Milford Sound, a breathtaking fjord in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, is a must-visit destination for its dramatic landscapes and unique wildlife. Starting your journey from either Queenstown or Te Anau, you’ll encounter scenic routes packed with stunning stops. Use this Milford Sound map to plan your adventure and stop at key highlights along the way. Keep reading to explore what this epic road trip has in store for you!
Traveling independently allows you to set your own pace and discover hidden gems along the way. You can drive through the scenic Milford Road, stopping at viewpoints and attractions like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm, making it a personalized adventure.
Guided tours typically include transportation, allowing you to relax while enjoying the stunning scenery. Many tours offer additional activities such as boat cruises or kayaking, providing a comprehensive experience of Milford Sound in a single day.
Similar to tours from Queenstown, these trips offer a shorter travel time to Milford Sound. They often include scenic stops, like Fiordland National Park, along the way and can be tailored to include various activities, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
Take to the skies and witness Milford Sound’s majestic landscapes from above. This premium experience offers unmatched aerial views of the fjords, glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks, perfect for photography enthusiasts and time-sensitive travelers.
Cruise the waters of Milford Sound via boat tours to get up close to waterfalls like Stirling Falls and experience the fiord's dramatic cliffs and marine wildlife, like seals and dolphins. Many tours also offer commentary on the area's history and ecology.
The main routes are from Queenstown (approximately 600 km round trip) and Te Anau (240 km round trip), both offering stunning scenery along the way.
Taking a flight to Milford Sound is the best option, taking approximately 40 minutes from Queenstown, compared to a 4-hour drive. The fastest route via road is from Te Anau, which takes about 2 hours.
Options include day trips from Queenstown or Te Anau, scenic flights, and boat tours. Each tour offers unique perspectives of Milford Sound.
Key spots on the way to Milford Sound include Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley, The Chasm, and Homer Tunnel. These attractions provide stunning landscapes, natural wonders, breathtaking views, and great photo opportunities.
Yes, several guided tours operate from Te Anau, providing transportation and often including activities like boat cruises or kayaking in Milford Sound. Prices start at NZ$140.
Yes, there are several short walks along the route, including The Chasm and various viewpoints that showcase the stunning landscapes of Fiordland National Park.
The last fuel station is in Te Anau. Ensure you fill up there because no refueling options exist along Milford Road or in Milford Sound.
Yes, Milford Sound Lodge is the only accommodation in the area. Nearby options include campsites and stays in Te Anau.
Milford Sound is spectacular year-round. Summer offers milder weather bringing in a lot more visitors, while winter brings snow-capped peaks and fewer crowds. Learn more about the best time to visit in our travel guide.
Yes, day tours from Queenstown or Te Anau are a popular choice among visitors. If you are driving, you can explore and return the same day if you start early.
Milford Sound Cruise
Small-Boat Milford Sound Cruise
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers
From Te Anau: Milford Cruise & Return Transfers
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise
From Queenstown: Premium Milford Sound Tour with Cruise
Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne
From Manapouri: Doubtful Sound Wilderness Cruise
Overnight Milford Sound Cruise
