The Ghan
The Ghan is a train named for Afghan camel drivers who brought supplies to the Outback before the rail system was built. Getting from Adelaide to Alice Springs takes less than 24 hours, half the time it took when the railway first came. Routes now extend to Darwin, making this old journey even better. It is popular, so book early. Here is the train journey for amazing night sky views, wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
Great Southern Rail Limited
Ground Floor, 422 King William St.
Adelaide, South Australia
(08) 8213 4444
http://www.gsr.com.au/
The Indian Pacific
The Indian Pacific links Sydney, Adelaide and Perth twice a week all year round. Like the Ghan, the Indian Pacific uses the circa 1970 stainless-steel coaches, now refurbished. The train leaves Sydney in late afternoon and ascends the Blue Mountains. By morning you are in the Outback and by afternoon Adelaide. The next day, you cross the Nullarbor Plain on the longest stretch of straight railway line in the world. The evening is spent in Kalgoorlie, an old gold rush town and by morning you have arrived in Perth.
Great Southern Rail Limited
Ground Floor, 422 King William St.
Adelaide, South Australia
(08) 8213 4444 Administration
http://www.gsr.com.au/
The Sunlander
On the Sunlander route, visit the east coast of Queensland. Trains run several times each week between Brisbane, the tropical provincial capital, and Cairns, where you will find the Great Barrier Reef. With an array of amenities, including sleepers in single, double or triple berths, and restaurants and lounges, you can travel in luxury or on a budget.
Rail Australia
+617 3235 7322
http://www.railaustralia.com.au
The Tilt Train
The high-speed Tilt Train runs between Brisbane and Cairns twice a week. Australia's most modern train, it can tilt 5 degrees in either direction to make it run much faster than an average train. This journey will take you to see whales jump at Hervey Bay or turtles hatch near Bundaberg. You can get work done if you wish because the Tilt Train has laptop connections. Enjoy the club car or dining car. Ask about Stop-over Fares that allow you to jump off and stay at four vacation destinations in 28 days while traveling this route.
Rail Australia
+617 3235 7322
http://www.railaustralia.com.au
