2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour

2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour

Duration: 20 Days

Price: from AU$21,600

Departure From: Auckland

Departure Date: Thursday, 29 April 2027

Tour Type: Escorted Group Tour

Meal Plan: B&B and selected meals

Physical Grading: 3

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Embark on the ultimate Australian rail adventure aboard three of the country’s most iconic trains, travelling from Perth to Brisbane through spectacular landscapes, vibrant cities and unforgettable destinations on this epic 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour.

Experience Australia’s greatest rail journeys in one unforgettable adventure on the 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour. Travel in comfort aboard the legendary Indian Pacific, The Ghan and Spirit of Queensland while discovering some of Australia’s most spectacular and diverse destinations.

Love the idea of travelling in a small group? So do our guests.
Places are limited, so we recommend enquiring early.

Begin in Perth before crossing the vast Nullarbor aboard the Indian Pacific to Adelaide. Continue north on The Ghan through the heart of Australia to Darwin, journeying from the rugged outback landscapes of South Australia through Alice Springs and Katherine to the tropical Top End.

From Darwin, fly to tropical North Queensland and discover Port Douglas, the Great Barrier Reef, Cape Tribulation and the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Continue to Cairns before boarding the Spirit of Queensland for an overnight rail journey to Brisbane.

Combining world-class rail travel with immersive sightseeing, comfortable accommodation and unforgettable Australian experiences, the 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour is a remarkable journey across the country’s vast and ever-changing landscapes.

Don’t hesitate to contact us for the full itinerary, pricing and further information about this incredible Australian rail adventure.

2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour Map

2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour Highlights & Inclusions

  • Travel aboard three of Australia’s iconic rail journeys: the Indian Pacific, The Ghan and Spirit of Queensland
  • Cross the vast Nullarbor aboard the Indian Pacific from Perth to Adelaide
  • Journey through the heart of Australia aboard The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin
  • Experience Off Train Experiences in destinations including Kalgoorlie, Cook, the Flinders Ranges, Marla, Alice Springs and Katherine
  • Explore Rottnest Island on a Grand Island Tour
  • Discover Darwin and enjoy a harbour dinner cruise
  • Explore the ancient Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation
  • Cruise to the spectacular Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system
  • Experience the Kuranda Scenic Railway and Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
  • Travel overnight from Cairns to Brisbane aboard the Spirit of Queensland
  • Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane
  • Enjoy superior hotel accommodation throughout the tour
  • Fully escorted touring from New Zealand
Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Soar above the ancient rainforest on the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
Camel-Outback-Riding Alice Springs Activities
Family fun and outback adventure on a camel ride through Alice Springs

2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour Highlights

Three Iconic Australian Rail Journeys

Indian Pacific

Travel across Australia from Perth to Adelaide aboard the legendary Indian Pacific. Cross the vast Nullarbor Plain, discover historic Kalgoorlie and experience the remote outpost of Cook beneath the expansive outback sky.

The Ghan

Journey through the heart of Australia aboard The Ghan, travelling from Adelaide to Darwin. Experience the dramatic landscapes of the Flinders Ranges, the Red Centre, Alice Springs and Katherine before arriving in tropical Darwin.

Spirit of Queensland

Complete your Australian rail adventure with an overnight journey aboard the Spirit of Queensland. Relax in comfortable RailBed accommodation as you travel from tropical Cairns towards Brisbane.

Indian Pacific – Gold Service

Travel in comfort aboard the Indian Pacific with Gold Service accommodation.

Gold Service includes:

  • Private sleeper accommodation
  • Twin or single cabin options
  • Gold Twin cabins with private en suite facilities
  • Dedicated cabin stewards
  • Access to the Outback Explorer Lounge
  • All-inclusive meals in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
  • Selected Australian wines, beers, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Included Off Train Experiences
  • In-cabin audio commentary and entertainment
2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour Indian Pacific Gold Service
Settle into the comfort of your private cabin as Australia unfolds outside

The Ghan – Your Onboard Experience

Travel aboard The Ghan in comfortable Gold Service accommodation.

Gold Service includes:

  • Choice of Gold Twin or Gold Single cabins
  • Dedicated cabin steward service
  • All-inclusive meals
  • Selected Australian wines, beers and beverages
  • Access to the Outback Explorer Lounge
  • Dining in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant
  • Included Off Train Experiences
  • Comfortable sleeper accommodation
Gold Premium Twin Cabin Night
Gold Service comfort as you journey aboard The Ghan

Spirit of Queensland – RailBed Experience

Complete the final rail journey of the 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour aboard the Spirit of Queensland.

Travel overnight from Cairns to Brisbane in a RailBed, featuring comfortable seating by day that converts into a lie-flat bed at night.

RailBed features include:

  • Spacious seating by day
  • Lie-flat bed for overnight travel
  • Personal entertainment system
  • Reading light and power point
  • Fold-out table and drink holder
  • Welcome pack with amenities
  • Meals served at your seat
Spirit of Queensland RailBed Experience
Relax for a comfortable overnight journey beneath the stars aboard the Spirit of Queensland

Should you wish to add pre or post night accommodation, activities or international flights to your 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour, please let us know at the time of booking.

Click here for alternate but equally brilliant Ausralian train journeys and holidays or contact LOCO Journeys to discuss your desired journey.

Tour Inclusions

  • Economy Class air travel from Auckland
  • Gold Service rail travel aboard the Indian Pacific from Perth to Adelaide
  • Gold Service rail travel aboard The Ghan from Adelaide to Darwin
  • RailBed Sleeper Seat aboard the Spirit of Queensland from Cairns to Brisbane
  • Superior hotel accommodation throughout the tour
  • 2 nights in Perth, 3 nights in Darwin, 3 nights in Port Douglas, 2 nights in Cairns and 3 nights in Brisbane
  • Air-conditioned coach transportation
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • Sightseeing and entrance fees as specified
  • Grand Island Tour of Rottnest Island
  • Darwin city sightseeing and harbour dinner cruise
  • Cape Tribulation & Daintree Eco Experience
  • Great Barrier Reef cruise to Low Isles
  • Kuranda Day Tour including Skyrail Cableway and Kuranda Scenic Train
  • Brisbane cruise and visit to Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
  • Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers and staff
  • Baggage handling of one piece per person, where possible
  • Fully escorted tour

Pricing Notes

  • Advertised price is per person, based on twin share
  • Full payment is required at the time of booking
  • Prices are subject to change unless paid in full
  • Travel insurance is not included
  • Meals and sightseeing tours not specifically mentioned in the itinerary are not included
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, room service, laundry and telephone charges are not included
  • Full terms and conditions will be advised at the time of booking
  • Tour members may extend their stay in Australia and return at a later date, with additional bookings available through Maher Tours
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Tour Itinerary

Day 1 | Auckland - Perth (D)
We commence the tour with a direct flight to Perth, departing Auckland around midday. On arrival in Perth, we are transferred to our city hotel for a 2-night stay. We enjoy our first dinner together this evening
An early morning today as we transfer to the Barrack Street Jetty to catch the 8.30am departure to Rottnest Island. The Grand Island Tour takes in all of Rottnest Island’s natural attractions and historical landmarks. Pass by the Wadjemup Lighthouse, Henrietta Rocks, Oliver Hill Gun Fortification and Tunnels and the look-out point at Mabel Cove, before finishing with a unique historic train ride. From spectacular beaches to unspoiled salt lakes, we cover all the major habitats on this amazing tour. You’ll learn about Rottnest Island’s cultural and historical heritage, ranging from maritime and military history right up to its promising future. We return to our hotel later in the afternoon, and the remainder of the day is at leisure.
The morning is free for you to explore this wonderful city, until early this afternoon when we are transferred to the Railway Station in time to join the “Indian Pacific” service to Adelaide. As our train departs Perth mid-afternoon and commences its journey towards Adelaide, sit back and relax in your own “Gold Service” class private compartment. This evening enjoy dinner on board in the Queen Adelaide Restaurant Car and maybe spend time in the Outback Explorer Lounge Car – a great opportunity to meet and mix with your fellow travellers.
Early this morning, our train arrives in the mining city of Kalgoorlie-Boulder. If places could talk, Kalgoorlie would have some interesting stories to tell. Explore Australia’s largest outback town to uncover its fascinating past and present. There are a range of included off-train excursions, such as an up-close tour of one of Australia’s largest gold producing mines, The Super Pit. Or instead, visit Hannans North Tourist Mine. Here, you’ll delve into the history of gold mining while exploring over 30 exhibits. The train continues on, and our next stop is Cook. Hidden in the vast interior of South Australia lies a ghost town that once bustled with life. Today, the town of Cook is home to lonely buildings and a population you can count on one hand – but in its heyday the location was an important part of the development of Australia’s interior. Established in 1917, Cook was originally built as a support town for the railway, with more than 50 people helping to maintain the tracks. Step off the train for a nightcap and late-night bonfire, while you can bask under the vast Nullarbor sky and lose yourself counting shooting stars.
Spend your final morning aboard the Indian Pacific travelling through the pastoral landscapes of South Australia. Enjoy breakfast and lunch as views of the Flinders Ranges, Spencer Gulf and Adelaide Plains unfold beyond your window. Arrive in Adelaide during the afternoon, completing your spectacular transcontinental rail journey.
Transfer to Adelaide Railway Station and board The Ghan for one of the world's great rail journeys. Travel north through Australia's remarkable landscapes, from South Australia's countryside towards the vast outback. Relax in your Gold Service cabin or enjoy a pre-dinner drink in the Outback Explorer Lounge.
Wake to the changing landscapes of South Australia as The Ghan arrives in Port Augusta. Step off the train for an immersive Off Train Experience exploring the ancient landscapes of the Flinders Ranges. Discover rugged ranges, dramatic gorges and spectacular outback scenery before returning to the train for the evening.
Wake to an unforgettable outback sunrise at Marla before continuing north through Australia's Red Centre. Later, arrive in Alice Springs and enjoy included sightseeing exploring some of the region's iconic attractions. Optional experiences may also be available for those seeking additional adventure. Rejoin The Ghan in the evening and continue north towards Katherine.
Arrive in Katherine, gateway to Nitmiluk National Park and the spectacular Katherine Gorge. Choose from included sightseeing experiences, with opportunities to explore the dramatic gorge and discover life in Australia's outback. Later, rejoin The Ghan for the final journey north to Darwin. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a three-night stay.
Discover the highlights of Darwin on a morning sightseeing tour. Explore the city's fascinating history and attractions, including the Chinese Temple, Botanic Gardens, East Point Military Precinct and waterfront areas. The afternoon is free to relax or explore Darwin at your own pace.
Enjoy a relaxed day exploring tropical Darwin at your own pace. Visit the waterfront, discover local attractions or simply relax in one of the city's outdoor cafés. This evening, enjoy a memorable dinner cruise on Darwin Harbour and watch the tropical sunset over the water.
Fly from Darwin to Cairns and continue by coach to the beautiful resort town of Port Douglas. Settle into your accommodation for the next three nights and enjoy the relaxed tropical atmosphere.
Discover one of Australia's most remarkable natural environments on a full-day adventure to Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest. Enjoy a guided experience through the region's spectacular landscapes, including a visit to Wildlife Habitat and a journey across the Daintree River. Enjoy a barbecue lunch before returning to Port Douglas.
Today, experience one of the highlights of your 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour with a full-day Great Barrier Reef cruise. Sail to the beautiful Low Isles and discover coral gardens and colourful marine life. Choose to snorkel, enjoy a glass-bottom boat experience, take a guided beach walk or simply relax beside the water. Return to Port Douglas and enjoy dinner together.
Enjoy a relaxed morning before travelling to Cairns. On arrival, enjoy sightseeing around the city before checking into your hotel. The evening includes dinner at the hotel.
Travel above the rainforest aboard the spectacular Skyrail Cableway towards Kuranda. Explore the village and enjoy time to browse the colourful Kuranda Markets. Discover the region's natural beauty before boarding the historic Kuranda Scenic Railway for the journey back to Cairns.
After breakfast, transfer to Cairns Railway Station and board the Spirit of Queensland. Settle into your comfortable RailBed accommodation for the overnight journey south. Relax as your spacious seat converts into a lie-flat bed for the evening.
Arrive at Brisbane's Roma Street Station in the morning. Enjoy a short orientation tour before transferring to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or explore Brisbane at your leisure.
Enjoy your final full day in Australia with a scenic cruise along Brisbane's waterfront. Visit Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and spend time discovering Australia's unique wildlife, including koalas, kangaroos, emus and native birdlife. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner and celebrate the incredible journey you have shared.
After breakfast, transfer to Brisbane Airport for your flight home to Auckland. Farewell your fellow travellers as your unforgettable 2027 Grand Australian Rail Tour comes to an end.

For more information about this tour, price queries and updates on specials, please Enquire Now.