This afternoon you will transfer to East Perth train station where you will gather with fellow travellers for a warm welcome and a celebratory start to your journey. As the Indian Pacific readies to depart, you will be crossing the country from ocean to ocean along the world’s longest stretch of straight railway track. Settle into your cabin, meet new friends in the lounge and savour your first dinner on board. (B,D)

Awake to see the sunrise across the vast Nullarbor before arriving in Kalgoorlie, Australia’s largest outback town. This morning delve into the region’s past and present with a visit to its gold-rush heritage and the modern-day Super Pit mine. Explore Kalgoorlie with your choice of Off Train Experience. Reboarding mid-morning for brunch, spend the afternoon at leisure on board. Relax with fine hospitality as the endless sweep of the Nullarbor passes by. Crossing borders and time zones, you will arrive late this evening in the near-ghost town of Cook, with only a handful of residents remaining in this once bustling outpost. You will have the opportunity to explore the ghost-like town, then as evening falls, you will see a canopy of stars unspoiled by light and enjoy a guided stargazing experience to spot the Southern Cross and other constellations. Later return to the train for dinner as you continue your journey eastward. (B,L,D)

Barossa Valley

Spend the morning travelling through the pastoral heart of South Australia with sweeping view of the Flinders Ranges, Spencer Gulf and the Adelaide Plains. A leisurely breakfast and lunch are served on board. In the afternoon, disembark at Long Plains and transfer by coach to the world-renowned Barossa Valley. An evening of fine wine and dining awaits at the historic Seppeltsfield Estate. Enjoy a signature culinary experience in the vintage cellar, created exclusively for Indian Pacific guests, complete with a spectacular ‘Firing of the Barrel’ and a food-and-wine pairing. (B,L,D)

Overnight the train crosses another border, arriving in Broken Hill, the famed Silver City. After breakfast, set out to explore this legendary outback town with a choice of off train experiences. Visit the Miner’s Memorial and Sulphide Street railway and Historical Museum for a fascinating look at the region’s mining heritage, or venture underground on a Daydream Mine tour for an authentic glimpse into the life of early miners. Art lovers can head to the Pro Hart gallery for a ‘paint and sip’ session in the artist’s original studio, while foodies will enjoy a native ingredients masterclass with Chef Lee Cecchin, following by a cook-off at the Old Salt Bush Restaurant. Or see Broken Hill’s vibrant personality shine with a lively main-street tour hosted by Shelite Buffet, Queen of the Outback. Returning to the train for lunch, the landscape continues to change as you travel further into regional New South Wales. (B,L,D)

Your final day begins in the majestic Blue Mountains, where soaring sandstone cliffs and eucalypt valleys create a World Heritage-listed landscape like no other. At Scenic World, you can choose from four iconic adventures; glide above ravines on the Scenic Skyway, descend into the forest aboard the Scenic Cableway, or ride the world’s steepest passenger railway. Alternatively, stretch your legs on a guided walk to soak up the views, or savour a decadent high tea at the historic Hydro Majestic Hotel, framed by sweeping mountain panoramas. You will then board a chartered New South Wales rail service train fully hosted by your Indian Pacific crew and travel on to Sydney Central Station arriving mid-afternoon. (B,L)