Your afternoon begins with a welcome gathering, in celebration of the start of your journey across the country and along the world’s longest stretch of straight railway track. Spend a relaxed afternoon getting to know your fellow travellers after you board the Indian Pacific and pull away from Perth, leaving the Indian Ocean behind and cruising toward the Pacific. Tonight, a delectable dinner is served on board, featuring contemporary Australian cuisine with seasonal and regional flavours. (D) OVERNIGHT: 4 nights Indian Pacific

Awake to see the sunrise unfold across Australia’s largest outback town, Kalgoorlie. This morning, we’ll delve into this mining town’s fascinating past and present, with a visit to the region’s gold-rush era, now modern-day, Super Pit mine. Decide how you want to explore Kalgoorlie on your choice of Off Train Experience, including morning refreshments. Reboarding the train mid-morning for brunch, the remainder of the day is on board at your leisure. Sit back and enjoy the hospitality as you take in spectacular views of the seemingly endless expanse of the Nullarbor Plain. You’ll cross borders and time zones, entering South Australia before dinner. Late evening, the train will pull into the almost-ghost-town of Cook for a nightcap, late-night bonfire and stargazing experience. (B,L,D)

Spend the morning travelling through the pastoral lands and communities of remote South Australia as the Indian Pacific cruises past the Flinders Rangers, Spencer Gulf and the Adelaide Plains. Breakfast and lunch are both served on board. Mid-afternoon, the train pulls into Two Wells, where you’ll disembark and transfer in comfortable coaches for a short ride to the world-renowned, wine-producing region of the Barossa Valley. You’ll spend the evening at Seppeltsfield Winery, delighting in a signature dining experience in the vintage cellar. A traditional ‘Firing of the Barrel’ display kicks off the evening, followed by a food and wine pairing curated by Executive Chef Owen Andrews, highlighting regional produce and traditional methods that reflect the story of the Barossa. Here, Platinum guests are also treated to a special 100-year-old wine tasting experience. After dinner, you’ll return to the Indian Pacific, continuing your rail journey through the night. (B,L,D)

Crossing another border during the night, you’ll wake up in Broken Hill, New South Wales. Enjoy a hearty breakfast, ready for the day’s activities in the Silver City. You’ll have a choice of four Off Train Experiences, including guided history, art and cultural experiences that showcase the highlights of Australia’s first heritage-listed city. Returning to the train for lunch, admire the scenery as the Indian Pacific travels through regional New South Wales. Tonight, dinner is served on board as you make the most of your final night exploring Australia by train. (B,L,D)

The Blue Mountains is known for its soaring sandstone ridges wrapped in native flora. This World Heritage-listed area marks your final stop before arriving in Sydney. Say goodbye to the Indian Pacific after breakfast, to travel deep into the mountains for this afternoon’s Off Train Experiences. Scenic World includes four phenomenal mountain experiences, from the Scenic Skyway, which takes you over ancient ravines, with 360-degree vistas to the Scenic Cableway that glides over the forest to the valley floor and the Scenic Railway, the steepest passenger railway in the world. Alternatively, stretch your legs on a guided walk with spectacular views from numerous lookouts along the trail. Both experiences end at Echo Point Lookout, perched on the edge of the escarpment in Katoomba, where a light lunch is served. Complete your journey on our chartered New South Wales rail service (fully hosted by our crew) into Sydney Central Station. Alternatively, if you prefer to arrive in Sydney earlier, stay on board the Indian Pacific to travel directly to Sydney Central Station, arriving before lunch. On arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel to check in and make the most of being in this beautiful harbourside city. (B,L) (B) OVERNIGHT: 3 nights InerContinental Sydney

This morning is at your leisure to enjoy the many comforts of InterContinental Sydney or perhaps head out for some self guided exploration. Later today, make your own way to the Sydney Opera House to meet your guide. Your VIP tour will take you on a journey to uncover the untold stories and history. Learn about the magnificent Concert Hall and gain specific access to areas that are usually off limits to the public. Conclude your tour at Bennelong restaurant where you will indulge in a culturally significant and inspiring 2-course dinner showcasing a most magnificent production of Australian food and wine. (B,D)

Today is yours to explore the harbour city from the CBD to Chinatown, Manly to Newtown, or Barangaroo to Darling Harbour. There are plenty of diverse sights, flavours and experiences to take in, including museums, galleries, aquariums, gardens and more. (B)

After breakfast, check out of your accommodation. This signals the end of your epic journey across Australia. (B)