milford sound travel blog

Finding Alexx

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Australasia , New Zealand · March 13, 2024

11 epic things to do in Milford Sound

Heading to the magical Milford Sound on your upcoming South Island trip? Here are the best things to do in Milford Sound during your time in Fiordland, from an iconic fiord cruise to more intrepid adventures.

Milford Sound is one of New Zealand’s most iconic destinations, known for its pristine natural environment and otherworldly scenery, best discovered by boat. It’s pretty well-known for being one of the best day trips from Queenstown.

But what many people don’t realise is that beyond a cruise on the fiord, there are loads things to do in Milford Sound that warrant more than a day trip. And if you’re going all that way – it’s a four hour drive from Queenstown without photo stops – you’re going to want to make the most of your time in this remote slice of paradise.

Given that I was born and raised in New Zealand, I’m embarrassed to say that I didn’t set foot in Fiordland until 2020, but it immediately stole my heart and has become an annual pilgrimage for me when I come home each year. I’ve seen it in all the seasons, from sunny summer days to unforgiving winters. I’ve kayaked, cruised, walked and photographed my way around Milford Sound, so I’ve got plenty of travel tips for you.

There’s no doubt that the cruises are magic, they’re a wonderfully efficient and accessible way to explore Milford Sound, but there is plenty more on offer to fill an overnight (or longer) stay. So from kayaking or hiking to birdwatching or stargazing, here are the best things to do in Milford Sound.

Milford Sound: Know before you go

What is milford sound.

It’s hard to describe one of the most beautiful places on the planet but I’m going to give it a go. Think glacial water, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, playful wildlife and minimal light or sound pollution and that’s a good start.

Milford Sound, or Piopiotahi in te reo Māori, is nestled in the northern corner of Fiordland National Park , on the southwest coast of the South Island.

Despite its name, this ‘sound’ is not actually a sound at all, it’s a fiord. European settlers incorrectly named it, along with Doubtful, Dusky, Bligh and other fiords, a ‘sound’ for whatever reason, and at the same time they spelled New Zealand’s fjords as ‘fiord’ just to be annoying.

Geographically, fiords are narrow inlets flanked by steep cliffs, caused by glacier erosion, whereas sounds are river valleys that have been flooded by the ocean. Semantics, your honour!

Best time to visit Milford Sound

Milford Sound is captivating in any season, whether you’ve got blue skies and glistening glacial water, or ominous clouds with countless temporary waterfalls.

New Zealand’s weather is hard to pick, and Milford Sound’s annual rainfall of 6.8m over 200 rainy days means more than likely you’re going to get a bit wet. Luckily, inclement weather in Fiordland National Park is all part of the magic!

Rainfall is fairly consistent year-round but there are pros and cons of both summer and winter visits.

🌄 Warmer months on average bring slightly more rainfall and higher humidity, but average temperatures are around 18-20°C with highs of up to 27°C. Summer is peak season for the area so expect to share it with more tourists, and sandflies are rampant, so definitely take some insect repellent to avoid itchy bites, and some insect bite relief cream for the inevitable bites you can’t escape.

🏔️ In winter, average temperature is from 6-10°C, and the mountains and higher altitude sections of the Milford Road will get snowy. Winter may require extra layers but the cooler weather generally increases wildlife activity so you might have more of a chance to see dolphins, seals and penguins.

Is Milford Sound worth it?

After visiting five times in five years, it’s pretty clear that I think Milford Sound is totally worth the trip.

Yes, it’s busy, and yes, it’s a bit of a detour from other South Island must-visits , but it truly is an incredibly unique and dramatic landscape that is accessible by road and can be done on somewhat of a budget.

👉🏼 Read more: Milford Sound vs Doubtful Sound – Which one should you visit?

The best things to do in Milford Sound

1. do a milford sound day cruise.

Seeing Milford Sound by boat is the top activity for most visitors, and for good reason, The fiord is beautiful from the foreshore, but getting up close and personal with the waterfalls, sailing out to the Tasman Sea and spotting seals on the rocks is something special.

There are a number of companies running cruises in Milford Sound but I love RealNZ , they’re a long-time tourism operator in Fiordland (over 70 years!) and they have a huge focus on sustainable tourism, conservation and carbon reduction.

RealNZ have a few different ships in Milford Sound and the cruises on offer will depend on the time of year.

On previous trips I’ve been on the Milford Mariner (a traditional ‘scow’ boat with sails, very pirate-y and great for photography!) and on my 2024 trip I just went on the Milford Haven , which has a modern fit out, an epic rooftop deck and a cafe serving up some delicious platters with local meats and dips. They also offer premium cruises on the MV Sinbad, a smaller, more intimate vessel with a glass of Champagne included.

I’ve seen bottlenose dolphins, fur seals and the rare Fiordland crested penguin (tawaki in te reo Māori) on Milford Sound cruises, but you have to keep your eyes peeled and remember that nature is unpredictable, so sightings aren’t promised.

You can choose to self-drive to and from Milford Sound, to book a coach + cruise package from Te Anau or Queenstown, or book a fly-cruise-fly or fly-cruise-coach package to get the best of both worlds.

2. Do an overnight cruise in Milford Sound

I haven’t had the chance to tick this one off yet, but the overnight Milford Sound experience is so high on my New Zealand bucket list .

Overnight cruises with RealNZ include accommodation in bunk, twin or double cabins, a three course buffet dinner and cooked breakfast, the opportunity to explore by kayak or tender, commentary and the chance to chat to a specialist nature guide, and the opportunity to experience Milford Sound at its best once the day trippers have left.

3. Go kayaking

Kayaking in Milford Sound with Rosco’s Milford Kayaks is one of the highlights of all of my travels around the world! If you’re up for a bit of physical exercise coupled with the most insane views you’ve ever seen, you’ve got to add this to your itinerary.

They have a range of kayak trips depending on how much time you have and how long you’d like to paddle for, and you can either meet them in Milford Sound or book a transfer from Te Anau and back.

We went for the Sunriser Classic, which started at 9am and included just over three hours of paddling. Floating right on the dark glacial water looking up to the snow-capped Mitre Peak and thundering Lady Bowen Falls was overwhelming, at one stage I was literally on the verge of tears. It was an experience I’ll never forget!

The paddle was slightly tiring after three hours but conditions were perfect, our our legendary guide JD told us all about the fiord’s history, geography and wildlife. We spotted a rare tawaki/Fiordland crested penguin, and we even got a front row seat to watch a fur seal catch, play with and eat a fish!

Free things to do in Milford Sound

4. drive to milford sound from te anau.

Not exactly in Milford Sound, but one of the best parts of any Fiordland trip is the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound .

Milford Road is 120km long, and I’d recommend setting aside 3-4 hours including photo stops and a few short walks.

To read all about driving to Milford Sound, as well as the best photo spots, transportation options and important travel tips, read my full guide to the Milford Road .

5. Take a hike

There’s a bunch of walks around Milford Sound and the Milford Road, with options to suit every skill level. Always take bottled water, insect repellent (for those pesky sandflies) and something to take photos with!

For something short and rewarding, check out the Milford Sound Lookout Track which starts just behind the café, A 10 minute walk will take you to a viewpoint overlooking the stunning fiord.

Another option in Milford Sound itself is the Foreshore Walk , which takes you through native beech forest and along the shore of the sound, with epic views of the impressive 1692m tall Mitre Peak.

Along the Milford Road there’s the Lake Gunn Nature Walk , the Key Summit Track and the Lake Marian Track , and for serious hikers there’s the Routeburn Track from Milford Road to Glenorchy (2-4 days, hut bookings required), or the Milford Track from Te Anau Downs to right through to Milford Sound (4 days, hut bookings required).

6. Watch the sunset

A Milford Sound sunset is something special if you manage to catch the right conditions, with calm water, fiery skies and clouds hovering over sharp peaks.

There’s a couple of great sunset spots at Milford, like the walkway into the harbour from the ferry terminal, the foreshore walk, and the end of Deepwater Basin.

Take a warm jacket for when the temperature drops once the sun falls behind the mountains, and don’t forget insect repellent for the sandflies because they’re brutal at dusk.

7. Search for some native birds

Fiordland’s rugged landscapes and seascapes are home to a number of native birds, like the cheeky kea, kaka, South Island robin, Fiordland penguin, weka, tui and kakariki. The most remote parts of the Milford Track even have some local Fiordland kiwi, or tokoeka.

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL TIP: Never feed native birds, it encourages them to rely on human interaction and can contribute to the dwindling numbers of endangered and vulnerable species.

8. Go stargazing

Another treat for those looking to spend a night at Milford Sound Lodge or the campervan park, stargazing on a clear night is a magical experience.

Head down to the foreshore with a hot thermos and watch the moon light up the snowy peaks surrounding you.

9. Chase waterfalls

It’s easy to let rainy weather dampen your experience (pun intended) but I mean it when I say Fiordland is best seen in the rain. Which is lucky, considering how wet it is!

Milford Sound comes alive during storms, where hundreds of temporary waterfalls begin to cascade over cliff edges and down jagged rockfaces. Permanent waterfalls like the Lady Bowen Falls (viewable from the foreshore) and the Stirling Falls (viewable in the distance but best seen on a cruise) are pretty magnificent too.

On my first trip I arrived in wet weather and managed to see Milford Road in all its rainy glory, before waking up to blue skies and a few leftover waterfalls the following morning. The best of both worlds!

Other things to do in Milford Sound

10. visit the underwater observatory.

Milford Sound’s underwater world is home to a phenomenon called deep water emergence which results in an incredibly unique underwater flora and fauna.

In the most simple terms, deep water emergence is where species normally exclusively found in deep water live much closer to the surface. Fiordland National Park experiences deep water emergence because the glacial freshwater pouring into the fiords from waterfalls doesn’t mix with the saltwater from the ocean, creating a layer of freshwater on top which stops sunlight reaching the seawater underneath. Thanks for coming to my deep water emergence TED Talk.

The Southern Discovery Underwater Observatory is the easiest way to see the effect of deep water emergence, with viewing platforms 10 metres below sea level. You can only access the observatory in conjunction with a Southern Discoveries cruise , with the observatory season starting in mid-November.

11. Go diving in Milford Sound

Divers from all over the globe come to Fiordland to dive in these special conditions, and are rewarded with black coral (which is actually white), monster crayfish and a huge variety of other sea life.

Local diving tour operators Descend run underwater tours into the fiord, with options for beginner divers, qualified divers and experienced divers looking for a challenge. They also offer dry suit training if you’re keen to expand your diving repertoire.

While it’s not exactly a tropical dive destination like Fiji or Thailand, the thriving wildlife and underwater vegetation is unlike anywhere else on the planet.

How to get to Milford Sound

Driving the milford road.

Self-driving the Milford Road from Te Anau to Milford Sound is a must-do if you have your own vehicle. It’ll take you between 2 and 4 hours from Te Anau depending on how many stops you want to make, and it takes you past impressive valleys, abundant rainforests and steep mountains.

🚗 Read more about driving to Milford Sound with my Milford Road travel guide .

Milford Sound tours

Whether you’re staying in Te Anau or Queenstown, there are lots of options to get to and from Milford Sound if you don’t want to tackle the drive yourself.

As I already mentioned, the legends at RealNZ run coach transfers to and from both Queenstown and Te Anau which align with their cruises, just book the coach + cruise combo.

For a premium small-group experience, check out Altitude Tours who run day trips from both Queenstown and Te Anau . They have luxury Mercedes Sprinter vans to make the trip as comfortable as possible.

And if you’re looking for a bespoke private tour, I highly recommend checking out Envy Experiences , a local supplier who runs sustainable tours to Milford Sound in an electric Tesla Model X and includes a fiord cruise.

I did this with my parents on my second trip to Milford Sound and it was incredible to be able to enjoy the views without worrying about the driving, have all of our questions answered by a knowledgeable local, and even find some secret photo spots I had missed on my first trip.

Milford Sound scenic flights

If you’re short on time but not on money, a scenic flight to or over Milford Sound is guaranteed to be one of the best things you’ll ever do.

Flights go from both Te Anau or Queenstown and you can choose from a flyover, a brief landing or a longer landing with a cruise included.

On a previous South Island trip I joined the Milford Sound scenic flyover with Glenorchy Air and it was honestly one of the greatest things I’ve ever done in my life. It was about 1h 20 minutes in the air total, so only about two hours from pick up to drop off, which meant it didn’t cut too much into my Queenstown itinerary .

BOOK IT: Looking to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime Milford Sound experience? This Queenstown to Milford Sound helicopter flight gives you a two hour round-trip flight with two landings included, one at Milford Sound and one on the mighty Tutoko Glacier. Perfect for a special occasion!

Where to stay in Milford Sound

Milford sound lodge chalets.

Milford Sound Lodge is the only accommodation provider in Milford Sound, and it’s brilliant. They have three chalet styles to choose from: mountain-view studios with a mini-fridge, two bedroom forest chalets with a kitchenette (fridge + microwave), and premium riverside studio chalets with a kitchenette and breath-taking views.

I’ve stayed in the mountain-view studio a couple of times and I’m obsessed, incredible views right outside your window, breakfast delivered to your door each morning and easy access to walks around the bush and foreshore.

The Lodge also has an on-site restaurant with a delicious menu, serving up locally-sourced ingredients for lunch and dinner.

Rainforest Campervan Park at Milford Sound Lodge

If you’re exploring New Zealand in a campervan, you can park up overnight at Rainforest Campervan Park , part of the Milford Sound Lodge. The park has powered sites to top up your batteries, clean kitchen and bathrooms facilities, and is set amongst a dramatic rainforest with an abundance of birdlife.

Keep an eye out for kea, a cheeky mountain parrot, who will try and eat anything and everything. That includes your windscreen wipers!

Milford Sound overnight cruise

If you want to maximise your time here and experience the fiord at its best, consider an overnight cruise .

This way you’ll get sunset and sunrise on the water, a much higher chance of seeing wildlife because there are less boats, and be able to jump into a kayak to explore right at sea level too.

Cascade Creek DOC campground

Cascade Creek is a DOC campground that’s just over half way from Te Anau to Milford Sound , and it’s got 120 sites for campervans and tents. It costs $15 per adult per night ($7.50 for kids over 5, under 4s are free) and that’s payable by cash to the self-registration kiosk. You need to book your spot on the DOC website .

Or stay in Te Anau

If the Milford Sound Lodge is all booked up and you don’t want to make the long drive from Queenstown, stay in Te Anau before and/or after your Milford Sound visit and then you only have to drive two hours each way rather than four.

Budget | I’ve stayed at the Te Anau TOP 10 Holiday Park and the Te Anau Lakeview Holiday Park , both are budget-friendly but very basic so don’t have high expectations of comfort or style. I’ve heard good things about Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers from fellow travellers too.

Mid-range | My top mid-range pick is Anchorage Motel (clean, comfy + they have a studio with an outdoor hot tub if you want to treat yourself) but some other highly-rated options are Annies on Milford , Dusky Motels and Aden Motel .

Luxury | My favourite place to stay in Te Anau is Radfords on the Lake , a family-owned 5* lakefront accommodation option with studios or 1 and 2 bedroom suites. It’s ideally located a short walk from town, has beautiful views of Lake Te Anau, and the owners are the epitome of southern hospitality. If you book here please tell Kerri that Alexx says hi!

I hope this travel guide has helped you plan some epic things to do in Milford Sound! If I’ve missed anything important of the list, or if you have any questions about the area or anywhere else in Fiordland, just let me know in the comments.

RELATED READS:

• 10 of the Best Things to Do in Te Anau
• Everything You Need To Know About Driving to Milford Sound
• The Ultimate New Zealand Bucket List
• Milford Sound vs Doubtful Sound: Which One Should You Visit?
• The Best Places to Visit in the South Island

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January 11, 2022 at 6:20 pm

Queenstown and Te Anau are popular starting points for Milford Sound day tours. Both towns have a wide range of accommodation available, from hostels and campsites to Lodge in Te Anau. Many offer complimentary hotel pickup and dropoff from selected accommodation providers. There is also a campground at the Milford Road. Search for Queenstown or Te Anau accommodation now and get the best rates, guaranteed.

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9 incredible things to do in Milford Sound

From kayaking through deep inky fiords to waking up to the sound of waterfalls, Milford Sound is all about getting up close and personal with nature.

Nowhere does wild, dramatic scenery and jaw-dropping landscapes quite like New Zealand . It’s the kind of beautiful that forces you to be totally in the here and now. Milford Sound in Fiordland National Park is one of the South Island ’s biggest draws. The stunning landscapes have been carved by glaciers over thousands of years and the steep granite peeks, beech tree forests and hanging valleys remain practically untouched.

Rudyard King (author of The Jungle Book ) once said Milford Sound is the “eighth wonder of the world”, and you’ll understand exactly what he means when you get here. Without further ado, here are some of our favourite things to do in Milford Sound .

1. Walk the Milford Track 

Dust off your hiking boots and get ready to see some spectacular sights. The Milford Track is one of the Great Walks of New Zealand (ahem, and the world!). This 53-kilometre trail (open from April to October) takes four to five days to complete. You’ll tackle a range of terrain through the foothills of mighty peaks, glacier-carved valleys, lush alpine forests, tranquil rivers and tumbling waterfalls. 

There are also several shorter trails including the Milford Sound Lookout, Foreshore Walk and Key Summit Track. These trails take you through beech forest, dense bush and sandy foreshores and offer impressive panoramic views of Milford Sound, Mitre Peak and the surrounding Fiordland.

2. Go kayaking

The feeling of being in the open water surrounded by soaring cliffs is like nothing else. The scenery is constantly changing. One minute the sky will be perfectly clear and the next minute a blanket of mist and clouds will roll over the mountains, making everything look and feel even more mysterious. Paddle into hidden coves, glide past hanging forests and get up close to waterfalls – maybe even close enough to feel the refreshing mist on your skin. If you’re lucky, you might come face to face with curious bottlenose dolphins, seals or Fiordland crested penguins (from July to November).

3. Visit Te Anau Glowworm Caves

Te Anau Caves is a magical labyrinth of limestone passages. The caves are only 12,000 years old (this is young in cave years), so they’re still being carved out by the river that runs through them. After hopping in a small boat, you’ll glide deep inside the caves where you’ll see unique rock formations, a hidden waterfall and whirlpools. You’ll then drift into a pitch-black, silent grotto where you’ll discover an underground world lit up with thousands of tiny glowworms. Seeing these bioluminescent beings is truly magical.

4. Sleep aboard a heritage-built vessel 

Step aboard your home for the night (AKA a heritage-built vessel) and enjoy the stunning journey into the Tasman Sea. After spending time outside soaking up the scenes and spotting wildlife, head inside for a delicious three-course dinner. The night skies above Milford Sound are incredible and you might want to sit out on the deck with a blanket for a spot of stargazing. The best part of this experience is waking up. It’s pretty hard to top waking up to the sound of waterfalls and the sunrise peeking through the granite clifftops. 

EXPERIENCE AN OVERNIGHT CRUISE IN MILFORD SOUND

5. See local wildlife 

Milford Sound is a haven for wildlife lovers and you have a good chance of seeing animals from the land or water. Over 60 bottlenose dolphins live in the fiord and they’re known to be quite playful – they might even pop up to say hi (not literally) when you’re sailing or kayaking. The other residents are fur seals, Fiordland Crested Penguins, the rare blue duck, the kiwi and the kea. Keep an eye out for fur seals hanging out on the rocks at Seal Point. If you’re really lucky, you might see a whale as they sometimes visit the fiord to hunt for food.

6. Marvel at Mirror Lakes

You guessed it – on a clear day Mirror Lakes is so pristine you can see the towering Earl Mountains reflecting perfectly on the water. Mirror Lakes is located in Eglington Valley and you’ll pass it on the scenic drive into Fiordland. No doubt you’ll want to stop here, stretch your legs and get some epic photos for the ‘gram, but keep a lookout for wildlife. You might see some of the country’s rarest birds here including New Zealand’s smallest duck, the scaup (or pāpango) and the grey duck (or pārera).

7. Chase waterfalls

Milford Sound gets a whopping 200 days of rainfall per year. But you don’t need to worry about a bit of rain putting a dampener on your spirits. In fact, you’ll want it to rain at least once. Huge downpours mean temporary waterfalls can literally appear out of nowhere, sometimes tumbling from heights of 1000 metres. There are a couple of permanent waterfalls including Bowen Falls which plunges 162 metres from a hanging valley. You can get close to the falls either on a boat cruise or kayak. Or get a bird’s eye view of the cascades on the Bowen Falls Walk (only accessible with the purpose-built boat). Be prepared to get wet!

8. Go stargazing 

Oh, boy are you in for a treat. Milford Sound is blessed with hardly any light pollution, and on a clear night, the sky shimmers with millions of stars. There’s nothing but you, blissful silence (or the odd bird chirping or rustling in the trees) and the Milky Way. Keep your eye out for satellites and the Southern Cross, Anchor and Maui’s Fish Hook constellations.

9. The Milford Sound Scenic Drive 

You can’t not do the Milford Sound Scenic Drive. No, seriously. It’s the only way in and out of Fiordland. But even if it wasn’t, it would still deserve a place on this list. The Scenic Drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound showcases the beauty of Fiordland. You’ll drive through the mountains and see giant granite peaks towering over you in every direction. You’ll pass the lush Mirror Lakes and Lake Gunn, and the gorgeous Milford Sound Forest Walk which is well worth it for the view of Mitre Peak. The drive takes around 1.5 hours, but it’ll go by in a flash with so much to see.

DISCOVER THESE NATURAL WONDERS FOR YOURSELF ON A MILFORD SOUND TOUR

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How to explore the magnificent Milford Sound – A complete travel guide

Famously called the 8th wonder of the world by Rudyard Kipling, Milford Sound is New Zealand’s premier tourist attraction welcoming up to a million visitors every year. If you’re thinking of experiencing this incredible natural wonder, our New Zealand travel guide will explain how. I’ll explain your options for getting there, what you can do when you arrive, where you can stay and much more.

This article contains affiliate links. For more information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here .

What is Milford Sound New Zealand?

Milford sound facts at a glance.

While named as a ‘sound’ by the first European to discover it in the early 1800’s, Milford Sound is actually a fiord. During the ice age the movement and flow of glaciers out towards the sea carved deep grooves into the mountainous coast line. When the ice began to retreat, sea water rushed in and created Milford Sound. At 291 meters deep at it’s deepest point, and with the highest mountain peak above being almost 1700m above sea level, you can only image the magnitude and scale of the glacial movement.

Read : A complete guide to 62 of the best things to do in New Zealand

Piopiotahi and Maori legend

The Maori have a beautiful legend about the creation of Milford Sound, they believe a godly figure named Tu-Te-Raki-Whanoa moved along the coastline, shaping the coast with his adze as he chanted powerful prayers, creating the fiords. The Maori name for Milford Sound is Piopiotahi. Although the first European arrived in Milford Sound in the 1820’s, the indigenous Maori population were aware of the area over 1000 years ago.

Drastic and awe inspiring landscape

Milford Sound is a popular attraction because quite honestly, it’s absolutely stunning. With it’s near vertical towering cliff faces, covered in rainforest and gushing waterfalls, it’s easy to feel so tiny. Two of the most famous permanent waterfalls are Lady Elizabeth Bowen Falls, which is 162 meters high and Sterling Falls. There are also many, many temporary falls that come and go.

Milford Sound is the wettest inhabited part of New Zealand. Raining on average 182 days every year. This water lands high above the mountain peaks and as it cascades down into the Sound below, it collects dirt and tannins from the soil, staining it brown. This does two incredible things that make Milford Sound so unique.

There’s nothing normal about the water in Milford Sound

The first, is the sheer amount of water entering the sound from above creates a situation where there is both fresh and salt water in Milford Sound. The top 10 centimeters or so of fresh water sits above the salt water below.

The second thing, which is really cool, is that it creates the dark inky coloured water that Milford Sound is known for. This not only looks unusual, but it causes a darkness that goes deep into the depths of Milford Sound. In Milford Sound, 10 meters below sea level has the same amount of light at 70 meters below out in the open sea.

Abundance both above and below

This darkness means that the marine life only 10 meters under the surface is as vibrant as it is above. While Milford Sound is home to colonies of seals, dolphins and penguins, and visited by the occasional whale, under the water is a fascinating world of rare and unusual corals, including black coral. There is an underwater observatory at Milford Sound if the underwater world excited you.

The best and most common way to see Milford Sound is by a boat cruise and you can do that in a variety of ways within a day. However to really experience the beauty of Milford Sound and experience all it has to offer I’d really recommend spending a couple of days and taking it all in.

Editors tip: If you’re planning your New Zealand holiday, don’t miss our guide to New Zealand .

Where is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is located in the south west of the South Island. It is inside the enormous Fiordland National Park, which is also home to Doubtful Sound. Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park that contain it, are part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site. The UNESCO area basically covers the whole coastal corner of the South Island and also encapsulates Mt Cook/Aoraki and Mount Aspiring. The whole region is so unique harboring native fauna and flora and beautiful mountains terrain.

While most people know Milford Sound as the physical fiord, or waterway running between the mountains, the whole area of Milford Sound is actually 25 square kilometers and contains an enormous number of fascinating sites and activities that go beyond taking a boat trip.

Distance wise, Milford Sound is about 3.5 hours from Queenstown and about 1.5 hours from Te Anau. Be warned, however, it will take you longer because you’ll stop. A lot. The Milford Road is a wonderful drive. Don’t worry, we’ll tell you all the best places below in our Milford Sound travel guide.

Milford Sound Travel Guide: How to get to Milford Sound

Milford Sound is the only Sound in New Zealand that is accessible by road making it very accessible. There’s a car park at the bottom and a short walk until the offices and the dock. All you need to know is whether you want to drive yourself or take a tour bus.

Guided coach tour from Queenstown or Te Anau

One of the most popular options for visiting Milford Sound is via a guided coach tour, either from Queenstown or Te Anau. Coach tours are so common that they run regularly, and like well oiled machines.

The great thing about a guided coach tour is that everything is taken care of for you. You’ll either be picked up from your accommodation, or meet your bus and guide at the tour companies head office. From there, you can sit and relax. The bus driver knows all the best places to stop along Milford Road so you won’t miss any photo opportunities. Once you’re at Milford Sound you can simply board your boat and enjoy the experience.

Guided coach tour from Queenstown

If you’re taking a tour from Queenstown, it will be as a full day trip. Queenstown is at least 3.5 hours from Milford Sound. Add in stopping for photos, getting on and off the boat and driving back and it’ll take a good 12 hours.

The most popular Milford Sound coach tour from Queensland is this one .

A guided coach tour from Te Anau

If you’re staying in Te Anau, this Milford Sound coach tour from Te Anau is highly recommended. Again, you can organize for them to pick you up and take you to the office for the bus to Milford Sound.

Small group private tours

If you’d prefer to go in a smaller group and not on a large coach, a small group private tour such as this one from Queenstown is a good solution. You’ll get all the benefits of a guided tour in a more personal atmosphere. An alternative if you’re staying in Te Anau is this small group tour to Milford Sound.

Self drive road trip to Milford Sound

There is no better way to see New Zealand than by car or campervan and roads like Milford Road are the reason why. If you have your own vehicle you can absolutely drive yourself to Milford Sound. The huge benefit of doing so is that you’re in control of your own time. You can stop as often as you want and spend as long as you want once you’re at Milford Sound.

If you drive yourself, all you need to do is pre-book your Milford Sound Boat Cruise ticket before you go. That way you don’t miss out.

Milford Sound travel guide: Take a scenic flight

For a different view point and an entrance with style, you have the option of taking a scenic flight from Queenstown to Milford Sound. If you’re short on time, a half day tour including a scenic flight and boat cruise to Milford Sound is ideal.

Milford Road – one of New Zealand’s most scenic drives

New Zealand is known for it’s scenic-ness, is that a word? You know what I mean. Almost no drive is just a normal drive. There are endless mountains and lakes and forests to admire. The road to Milford Sound is no exception. An absolutely beautiful drive, you’ll be delighted as you pass by beautiful mountains and valleys.

If you’re taking a bus tour, you won’t be able to stop and get out as much, otherwise your 12 hour tour might never end. Don’t worry though, there’s some beautiful views to be had from right inside the bus. Of course if you’re driving yourself, stop as often as you want. We’d highly recommend stopping on the way home, rather than on the way there. Otherwise you might be late for the boat like we almost were. Whoops.

Milford Sound travel guide: Sights to see on Milford Road

Eglinton valley.

One of the only valleys in Fiordland National Park accessible by road, the Eglinton Valley is one of the first spectacular sights you’ll see on your way to Milford Sound. It’s large native beech covered mountains and tussock grass valley floor are unmistakable. If you’re a Lord Of The Rings fan, several areas of the Eglinton Valley were used to film to the movie, including the Misty Mountains in the Fellowship Of The Ring.

Mirror Lakes

The Mirror Lakes are located within the Eglinton Valley. A short 400m walk off the road you’ll find perfectly still, calm water perfectly reflecting the mountains above. Mirror Lakes is a popular spot for photo opportunities, but it’s also home to a vast array of native and endangered animals and birds.

The Homer tunnel

Not quite a natural beauty like the other sites on this list but the Homer tunnel is due some admiration. It took 19 years to complete the tunnel which provides road access to Milford Sound. The 1.2km Homer Tunnel was dug by hand, at 945 meters above sea level, straight through the Darren Mountain range.

There are no lights in the tunnel and although wide enough for two way traffic, traffic only flows one way during peak season. Traffic lights control the flow in and out of the tunnel.

There is a steep descent as you exit the tunnel into the Cleddau Valley.

The Cleddau Valley

An incredible site as you exit the Homer Tunnel, the Cleddau Valley has some of the best views on the Milford Road. The winding hairpin turns flanked by granite walls and mountains are spectacular. The descent towards Milford Sound is steep here.

The portion of the Milford Road that runs through the Cleddau Valley is prone to landslides and avalanches in winter. It can also be quite snowy and miserable. If you’re not used to driving in that sort of winter weather, consider a tour. Coach drivers drive in and out of Milford throughout all seasons and they’re skilled at handling it during difficult times.

Milford Sound travel guide tip: There are no shops or gas stations along Milford Road so you’re going to want to fill your petrol tank in Te Anau. If you’re campervanning, make sure you have enough food and water if you’re intending to stay around Milford Sound for a few days.

Milford Sound Travel Guide: Things to do in Milford Sound

Take an extraordinary Milford Sound boat tour

Really, you can’t go to Milford Sound and NOT take a boat tour. It would be such a shame. The view of Milford Sound from the boat is spectacular. As you move along Milford Sound, you’ll pass the Lady Bowen and Sterling Falls. You’ll also get a clear view of the tallest peak, the Mitre Peak, which reaches 1692m above sea level.

There’s a high chance you’ll see some sea life. The local colony of Fur Seals can be seen regularly at Seal rock but there are plenty of other animals that call Milford Sound home including dolphins and penguins.

A boat cruise runs the full length of Milford Sound and turns around at the point where Milford Sound meets the Tasman Sea.

A cruise of Milford Sound is usually around 2 hours during which time the boat driver will provide you with interesting facts and information about the geology, fauna and flora of the area.

You can book your Milford Sound boat tickets before you go to make sure you don’t miss out.

Book an overnight cruise on Milford Sound

If you want to spend more time on Milford Sound you can book an overnight cruise. You’ll get dinner and breakfast but most importantly, you’ll get to watch the sunrise and sunset over Milford Sound. Stargazing is also spectacular here and you’ll see the area from a whole new perspective at night time.

Take a tour including the underwater Observatory

Located on Milford Sound, the floating underwater observatory is a great way to see what lies beneath. Head down into the glass viewing room, 10 meters below sea level to experience Milford Sound like you would an aquarium. It’s better here though because this is a natural habit and the sea life are free. You can get tickets that combine a boat cruise with a stop at the Observatory so you can see both.

Kayak Milford Sound

Get a bit more adventurous and take a kayak tour of Milford Sound. This is a great way to really get close to the inky black water and bases of the plunging cliff faces. You can book a boat and kayak tour so that you can see Milford Sound from both angles as your guide explains everything in detail.

Scuba diving in Milford Sound

If you really want to get a good view of what lurks under the inky black water of Milford Sound, a Scuba diving tour is ideal. You’ll get to see the incredible array of coral growing freely throughout Milford Sound. You may also see a few sea animals on your tour.

Fly over Milford Sound in a helicopter or small plane

Take in the highlights of Milford Sound from the air with a small plane scenic tour from Queenstown . If you’d prefer, there area also helicopter tours of Milford Sound for that incredible areal view.

An areal tour is a fantastic option if you don’t have the time to do a full day bus tour from Queenstown. It reduces the travel time from Queenstown to Milford Sound by about 3 hours, freeing up at least 6 hours of your day. You also get to experience Milford Sound in a way that not everyone gets to experience.

Free things to do in Milford Sound

The foreshore walk and look out tracks.

Along the edge of Milford Sound are the Foreshore Walk and Lookout Track. These are short walks, about half an hour and they’ll take you to different vantage points along the waters edge. If you have a little bit of time they’re well worth doing.

Stop for photo’s along Milford Road

As mentioned above the Milford Road has some spectacular views. There are quite a few walks of varying lengths that begin on Milford Road. Click here to skip back up to the section on sights along Milford Road.

When is the best time to visit Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is actually great to visit all year round. As the wettest inhabited part of New Zealand, and with an average of 182 days of rainfall, you may think that winter would be wet and miserable. In fact, it’s summer that is the wettest. That’s not a problem though as the spectacular waterfalls running down the sides of the mountains are at their finest when it’s been raining.

You have a good chance of seeing a variety of different sea animals in the spring and autumn as they are most active during these months.

Winter is also a perfectly good time to visit Milford Sound. If not a little colder, so rug up.

No matter which season you visit, you’ll want to wear multiple layers and take a rainproof jacket to protect against the wet and spray from the boat if you’re outside.

Milford Sound Travel Guide: Where to stay when visiting Milford Sound

Queenstown or te anau.

If you’re taking a tour, you’ll want to stay in either Queenstown or Te Anau. Te Anau is really the gateway to Fiordland National Park. From Te Anau you’ll also be able to visit Doubtful Sound easily. Queenstown however is obviously a bigger city. Either are perfectly suitable for visiting Milford Sound, so long as you have the time for a full day from Queenstown.

The Milford Sound Lodge

If you want to stay close to Milford Sound, the Milford Sound Lodge is located about 2km back up Milford Sound Road. With chalets looking over either the Cleddau River or the mountains it’s a beautiful place to stay. The Milford Sound Lodge has it’s own restaurant so you won’t need to leave at all during your stay.

The Rainforest Campervan Park

Owned by the Milford Sound Lodge, The Rainforest Campervan Park has spaces for campervans only. It does not offer tent camp sites. The sites are powered and you’ll have access to kitchen and laundry facilities. You’ll need to take everything you need with you as there are no shops anywhere near Milford Sound.

If you’re going in the summer make sure you book well in advance as they often book out.

Department of Conservation Camp Grounds

While there are no DoC camp grounds at Milford Sound itself, there are quite a few along the length of Milford Road. You can do a search on the Department of Conservation website .

What to wear to Milford Sound?

The key to dressing for anywhere in New Zealand is layers. You’re on a boat and it can be windy, especially as you approach the Tasman Sea. Have a few layers you can put on and take off to suit the temperature. A good layer to have would be a waterproof one incase it rains.

If you’re planning on spending a bit of time around Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park, layers, as well as some good walking shoes are useful. As is insect repellent.

Is Milford Sound Worth it?

Without a doubt the answer is yes. To be honest, I would love to go back and spend more time. Even I didn’t realise all the options available and things to do while we were there. The sheer magnitude and size of the mountains and the close. intimate feeling of the narrow fiord make it an unusual and exciting experience. I can’t image there is anyone who would say that they weren’t happy that they’d seen Milford Sound.

Which is better: Doubtful or Milford Sound?

So, we saw both and I’ve written a whole article comparing the two here . Both are beautiful although they are different. If you only have time for one, I would suggest Milford Sound but really, you wouldn’t be disappointed with either.

Milford Sound Travel Guide Frequently Asked Questions

The areas of Fiordland National Park, Manapouri, Te Anau and were in a number of places in Lord Of The Rings. For example, the Waiau River between Manapouri and Te Anau was used for parts of Anduin and Manapouri was used for the area south of Rivendell. As far as the area of Milford Sound itself, the best place to see LOTR scenery is in the Eglinton Valley, along the Milford Road. These are where scenes of the Misty Mountains were filmed.

Absolutely, it may be drier in the winter than in the summer. Just make sure you wear a lot of layers and have a waterproof layer with you as it’ll be pretty cold if you get wet.

Definitely! And it’s a great way to see the area. See the section of Kayaking Milford Sound above for more information

A cruise on Milford Sound is about 2 hours. You’ll head to the end of Milford Sound, where it joins the Tasman Sea before turning around to head back to the dock

Don’t forget to pin me for later!

About Christine

Christine and her partner Ben have spent the last few years traveling through New Zealand and then Europe by campervan. They travel with their dog Alisa, who they adopted in Croatia. You'll find them exploring old cities, hiking through National Parks, and taking unforgettable road trips.

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18 Best Things to Do in Milford Sound

There are places you hear so much about, with hundreds of travel blogs boasting about them. But once you’re there they just don’t live up to the hype.

Well, that’s not the case with Milford Sound in New Zealand.

In this detailed guide, we will reveal the very best of Milford Sound ! A complete list of must-do activities, popular tourist attractions and top free & fun things to do!

The ancient history of Milford Sound

Milford Sound’s history goes back millions of years as glaciers and tectonic activity carved it.

In Māori tradition, Milford Sound was the most spectacular work of Tū Te Rakiwhānoa , an atua (demi-god) responsible for shaping Fiordland. Chanting a powerful karakia (prayer) he carved cyclopean land masses out of shapeless rock using his toki (axe), named Te Hamo.

The Māori have long-established seasonal camps for harvesting food and mining takiwai, a rare greenstone used for tools, weaponry and ornamentation.

Weird Fact The first post office of the fjord was a tiny island. A rum barrel was hung on a tree where mail was posted and a white flag was raised to indicate unsent mail. Passing ships would then stop and browse the mails. If any were addressed to a location they were heading then they would take it with them!

Why you need to visit Milford Sound

Pictures and travel guides speak for themselves so I am going to keep it short and sweet! In case you’re still sceptical here are the top reasons to visit Milford Sound .

• The landscape is impressive – I know, you’ve heard the word “dramatic” too many times, but trust me; you haven’t seen anything like this. Ever.
• The unique wildlife – New Zealand is home to extraordinary species due to its remoteness. Now imagine that Milford Sound is isolated as well. We are talking about an isolated region in an already remote country . What kind of species could have survived?
• The massive waterfalls – not only they are incredibly beautiful, but there are also hundreds of them after long sessions of rain. Good news for you! Milford Sound is one of the wettest places on earth!
• There is a hike for everyone – from short walks (up to 30 mins) to longer tramps (4 days), Milford Sound is here to provide you. Don’t leave without attempting at least one. See all hikes here .
• Spend the night in one of the best stargazing spots of the southern hemisphere – when was the last time you saw Aurora Australis, the Southern Cross, the Magellanic Clouds and the Southern Star?

Best things to do in Milford Sound

Milford Sound can be enjoyed in many ways depending on the season , your available time and your… fitness level.

You will be amazed by how picturesque Fiordland is and by the number of available things to do and see; glacier valleys, crystal lakes, snow-peaked mountains and lush vegetation will have you reaching for your camera at every turn .

#1 Head out for a day adventure

There are numerous hikes and short walks you can take while you are visiting the area. Below you will find some of the best.

Local tip : To escape the crowds head riverside at Little Tahiti, near the Milford Sound Lodge. This quiet and little-known spot of Cleddau River has awesome views of the 2.723 m. Mt. Tutuko, Fiordland’s highest peak. If you are lucky enough you may also see the rare blue ducks, a species native to New Zealand’s wilderness areas.

Milford Sound Foreshore Walk

A short & sweet walk that starts at the car park, passing through the forest and the sandy foreshore. Enjoy the sea air and get some spectacular views over Mitre Peak.

Difficulty: Very easy Accessible to wheelchairs: Yes Total Distance: 400 m Estimated Time: 30 mins. Trail Type: Loop track

Milford Sound Lookout Track

A great option for those without much time to spare. The trail wanders through beautiful vegetation and offers wonderful views over Milford Village. Make sure you don’t miss the grave of Donald Sutherland, a soldier and explorer.

Difficulty: Easy Total Distance: 400 m Estimated Time: 20 mins. Trail Type: Out and back

Key Summit Track

A longer, yet easy track, with great views of Fiordland. Beech forests, alpine tussock, meetups with native species; this walk has it all. Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views , south to Lake Te Anau and north past Mt Tutoko.

Difficulty: Medium Total Distance: 6.8 km Estimated Time: 3 hours Trail Type: Out and back

Gertrude Saddle Route

The hike offers gorgeous views of Milford Sound and the surrounding valley. Discover hidden waterfalls , cross rivers and the mysterious Black Lake near the top.

Difficulty: Expert (climbing experience needed) Total Distance: 7 km Estimated Time: 6 hours Trail Type: Out and back

Best time to do the hikes

Peak season : If you are planning to visit during the New Zealand summer (December – January), make sure to book your accommodation well in advance (e.g. lodges & huts). Expect average temperatures between 18°C to 20 ° C .

Best season: During autumn the local wildlife, including seals and penguins tends to be more active. Besides, March – April are ideal for those seeking fewer crowds and temperate weather .

You will also enjoy: Hiking the sacred Hooker Valley!

#2 Paddle at your own pace with a kayak

If you feel adventurous enough you can go kayaking on the fjord.

In an instant, the landscape takes gigantic proportions and you are dwarfed into insignificance . Thundering waterfalls crushing nearby and huge cliffs surround you from every direction. You also get the chance to meet the local wildlife from up-close, curious dolphins , seals and penguins .

There is truly something special about seeing the fjord from the water level. That’s the reason kayaking in the fjord is definitely one of the best things to do!

When to go kayaking? sunrise – early riser or not, kayaking the fjord with the first daylight is a magical experience sunset – if you spend the night in Milford Sound a twilight kayak tour offers the much-needed serenity after a tiring day

You can start your kayak trip from Harrison’s Cove, a sheltered cove protected from waves and the wind.

Keep in mind : You are in open waters. Pay close attention to the weather forecast and watch for boat traffic.

#3 Squeeze into a wetsuit and go diving

Surely the first thought that crosses your mind when you see those dark, empty waters is not to get into.

That’s where you are wrong!

Beneath that creepy surface, you can see more than 150 species of marine life , in a colourful environment. The water is clear and easy to see through with the help of a torch.

Diving is a unique way to explore this spectacular marine reserve.

While it’s not your typical tropical diving destination, the thriving wildlife and underwater vegetation are unlikely to be met elsewhere in the world; dolphins, stingrays, black corals, seals, cods, sharks, octopus, crayfish, nudibranch, eels and many more!

Under this unique mix of fresh and saltwater, there is another world with its own fauna and flora.

#4 Get under the water without getting wet

If hiking, diving or kayaking sound too adventurous, try Milford Sound’s floating underwater observatory .

Get some amazing views of up to 10 meters below sea level and find yourself in a fascinating world.

• observe the colorful marine wildlife of the fjord
• discover the unique species of black coral (usually found at a depth of 50 meters)
• get informed about the history of Milford Sound and the construction of Homer Tunnel
• hear tales of the early European settlers and Māori explorers
• learn about the ecology and geology of Milford Sound and view video footage of brutal avalanches

Helpful info The Milford Sound Discovery Centre and Underwater Observatory is accessible only by boat. Therefore, you need to book the “ cruise + observatory ” tickets from the various cruising or kayaking operators.

#5 Go fishing

Fan of the sport? Great news!

Fishing in Milford Sound is permitted and there is a great variety of fishes in the inky depths of the fjord. Depending on your equipment you can catch kingfish, broadbill, tarakihi, hapuka and tuna.

When planning your fishing trip make sure to check the DoC website for more information – how can you access the boat ramp, where and how can you fish etc.

Tip : Fishing is not allowed anywhere inside the Piopiotahi Marine Reserve. Learn more about the reserve area and the fishing restrictions .

#6 Tramp the finest walk in the world

The most famous of the 9 New Zealand Great Walks, The Milford Track , is for all those who want to experience everything the Fiordland National Park has to offer.

From valleys carved by glaciers to ancient rainforests and cascading waterfalls to hidden mountain passes, The Milford Track has it all . The highlights of the track include the stunning panoramas from Mackinnon Pass, the jaw-dropping Sutherland Falls (580 m.) and the emerald waters of Clinton River.

If you got the time and fitness level then hiking The Milford Track is easily one of the best things to do!

Difficulty: Medium Total Distance: 53,5 km Estimated Time: 4 days Trail Type: One way Best time: October to April

#7 Do a boat cruise

Undeniably, one of the best and fastest ways to discover Milford Sound is going for a boat cruise. It’s a great way to experience up close the spectacular wildlife and geology of Milford Sound.

A boat cruise gets you through all the major highlights of Milford Sound, in more or less, 2 hours .

With so many types of cruises and boat tour operators available it can be hard to choose. For that reason, we have prepared a detailed guide that will help you select the best boat cruise .

#8 Set sail with your own boat

If you pride yourself on being a captain, then exploring Milford Sound on a sailboat is a romantic & thrilling experience . Traveling under sail in such a pristine environment, just as the early settlers did, will definitely blow your mind!

To better prepare for your Milford Sound sailing trip, you should visit DoC website .

Tip : Milford Sound is a marine reserve; therefore, there are special rules when it comes to interacting with the fjord’s marine life.

#9 Get a bird’s-eye view of the fjord

Another breathtaking perspective of Milford Sound you can get is from the air ! It’s the best way to get a sense of the remoteness of Fiordland. You can either:

• Board a small aircraft for a scenic flight and unparalleled views of the region.
• Get in a helicopter flight . In this one, you will get the chance to land on glaciers and mountains in the Southern Alps.

Both experiences will become the highlight of your visit to New Zealand, provided you have the budget!

There is a number of airlines offering scenic flights in the area .

• Air Milford
• Glenorchy Air
• Milford Sound Scenic Flights
• Milford Helicopters
• Glacier Southern Lakes Helicopters
• Aspiring Helicopters

#10 Visit The Lord of the Rings filming locations

If you are a true fan of Lord of The Rings and Tolkien’s Middle Earth , then you will be glad to know that several locations in Fiordland were used in the movie trilogy.

Further Reading: More famous movie sets and film locations!

Make the most of your LOTR experience in New Zealand and visit them! Below, you may find the coordinates of each film location . Simply copy and paste them into Google Maps.

Misty Mountains : The rocky Eglinton Mountains above Lake Gunn, were used in The Fellowship of the Ring, depicting the Misty Mountains. It’s where the fellowship walked along a mountain path, with the Key Summit clearly seen in some distance.

Coordinates: 45°03’36.4″S 167°59’48.1″E

South of Rivendell : Located in Mavora Lakes Park, it’s where the fellowship can be seen moving south out of Rivendell. The filming crew shot helicopter footage near an unnamed lake on a mountain called St Paul’s Dome.

Some other landmarks you can use to find it are the remote Silverlode Falls and Freeman Burn Hut (also known as North Arm Hut). This is an unmarked trail and challenging spot to reach, be ready.

Coordinates: 45° 25.358’S 167° 20.800’E

Anduin River : The famous opening shot of The Fellowship of the Rings featuring the forested banks of the Anduin River. Waiau River, as it is called, can be best accessed through Rainbow Reach Rd (make a left turn on Manapouri Te Anau Highway when you see the Rainbow Reach car park sign).

Coordinates: 45° 29.755’S 167° 40.159’E

Dead Marshes : That’s where Gollum saved Frodo as he fell under the spell of the dead floating inside the swamp. In order to see the Marshes, you need to drive down Mount York Road (turn right on Manapouri Te Anau Highway), past the Barnyard Backpackers. The area is a massive string bog called The Kepler Mire.

Coordinates: 45°30’26.8″S 167°42’03.0″E

Dead Marshes and Anduin River are extremely close, so you can hit two birds with one stone.

Nen Hithoel : It’s the spot where the fellowship moored their elven boats at the end of their trip down Anduin River after leaving Lothlorien. It’s also the spot where the hobbits hid from the Uruk-hai.

An amazing spot, with a beautiful lake and spectacular viewpoints. Just the place to relax and read your LOTR book. The spot can be accessed by Mavora Lakes gravel road. Watch out for the Orcs!

Lakeside: 45° 15.993’S 168° 10.410’E Hiding: 45° 16.024’S 168° 10.500’E

Fangorn Forest : A carpet of green moss and old trees, just as you would have imagined the ancient Fangorn Forest. It’s where Aragorn, Legolas and Gilmi met Gandalf the White. It can be easily accessed through Takaro Rd. and then by following the gravel road. The forest is called Snowdon Forest.

Coordinates: 45° 21.087’S 167° 54.477’E

More LOTR locations The New Zealand Road Spiral Atlas (HEMA, ISBN13 9781877302367) features more Lord of the Rings locations.

#11 Enjoy a rainy day out

The day you so eagerly expected has finally arrived! It’s time to visit Milford Sound!

You look at the weather forecast but you realize it’s going to rain .

Maybe you should change your plans?

Nope! In fact, your trip to Milford Sound just got better !

Waterfalls.

Hundreds of temporary waterfalls are everywhere. Snaking down the vertical walls of the fjord, dropping from glacier valleys and racing their way down from sheer rocky cliffs.

Just make sure you get your raincoat!

Always be prepared for rain. Milford Sound averages 184 rainfall days.

#12 Free things to do in Milford Sound

Having this wonderful place (almost) for yourself is the ultimate tranquil experience! Spend the night in Milford Sound, experience the magnificent sound of silence and do some amazing free things!

• Listen to the Bellbird chorus at dawn; there isn’t any better alarm clock than the beautiful song of the Bellbird calling to its mate.
• See Milford Sound lighting up; walk to the foreshore and witness the first sunrays creeping into the fjord , without the crowds.
• Watch the sunset ; the best spots are the ferry terminal, the foreshore walk, or the end of Deepwater Basin from where you can see the sun diving behind the mountains.
• Discover the glowworms ; get up and close with the famous creatures that use their lights to lure prey into their webs. Look for them in trees or caves, after dark.
• Stargaze at the best night sky you’ve ever seen ; stare up into one of the most star-filled skies of the world. No lights, no towns, no shops – the darkest display of Milky Way is yours!
• Search for native birds – kea, kaka, South Island robin, Fiordland penguin, weka, tui and kakariki. If you plan on tramping the Milford Track you might even spot some local kiwi or tokoeka.

Save your time researching accommodation, there’s only one place to stay !

The spectacular wildlife of Milford Sound

Because of its remote location, Fiordland is a remnant of pre-human New Zealand.

That’s why you can find endemic species that have disappeared from the rest of the country.

Moreover, Milford Sound is home to peculiar creatures , so you better don’t get too distracted by the impressive geology, otherwise, you’ll risk missing them.

Penguins: if you are lucky enough you might spot one of the rarest New Zealand’s penguins, the Fiordland crested penguin. With only a couple thousand left , this beautiful creature can be seen swimming towards the sea to feed. You will easily recognize them from the yellow eyebrow-stripe extending over their eyes. Another species living in the fiord is the little blue penguin.

Dolphins: flipping out of the water, bottlenose dolphins can be seen swimming alongside boats & kayaks .

Seals: look for a jutting rock outcrop; it’s really popular among the local Southern Fur Seal population. Most of the time, they are lazily basking on the rock , soaking in the amazing views. Seal Rock , as it is called for obvious reasons, is a photo stop for most boat cruises.

Orcas & Whales: don’t get your hopes high with this one. There might be whales and orcas feeding in the deep waters of the fiord but you need to get exceptionally lucky to see them.

Kea: this notoriously curious alpine parrot loves to play and eats anything that gets into its way (the rubber of car windows, your food and even your shoes). They are incredibly intelligent and love to experience new things. Take photos but make sure all your belongings are not exposed and your car is closed.

Seeing Kea in the wild Two of the best places to see Keas as you are driving towards Milford Sound are near Moneky Creek and next to the Homer Tunnel .

How to get to Milford Sound

The fjord is located in one of the most remote and least populated regions of the country, Fiordland National Park. You can get there either by air or by road , depending on your budget and time.

Getting to Milford Sound by road

Milford Sound is 287 km (178 miles) from Queenstown and 117 km (72 miles) from Te Anau.

The road takes you through unspoiled mountain landscapes and into the Hommer Tunnel, before emerging into a rain-forested canyon.

• Bus : There are numerous tours departing from Queenstown and Te Anau. If you are also opting in for a boat cruise, make sure you book it from the same operator so that you don’t risk missing it, if there is any delay with the bus. Day trips are available; it takes 7 to 8 hours from Te Anau and 12 to 13 hours from Queenstown.
• Self-drive : If you’d prefer going at your own pace, then car rentals are available in Queenstown. Ιn this case, Ι would suggest against attempting to do the drive in one day. Consider a 2 to 3 days rental, with an overnight stay at Te Anau. There are several famous attractions along the way – sights, photo stops and short treks that are definitely worth a visit.

Be prepared : During winter, the road is prone to avalanches and closures, so plan accordingly. Make sure you carry chains if you are visiting in wintertime and fill up in Te Anau (fuel is more expensive in Milford Sound).

Getting to Milford Sound by air

Flying with a helicopter or a small plane is a quicker option to visit Milford Sound, but comes at a cost.

The flight takes you on a scenic trip over the Southern Alps – lakes, waterfalls, valleys and rainforests. It’s pricey (at least $300 – $400 per person), but it’s one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences . Combine it with a Milford Sound Boat Cruise and be back in Queenstown in less than 4 hours.

Milford Sound Accommodation

Οne day is surely not enough to experience Milford Sound to its fullest. Spending the night under the tranquil southern night sky is an experience itself!

• Milford Sound Lodge : The only available accommodation in the area is Milford Sound Lodge . It offers a variety of options to suit all budgets; from campervan sites (Rainforest Campervan Park) to shared dorms and luxurious riverside chalets.
• Overnight Cruise : Another great option is to spend a night onboard. The overnight cruise lets you experience the fjord without the crowds.
• Huts : If you are planning to hike you will most likely spend one or more nights on the road. Booking is required with more details available on the DoC website .

Hotels near Milford Sound There are numerous accommodation options in both Queenstown and Te Anau. A campsite is also available within the beautiful Eglinton Valley, Knobs Flat.

Helpful info for visiting Milford Sound

Yes, Milford Sound provides limited accommodation options, so make sure το book in advance. Learn more here !

There’s a ton of activities and things to see in the fjord, free or paid. Learn about the best things to do in Milford Sound !

Do you prefer snow or rain? Warmer or cold temperatures? Short or long days? Each month provides a different experience.  More info about the best month to visit !

The fjord is located within a national park and a UNESCO heritage site, therefore free camping is strictly forbidden. Learn about the available accommodation options in Milford Sound !

The fjord is sheltered and the water is calm, therefore, there are no spots available for surfing. If you are a fan of water sports try diving, kayaking or taking a cruise. View more adventurous things to do !

Even though there are numerous skydive companies in nearby towns, there are no drop zones over Milford Sound. However, there is a way to see Milford Sound from the air !

Mountain bikes are not allowed on any of the tracks within Fiordland National Park. However, there are some tour operators offering cycling tours in Milford Sound. Find more adventurous things to do in Milford Sound !

Yes, there is a small café by the information center from where you can grab snacks & coffee. However, if you are on a coach+cruise tour you won’t have time to visit as you’ll go straight from the bus to the boat. Alternatively, you can have lunch on board. Learn more about it !

Yes, but only at Deepwater Basin Road, around 25 mins away from Visitors Terminal (on foot). Learn more about its cost !

Milford Sound can be reached in several ways, by road or by air. Learn about all the available ways to get to the fjord !

Absolutely! It’s when it rains that Milford Sound is most impressive. Learn why !

Is Milford Sound a fjord or a sound?

Last but not least, the million-dollar question: is Milford Sound a fjord or a sound? Weirdly enough, Milford Sound is actually a fiord, named wrongly as a sound by the early settlers.

So how can you say the difference?

A sound is formed when a river valley gets flooded by the sea forming a large extended ocean inlet. However, Milford Sound was formed by retreating glaciers; they firstly carved through the rocks and eventually receded flooding the valley.

History Fact Māori named it Piopiotahi, after the extinct native Piopio bird. In 1812, however, Captain John Grono renamed it, after Milford Haven, in Wales.

Pristine beauty in cyclopean proportions

Milford Sound is a stunning destination. With so many activities all year round there never be a shortage of activities & things to do.

This remote little corner in the South Island , hours from the nearest town, is an unapparelled marvel of nature formed aeons ago.

They say no day in the fjord is ever the same. Everyone gets to experience the fiord in his own unique way.

My advice is to go out there and explore this wild side of New Zealand at its absolute best.

Recommended films about Fiordland

• Ata Whenua – Shadowland (2008): This short local film brings you the parts of the Fiordland that you would otherwise never see. The 32-minute tribute was filmed across all seasons using different techniques & perspectives. More info here .
• Journeys in National Parks: Fiordland (1987) – In this episode of the  Journeys in National Parks  series, presenter Peter Hayden looks at the primeval, remote wilderness of Fiordland National Park. Watch it here !

All images are licensed under the Creative Commons  Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International  license.

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Selecting the best milford sound cruise.

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Combine travelling, food and SEO and you'll have Nikos. A Greek with a passion for exploring, he is always game for a bit of adventure and will never pass on an opportunity to discover something new – local bites and weird drinks, unique experiences, a dark cave or that mysterious footpath down the corner.

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Milford Sound: A Visitor’s Guide

Last updated: May 17, 2022 . Written by Laurence Norah - 41 Comments

In this post we’re going to share everything you need to know to help you visit Milford Sound, one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural attractions.

First though, I have a confession to make. In a previous post , I referred to the geological feature known as a Sound as being the New Zealand equivalent of a Fiord.

I have come to learn that this is seriously incorrect – they are distinct features and confusing one with the other is a bit like confusing a puddle with a lake.

For clarity therefore, here is the definition.

A Sound is a waterway formed by the action of a river, which results in a v-shaped valley. A fiord is created by the movement of ice, usually in glacial form, which results in those lovely u-shaped valleys that you probably remember from the geography lessons of your youth.

All this geography aside, I will now talk about Milford Sound, which is actually a fiord (I’m not the only one who gets these things wrong, although at least my efforts don’t end up on atlases), in the World Heritage listed Fiordland National Park, on the south west coast of New Zealand’s south island.

About Milford Sound

A bit of perspective for you. Fiordland National Park is fairly big. It takes up about 10% of New Zealand’s entire land mass. As well as that, everything in Fiordland National Park is pretty big. Lakes are deeper, longer and, I would guess, somewhat colder than in other parts.

Mountains rise out of the sea in distances that can be measured in kilometres. Glacially formed valleys challenge your brain to comprehend the scale of the sight before your eyes, as tiny camper vans and cars crawl like ants on the snake like roads that traverse the area.

Hopefully I’ve conveyed the impression that Fiordland is a big place, with some big things in it. Big, impressive, snow capped things.

One of the main drawcards of the Fiordland National Park, and in fact, of all of New Zealand, is the Milford Sound. If you are a Kiwi, this tops the list of the 101 things you must see before you die (yes, there is an actual list).

Specifically, the main attraction is the Mitre Peak, a mountain which rises up out of the Sound to a rather jaw dropping height of 1692m, making it one of the highest mountain peaks in the world of its kind.

There are a number of ways to experience Milford Sound. Scenic flights are one. Walking the Milford Track is another. Standing on the jetty at the Milford Sound cruise terminal is a third option.

But probably the option that most of the half million or so people who come through here yearly choose, and also the one that I went for, is to take a cruise, lasting in the region of two hours, which takes you out into the Sound itself, right out to the where it meets the Tasman Sea, and then back again. Which was what I did.

Given that so many people visit this part of the world, and the fact that the weather was somewhat stunning (a blessing for a part of the world where they experience 8000mm of rain a year, and a drought is called if more than nine days go by without precipitation), I was a little bit surprised to find that my boat, which could probably accommodate at least 200 people without any trouble, had a grand total of nine passengers.

This was something to do with giant clouds of ash from a nearby volcanic eruption wreaking havoc on flights, but did mean that I had no problem finding a spot to take photos.

Which was a good thing. Because one thing that this journey does is astound you with visual wonders that require you to attempt to capture their beauty, and then wonder quite how to do so in a medium that doesn’t let you print life sized pictures of kilometre high mountains.

The cruise was pretty wonderful. The boat nosed it’s way into waterfalls, sailed along the edge of cliffs that rose dizzyingly into the sky, and even managed to find a pod of dolphins that played in the bow wave. It really was awe inspiring stuff.

Of course, the boat ride, whilst the main highlight, wasn’t all that there was to do in this part of the world.

The 119km drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound itself was a pretty awe inspiring journey in itself, with hair raising roads and spine tingling vistas around pretty much every corner. There was even a tunnel, hand hewn over a period of twenty years, forming part of the route, angling down through the mountain at a 1 in 10 ratio for a kilometre.

We even did a bit of a walk in the park, walking up a part of the world famous Routeburn track, the other end of which we had walked from Glenorchy. Admittedly we have missed out the middle, but this is about the closest we have come now to doing a great walk on the south island.

The views from the walk were spell binding, with snow lined mountains all around, and endlessly blue skies stretching beyond. Quite marvellous stuff.

As always, there are were far more things to do here than budget allowed for, with trips to Doubtful Sound (argued to be better than Milford by some, although better can probably be substituted for different) available, as well as all the usual Kiwi adventure activities.

We, though, were delighted to have been provided with two days of absolutely glorious weather in which to enjoy the park, and views that we will never forget.

Getting to and from Milford Sound

Which Milford Sound cruise to do?

When to visit milford sound.

Fiordland gets over seven metres (yes, metres) of rainfall a year. In the winter months (May – August), there is also snow to contend with, which can causes avalanches, forcing the road to close.

As you can see from the photos I took, Milford Sound also gets gloriously sunny days, but these aren’t as common – I was very lucky. The good news is that even in the rain and fog Milford Sound is still gorgeous, with the waterfalls exploding down the mountains, and the clouds adding wonderful atmosphere.

Autumn and Spring are likely to be quieter times to visit. Winter can be riskier, as the road may close, and the summer months bring many more visitors. But, truth be told, there is no bad time to visit Milford Sound – it’s a glorious destination year round!

Milford Sound Accommodation: Where to Stay in Milford Sound

Accommodation in Milford is a bit tricky – there are two options, but one (Mitre Peak Lodge) is only available for people who hike in, leaving Milford Sound Lodge as your only option for staying in Milford itself.

This option books up quickly, so another option is to stay at Te Anau and visit Milford Sound as a day trip.

Alternatively, if you have a camper van, there are a number of very basic DOC campsites along the road, which is a good option if you want to get in for an early cruise – stay in a nearby campsite the night before and then drive in the next morning.

If you’re looking for accommodation, we recommend using Booking.com to find a great deal. They let you search over 100 booking sites, including Booking.com, to ensure you get the best deals available. Take a look at their listings for Te Anau here .

Further Reading to help Plan your New Zealand Trip

We spent a year travelling and working in New Zealand, and have created a great many guides to help you plan your trip to this spectacular country. Here are some we think you will find useful, but do take a look at all our New Zealand content as well.

• Our detailed guide to spending a month in New Zealand , including planning information and a full itinerary
• A guide to the highlights of the north island , and the highlights of the south island
• Looking for a scenic road trip in New Zealand? Check out our guide to the best road trips in New Zealand
• A guide to hiking the Tongariro Crossing – New Zealand’s most popular day hike
• A first time visitors guide to New Zealand
• Our guide to buying a vehicle in New Zealand , if you’re travelling for a little while

And that’s it for Milford Sound! As always, we’re open to your feedback and suggestions, just use the comments below. Happy travels!

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There are 41 comments on this post

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Andhika Dimas D. Saputra says

26th June 2015 at 5:57 pm

bakoyma says

5th September 2013 at 1:33 pm

“in a medium that doesn’t let you print life sized pictures of kilometre high mountains.” – Ain’t that the truth… I was in New Zealand in 2010 and got stuck for 2 ekstra weeks because of the ash cloud (what a shame!), but unfortunately we missed out on Milford Sound… Coming from Norway, I guess we didn’t make the fjords a priority, but it’s definitely on my list for my next trip there. Hoping it’ll be in 2014 🙂

Thanks for sharing your pictures and tips!

Laurence Norah says

10th August 2012 at 8:24 pm

Thanks very much Simon 😀

Thanks Jason 🙂

10th August 2012 at 8:23 pm

OMG, I just stumbled into your wonderful photos and got simply stunned! Exactly the place that make me say WOW! and the ones I wish to visit soon.

9th August 2012 at 8:46 am

Very nice. Glad I stumbled upon this. lol keep up the good work

2nd July 2012 at 11:50 am

Thanks Jade – I was so lucky with the weather as the day we drove in it was absolutely dire – mist on the deck. Then for the day of the actual visit, we had stunning weather. Even better – there was no-one else there! Win win!

I have to agree – I love a good reflection photo!

Thanks DJ – it’s a stunning place to photograph when the weather is good 🙂

Jade - OurOyster.com says

2nd July 2012 at 11:48 am

Wow you really got some great photos. The day that I went to Milford, it was rainy and cloudy, so Im not very impressed with my own photos

D.J. - The World of Deej says

29th June 2012 at 9:07 pm

Simply incredible photos…the one with the clouds reflection especially…

Christy says

28th June 2012 at 9:19 pm

Reflection photos are the best. This place looks amazing.

26th June 2012 at 8:18 am

Thanks Andrew 😀 The drive in was really special, I have to agree. We had two weathers while we were there – glorious sunshine, and mist on the deck. Beautiful in both!

Thanks Linda! Your time will come 😀

26th June 2012 at 8:17 am

I know – my geography teacher must be spinning in his classroom!

Ava Apollo says

26th June 2012 at 8:08 am

Stunning! Looks so peaceful.

Marchel says

New Zealand has been on my bucket list ever since I watched The Lord of The Rings. It is just so darn far away from Houston TX.

Andrew says

We went to Milford on an overnight this past Christmas. It was, as you say and show, fabulous. And the odd part for me is that however amazing the fjord itself is, I found the forest and the drive in competing with it. The forest is just as cool, and I wish I had more time there.

Christy @ Technosyncratic says

25th June 2012 at 6:30 pm

Yikes, how terribly embarrassing that you mixed up a sound with a fiord. What were you thinking?!? 😉

These photos are WOW. Total stunners. There’s something about mountains and water that just screams beauty.

Linda McCormick says

25th June 2012 at 1:11 pm

Beautiful, beautiful shots Laurence. I was blown away by how amazing it was when I was there a few years back. Always swore to go back with a better camera… still waiting for the moment.

25th June 2012 at 12:00 pm

Wow, brilliant 🙂 Looking forward to reading about that 😀

Natasha von Geldern says

Absolutely gorgeous 🙂 As we speak I’m planning a summer assault on the Milford Track – something every Kiwi must complete in their lifetime!

25th June 2012 at 10:24 am

I really want to visit Norway – and that scary looking rock in particular!

A Montrealer Abroad says

25th June 2012 at 10:23 am

Sooo beautiful. Headed to the Norway fjords in a few months, but hopefully I’ll be able to visit the famous NZ fjords one day!

24th June 2012 at 4:57 pm

Cheers Amy 🙂

Thanks Abby – a pleasure 😉

Cheers Pete! When you convince Dalene to take part in an Antipodean adventure across Oz and NZ, this is one spot not to miss!

24th June 2012 at 4:53 pm

Wonderful photos again Laurence. This is one spot we have not ventured down to. I can’t say why. Maybe how similar it is to where we grew up in Western Canada. But that doesn’t mean we won’t get there. It’s on our list. Oh and we don’t have dolphins…

24th June 2012 at 4:44 pm

Your photos don’t look real! What an experience. You’re in a part of the world I’ve never been close to. And thank you for the geography lesson. 😉

stjepanradic says

24th June 2012 at 4:33 pm

Awesome … Amazing, well done Great work. Wow … I’m impressed photographs is done superbly. Thank you so much.

AmyJalapeño! says

Wow. These are absolutely incredible. Amazing.

Wayne Mansfield says

The beauty is beyond portal comprehension… and without photographic proof nobody would be believe you.

srbmckenzie says

7th July 2011 at 8:31 am

Stunning photos mate…. but come on, how many shots of surface water did you take before nailing the one of the dolphin?

Laurence says

7th July 2011 at 10:39 am

A photographer never shoots and tells 😉

7th July 2011 at 6:24 am

Hey Amanda, and thanks. I couldn’t believe how quiet it was either, really considered myself lucky. Love that you have been to both doubtful and milford sounds, doubtful sounds awesome too 🙂

7th July 2011 at 6:22 am

Hey Mike! Wow, your pictures do look very similar 🙂 Crystal lake looks like a wonderful spot too. Thanks for sharing 🙂

MikesRoadTrip says

7th July 2011 at 3:46 am

OMG…amazing pics!  Reminds me of a place in the Pacific Northwest (USA) called, Lake Crescent.

7th July 2011 at 2:20 pm

Hey Laurence…you bet!  I thought so…waterfalls and all.  I got really lucky and caught the lake perfectly still, as you can see in those reflective shots.  Not nearly as good as yours, but I caught a few.  🙂  Look forward to see your next adventure.  Cheers, Mike

Amanda Williams says

7th July 2011 at 3:42 am

Great photos, as usual! I especially love the last few.

You had the same weather I had for Milford – sunny and uncharacteristic for that part of the country. But wow, only 9 people on your cruise?? Lucky! Looks like you definitely got to experience Milford at its best.

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18 Epic Things to do in Milford Sound

• Christopher Aiello
• September 12, 2022
• New Zealand

So you’ve discovered Fiordland national park and realised the star of the main attraction is Milford Sound – and now you’re curious to know what are all the best things to do in Milford sound?

This national park is home to all kinds of amazing attractions, some of which are the best there are on the south island of New Zealand – it’s figuring them out that can be a little tricky.

Overwhelmingly massive mountain peaks with cascading waterfalls numbering in the tens of thousands during the rainy months, we’ve created this guide on all the epic places to see in Milford sound and beyond to help you avoid the tourist trap.

The south west part of the island receives almost 7 metres of rainfall in just ver 200 days of the year, so don’t fret if you get a little wet- it’s all part of the experience and its even more beautiful when this happens, trust us!

Laura and I visited Milford Sound earlier this year and although we didn’t get to do everything we’ve mentioned, this is an exhaustive list of what we think will make your time in Milford Sound incredible.

READ NEXT: Before you keep reading make sure you first check out our g uide on the 27  best things to do in Queenstown

18 epic things to do in milford sound

Milford Sound lies within the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO world heritage national park in the south west corner of south island.

The easiest way to access Milford is by basing yourself in Te Anau and driving along the Te Anau- Milford highway ; there’s only one road in and out.

When visiting Milford Sound you should ideally allow for a week to completely immerse yourself in this gorgeous world heritage site.

There’s plenty of walking tracks, overnight cruises and free things to do in milford sound.

1) Enjoy a Milford Sound Cruise

Did you really visit Milford sound if you didn’t do a Milford sound cruise?

We highly recommend spending a day cruising up and down the Tasman sea in your choice of either a 2 hour day cruise or a cruise on a glass roofed Catamanran .

One of the best attractions in Milford Sound is to join a nature cruise through the stunning fiords (they are in fact fiords and not sounds) past beautiful stops like Lady Bowen falls , Stirling falls and even get the chance to see some unique and rare New Zealand native birds.

We chose to go with Real NZ tour operator at the time because others were not running as frequently but we would suggest going with Southern discoveries  for an all inclusive package.

2) Milford Foreshore Walk

After you’ve finished your nature cruise through Milford Sound you can unwind and stretch your legs on a walking track called the Milford foreshore walk.

One of the best free things to do in milford sound is to walk this 400m loop track from the visitor car park at the base of the lake. 

Start by walking left facing the falls and you will find a mostly paved path that leads to some awesome views of Mitre Peak as well as Lady Bowen falls.

On this section of the track is where you will also run into the popular Milford swing – basically a wooden plank with rope tied around it where visitors swing in front of the falls with incredible views over the lake.

It’s also the exact place where Laura and I got engaged!

3) Go for a Kayak

Fully immerse yourself in raw nature of New Zealand’s iconic landscapes by joining a milford sound kayaking tour.

This is an incredible way to get up close and personal with the shearing cliff faces of the fiords, the pristine waters of the Tasman sea and potentially seeing rare yellow crested penguins.

Start your journey at the kayak pontoon where you’ll start a relaxing kayak down to Harrison cove through the glacial fed waters.

Another great option is to do a combined cruise and kayak tour that runs for approximately 4-5 hours of the day. 

It starts with a cruise through Milford Sound, followed by a visit to the underwater observatory where you’ll explore the history, geology and wildlife of Milford Sound, followed by your kayaking adventure.

No experience is necessary and they even use automated lifts for ease of entry and exit from the kayak.

4) Milford Sound scenic flights

One of the best ways to see Milford Sound (and other parts of New Zealand for that matter) is by taking a scenic flight where you will have views of hundreds of waterfalls, the Southern Alps and the Tasman Sea as it winds its way through the fiord system.

One of the most popular activities in Milford Sound is to fly from Queenstown into Milford Sound, crossing beautiful backcountry mountain ranges directly into Fiordlands.

Whilst there are plenty of scenic flight packages to choose from , the two main options are either via a fixed wing flight which can be coupled with a nature cruise, or a Helicopter trip that lands on multiple glaciers in the region.

If these incredible day trips are not within your budget then we still highly recommend a coach, cruise and flight package from our friends at Get Your Guide .

5) Lady Bowen Falls viewpoint

This is one walking track that doesn’t get the recognition it deserves but is really spectacular.

This is the first waterfall you will clearly see when you arrive at the large car park before you walk to the boat docks, but what you won’t know is that you can catch a purpose built boat from the wharf to the base of lady bowen falls for $10NZD.

The boat ride crosses the basin for 120m before dropping hikers off to begin the 162m climb with iconic views of Mitre peak in the distance.

The entire hike should only take around 30 minutes to complete, with a photo opportunity at the very top.

Make your way through native bush to the top of the peak and see what most tourist never see.

(As of 2022 the New Zealand DOC has closed the track due to the unavailability of boats)

6) Stargazing at Milford Sound

If you’re wondering what to do in Milford sound once the sun goes down, head down to the foreshore walking track and admire the night sky over the fiords and watch the milky way rise above the mountains.

The southern hemisphere during the winter months is the best time to catch stars and galaxies but a few things have to come together to have the best opportunity.

A clear night with no light pollution is required, which just so happens to be easy to achieve. next you will want to wait for a new moon – when the sky is pitch black and the moon doesn’t distract from the stars.

We use a bunch of different apps to help us predict time and location to help us plan for the best shot possible, apps like PhotoPills are awesome at this.

You can choose to drive this route on a late evening/afternoon or spend an overnight at Milford sound lodge- the only accommodation in Milford Sound.

7) Milford Sound Lodge

An incredible forest accommodation that sits on the banks of the Cleddau river is this one of a kind (and literally only) accommodation within the Milford Sounds region.

Milford sound lodge offers a range of varying chalets with garden views and waterfalls all around as well as powered/non-powered campervan sites within the forest, it really is one of the best places to stay in Milford Sound- and all of the country.

Laura and myself stayed here for a night on the day we got engaged and we cannot rate this place highly enough.

It’s only 1.5km away from the Milford foreshore and easily accessible off the Milford highway.

Your next closest accommodation is in Knobbs flat (55 km away), otherwise we would recommend staying in Te Anau.

Enjoy a beautiful and delicious dinner in their Pio Pio restaurant, or sit and read a good book in the common room with a kitchenette attached, you won’t want to miss out on staying here for a night or two.

Prices start for as little as $60NZD through to $700NZD per night depending on the style of accommodation, or add an activity package onto your stay.

8) Overnight cruises through the Fiords

Whilst we didn’t have it in the schedule to enjoy an overnight cruise it’s said to be one of the most fun activities in milford sound!

If you enjoyed the star gazing from the other night then you will really love this one.

Stay the night on board the Milford Marriner where you will wake up in between the beautiful Fiords, see the many waterfalls especially on a wet day, and admire the natural rainforest and wildlife.

Expect to pay around $500NZD per person with Real NZ , which includes a 3 course buffet by your on board chef, an expert nature guide and your choice of kayaking or heading out on a small boat activity.

If an overnight cruise doesn’t fit into your time schedule or budget than why not consider this 2 day trip from Queenstown into Fiordland national park.

READ NEXT : Our 2022 Guide to the Best Things to do in Queenstown

9) Underwater Observatory at Milford sound

The underwater observatory is a unique attraction in Milford Sound and one of only a handful that we know of in the world.

Visitors here get to observe the marine life from a viewing platform under the Tasman Sea, but only a handful of tour operators venture out to this area.

Dolphins, starfish, snake stars and even rare black coral which is only ever really found at depths of more than 50m call the Tasman sea home.

This tour run by southern discoveries is your best choice for a boat trip to the underwater observatory for under $100NZD.

10) Hike the Milford Track

As part of New Zealand’s 10 Great walks, the Milford Track is world famous for allowing hikers to traverse through diverse natural landscapes of Fiordlands.

One of the most popular things to do in Milford Sound, the DOC operates the three 3 huts along the 53.5 km one way track across 4 days.

The huts on the track are what sell out quickly as there is no camping anywhere so booking in advance is essential – look here to book your tickets!

Alternatively you can opt to do a half day guided tour of the Milford Track which is just as fun and you still get to see what the walk is like – but bring good walking shoes!

11) Visit the Te Anau glow worms

Hidden gems await visitors and tourists to the western shores of Lake Te Anau glow worms, in this impressive underwater cave system, 12,000 years in the making.

One of only a handful of glow worm caves on the south island, glow worms are actually fly larvae which glow in the dark to catch small insects.

They shine bright blue, most easily seen in the pitch black of dark caves and easily make for a fun activity in Milford Sound.

There are only 9 species of glow worms and they exist only in New Zealand and Australia.

They can be found along the Milford track in certain spots but the best way to see them is by joining a guided tour of the glow worm caves like this one.

A small boat trip into the grotto of the caves inside the limestone passages are where the glow worms call home.

You could easily do the Milford sound cruise and caves in one day, then relax in the afternoon at your beautiful Te Anau accommodation.

12) Hike the Milford sound lookout track

Not to be confused with the Milford foreshore walk, this 400m return loop takes you behind the cafe in front of two brown buildings towards Donald Sutherland’s grave where you will find the trailhead.

To the left is a brown hedge, but continue around this to the edge of the bush before reaching a set of stairs that will take you to a higher vantage point where you can see Milford sound in all its glory.

Most never do this hike because they don’t know it exists so if it’s a nice day, don’t forget to try this one.

For those that want to attempt the Milford track you will need to pre-book your tickets to secure your spot; the Milford sound lookout track however needs to ticket to enter and is a super easy climb which is why this is one of the best walking tracks in Milford Sound.

13) Meet a Kea

Spotting a cheeky kea in the national park should not be a problem – they love people, and stealing their food even more.

Kea birds are a New Zealand native alpine parrot that call Fiordlands home.

They’re currently a protected species and their numbers are making a return to normal thanks to the Department of Conservation.

Beautiful colours of green, orange, blue and grey with long, sharp beaks, Kea birds like to roam around the entrance to Homer tunnel and amongst the people at Milford Sound.

They live all along Milford road, doubtful sound and regularly visit Milford lodge too.

In our personal opinion we felt truly lucky to interact with one of these Kea’s which is why we think it’s one of the best things you can do in Milford Sound.

The DOC’s kea database have a website set up where each bird is identified and tracked to help keep them safe.

14) Drive the Milford road

Undoubtedly the best part about being in Fiordlands is the drive to Milford Sound itself, and boy is it impressive.

State highway 94 (SH94) technically runs from the town of Gore to Milford sound, however tourists and locals refer to it geographically as beginning in Te Anau and finishing in Milford sound, as this is the most impressive sections of the entire road.

Winding its way through the glacial-carved mountains and valleys, pass thick native bush and alpine lakes and waterfalls, the Maori people once used this path as a way of getting deep into the bush to hunt for Pounamu.

Stop by Lake Marian or attempt the Lake Gunn nature walk on your drive through native beech forest.

Mirror lakes has to be one of our favourite places to see on the Milford sound road as the mountain backdrop reflects perfectly onto the water below.

Other incredible places to stop along the way include Key Summit, the Chasm, Monkey Creek one of the many permanent waterfalls like Humboldt falls near the Hollyford track trail head.

15) Go scuba diving for black coral

Of all the fun attractions in Milford sound this is probably one you wouldn’t have expected.

Black Coral is a rare type of coral specific to new Zealand’s borders that actually looks white with sometimes showing a black central skeleton.

It grows relatively shallow to the fresh waters of the Fiords but they only true way to see this incredible marine creature is to go scuba diving with one of the dive operators in Milford Sound.

Descend Milford Sound operate dive packages in one of the most unique marine ecosystems on earth with the opportunity to see sharks, stingrays, eels, octopus and over 150 species of fish with their team of qualified divers.

Normally, black coral lives in the depths to avoid the sunlight. The fiords of MIlford sound however are the perfect mix of fresh water off the mountains, mixed with the saltwater of the Tasman Sea and the Fiords blocking the sunlight, these coral reefs flourish right here.

16) Stay for sunset at Milford Sound

Nothing is more impressive than seeing the sun go down over a UNESCO world heritage site.

The best place to view the sunset in our opinion is by the Milford Sound foreshore walk about half an hour before the sun goes down, enough time to see the sun go down and colours really pop.

If you feel like getting a whole new perspective on the sounds then why not take a chartered fixed wing flight or a helicopter tour high above the clouds!

Most of the companies don’t off sunset flight times, so we personally recommend the next best thing which is the sunrise flight schedule.

Companies like Glenorchy Air or Milford Air offer scenic flight packages, but to really see the most you possibly can in one day then we recommend this awesome flight/coach package from GetYourGuide.

If you still want to see more, then this full list of flight packages could be the one for you!

17) Permanent waterfalls of Milford Sound

You will often hear the term permanent waterfall being tossed around Milford Sound, this is because the national park is one of the wettest places on earth.

When it rains there are literally tens of thousands of waterfalls that form on the mountain faces making it so incredibly beautiful.

In contrast, waterfalls like Lady Bowen falls and stirling falls are always there every season and never disappear.

18) Doubtful Sound

This is a little bonus adventure we’ve decided to include in this guide as Doubtful Sound is obviously not Milford Sound, but is nonetheless as expansive and incredible as its northern cousin.

We heard many people tell us they preferred Doubtful over Milford, based on the remoteness, the variety of wildlife and activities you could do.

See for yourself and book a Doubtful Sound wilderness cruise , where you’ll need to catch a boat, drive and hike to get to this lost world!

One of the best things to do in Milford Sound is ironically outside of Milford, only 50 km as the crow flies south-west. 

Where to stay in Milford Sound

If you’re looking to stay close to Milford Sound then your only option is to book a stay at the Milford Sound lodge, 1.5km away from the sounds.

Milford Sound lodge

If you’re travelling by campervan (a super popular travel mode in NZ) then the Milford sound rainforest campervan park is just for you.

Book powered sites for as little as $60NZ/night , and you may even be visited by a friendly Kea.

Other fantastic options include their garden view or mountain view chalets that go for $695NZD/night.

The great thing about staying here is they are only 2 hours from Te Anau and less than 5 minutes from the Milford Sound airport where you can take a scenic flight in and out of the park from Queenstown.

Mitre Peak lodge

This private accommodation is only available to guests doing the Milford or Routeburn guided hikes, so if you book your guided hiking tour then you are more than welcome to stay in this 4 star ultimate hikes private cabin .

Getting to Milford Sound

This is really simple.

If you’re travelling from Queenstown then you have a few options.

Do a self drive by hiring a car from a car rental company and take the Southern Scenic route to Te Anau for 171 km (2 hours). From there it’s another 118 km (1 hour 27 min) to Milford Sound.

Alternatively, you can fly from Queenstown in to Milford Sound ona fixed wing flight giving you breathtaking views over the mountain ranges.

Your third option is to purchase a Milford Coach tour that departs from Queenstown and takes you to all the stops along the way like the Eglinton valley, past Lake Gunn, Mirror lakes all the way to Milford Sound and back.

This will be a big day out so be prepared for lots of time on the bus.

2 Responses

Great stuff, Thanks a lot.

You’re welcome Kiera, we hope you enjoyed Milford Sound! What was your favourite part?

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Chris & Laura

Australian and Canadian freelance photographers & storytellers addicted to travel,  inspiring you to travel the world.

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April 11, 2019

Day trip to Milford Sound (Self-Drive Itinerary)

Milford Sound is a must see when visiting New Zealand’s south island! You could join a tour bus with dozens of other people… or hire a car and do it yourself.

I opted to self-drive for the freedom of being able to stop where I wanted, spend as much time as I liked at each stop, avoid all the tourists on the boats during peak times and have more opportunities for better photos.

The road to Milford Sound

There are plenty of palces to stop at on the way to Milford Sound. I recommend:

• Mirror Lakes
• Cascade Creek
• Eglinton flats
• Monkey Creek
• Homer Tunnel
• Cleddau Valley (after you pop out of the Homer Tunnel)

There are plenty of short walks (about 30 min return) along the way that you can do as well.

Tips for visiting Milford Sound

• Avoid lunchtime boat tours – this is when all the buses from Queenstown arrive. I took the 3pm – half the boat was empty 🙂
• The boats all take the same route so I don’t think it really matters which tour company you pick
• Do all of the stops on the way to Milford Sound – most of the parking and signage is on the left so you may miss it on the way back coming from the other side
• It’s one of the wettest places on Earth (hence all the waterfalls!) so make sure you pack a raincoat
• It’s cold. Even in the middle of summer. When I visited it was 11 degrees (I’m someone that feels the cold so was wearing 2 jumpers and a raincoat and nearly needed a scarf as well… and I visited in summer)
• Bring snacks as there’s only one cafe at Milford Sound and it’s  super  expensive
• You can take backpacks on the boats (so fill it with snacks and warm clothes!)
• Keep in mind that it’s about a 10 – 15 minute walk from the carpark to the terminal. If it’s peak season you’ll be directed to an overflow parking and need to get a bus to the ferry terminal so be sure to factor this into your departure time

Milford Sound

Mirror Lakes – I visited both in the morning on the way and in the evening on the way back. The lighting was better on the way back.

This is why I chose to pay extra to self-drive (well my dad drove I was the passenger / photographer). You can rarely get these ‘road in front of you’ type photos from a bus!

Waiting for the Homer Tunnel… there were some Kea birds landing on the roofs of cars while we were waiting in the queue

To the right of the photo above:

The view after you pop out of the Homer Tunnel. There is a stopping bay where I took this photo – keep on the lookout so you don’t miss it – there’s only one chance to stop!

Once You Get to Milford Sound

If you get there early up near the cafe (about 10 – 15 minute walk from the terminal) is a small track that leads up to a lookout that’s worth it for a view down into Milford Sound that you won’t get once you’re in it.

Apparently the waterfalls are 150m + high (3x the height of Niagara Falls) and the highest peak (Mitre Peak) is 1692 metres!

The boats are double story and even if you have a middle seat you can get up and move outside. I chose to sit in the very last row for quick exit outside to get the best photos.

From gloomy weather in Milford Sound…

… to blue sky and sunshine on the way back to Te Anau

Recommended Schedule

• 8:30am Fill up with fuel & get some breakfast
• 9:00am Depart Te Anau
• There are plenty of things to see on the way but the must have’s would Mirror Lakes, Englinton Flats, the last flushing toilet before Milford (refer to the top of this post for a full list of places to stop at)
• 1:45pm Arrive at Milford Sound and find a park
• 2:00pm Lookout behind the visitor carpark for a view of Milford Sound
• 2:20pm Walk to the terminal and check in for your ferry, have a snack before getting on the boat (or if you’re pressed for time just eat on the boat)
• 3pm boat tour
• 4pm Most of the tours are 1hr long
• Head back to Te Anau stopping at any of the places you missed on the way there. I recommend stopping at Mirror Lakes on the way back to break up the driving and see if the lighting is showing more of a Mirror effect at a different time of the day
• 7pm Arrive back in Te Anau

If you visit in summer it’ll be ‘warm’ I..e not freeze your ass off weather but you’ll still need at least 2 jumpers. Plus it gets dark quite late (around 9 – 10pm at night) so you could switch up the schedule and drive straight to Milford and do the stops on the way back. Just keep in mind that it seems they’ve designed the exits with tour buses in mind. I.e. signs and exits are shown when you’re driving  towards  Milford Sound and you may miss them on the way back.

Milford Sound Vs. Doubtful Sound

If you’re thinking about doing Doubtful Sound I’ll be doing a post on the day trip I did there as well.

There’s only one boat that does Doubtful Sound whereas Milford Sound almost operates like each boat is on a train track. There’s never a moment where you can’t see 1 or more boats in front or behind you.

If it’s busy you may even queue for the part where each boat sticks it’s nose under the waterfall. They all follow the same route. Some may go a bit farther out to the egde of the sea but in my opinion they all appeared to do the same course and left / arrived back at the terminal within 5 – 10 minutes of each other.

If you’re budget conscious then go for Milford Sound – as there’s so much competition between the tour boats it’s a lot cheaper. Bus tours would be better suited if you’re only visiting Queenstown, not road tripping around the rest of the island.

If you’d rather have more stops on the way instead of spending all day on a boat or bus then again, go for Milford Sound.

More New Zealand South Island

• Favorite stationery shops in New Zealand
• New Zealand South Island 10 Day Self Drive Road Trip Itinerary
• Travel Planning: 50 Things to consider when planning an itinerary 

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Queenstown to Milford Sound: Perfect Road Trip + Must-See Stops

Home » Blog » New Zealand » Queenstown to Milford Sound: Perfect Road Trip + Must-See Stops

A road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound is one of the best ways to experience the rugged wilderness and stunning scenery of Fiordlands National Park in New Zealand. This guide will help you plan your route and choose the best stops to make along the way.

Driving from Queenstown to Milford Sound isn’t just about getting from point A to point B; it’s a breathtaking journey into the heart of Fiordlands National Park and an absolute must for your South Island itinerary .

Winding roads traverse lush forests and glacial valleys beneath snow-capped mountain peaks. Viewpoints and trails dotted along the highway lead to gushing waterfalls, serene alpine lakes, and panoramic vistas.

A lot goes into planning a road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound, from narrowing down the huge list of stopping points to preparing for the drive itself.

We made this journey ourselves during our New Zealand campervan trip , and we learned some important lessons along the way. We’re sharing it all with you now, from the best stops to make, to how much time to give yourself, to important driving tips.

Queenstown to Milford Sound Guide

For more tips and advice for planning your road trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound, jump to the following sections (or just keep scrolling to see it all!).

Distance & Driving Time

• How to get there
• Notable road trip stops
• Guided tours
• What to pack

And if you want more information to plan your trip to Milford Sound, be sure to check out our other guides:

Milford Sound, New Zealand: Things to Do + Essential Tips : Everything you need to know to plan your trip to this Fiordland jewel, including fun things to do and where to stay.

Best Milford Sound Cruise + Tips for Planning your Visit : If cruising Milford Sound is on your bucket list (it should be!), you’ll want to read this guide first.

Want to save time and energy on planning?

We spent 5 weeks traveling around New Zealand in a campervan, and we’ve been lucky enough to explore a lot of what this country has to offer!

We took our 5-week travels and condensed it down to 30 days (because so many people wanted a 1-month route) that hits the top destinations on both the North and South Islands. 

We’ll send you our complete 1 month itinerary, filled with tips and advice. Just click below to get your 30-day New Zealand road trip itinerary today!

Queenstown to Milford Sound Map

The map above shows the driving route from Queenstown to Milford Sound, including all of the stops we suggest below. Click on the image to be taken to Google Maps.

Listen up, because this is important: do not listen to what Google Maps says about how long it takes to get from Queenstown to Milford Sound.

There are lots of things to consider here that don’t factor into Google’s calculation…

• Traffic: As everyone makes their way to Milford Sound for cruises around the same time, the highway will be filled with cars, campervans, and tour buses. 
• Road conditions: Icy in the winter, washouts in the summer, and winding always, you’ll need to take your time and use caution driving this route.
• Homer Tunnel: This one-way tunnel has traffic lights that can delay you up to 20 minutes during peak hours. (In the early morning, we had to wait about 6 minutes so it wasn’t too bad.)
• Stops: This drive is so astonishingly beautiful that you’ll want to stop at some of the viewpoints and scenic walks along the way. Plus, you’ll need to stop for gas and supplies.

We recommend doing the trip from Queenstown to Milford Sound into two parts: Queenstown to Te Anau, and Te Anau to Milford Sound. If you have room in your itinerary, spending a night in Te Anau can be a great way to break up the drive.

Queenstown to Te Anau: 171 km / 106 miles, 2 hours minimum

Te Anau to Milford Sound: 118 km / 73 miles, 2.5 hours minimum

Add more time if you want to make more stops or do longer hikes along the way.

Psst! We have a whole list of important things to know before traveling in New Zealand that will be a lifesaver as you plan your trip.

How to get from Queenstown to Milford Sound 

There are only two ways to get to Milford Sound: self-drive or join a tour. There are no public transportation options or commercial flights for this route.

Some guided tours include transportation from Queenstown by coach or plane; however, we highly recommend driving on your own because there are so many memorable stops to make along the way.

Queenstown to Te Anau

Take State Highway 6 out of Queenstown, heading south. The section of highway along the shores of Lake Wakatipu is called the Devil’s Staircase and it is stunning. Be careful driving because many people will pull over on the side of the road for a picture. (And so should you! But make sure it’s safe.)

Insider Tip: Before you leave the Queenstown area, make sure to stock up on food at the Countdown grocery store in Frankton (near the airport), because there aren’t very good options in Te Anau.

When you reach Lowther, turn right onto Highway 97. Turn right again in Mossburn onto Highway 94, which you’ll stay on all the way to Milford Sound. Don’t forget to stop in Te Anau for gas and supplies .

Te Anau to Milford Sound

The section of State Highway 94 from Te Anau to Milford Sound is known as the Milford Road . The route is straightforward since you’ll be staying on 94 the whole time, but there are some important things you need to know before making this drive:

• There are no services on this road. No gas, no shops. Make sure you have a full tank leaving Te Anau, as well as snacks, water, and anything else you need for the drive.
• There’s also no cell service , so download your maps before heading out. This article  explains how to download offline Google Maps if you’re not familiar with the process.
• It can be dangerous in the winter , and the road might close if there’s an avalanche advisory. Check conditions before leaving and bring emergency gear, including snow chains.
• It is absolutely stunning. The Milford Road is an experience in itself. Take your time, make stops, do some of the scenic walks, and immerse yourself in this incredible landscape.

Read more about the Milford Road in our Milford Sound travel guide .

Notable stops between Queenstown and Milford Sound

There’s so much to see between Queenstown and Milford Sound, you could spend days driving this route. 

Most people don’t have that much time in their New Zealand itinerary , so we’ve rounded up what we think are the best stops for a Queenstown to Milford Sound road trip.

The Remarkables

This ski resort just outside Queenstown is a 25-minute (one-way) detour off Hwy 6. It was unfortunately shrouded in clouds when we drove up, but the viewpoint is supposed to be incredible.

Instead, we stopped at Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu Lookout about halfway up the road to the Remarkables for a beautiful view over Queenstown.

Insider Tip: Use 2nd gear if you have it going up, but be sure to switch when you’re parked, and low gear going down.

Stopping in Te Anau on your way from Queenstown to Milford Sound is a must. This will be your last chance for groceries, petrol, and cell service before you head onto Milford Road.

But it’s not just a practical stop – Te Anau is well worth exploring. We’d even recommend spending a night or two here if you have room in your itinerary. Check out the Fiordland National Park Visitor Center for info on things to do around town and on the Milford Road. 

One of the Te Anau attractions we found fascinating was the Ata Whenua – Shadowland film at the Fiordland Cinema . For $12 NZD, it’s a 32-minute video mostly taken in a helicopter around the fiordlands.

We couldn’t peel our eyes away from the screen as the video panned over icy mountain passes and dropped down massive waterfalls . It was like watching Planet Earth, and if you’re into that, we’d recommend checking it out before you head up the highway. 

The film is shown at 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. daily. There’s also a bar and sitting area where you can wait, and any drinks you buy there can be brought right into the cinema.

Te Anau glowworm caves

Seeing the famous “glowworms” is a unique experience that makes many travelers’ New Zealand bucket lists . Technically not “worms”, these gnat larvae are known for the alluring bluish glow they give off. 

The glowworm caves in Te Anau are the most popular place on the South Island to see this natural phenomenon.

On this tour , you’ll take a boat across Lake Te Anau to the caves where you’ll see rock formations, an underground waterfall , and a “hidden” grotto where thousands of glowworms light up the cave like stars in the sky.

Do it yourself:

• Price: $119 NZD (~$69 USD)
• Duration: 2 hours 15 minutes
• Google Maps location

Insider Tip: We saw glowworms on the Underworld Rafting Tour in West Coast New Zealand and had an absolute blast! This experience is less touristy than the caves in Te Anau and we highly recommend it if you’re going to be in the area. You can read about our experience here .

Mirror Lakes 

Nestled in the scenic Eglinton Valley, the Mirror Lakes make for an easy and picturesque stop on your Queenstown to Milford Sound road trip.

On a calm day, these glossy lakes display breathtaking reflections of the Earl Mountains . You might even spot a scaup ( pāpango in Māori), New Zealand’s smallest duck.

About 57 km north of Te Anau, the Mirror Lakes are marked with a sign and a small roadside car park. It’s an easy walk about 400 meters on a boardwalk through the forest.

Key Summit Hike 

Well worth a stop on your way to Milford Sound, Key Summit provides panoramic views of the peaks of Fiordland National Park.  

The 3-hour return hike is a relatively easy trail for all abilities. You go through a series of forested switchbacks and eventually reach a somewhat flat plateau. The last 30 minutes of the trail is a “nature loop” boardwalk encircling the summit. 

From the top, you’ll get a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains that make up the fjordlands. You can even see Lake Marian and the hanging valley it sits in.

Fun Fact: Key Summit is part of the much longer Routeburn Track , giving you a glimpse into one of New Zealand’s Great Walks without the time commitment.

• Distance: 7.5 km (4.7 miles) out and back, should allow at least 3 hours
• Elevation Gain: 423 m (1,389 ft)
• Difficulty Rating: Moderate
• Trail notes on DOC

26.8 km after Mirror Lakes, stop at The Divide car park (there are also public toilets here if you need them). For the first part of the trail, you’ll be on Routeburn Track. There’s a sign to mark the turnoff for Key Summit.

Psst! If you’re obsessed with hiking like we are, you’ll want to check out our list of the best hikes in New Zealand.

Pop’s View / Hollyford Valley Lookout

This viewing platform is a quick stop at a roadside pullout over a sweeping vista of the Hollyford Valley.

The platform is labeled as Hollyford Valley Lookout on Google Maps, while the location for Pop’s View is about 160 meters east. Interpretive signs at the former tell the story of Pop’s View and the geographical history of the valley, while the latter has more parking. Both offer similar views. 

Lake Marian Hike 

This stop has two options:

• Walk to Lake Marian Falls: an easy 20-minute return to a series of beautiful cascades
• Hike to Lake Marian: a 3-hour return on a steep trail to a scenic lake in a hanging valley

Both are worthwhile if you have the time. If not, we’d recommend the hike at Key Summit over this one, but you could still stop here to see the falls .

The Lake Marian hike is short, but the track climbs steadily uphill. There are a few points where you may have to use tree roots as hand holds, and the terrain is uneven. You can view the DOC trail notes here .

The reward at the end is a jaw-dropping vista overlooking a pure emerald lake with mountains rising from its shores and snow-capped peaks high above. Make sure to allow at least 3 hours return for this hike, as you’ll definitely want to spend a good amount of time soaking in the view.

Just 1.4 km after Pop’s View, turn right onto Lower Hollyford Road at Marion Corner. There are plenty of signs, so you won’t miss it. After about 1 km, you’ll come to the car park and a sign for the Lake Marian trailhead.

Cross the suspension bridge and walk about 10 minutes to the falls. From there, you can choose whether or not to continue up to the lake.

Note: In winter and early spring this track can be closed due to avalanche danger. Check with the local DOC office in Te Anau if you’re hoping to do this hike.

Homer Tunnel 

About 13 km past Marion Corner, the Milford Road disappears into the Homer Tunnel, a 1.2-kilometer passage that bores through the Darran mountain range.

Construction on the historic tunnel began in 1935 and wasn’t completed until 1954, when the highway finally opened to provide access to Milford Sound. There’s no internal lighting , so remember to take your sunnies off and turn your lights on when you enter.

Traffic through the narrow tunnel is controlled by a set of stop lights at either end, allowing traffic to move through one-way at a time. This can cause delays up to 20 minutes during peak hours, so be sure to factor that into your driving time.

There’s a small parking area at the Homer Tunnel entrance, and tour buses often stop here, so watch out for pedestrians.

The Chasm 

An easy loop that takes about 10-15 minutes, the Chasm is definitely worth a quick stop.

As the name implies, the Chasm is a deep crack in the earth through which the Cleddau River gushes , creating a series of cascades over the rocks. Footbridges provide an easy and well-maintained path to follow.

There’s a large car park at the Chasm, located 7.3 km after Homer Tunnel. From there, it’s an easy 400-meter return walk.

Note: As of December 2022, this trail has been closed due to storm damage. Check back on Alltrails to see when it opens back up.

Guided tours from Queenstown to Milford Sound

If you’d rather leave the driving to the pros, below are some tours that include transportation from Queenstown to Milford Sound.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Cruise and Coach Day Trip

• Starting point location: RealNZ Visitor Centre , Queenstown
• Duration: 13 hours
• Price: $255 NZD (~$149 USD)

If you want to experience Milford Sound as a day trip from Queenstown , this tour is an excellent choice.

A luxurious glass-roof bus takes you along the scenic shores of Wakatipu before making a stop in Te Anau. As you traverse the famous Milford Road, you’ll have chances to stop for photos and short walks.

During your 2-hour Milford Sound cruise, you’ll enjoy live commentary from your nature guide, with snacks and drinks available for purchase from the fully-licenced bar onboard. Afterward, relax on the bus back to Queenstown.

What guests are saying:

“[…] It was absolutely spectacular!! Truly a wonder of the world! Our guide Paulie entertained us the whole ride up with interesting facts, ancient stories, and personal experiences. […]” – Kim, Aug. 2023

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Full-Day Trip by Plane & Boat

• Starting point location: Pickup available at 26 locations around Queenstown or meet at 39 Lucas Place
• Duration: 5 hours
• Price: $645 NZD (~$377 USD)

Get a unique perspective of Milford Sound on this combination airplane and boat tour . 

Enjoy spectacular views as you soar over the mountains in a Cessna, heading for Milford Sound. After the 40-minute flight, you’ll hop on a 2-hour cruise down the fjord. Your pilot will take a different flight path back to Queenstown so you can see as much of the national park as possible.

“This tour is exceptional! The plane is great and everybody gets a window, so you can fully enjoy the experience. […] The cruise is also a very nice experience because it gets close to the falls and if lucky you can spot some of the marine animals. The views are spectacular, just like being inside a movie! […] – Alejandra, July 2023

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Flight and Boat Cruise

• Starting point location: Pickup from your central Queenstown accommodation
• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Price: $625 NZD (~$365 USD)

This half-day tour from Queenstown is a perfect way to see the highlights of Milford Sound and the surrounding area.

From Queenstown, your Cessna will fly over the Southern Lakes and Tutoko Glacier. If time permits, your pilot will guide you on a bush walk through the rainforest to Milford Sound, where you’ll set out on a sightseeing cruise.

Afterward, your pilot will take a different route back to Queenstown, showing you such famous landmarks as Sutherland Falls, Lake Te Anau, and Lake Wakatipu.

“[…] The flight was fantastic with beautiful scenery. […] The cruise through Milford Sound was a great experience. We had such a great time and would highly recommend this tour.” – Carla, April 2023

Milford Sound Fiord Cruise & Helicopter Glacier Landing

• Starting point location: Pickup available from all Queenstown hotels
• Duration: 4 hours
• Price: $1,220 NZD (~$713 USD)

This adventurous tour combines two of our favorite New Zealand experiences: a Milford Sound cruise and a helicopter glacier landing.

First, fly to the town of Milford, where you’ll embark on a scenic fjord cruise. Then, hop back on the helicopter for an exhilarating flight over the stunning Southern Alps, dotted with alpine lakes and glacial rivers. 

Finally, your pilot will land on a glacier, giving you a chance to enjoy panoramic views and take once-in-a-lifetime photos before returning to Queenstown.

“A once in a lifetime experience. […] We thoroughly enjoyed everything about the amazing tour from beginning to end. Our helicopter pilot Alfie has been flying for 40 years, so we felt very safe at all times 🙏” – Ron, Dec. 2022

What to pack for your Queenstown to Milford Sound road trip

• Wear layers
• Waterproof rain jacket: choose one that also works as a windbreaker if possible, as it can get very windy
• Sunscreen: one of the most important things to know about New Zealand is there is a hole in the ozone layer above the country, meaning you’ll likely burn more quickly than you’re used to
• Snacks (there aren’t many food options in Milford Sound)
• Battery bank : to keep your phone charged 
• Gloves and a beanie: these are nice to have if you’re doing an early morning Milford Sound cruise
• Pressure point bands to prevent carsickness (and seasickness on your cruise!)
• Portable jumper cables : This tiny device lets you jump your vehicle without another car. After experiencing a horror story in Iceland, we learned the hard way to always pack these for road trips abroad!
• Travel insurance : We NEVER travel without it, but especially for a road trip, it’s a good thing to plan for.

Be sure to download our complete packing list for New Zealand ! It’s packed with good suggestions and insider tips to help plan your New Zealand trip. And it’s completely FREE, so why not!?

Are you planning a trip to New Zealand?

We have TONS of resources on travel in New Zealand and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate New Zealand Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning travel questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• How to Plan the Perfect New Zealand Itinerary
• Things to Know Before Traveling to New Zealand
• Top Things to Do in New Zealand on Your First Visit
• New Zealand Travel on a Budget: Money-Saving Tips

Or, let us do the planning for you!

• Perfect 1 Month New Zealand Itinerary
• South Island New Zealand Itinerary: Epic 2-Week Road Trip
• North Island New Zealand: 2-Week Road Trip Itinerary

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Home » New Zealand Travel Blog » Milford Sound Travel Guide

Milford Sound Travel Guide

• 18 Jul 2020
• NZ Things to do , South Island Tours

The sky scraping peaks, hanging valleys and rainforest-clad slopes of Fiordland’s Milford Sound make it one of New Zealand’s ‘must see’ destinations for visitors. But what’s the best way to truly experience this natural wonderland? With over 30 years’ experience in showing visitors the best New Zealand has to offer on our small group tours , we know a fair few things about Milford Sound, including the best ways to experience this special place. The combination of coach, cruise and flight is most definitely the best way to go – and below, we’ll explain why.

Described by Rudyard Kipling as the ‘eighth wonder of the world’, Milford Sound is a majestic wilderness that was carved by glaciers during the ice age. Its dramatic landscape is a reminder of the forces of nature involved in shaping such a ruggedly beautiful place. Not surprisingly, Milford Sound is top of the list for many visitors to New Zealand. Breathtaking during both winter and summer, when it rains here – as it often does – dozens of waterfalls are created, cascading down granite rock faces with magnificent effect.

When you make the effort to visit Milford Sound, it’s good to ensure that you’re experiencing this work of nature in the best way possible. The combination of scenic coach along the spectacular Milford Road with a boat cruise in the Sound itself, followed by a scenic flight above the dramatic Fiordland landscape, ensures that you’ll enjoy an unforgettable Milford Sound experience.

The beauty of Milford Road by coach

The Milford Road is home to some truly special landscapes. Lakes, rivers, golden tussock, snowy peaks and emerald-green valley’s call for numerous photo stops, and the stunning Mirror Lakes perfectly reflect the Earl Mountains. Appreciate the glacier-carved majesty of the Eglinton Valley; once entirely filled with ice. Further down the road at the beginning of the descent into Milford Sound you’ll come to the 1.2 kilometre Homer Tunnel – made from solid granite, this tunnel took nearly 20 years to finish. The only way to truly enjoy the magic of this road is by coach. You’ll be able to kick back and relax as you enjoy the panorama unfolding outside your window. Numerous stops where you can take photos and stretch your legs ensure that you’ll be able to make the most of every sight.

Experience Milford Sound up-close with a boat cruise

There’s nothing better than feeling the spray of the 160m-high Bowen Waterfall as it tumbles down a cliff, or watching cheeky dolphins leap and dive in the bow wake. Special experiences like this are only made possible with a Boat Cruise through the waters of the Sound itself. Admire the iconic Mitre Peak soaring out of the landscape and see if you can spot the rare Fiordland Crested Penguin. This deepwater wonderland is home to an array of marine life – getting out on the inky blue waters of Milford Sound is one of the best ways to enjoy the panorama up-close.

Soar over jagged peaks and mirror lakes

Following the excitement of a boat cruise, a scenic flight adds a whole other dimension to your Milford Sound experience. Soaring over the sounds, valleys and mountains of Fiordland adds a bird’s eye perspective and a deeper understanding of this ancient landscape. Instead of returning to Milford Sound, it’s a good idea to return to Queenstown via scenic flight. This way, you’ll not only save a long return drive but you’ll also be able to witness the beauty of the Southern Alps and turquoise-blue Lake Wakatipu from above.

Many of our MoaTrek New Zealand tours include a visit to Milford Sound, and guests soak up the Milford Road by coach before taking a boat cruise on the sound itself with an onboard nature guide. To top off this awesome day, they return to Queenstown via an unforgettable scenic flight. Our itineraries vary in length and showcase the very best experiences New Zealand has to offer. Find out more here , or get in touch directly.

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Spending A Day At Milford Sound

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And by tourists, I mean the coach loads making their way there from Queenstown. Don’t let this deter you – just be smart in how you plan your adventure as to avoid as much of the crowds as possible. The towering mountains and gushing waterfalls are more than worth it.

Milford Sound can easily be explored in a day trip and trust me, there is no shortage of companies ready to get you there. How you experience it will come down to the length of time you have and your budget. Travellers base themselves in either Queenstown or Te Anau.

For those in Queenstown, you have the option of flying over the region to get to and from Milford, taking an organized coach for the 4-hour journey (each way), doing a combo of both – flying in and coaching back (or vice versa) or self-driving.

Because we had plenty of time on our hands and wanted to see more of Fiordland National Park, we chose to base ourselves in Te Anau at the Distinction Te Anau Hotel And Villas . From Te Anau, the gorgeous drive to Milford is just over 2 hours (without traffic or photo stops).

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Milford Sound Travel Info

Wondering how to get to milford sound.

Milford Sound is located in a remote part of the South Island, with only one road leading to the world famous fiord. The Milford Road is not just a way to get to Milford Sound. It’s an unforgettable journey into the heart of Fiordland National Park.

There are several ways to get to Milford Sound, including  bus and coach  travel, self-drive or air travel. The method you choose will depend on the amount of time you have, your budget and what type of traveller you are.

Read on to find Milford Sound travel info, including information about GreatSights  and  awesomeNZ  day tours and transport options from Queenstown or Te Anau, and choose which one suits you best.

We’ve also included a guide to the highlights of the Milford Road – due to its breathtaking natural scenery, it’s just as memorable as Milford Sound itself.

Bus and Coach

Travel to Milford Sound by bus for a cost-effective option. Alternatively, upgrade to a coach tour including a Milford Sound cruise. Find out about bus and coach tours to Milford Sound and what you can expect from the different operators.

Want to self drive to Milford Sound along one of the world’s most scenic routes? You can get there in a car or campervan – but make sure you read our guide on driving to Milford Sound to make sure you’ve planned well and avoided some common mistakes.

Scenic flights to and from Milford Sound offer breathtaking beauty and a unique way to see Fiordland National Park. You can upgrade your Milford Sound coach tour to include a flight back to Queenstown. Helicopter flights are also available.

Read about the road to Milford Sound and the spectacular sights you’ll see along the way, including the Englinton Valley, Mirror Lakes and the Chasm. Find out where to stop for photos, and the history of this pristine part of New Zealand.

Itineraries

If you’re planning a trip to New Zealand, make sure you include Milford Sound in your plans! We’ve put together some itinerary options for Milford Sound so you can see suggested routes and other must-see destinations in the South Island.

See a range of maps for getting to Milford Sound, and what you’ll see during your cruise.

Driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound: A Local’s Top Tips

We 100% recommend self-driving to Milford Sound from Te Anau. You can drive at your own pace, stop at all the pretty sights for a photo, make an all-important coffee pitstop, and stop when you need a bathroom break. The pro list is endless, in our opinion, for self-driving to this natural wonder of the world.

Most tourists to Milford Sound come in a day from Queenstown – a 4-hour drive away. Hence, we don’t recommend doing that specific drive in one day – that’s a whopping 8 hours of driving. That’s not taking into account the traffic you will indefinitely encounter on the narrow roads into Milford Sound. So, 8 hours could quickly turn into 10 hours.

Instead of making the trip in one day, we highly recommend spending the night in the pretty little town of Te Anau and leaving early the next morning to catch your cruise of Milford Sound . The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound only took us 1 hour 40 minutes. We left at 7:30 am and didn’t encounter much traffic. We were able to catch the 10 am cruise, beating all the coach tourists who typically get the 12 pm or later cruises. Winning!

In this piece, we will tell you the most photogenic spots to stop at on the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound, as well as give you the lowdown on road conditions, how much we spent & many more insider tips.

Where should I stop on the road to Milford Sound?

The road between Te Anau and Milford Sound is 118 kilometers, which means the drive will take you around 1.5 hours without stops! But not stopping would be a real shame, considering this drive is regarded as one of the prettiest road trips in the world. I advise allowing half a day to see all the sights I’ve listed below.

1. Eglinton Valley

About 40 minutes from Te Anau, you will find the very photogenic Eglinton Valley .

This valley was carved out by glaciers thousands of years ago. Today, steep rocky mountains covered in native beech forest line the valley. The flat floor of the valley is covered in luminous golden tussock grass. Luckily – there are lots of safe spaces for you to pull in and take lots of photos.

2. Knobs Flat

A little further up the road from Eglinton Valley is the equally gorgeous Knobs Flat . We pulled into the campsite car park for our photos. Importantly, Knobs Flat is also the last flush toilet before you reach Milford Sound.

3. Mirror Lakes

Within the Eglinton Valley, you’ll come across the aptly named Mirror Lakes . Which gets its name from the mirror effect on the lake on a calm day – yep, on a still day, the surrounding Earl Mountains will be reflected on the surface of the lake. So photogenic!

As you drive, you’ll see a small pullover bay on the side of the road. Pull in here and walk the short 400-meter trail into the lake.

4. Hollyford Valley Look Out

This just a quick stop as it’s just a viewpoint – but a gorgeous one at that! From here, you can see the Darren Mountains and into the scenic Hollyford Valley. But beware, the tiny car park for this viewpoint is on a sharp bend so be mindful of anyone driving behind you before pulling off the road.

5. Homer Tunnel

The famous Homer Tunnel on the Milford road signals the start of your descent through the Cleddau Valley & into Milford Sound. It may not seem like it at first glance, but the tunnel is wide enough for a bus and a small vehicle to pass each other. However, traffic lights operate during the busy summer months to keep it safe.

The scenery before you enter the tunnel is gorgeous, especially on a rainy day, with lots of narrow waterfalls cascading from the surrounding cliffs. Driving through the tunnel is an experience in itself. Honestly, I was terrified.

6. The Chasm

My last suggested stop before getting to Milford Sound is a mighty waterfall called The Chasm . Honestly, the amount of water that gushes off this steep waterfall is mindblowing – and it’s especially fierce after rainfall! It’s around a 20-minute stroll into the falls, and there are two bridges at the end, which give you the best view of the falls!

Tips for Driving Between Te Anau and Milford Sound

• Make sure you fill your tank up before departing Te Anau – Be aware that there are no petrol stations between Te Anau and Milford Sound. There is a small petrol station in Milford Sound (surprisingly, the prices are competitive). There is also very limited cellphone coverage on the road.
• Make sure you stock up on supplies in Te Anau – There are no stores or coffee shops on the road from Te Anau to Milford. If you’re leaving Te Anau early in the morning like we did, there are a few coffee shops in town that open at 7am. We recommend Sandfly Cafe and Wapiti Bakery . Freshchoice supermarket also opens at 7 am.
• There are limited toilets on the drive – And most of them are portaloos. However, there are flush toilets at Knobs Flat which we recommend using. All the toilet stops on the Milford Road are signposted.
• Be careful of the other drivers on the road – On the road to Milford Sound, you will come across tourists driving really slowly. Randomly stopping in the middle of the road to take a photo or turning off without indicating. There are also “Fast & the Furious” wannabes who drive at least 20km over the limit and overtake where they shouldn’t. You definitely need to have your wits about you on the Milford Road. If you’re an inexperienced driver, we do not recommend driving this road!

What is There to Do in Milford Sound?

Go on a cruise.

Of course, the number one thing to do in Milford Sound is to go on a boat cruise to explore the fiords and get up close to the waterfalls and wildlife here. When we visited, we were keen for a more personalized experience, so we booked  this small boutique cruise experience . Operated by Cruise Milford, this boutique boat has a maximum capacity of 75 guests. Meaning you’re getting a less-crowded and more personalized experience. A win-win in the most-visited part of the country!

We were lucky as there were only 30 people on our cruise. Bliss! The smaller boat can get up close and personal with the waterfalls as well as Milford’s famous seal residents. It’s also an hour and 45 minute long cruise, in comparison to the 90-minute cruise time of most other operators.

As you cruise through the almost-black waters of the sound, your local skipper will detail the history of the area and point out any sights or wildlife (like penguins or seals) he spots along the way!

Tickets for this boutique cruise are $149 NZD per person , and included is free tea, coffee and, biscuits on-board!

Visit the Milford Sound Swing

Ah, the Milford Sound swing – you’ve probably seen the gorgeous photos on your Instagram feed. That’s how I first came across it. The Milford Sound swing has the most epic view of Mitre Peak and the surrounding Milford landscape. So, I was obviously very keen to check it out on our recent  visit to Milford Sound .

Did you know the Milford Sound swing is actually quite hard to find? It’s not signposted or anything. I guess the locals want to keep it a secret. The story goes that a local worker made this swing for his girlfriend so she could enjoy it on her days off. Now, that’s pretty sweet!

To help you out, I’ve written a detailed guide on how to find the Milford Sound Swing !

Walk the Foreshore Walk

We recommend walking the  Foreshore Walk before or after your boat cruise; it’s only 400 meters long and will take just 15 minutes to complete. And it boasts some great photo opportunities of Mitre Peak! It’s typically uncrowded too as most tourists just come here to do a boat cruise and leave!

Where to Stay in Te Anau (the closest town to Milford Sound)

If you fancy spending the night in Te Anau, we highly recommend  Kingsgate Hotel . It is situated just a two-minute walk into Te Anua & conveniently, Lake Te Anau is across the road. Be sure to watch the sunset on Lake Te Anau.

The restaurant options in Te Anau are surprisingly good. We loved  Paradiso Pizzeria,  an authentic Italian with excellent wood-fired pizzas. We also loved  Bao Now  a food-truck serving delicious Vietnamese fare.

Some of the best places to stay in Te Anau include –

• Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers  – Conveniently located smack-bang in the middle of Te Anau CBD, this hostel offers private rooms or a bed in a dorm. And is the perfect choice if you’re on a budget! It’s a super-friendly hostel and is a great place to meet like-minded travelers. Facilities include a communal kitchen, free WiFi and free parking. Expect to pay around $40 NZD for a bed in a dorm here.
• Kingsgate Hotel  – This is where we stayed and we loved it’s lakefront location – walking up to Lake Te Anau every morning was bliss! The rooms are comfortable and modern, the on-site restaurant (Jimmy Cooks) is great and, free parking is offered too. It ticked all the boxes for us. Expect to pay around $149 NZD per room per night here!
• Fiordland Lakeview Motel and Apartments  – If you want a luxurious place to stay in Te Anau, this is the spot for you! With balconies off every room (which are all stylishly decorated, FYI), a kitchen area in the apartments, and BBQ facilities on-site, it’s a brilliant option for families. A one-bedroom apartment here starts at $260 NZD.

Thanks for Reading!

There you have it, our top tips for driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound. It’s what we believe to be one of the most beautiful drives in the world. We drove it this past weekend, and it was unforgettable. We made lots of photo stops as you can see from all the photos in this piece.

Have you driven to Milford Sound? If so, what did you think? Are there are any other important facts we should include in this piece?

If you enjoyed this post, you may also enjoy reading some of my other most popular blog posts, such as –

Can you visit Queenstown New Zealand on a budget (A Locals Money-Saving Guide)

How to have the BEST 24 hours in Queenstown

11 of the best photography spots in Queenstown

Pin it for later!

One thought on “ Driving from Te Anau to Milford Sound: A Local’s Top Tips ”

What a beautiful countryside! I love the photo of the waterfall, is that you? Definitely adding Milford to my New Zealand bucket list!!!

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Te Anau to Milford Sound scenic drive through Fiordland National Park

• March 12, 2021
• Oceania , New Zealand

Visiting Milford Sound is at the top of any self respecting travellers bucket list. But did you know that the drive through Fiordland National Park to Milford Sound is just as beautiful as the destination itself?

The road slowly winds through lush forests that open up to reveal snow capped mountains in all directions while you make your way past glacial streams and lakes. Chances are you will want to stop and take in the views at every turn, until you’re finally met by hundreds of waterfalls, steep fjords and a gentle mist above water.

Where is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park on the South-West of New Zealand’s South Island.

Fiordland National Park is a whopping 1.2 million hectares of beech forest, mountain tops, fiords, glacial lakes, rainforests and wild landscapes with minimal humans to spoil it. Here you’ll find some of the best hiking trails of New Zealand and the lone windy road that takes you to Milford sound.

It is only 70 km from Queenstown to Milford Sound in a straight line, but a massive mountain range separates the two. There have been plans to dig a new tunnel through this mountain range to considerably shorten the drive.

While we would have loved the possibility to continue the scenic drive from Queenstown to Glenorchy all the way to Milford sound, this tunnel would have hindered a UNESCO protected national park and it was understandably never realised.

HOW FAR IS MILFORD SOUND? From Te Anau: It is 118 km from Te Anau to Milford Sound and the drive takes 1,5 – 2 hours. From Queenstown: It is 288 km from Queenstown to Milford Sound and the drive takes 3,5 – 4,5 hours From Wanaka: It is 343 km from Wanaka to Milford Sound and the drive takes 4 – 5 hours From Dunedin: It is 402 km from Dunedin to Milford Sound and the drive takes at least 5 hours From Christchurch: It is 757 km from Christchurch to Milford Sound. Split the drive into at least 2-3 days and explore more of the South Island.

How to get to Milford Sound

Queenstown is the closest tourist hub in the area and a lot of people drive to Milford Sound as a day trip from there or include it into their NZ South Island itinerary. There are a few different ways of getting to Milford Sound and not all of them include driving:

• Do a road trip to Milford Sound
• Join a bus tour
• Opt for a semi private tour
• Jump on a scenic flight
• Helicopter in

Is it best to drive or do a Milford Sound tour instead?

Self driving to Milford Sounds will give you the most flexibility and freedom and that’s why we chose to drive ourselves. If you can, we strongly recommend you rent a car and drive to Milford Sound on your own accord.

We spent the night in Te Anau and in Milford Sound to maximize our time in Fiordland National park. This gave us the opportunity to enjoy th sunset and sunrise as well as do some of the awesome hikes along the way. Plus it just made sense to drive since we were doing a massive NZ road trip anyway.

However, a bus tour is a great option if you don’t have your own means of transportation or don’t have much time. These bus tours are great value, comfortable and super easy. The tours run daily and stop at the main photo spots along the way and provide heaps of information on the area.

The downside? There’s not much flexibility to be had with bus tours like these and you won’t be able to do any of the hikes. Also, you’re always surrounded by at least a few dozen people from your tour so you can kiss that perfect insta shot goodbye.

We think that a small group or private tour is the perfect compromise! You might want to consider this private tour from Queenstown which includes the drive, cruise and lunch, and is capped at 12 people and a lot more flexible than the big group tours. Or you can make your way to Te Anau and opt for the much cheaper private tour from Te Anau where you also have the option of hiking up Key Summit.

  Read next: Best Milford Sound Tours

Te Anau to Milford Sound scenic drive

The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is 118 kilometers (or 73 miles) long. Depending on the weather, driving to Milford Sound from Te Anau takes 1.5 – 2 hours without stops. But this is a beautiful scenic road and you will want to stop often which could take the whole day.

When driving to Milford, we recommend that you spend the night in Milford Sound or in Te Anau. No matter which direction you’re coming from, unless it’s by air, the road past Te Anau is the only road into Milford Sound.

Te Anau and its lake are a beautiful area to spend the day, and by spending the night here, you’ll be able to beat the tour busses on the way to Milford Sound. Shaving off a couple of hours off your drive, spending the night in Te Anau will also give you more time to enjoy the drive over the Milford Road and stop at some of the highlights of this scenic drive.

Where to stay in Te Anau

Te Anau is a cute little town with plenty of bars, restaurants and shops for its size. If you want to stay smack in town then opt for the Distinction Luxmore Hotel or the Te Anau Lakefront Backpackers .

If you’re travelling by camper the Te Anau Lakeview Kiwi Holiday Park & Motels is an excellent choice. Located on the outskirts of Te Anau and boosting beautiful views of the lake, this holiday home offers campsites, rooms and cabins.

But if you want the real deal then it doesn’t get any better than the Fiordland Lodge . Just a stone throw from Te Anau this 5 star Lodge is a dream come true. Alpine design, delicious food, oh and did I mention the spa pool and the views?

Where to stay in Milford Sound

Accommodation in Milford Sound is limited to the Milford Sound Lodge which books out well in advance. They have 3 different kinds of chalets available if you have the foresight and budget to book it.

There is also the option of taking an overnight cruise and spending the night on the boat. If you chose to do so, we recommend you book this overnight cruise .

The best stops along the Milford Road

Fiordland National Park is one of the most scenic areas of New Zealand, and half the appeal of going to Milford Sound, is the drive and the stops along the way.

These are the best stops along the Milford Road, they include photo stops, viewpoints and the occasional super short and easy walk. We’ve also compiled a list of the best hikes and you can find it a bit further down.

1. Te Anau Downs & Lake Mistletoe

30 km from Te Anau Te Anau Downs are a beautiful plain just outside Te Anau, adjacent to Boat Harbour (another example of creative Kiwi names). This place is filled with rich history, but today is mainly famous as the starting point of the Kepler Track. The boat ramp is actually very photogenic and there’s a short walk to the cute Mistletoe lake.

2. Mirror Lakes

59 km from Te Anau On a calm windstill day you’ll see the perfect reflection of the surrounding forest and mountain ranges in these small tarns. They make for the perfect photo spot, just make sure to get here first thing in the morning before the wind picks up.

3. Knobs Flat

63 kms from Te Anau Just as the road gets out of the forest, ther’s the Knobs Flat stopping area where you’ll find toilets, an impressive view over Eglinton Valley and interpretation signage.

4. Eglinton Valley

65 kms from Te Anau The Milford Road takes you straight through the Eglinton Valley. As you drive out of the forest the view suddenly opens up into the wide and flat valley floor, covered with golden green grassland and surrounded by steep rocky mountains. You can park alongside the road to walk into the valley and take in the view.

5. Lake Gunn & Cascade Creek

75 kms from Te Anau Just before reaching Cascade Creek campsite park in the small carpark underneath the mossy trees. From here starts the easy, wheelchair accessible Lake Gunn Nature Walk. The 45 min loop walk will take you through the native bush and beech forest to the shores of the lake and back. Keep an eye up in the trees and the undergrowth for native birds.

You can also spend the night at Cascade Creek DOC campsite. It’s 15 NZD per night per adult and you need to pay cash into the honesty box. There’s long drop toilets, a sheltered cooking and dining space and more sandflies than you can count. In high season you’ll need to book ahead.

6. The Divide

84 kms from Te Anau The Divide is the starting point for many hikes in Fiordland National Park like Key Summit and Routeburn track, which pretty much connects Fiordland with the charming Glenorchy , just to name a few. Otherwise this is just a carpark, but there are long drop and chemical toilets available here in case nature calls.

7. Pop’s View Lookout

88 kms from Te Anau Pop’s View Lookout also goes by the name Hollyford Valley Lookout as it boosts some magnificent views over Hollyford Valley. Unfortunately this view is often hidden in clouds and fog.

Optional – Humboldt Falls

8. Monkey Creek

96 kms from Te Anau Just down the road from the viewpoint you’ll find Monkey Creek which is a great spot to see Keas. You can fill your water bottle from this creek, just make sure to close all windows as Keas will go through your snack stash when given the chance.

9. Homer Tunnel

102 kms from Te Anau Get ready to stop at the traffic light and when this happens don’t be afraid to jump out of the car and take a few photos. The light stays red for 20 minutes. Here you’ll find more keas, see the first display of waterfalls and, if you’re lucky, there will still be some snow here waiting for you.

10. Hundred Falls & 1855 Lookout

103 kms from Te Anau As you come out of the tunnel the road serpentines down into the valley and a beautiful view opens up. There’s two stopping bays one after the other from which you can take in the view. Don’t forget to look back towards the tunnel where hundreds of small waterfalls are slowly trickling down the steep rock face.

11. The Chasm

110 kms from Te Anau The Chasm is the last stop before Milford Sound. This short walk along the Cleddau River, is a display of the unbelievable force of nature. The water thunders into the sculpted rocks deep below and it twirls and swirls as it goes.

The Real Middle Earth

Did you know that many of the Lord of the Rings filming locations can be found in Fiordland National Park?

Best things to do in Milford Sound

I was gonna write that Milford Sound is a small settlement, but I am actually not sure it qualifies as such. There are just enough buildings and facilities there to accommodate the workers who ensure the smooth running of the cruises, one lodge, a cafe, the visitor centre and an overpriced self serve petrol station. But that’s alright because you’re not going to Milford because of manmade attractions, you’re going there to admire Mother Nature’s work at its finest!

These are some of the highlights from Milford Sound, but there’s so much more! We wrote more in-depth about all the things you can and should do in Milford Sound in another blog.

Read Next: The complete guide to Milford Sound

1. Take in the views and feel small

Milford is majestic and the tall steep fjords that surround you will inevitably make you feel small and humble. Add to this a gentle drizzle and a thin layer of fog over the water … it gives me goosebumps just writing about it!

2. Join a boat cruise

Have you even been to Milford Sound if you didn’t cruise it? Arguably the best and most unmissable thing to do in Milford Sound is taking a boat tour which takes you the whole length of Milford Sound so you can see the waterfalls up close. When you cruise with Southern Discoveries you can also get access to the underwater observatory.

Read next: Best Milford Sound Tours

3. Explore the fjords by Kayak

If you think standing on the shore makes you feel small you should try kayaking! Unlike a big boat, with the kayak you will be able to get really close to the fjords, even touch them and paddle as close to the waterfalls as you dare to. Now, this puts things into perspective! We recommend you combine your kayaking with a boat cruise for the best experience.

4. Visit the underwater observatory or go diving

The freshwater from heavy rainfalls and the sediment from the waterfalls mix with seawater and create a dark layer that, combined with the shade created by the tall surrounding mountains blocks out enough light to create deep water like environment in the shallows.

5. Find the Milford swing

This short walking path takes you along the waterfront and through the rainforest and rewards you with unobstructed views of Mitre Peak. Jump off the path towards the cruise terminal to find the swing.

Map of Milford Sound & the Milford swing

Hiking in Fiordland National Park

If you’re into hiking, it is definitely worth it to extend your time in the area and explore the Fiordlands beyond Milford Sound. Hiking in Fiordland National Park really is an experience like no other and you’ll get to explore a little bit of Middle Earth.

Fiordland Great Walks and multi day hikes

Fiordland National Park is home to three of New Zealand’s Nine Great Walks, and you’ll pass the starting or finishing point to all of them along your drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound.

• The Kepler track, which starts and ends in Te Anau
• The Milford Track which starts in Te Anau Dawns
• The Routeburn Track which starts (or ends) at the Divide

Each of these hikes takes multiple days to complete and huts must be booked well in advance. Other popular milti-day hikes in the Fiordlands include the Hollyford Track, Greenstone and Caples tracks.

Best day hikes along the Milford Road

If you’d love to do a hike in Fiordland National Park but don’t have a lot of time (or couldn’t book the hut), there are several shorter hikes for you to choose from.

We already mentioned a few short walks above (Lake Gunn, The Chasm), but here we list the best hikes on the way, the kind that actually requires you to wear hiking boots and pack at least a big bottle of water if not a sandwich.

1. Key Summit

Starting point: The Divide | Duration: 3h return If you’re short on time and want the maximum reward to effort ratio, opt for hiking up to Key Summit. Key Summit is a side track in the first part of the Routeburn Track, and walking there and back takes only 3 hours. From the top of Key Summit you’ll have spectacular mountain views over large parts of Fiordland National Park on every side, and you can even see Lake Marian in the distance!

2. Lake Howden

Starting point: The Divide | Duration: 3h return Instead of taking the turnoff to Key Summit, continue straight on the Routeburn Track. You will walk through beech forests until you reach Lake Howden Hut and you’ll find this gorgeous alpine lake behind it.

3. Earland Falls

Starting point: The Divide | Duration: 6h return From Lake Howden continue on the Routeburn track towards Lake Mackenzie. You’ll soon get out of the forest and will be rewarded with sweeping views over Hollyford Valley. Then you’ll reach the cherry on top of the cake, the 174 m high Earland Falls.

4. Lake Marian

Starting point: Lake Marian car park | Duration: 3h return This hike takes you over a swing bridge, past a waterfall and through lush rainforest up to Lake Marian; an alpine lake in an absolutely stunning hanging valley. The hike up is steep and challenging, so you do need a decent level of fitness and appropriate hiking gear. Allow 3-4 hours to complete the hike.

5. Gertrude Saddle

Starting point: Gertrude Valley car park | Duration: 6h return If you look at DOC’s site you might get turned off by all the warnings, but in reality, this hike isn’t such a death sentence as they might have you believe. That being said, you do need some tramping experience and definitely don’t attempt it in rain. The trail is steep and you’ll be climbing with the help of steel cables at times. Albeit hard, this hike is well rewarded once you reach the Black Lake and get to enjoy the breathtaking views.

Te Anau to Milford Sound scenic drive FAQ

Is it worth driving to milford sound.

You’re kidding right? The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is among the most beautiful drives in the world and worth every second, every penny and every drop of fuel!

What are the best photo stops along the drive to Milford Sound?

If you’re in a rush, these are our favourite views along the way and the ones you absolutely must stop for

• Mirror Lakes
• Eglinton Valley
• Hundred Falls & 1855 Lookout

How long does it take to drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

The drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound is 118 km long but it takes 1,5 – 2 hours without stops depending on weather and road conditions. With stops it can easily take you the whole day.

What is the road like on the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

The Milford Road is a two-lane road the whole way through with the exception of Homer tunnel which has a traffic light to manage traffic through it.

The road is narrow in parts and has plenty of sharp turns as well as some very steep parts. It gets a lot of traffic, including big campervans, RVs and tour busses so drive carefully.

Many people plan their arrival to Milford Sound according to cruise departures. This might result in congestions during rush hours. Most busses depart Te Anau between 9 am and 10 am and arrive to Milford for the 1 pm cruise. If you can, plan your drive outside of these times or save your stops for the way back.

Is the road to Milford Sound open?

Check for road closures before leaving. The road to Milford Sound may be closed during severe weather. If that’s the case there will be a roadblock at the start of Milford Road.

If the road closes while you’re in Milford Sound, then you’re out of luck. Just joking! The Milford Sound Alliance can organise a convoy back when safe to do so.

What to do if the Milford road is closed

So you’ve driven all the way down there and now the road is closed? I know, it’s a bummer, but do’t despair just yet.

A. Go as far as they’ll let you

While you might not be able to get to Miford Sound, you might still be able to drive to some of the viewpoints along the way. Consider the weather before you decide to do so.

If it’s a beautiful day and the road is closed due to rockfall then by all means, go as far as you can and do as many stops and hikes as possible. But if the road is closed due to heavy rainfall and flooding, chances are that the only views you’ll get will be thick layers of grey clouds and fog. Don’t know about you, but that doesn’t really inspire us to keep driving.

B. Check if there’s scenic flights or helicopter flights going

When the road closes, flights are the only option of getting to Milford Sound. Of course, this isn’t a solution if there’s a hail storm outside, but if the weather permits, this is a fabulous way to explore the sounds, khm, fjords.

C. Consider going to Doubtful sounds instead

Milford and Doubtful sounds are separated by tall mountains which can act as a cloud barrier. So even if all hell cuts loose in Milford Sounds, it is still possible to get nice weather (remember, a bit of rain is good!) in Doubtful Sounds.

What are the facilities like along the drive from Te Anau to Milford sound?

Except for a few stops with long drop toilets there are no facilities along this drive. There are also no petrol stations no phone reception.

I only have time for one half-day hike in Fiordland National Park, which one should I choose?

Marian Lake! It honestly feels like a micro version of the Canadian Banff park. Or Key Summit, if views over endless mountains and valleys are what you’re after.

Can I bring my dog along for the ride?

No. Dogs are not allowed in Fiordland National Park.

What’s the best time to visit Milford Sound and do the drive?

The Best time to visit Milford Sound is on a rainy day in late Spring or Autumn. That’s because you will want to avoid the high season crowds in Summer (Dec – Feb) and freezing temperatures and potential road closures in winter

Milford Sound thrives in the rain when new waterfalls magically appear everywhere, the already existing ones become a lot bigger and the valley gets covered in a mystical fog. A rainy day really is the perfect time to visit Milford, just don’t go on torrential storms or you won’t be able to see much.

If you’re a photographer then you’ll love Milford Sound in spring and autumn as the days are just a little bit shorter than in summer which is perfect for sunrise and sunset photo missions and the temperatures are still bearable even when the sun goes down.

If hiking is your focus then summer is the best time for you. There is the slightest bit less rainfall, the days are longer and the temperatures are higher making hikes and camping a lot safer and more comfortable.

Read next: Your guide to Milford Sound Best Milford Sound Tours Queenstown to Glenorchy scenic drive New Zealand South Island road trip

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Zi @Craving Adventure

Zi is the Founder and Editor in Chief behind Craving Adventure.

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