How to Book Train Travel From Perth to Sydney

If you've ever wanted to experience the Australian outback without having to endure the Australian outback, the Indian Pacific Train is what you've been looking for. This 3-night, 2,700-mile pleasure cruise is one of the last great train trips in the world, letting you traverse the entire continent in a style and comfort previously unimagined. From the mountains to the desert, this coast-to-coast epic train adventure is the Australian experience of a lifetime.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with Internet access
• Valid credit card

Book Train Travel From Perth to Sydney

1. Select the 'Indian Pacific' train on the official Great Southern Railway Web site (see Resources below).
2. Decide which kind of ticket to book, which you can do under the heading ‘Compare Service Levels.' There are two levels, Red Kangaroo and Gold Kangaroo, and the amenities, comfort and food services differ widely between them. A single adult ticket will be moderate to expensive in price.
3. Go to the 'Bookings' page on the Web site and follow the instructions. If you prefer the telephone, the sales office is also available within Australia at 13 21 47, or internationally at +011 61 8 8213 4592, but be mindful of the time difference.
4. Know that you aren't bound by the train's schedule, and tangential trips are possible. The train stops in the coastal city of Adelaide, for instance, and from there you can connect to several other fantastic locations.

Prepare for Your Train Travel From Perth to Sydney

5. Get yourself to East Perth Rail Terminal on the West Parade (off Zebina Street) at least an hour before your train departs.
6. Consider upgrading to Gold Kangaroo service since this train is your home for 3 days.
7. Bring a little spending money to make your trip more comfortable. Meals and some other amenities are not included with the Red Kangaroo service, so make sure to plan according to your accommodations.

Tips & Warnings

• Book online to easily price different departure dates and times.
• All prices will be in Australian dollars, so be sure to check the exchange rate so you know exactly how much you're paying.
• Consider the Gold Kangaroo Service. While more expensive, it is considerably more comfortable--a plus for a 3-day trip.
• Remember that there is a 2-hour time difference between Perth and Sydney.
• There are only two trains a week leaving Perth for Sydney. This will likely be the most limited transportation you encounter, so consider booking other transportation around this trip.