One of the best ways to chase summer nostalgia and immerse yourself in the heart of outback Australia is aboard an unforgettable train ride. While many Australian railways travel through mountains, lakes, and diverse landscapes, few are as iconic as the Indian Pacific. Named after the two oceans the train encounters on its journey, the route spans from Sydney on Australia’s east coast to Perth in the west (the journey runs year-round in both directions). Unsurprisingly, views are in ample supply — from the lush landscapes of the Blue Mountains to the stark scenery of the outback, and the expansive wilderness of the Nullarbor Plain — this bucket list experience is packed with dazzling, ever-changing scenery, along with cosy cabins, excellent service, and tempting food to indulge in. Here is everything you need to know about the epic Indian Pacific train journey.
Indian Pacific — Sydney to Perth
Traversing arid deserts, goldfields, rugged valleys, and subtropical plains, the journey also offers some magical off-train experiences along the way, including visits to quaint towns, renowned art galleries, beautiful vineyards, and a dining experience for guests under the vast, starry outback skies at Rawlinna. In winter, snuggle up around a bonfire, and in the warmer months, enjoy a meal beneath a stunning night sky speckled with stars. Here are the top highlights of the epic 4-day, 3-night journey.
Day 1 — Sydney to Outback NSW
The journey begins at Sydney’s Central Station, making its way toward the Blue Mountains, winding past towering forests and ancient valleys — a stark contrast to the urban landscapes left behind in Sydney. As the train travels on, the landscape continues to transform with lush, green farmlands eventually blending into the untamed outback of NSW. The first notable stop is Broken Hill, a historic mining town, where guests can disembark for a one-hour walking tour to explore iconic sites like the Living Desert Sculptures and the Pro Hart Gallery, which showcases the works of some of Australia’s finest artists.
Day 2 — Broken Hill to Adelaide
Back on the train, the scenery shifts to wide-open farmland dotted with windmills towards the mighty Flinders Range, signalling Adelaide is around the corner. Once you reach the South Australian capital, you can choose from a range of exciting off-train excursions. Wander through the charming town of Hahndorf nestled in the Adelaide Hills and enjoy its German-style architecture and food offerings or soak in the scenery of the Barossa Valley or McLaren Vale wine regions while enjoying a glass of local wine. Once guests board the train again, the vast expanse of the Nullabor Plain awaits.
Day 3 — Nullarbor Plain
Rightfully considered an Australian icon, the Nullarbor Plain offers a wilderness experience like no other. Stretching over 1200 kilometres, this giant expanse is the world’s largest limestone plain, known for its serene open spaces and stargazing skies like no other — with practically no crowds in sight. Here, the train crosses the world’s longest stretch of straight railway track, an incredible 478 kilometres. Once you cross into Western Australia, indulge in a one-of-a-kind dining experience at Rawlinna — a traditional long-table meal beneath the stunning outback stars (depending on the season of your travel).
Day 4 — Outback Western Australia to Perth
As the Indian Pacific journeys through Avon Valley in Western Australia, guests are treated to lovely views of rolling hills and bubbling streams. Keep an eye out for hot air balloons as the trip comes to a close, as it arrives at Perth.
The Indian Pacific offers private cabins with ensuite bathrooms, luxe bed linen, cosy pillows, and ample space to relax. The Queen Adelaide Restaurant exudes elegance and serves hearty meals and drinks, while the Outback Explorer Lounge provides an opportunity to mingle with other passengers and enjoy a drink or a snack.
Find more information and book your tickets for the Indian Pacific train journey here.
Key Features
Total time: 4 days and 3 nights
Total distance: 4,352 kilometres
Major cities: Sydney, Perth and Adelaide