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Getting to Milford Sound: Driving down, commute options, and views along the way

Where is Milford Sound located?

Plan your visit

Transport options to Milford Sound

  • From Queenstown: ~6 hrs by road | Morning departures 7:20 & 7:40am
    • Includes commentary, scenic stops, and a**** Milford Sound cruise
    • Best for: Travelers who want a full-day adventure with scenic road views and a relaxed pace
  • From Te Anau: ~3 hrs by road | Morning departures 10:15 & 10:35am
    • Shorter journey, with more time to enjoy the fiord
    • Best for:**** Travelers who want a shorter travel day or are already based in Te Anau
Day tours from Queenstown or Te Anau

From Queenstown

  • 2 to 4 hrs round trip
  • Daily departures between 10am and 2pm
  • Options: Glacier landings, return flights, or flight + cruise tours
  • Best for: Visitors short on time or those seeking a luxury, once-in-a-lifetime aerial view
Milford Sound flight tours
Milford Sound Location

From Queenstown

  • Distance: 288 km | ~4 hrs 15 mins via Lake Wakatipu & SH94 (see route map)
  • Best for: Independent travelers who enjoy road trips and scenic photo stops

From Te Anau:

  • Distance: 121 km | ~2 hrs 15 mins along Milford Road (SH94) through Fiordland National Park
  • Best for: Self-drivers looking for the shortest and most direct route to Milford Sound
Book Milford Sound cruises

Views en route to Milford Sound

Mirror Lake

Mirror Lake

As the name suggests, this crystal clear lake provides stunning reflections of the Earl mountain range.

Eglinton Valley
The Chasm Fall
Monkey Creek
Cleddau Valley

On arrival at Milford Sound

Parking at Milford Sound

  • Visitor Terminal: Paid, $10/hr before 3pm; $5/hr after 3pm
  • Deepwater Basin: Free (10–15 min walk to terminal)
  • Campervans & large vehicles: Dedicated spaces available
  • Overnight: $30 until 11am next day
  • Mobility parking: Paid spots at the visitor terminal

You’ll find:

  • Visitor terminal & check-in counters
  • Cafés, restrooms, and basic facilities
  • Cruise departure points

You won’t find:

  • Petrol stations (last fill-up is in Te Anau)
  • Major supermarkets or shops
  • Reliable mobile coverage
Plan your visit

Frequently asked questions about getting to Milford Sound

Where is Milford Sound located?

The Milford Sound is a fjord located within Fiordland National Park, New Zealand.

How do I get to Milford Sound?

The best way to reach Milford Sound is by bus or coach instead of self-drive. The road to Milford Sound is tricky, prone to avalanches and other adverse conditions. Public transport is safer since you will be accompanied by experienced drivers.

What is the fastest way to get to Milford Sound?

The fastest way to get to Milford Sound is also the most expensive way, by helicopter or by plane, costing NZ$645. These Milford Sound tours can last anywhere between 5-13 hours, depending on your ticket inclusions.

Which is the most budget-friendly way to get to Milford Sound?

The most budget-friendly way to get to Milford Sound is by public transport - either bus or coach which takes 6 hours from Queenstown and 3 hours from Te Anau and costs around NZ$165. These transfers are convenient for travellers who are looking to spend the day at the fjord, or taking a cruise, as the arrival times are in sync with the cruise departure times.

Which is the closest bus stop to Milford Sound?

Buses to Milford Sound will drop you right at the fjord, no additional travel needed.

Can I park at the Milford Sound?

Yes, Milford Sound has paid parking areas for all vehicle types starting at NZ$5 per hour. Overnight parking is available for NZ$30.

Can I walk to the Milford Sound?

No, the Milford Sound is almost 121 kms away from Te Anau and almost 300 kms away from Queenstown, therefore walking to the fjord is impossible. Instead, opt for public transport or a private vehicle to Milford Sound.

Which is the closest town to Milford Sound?

Te Anau is the closest town to Milford Sound, where you can consider staying overnight in case of a long journey.

What kinds of lodging are available in Milford Sound?

Being within a protected National Park, your accommodation choices in Milford Sound are limited to Milford Lodge which provides private rooms, as well as space for campervans. You could alternately opt for an overnight cruise on the fjord or stay at Te Anau.

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Milford Sound activities

Things to do in Milford Sound

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Fiordland National Park

Fiordland National Park

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Milford Sound waterfalls

Waterfalls in Milford Sound

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Information

All screenshots of maps found on this page are sourced from Google in accordance with fair use. All rights to such screenshots lie with the specific platform, and their use is solely for informational or guidance purposes.

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