Australia's Indian Pacific Railroad
All Aboard for a Famous Railway Journey Across Australia
Dec 5, 2008
Since 1970, Australia’s Indian Pacific has taken passengers from Sydney to Perth on one of the world’s longest and greatest train journeys. So named because it travels between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the train provides passengers with a unique look at the island continent that most tourists never see.
Unique Landscapes and Wildlife Along the Route
From the Blue Mountains in New South Wales, through the mining towns of Broken Hill and Kalgoorlie, and across many of the 2.5 million square miles of the Australian outback, passengers are treated to many unparalleled landscapes along the Indian Pacific’s 2,700 mile route. Notably, three hundred of those miles cross the nearly treeless Nullarbor Plain via the world’s longest stretch of railroad track without a single curve.
Besides the unique scenery that most tourists to Australia miss, lucky passengers can also catch a glimpse of Australian wildlife from their windows. Attentive eyes can easily spot kangaroos, emus, and wedge tailed eagles, as well as feral camels. The non-native camels are the descendants of pack animals that were originally imported by early explorers, and later released into the wild to roam free.
Destination Cities are Well Worth a Visit
Passengers who want to take a break from the three-day transcontinental trip can schedule a few nights in beautiful Adelaide, about a day into the journey. The parks and museums along the Torrens River make the capital of South Australia the perfect stopover destination. The Indian Pacific’s final destination is also worth an extended stay. Known as one of the most isolated cities in the world, Perth supports a vibrant business center along with tourist-friendly shuttles to numerous shopping arcades and outdoor cafes. A short cruise on the Swan River brings travelers to the historic maritime town of Fremantle and the Indian Ocean.
First Class and Economy Accomodations are Available
Passengers selecting Gold service train travel (first class) are given roomy sleeper cabins with private showers and toilets. Delicious meals are complimentary in the dining car where diners should not be surprised to find fillet of kangaroo on the menu. Economy or Red Class passengers travel in either ultra-compact sleeper cabins or airline style reclining seats, and can purchase food in their own restaurant car.
The Indian Pacific also provides optional sightseeing excursions at additional cost through the silver mining town of Broken Hill and the gold mining town of Kalgoorlie. A tour of Perth is also offered for those who want a good introduction to their final destination. After their stay in this capital of Western Australia, most travelers make the return trip to Sydney by air. Train enthusiasts, however, will often board an eastbound Indian Pacific for another chance to experience one of the most famous railway journeys in the world.
