see Gordons Bay and finish at Coogee Beach. 

Day 10: Full-Day Blue Mountains Hike

Set off on a full-day adventure to the stunning Blue Mountains. Your day begins with a visit to the working farm of  Calmsley Hill, where you can enjoy some morning tea and wander the tranquil surroundings—keep an eye out for the resident kangaroos, emus, wombats, and koalas! The journey continues to one of the stunning Jamison Valley lookouts, where you can take in breathtaking vistas. Next, visit the remote Eaglehawk Lookout to witness the Three Sisters in all their glory. Watch as the sunlight brings out magnificent colors that change throughout the day.

Pause for a delicious two-course lunch at Blackheath, then continue to Govetts Leap and its mighty waterfall. Stop briefly to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens, where you'll enjoy sweeping views across to Sydney. Then, travel down the scenic Bells Line of Road back to the city. This is one huge day of adventure, fun, and vacation memories!

Day 11: Indian Pacific Rail Journey (Day 1)

Today you'll embark on a transcontinental rail adventure, crossing from Sydney on the east coast of Australia to Perth on the west coast. Board the iconic Indian Pacific train and prepare for an epic journey of shifting landscapes, from lush vineyards to the barren expanse of the outback, from major cities to ghost towns. As the train winds through the dazzling Blue Mountains, settle into your comfortable cabin and get acquainted with your fellow travelers.

As evening nears, savor your first meal of the journey—a seasonal, regionally-inspired dinner paired with all-inclusive Australian wines. After dinner, join fellow guests for a late-night drink, or head back to your cabin for your first night onboard. You're about to wake up somewhere totally new!

Day 12: Indian Pacific Rail Journey (Day 2)

This morning you're in the "Silver City" of Broken Hill. As the sun rises, you're invited to step off the train to explore the fascinating mining history and vibrant art scene of this small town. Discover wide streets and pubs on every corner, then reboard in time for lunch. You'll continue west, entering the stunning and ancient Flinders Ranges. In the afternoon, you'll arrive in the city of Adelaide. The capital of South Australia is surrounded by brilliant wine regions. Choose to tour the world-famous Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, or the Adelaide Hills for a wine tasting.

Day 13: Indian Pacific Rail Journey (Day 3)

Awaken to breathtaking views of the Nullarbor Plain at sunrise. This vast outback plain, which takes its name from the Latin for "no trees," spans 77,000 square miles (200,000 sq km) across South Australia and Western Australia. This rugged stretch of the outback is considered a "bucket list" experience that has inspired travelers for generations. Today the train will stop at a forgotten outpost of Australia's past in Cook, a ghost town in South Australia's vast interior. Established in 1917 as a support town for the railway—now it's a quiet reminder of Australia's pioneering past.

Soon the train will chug across the border into Western Australia. Celebrate reaching the west with a traditional long-table dinner under the starry night sky of the outback in remote Rawlinna. This is one dining experience to remember. Following dinner, board the train again for your final slumber aboard the Indian Pacific.

Day 14: Arrive in Perth, Afternoon Swan Valley Wine Tour

Enjoy breakfast while relishing in the last few hours aboard the Indian Pacific. Watch as the scenery changes from the rugged outback to the rolling green hills of the Avon Valley as you roll toward Perth itself.

This afternoon, set off to discover the stunning Swan Valley wine region on a half-day tour. Sample some of the finest wines and local produce as you visit award-winning wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the area's most renowned eateries, and take in the breathtaking views of the valley. Learn about new grape varieties uniquely suited to Swan Valley's warm climate before returning to Perth.

Day 15: Rottnest Island Day Trip

Begin your day with a ferry ride to Rottnest Island, a tranquil paradise located 11 miles (18 km) off the coast of Perth. With its 63 stunning beaches and 20 picturesque bays, this car-free island offers the perfect escape. Upon arrival, you'll join a guided tour of the island, taking in the amazing fauna and flora of the island, stunning beaches, woodlands, and incredible salt lakes.

Over half a day, you'll explore the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Oliver Hill Gun Fortification and Tunnels, and the majestic lookout point at the rugged Cathedral Rocks and Cape Vlamingh. Finish your grand tour of Rottnest with a historic train ride. Enjoy a relaxed seafood lunch, then use your free time to snorkel at Parker Point or explore various shipwreck sites for an underwater adventure. Just don't miss your return ferry back to the mainland!

Day 16: Drive to Margaret River, Twilight Didgeridoo Cave Tour

The Margaret River is one of Western Australia's most famous wine regions, with almost 100 cellar doors to explore. Pick up a rental car and begin your three-hour journey south. Soon, you'll reach the rolling vines of the Margaret River, an area known for its chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. Visit standout wineries like Vasse Felix, Voyager Estate, and Leeuwin Estate, or the amazing Rustico Restaurant, which offers a six-course degustation with views. Now that would be a real treat-yourself lunch!

Later this evening, join a heart-opening 90-minute Aboriginal culture tour. Starting with a short guided bush walk, you'll identify traditional medicine plants before venturing into Ngilgi Cave to hear your guide relate the Dreaming legends and give a mesmerizing didgeridoo performance.

Day 17: Drive to Perth via Busselton

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Margaret River before making the return journey up the coast to Perth. Make the seaside town of Busselton your first stop. Here you'll find the 150-year-old Busselton Jetty, the longest wooden jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. Walk the 1.1-mile (1.7 km) stretch, or take the miniature train to the end. Here you'll find the Underwater Observatory, a circular room studded with windows 26 feet (8 m) beneath the ocean's surface. They reveal up to 300 species of colorful coral, fish, and other marine life, fed by an unusually warm current.

Day 18: Fly to Exmouth, Free Time

Today you'll catch a two-hour flight north to the small town of Exmouth on Western Australia's northwest cape. This charming coastal town is the gateway to some of the world's most breathtaking landscapes, including Ningaloo Marine Park, with its coral reefs, colorful fish, and migratory whale sharks. Dive straight into the ocean to encounter diverse marine life or explore the captivating coastline to connect with nature. From glass-bottom boat tours to snorkeling in Turquoise Bay, you'll be surrounded by vibrant marine life, including turtles and manta rays.

Or venture farther to Cape Range National Park for a change of scenery, exploring ancient cliffs and canyons while spotting local wildlife. Visit the Vlamingh Head Lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline. Relax on the pristine beaches, such as Town Beach or Pebble Beach. After a day of adventure, unwind in Exmouth with local wines, craft beer, and fresh produce, ready to take on another exciting day of exploration.

Day 19: Swim with Whale Sharks

If you've been dreaming of an up-close encounter with a majestic whale shark or the chance to swim beside a giant humpback whale, then you've come to the right place. The Ningaloo Reef is a biodiversity hotspot, rich in aquatic life. You never know what you'll find from one day to the next on this UNESCO-listed wonder. Take the chance to swim alongside whale sharks—ocean giants that can grow up to 59 feet (18 m) long. They congregate around Ningaloo Reef between April and July. Otherwise, you can catch humpback whales from August to October.

Day 20: Fly to Perth & Depart 

This morning you'll catch a flight from Exmouth back to Perth, with ample layover before your departing flight from Australia. Have a safe journey home!

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