In the heart of Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most iconic nature destinations, taking the top spot on many travellers' bucket lists.
Choosing the right way to experience this world-renowned destination can significantly impact your overall enjoyment and appreciation of the area. In this article, we'll explore the three best ways to tour Milford Sound.
We’ll cover the key benefits and considerations for each option, helping you make an informed decision for your travels. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply seeking a snapshot of Milford Sound, there's a perfect Milford Sound tour option for you.
Small Group Tour from Te Anau
For those seeking an intimate and immersive experience of Milford Sound, a small group tour from Te Anau is an excellent choice. This option offers several key advantages that make it stand out.
Key Benefits
Most relaxing and non-rushed option.
Shorter day trip, allowing for a more leisurely pace.
Guided by local experts with in-depth knowledge of the area.
Access to lesser-known spots and photo opportunities.
Smaller groups, allowing for a more personalised experience .
Allows for a true appreciation of Milford Road and the amazing journey it provides.
Ideal for:
Nature enthusiasts who want to fully appreciate the journey.
Visitors seeking a relaxed pace and ample time at each stop.
Those interested in learning about the area's history, geology, and wildlife.
Photographers looking for unique vantage points and less crowded scenes.
The Te Anau Advantage
Basing yourself in Te Anau for your Milford Sound tour offers numerous benefits that enhance your overall Fiordland experience.
Known as the "gateway to Fiordland National Park," Te Anau is a charming lakeside town that serves as an ideal starting point for your Milford Sound adventure.
Accommodation in Te Anau is generally more affordable than in Queenstown, and the town offers a range of activities to complement your Milford Sound experience.
Activities in Te Anau
While Milford Sound is undoubtedly the star attraction, Te Anau offers a variety of activities that make it worth extending your stay:
Te Anau Glowworm Caves: Take a boat trip across Lake Te Anau to explore these 12,000-year-old caves. Marvel at the luminous glowworms and the sculpted rock formations.
Te Anau Bird Sanctuary: Visit this sanctuary to see rare native birds like the flightless takahē, once thought to be extinct.
Hiking Trails: Access parts of New Zealand's Great Walks, including the Kepler Track and Milford Track. Day hikes and multi-day treks are available for all fitness levels.
Scenic Flights: Take a breathtaking flight over Fiordland National Park for a bird's-eye view of the dramatic landscape.
For a deeper dive into Te Anau’s activity and accommodation options, check out some of the following articles:
Proximity to Milford Sound
Perhaps the most significant advantage of staying in Te Anau is its proximity to Milford Sound. Located just 121km from Milford Sound, compared to Queenstown's 288 km, Te Anau allows for a more relaxed and time-efficient journey. This shorter travel time means:
Later departure times for tours, allowing for a more restful morning.
More stops and more time to enjoy stops along the Milford Road.
Less fatigue from travel, ensuring you're refreshed for your Milford Sound cruise.
Small Group Tour from Queenstown
For travellers based in Queenstown without a rental car or those with limited time, a small group tour from Queenstown provides a convenient way to experience Milford Sound without changing accommodations.
Key Benefits
No need to organise additional accommodation in Te Anau.
Eliminates the need to drive yourself from Queenstown to Te Anau.
No need to hire a rental vehicle.
Ideal for:
Visitors with a tight schedule who want to maximize their time.
Those who prefer to stay in Queenstown for its activities.
Travellers without a rental car who still want a more intimate tour experience than a large group tour.
Considerations
Longer day with early start (around 6:30 AM) and late return (around 8:00 PM).
Less time at stops along Milford Road due to increased travel time.
Potential for fatigue due to the extended journey.
Consider the trade-off between convenience and time spent on the road.
Large Group Milford Sound Tour
Large group tours to Milford Sound are a popular option for budget-conscious travellers or those who enjoy a much larger social and busy atmosphere.
Key Benefits
More affordable option, typically 10-15% cheaper than small group tours.
Higher vantage points on the larger coaches and buses offer a different perspective of the landscape.
Structured itinerary with set photo stops at major landmarks.
Ideal for:
Budget-conscious travellers looking for the most economical option.
Those comfortable with larger groups and a briefer stop schedule .
Visitors who prioritise the destination over the journey.
Considerations
Fewer stops and photo opportunities compared to small group tours.
Limited access to some locations due to the size of the vehicle.
Less personalised experience with larger group sizes (up to 50 people).
Additional Factors to Consider
Large group tours typically depart from Queenstown, so it can be a long day .
All large group tours partner with larger cruise boats of 100-300 passengers at Milford Sound, which may feel more crowded.
Tour Examples
Small Group Tours from Te Anau
Luxe Tours
Locally and family-owned small group tour, complimentary tea/coffee, and morning tea in the beautiful Eglinton Valley. Features small nature walks, 11 stops and photo opportunities, and guaranteed couples seating together with window seats.
Strategic timing avoids major crowds, and the vehicle allows access to special spots known only to locals. Includes a 2-hour cruise on Milford Haven with a fully equipped restaurant and bar.
Price: NZD$309 per person.
Optional: Restaurant lunch meal for the cruise can be pre-ordered and paid for at the time of booking.
Trips and Tramps
Locally and family-owned, small group guided tour including 1-2 hours of nature hikes, picnic lunch, and a shorter cruise on a smaller boat.
Price: NZD$275 per person.
Cheeky Kiwi
Small group tour including a picnic lunch and a cruise with a smaller Cruise Milford boat. Note: Not locally owned.
Price: NZD$260 per person.
Fiordland Tours
Small group guided tour with complimentary morning tea and a cruise on a small boutique cruise boat. Note: Not locally owned.
Price: NZD$239 per person.
Review links:
Small Group Tours from Queenstown
Altitude Tours
Premium small group tour with optional glass-roof coach upgrade, nature walks, and complimentary wifi.
Price: NZD$299-309 per person
Cheeky Kiwi
Premium small group tour, including a picnic lunch and cruise on a smaller Cruise Milford boat.
Price: NZD$298 per person
Review Links:
Large Group Tours
Real NZ
Large group tour on a glass-roof coach and your choice of cruise vessel.
Price: NZD$234 per person
Southern Discoveries
Large group coach tour, scenic cruise, complimentary tea/coffee with optional picnic or buffet lunch add-on.
Price: NZD$229 per person
Pure Milford
Classic large group coach tour, complimentary tea/coffee and lunch, and a 2-hour nature cruise.
Price: NZD$225 per person
Trip Advisor Review Links:
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary based on season and promotions. It's always best to check with the tour operators for the most up-to-date pricing and offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a typical Milford Sound tour?
Small group tours from Te Anau usually last about 8-9 hours, while tours from Queenstown can take up to 13 hours for a round trip.
Will I see wildlife on my tour?
While sightings can't be guaranteed, you may spot kea, fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. The rare Fiordland crested penguin is sometimes seen between July and November.
Note: If you’ve got some time to spend in the area, you’re also guaranteed some up close local wildlife viewing by visiting the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary.
Is it worth visiting Milford Sound if it's raining?
Absolutely! Some even say that Milford Sound offers the best experience in the rain. Rain creates temporary waterfalls cascading down the cliff faces, adding to the fiord's mystical atmosphere.
Can I drive to Milford Sound myself?
Yes, but the road can be challenging and parking is limited and expensive. Guided tours offer a more relaxed and informative experience.
Are there restroom facilities on the boats?
Yes, all cruise boats have restroom facilities on board. All guided tours will also ensure a restroom break on your way to Milford Sound.
Choosing the right Milford Sound tour depends on your personal preferences, budget, and travel style.
Small group tours from Te Anau offer the most relaxed and immersive experience, ideal for those who want to fully appreciate the journey. Small group tours from Queenstown provide a convenient option for those based in the adventure capital or without rental cars, while large group tours offer an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Whichever option you choose, a trip to Milford Sound is sure to be a highlight of your New Zealand adventure. The breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and sheer majesty of the fiord will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.