Changes in Operations (Details 7) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2010	Dec. 31, 2009
Business Combination Pro Forma Information [Line Items]
Operating revenues	$ 717,306	$ 627,767
Net income attributable to Genesee & Wyoming Inc.	$ 107,420	$ 54,097
Basic earnings per common share from continuing operations	$ 2.70	$ 1.46
Diluted earnings per common share from continuing operations	$ 2.50	$ 1.35