From happy customers

Loved by 49 million+
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 out of 5

Karolina M

Poland
Couple
2 weeks ago


Milford Sound was absolutely unforgettable experience. The ship itself was very comfortable with plenty of space for everyone. The top deck had a lots of room outside to stand and take in the views without it feeling crowded. At the same time. 85 was great that there was a lower deck where you could go inside and warm up if it's too cold or windy without missing any views. Through the cruise, a guide was speaking over the speakers, explaining what we were seeing. A special bonus was that we even stopped to watch dolphins along the way. Overall, it was fantastic experience.

Diane S

United States
Group
3 weeks ago



+1 more

All I can say is wow! The views, breathtaking. The guide was informative, fun, and funny. The complimentary tea and coffee hit the spot throughout. I would happily return to do this tour again!

James C

Australia
Group
2 weeks ago



We had a sensational time on the tour. It exceeded our expectations. Our tour guide Danny from Cheeky Kiwi tours was a great host. He kept the group interested with fun facts about New Zealand and trivia on the way back. The cruise itself was an amazing experience.

Elizabeth W

United Kingdom
Couple
Feb 2026

Perfect sized boat. Olivia the Capain was friendly and interesting to listen to with just enough info imparted. Hot drinks were welcome!

Sandi J

New Zealand
Group
Jan 2026

From booking checking in and boarding the cruise, everything was very quick and easy. The captain and crew were very helpful and friendly. The captain was very thoughtful and ensured everyone got a good opportunity to see all the highlights. The smaller boat made for a comfortable and spacious trip

Judith M

United Kingdom
Couple
Feb 2026


Loved the kiwi humour. Very relaxed but actually very efficient too. Everyone was determinedly positive through the rain. Crews cared for us really well. Instructions were clear, polite but definite. Bus drive ( which l thought would be the boring bit ) was very entertaining and informative. Lots of opportunities to take photos. Scenery was magnificent and loved getting to the sea.

Woottichai T

Group
Feb 2026


Steve, our driver, is the BEST! Our family enjoyed his informative and insight knowledge in all aspects of this tour. Our lifetime experience- thank you so much.

Anup S

Australia
Couple
Feb 2026


The commentary from our driver and guide Steve was excellent. The transfers to the cruise and return was seamless. We stopped at some great locations on the way. The cruise was als[ very enjoyable, being a smaller boat , the captain was flexible and alloed us to spend more time with the Dolphins

Milford Track | One of New Zealand’s finest walks

The Milford Track is often called “the finest walk in the world”. Stretching 53.5 km (33.2 miles) through Fiordland National Park, this four-day hike takes you past alpine passes, glacial valleys, and waterfalls like Sutherland Falls. First opened in 1888, the track carries deep cultural meaning for Māori, and today it draws thousands of adventurers to New Zealand’s UNESCO-listed landscapes each season.

Milford Track in a nutshell

Milford Track, New Zealand
  • Official name: Milford Track
  • Location: Fiordland National Park, Southland
  • Opened: 1888
  • Season: Late October – late April
  • Distance: 53.5 km (33.2 miles)
  • Time: Typically 4 days
  • Difficulty: Easy to moderate
  • UNESCO status: Te Wahipounamu, since 1990
  • Visitors: ~14,000 per season
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Why visit Milford Track?

One of New Zealand’s Great Walks

Part of the country’s network of nine world-famous hikes, set entirely in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Waterfall country

Milford Track has one end in Milford Sound, the wettest place is New Zealand and one of the wettest places on Earth.

Alpine challenge

Climb Mackinnon Pass for panoramic views over Clinton and Arthur Valleys.

Rich biodiversity

Spot cheeky Kea parrots, Fiordland crested penguins, and lush native flora.

Guided insights

Small-group tours connect you to the track’s ecology and Māori history.

End-point reward

Many finish with a Milford Sound cruise beneath Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls.

Your Milford Track tour options

Day walk to Giant Gate Falls

  • 5-hour guided round trip (11 km)
  • Trail highlights: Deepwater Basin, Sandfly Point, Arthur River, Lake Ada
  • Hike with a small group past sights like Deepwater Basin, Sandfly Point, Arthur River, Lake Ada, and Giant's Gate Waterfall.
  • Upgrade to a guided cruise along the Milford Sound, sailing past Mitre Peak, Fairy and Bridal Veil waterfalls, and endangered wildlife like New Zealand fur seals. 

From Te Anau: Track + cruise combo

  • Hotel transfers included
  • 5.5 km guided section with a water taxi to Sandfly Point
  • Learn about Fiordland’s ecology and history along the track
  • Cruise Milford Sound post-walk, spotting seals, dolphins, and waterfalls with commentary from the skipper.
  • Duration: ~12 hrs | Start: 6:30 AM

Milford Track highlights: What you'll see

Aerial view of Arthur River and Lake Ada in the background

Lake Ada

A serene alpine lake perfect for photo stops.

Giant Gate Waterfall at Milford Sound
Milford Sound, New Zealand
Sandfly point in Milford Sound
Cruise at Milford Sound

Plan Your Visit to Milford Track

Tourists sitting on a bench, Milford Sound
  • Great Walk season: End of October to April
  • Off-Great Walk season/ Closed from: May to the end of October

Best time to visit:

  • October & November: Spring unfolds with lush green landscapes. The weather is generally warm and sunny, but it can be unpredictable with occasional showers. Crowds are moderate. 
  • December & January: Summer brings the warmest temperatures and the most daylight hours, perfect for long hikes and enjoying the scenery. However, this is also the busiest time with the largest crowds. 
  • February & March: The crowds begin to thin towards the end of summer. Temperatures remain comfortable, and the vibrant fall foliage starts to appear.
  • April: The Great Walks season officially ends in April, but experienced hikers can still tackle the track with proper preparation. Expect colder temperatures, possible snowfall, and shorter daylight hours.
Know more
Glass roof coach to travel to Milford Sound

Address: Fiordland,Southland 9679, New Zealand | Find on maps

Getting there: Accessible solely through private transportation, Milford Track can be conveniently experienced by booking a day trip or tour that includes transfers, ensuring a hassle-free visit.  If you're short on time or don't wanna complete the entire track (53.5 km/4 days), go for a shorter Milford Sound tour. This lets you explore a slice of the track, see prominent sights, and learn from an expert guide.

Getting to Milford Track

Handy Tips for Milford Track

  • Go with a guide: A Milford Track guided walk covers logistics and adds cultural and ecological insights you’d miss on your own.
  • Pack for all weather: Fiordland is famously unpredictable. Bring waterproof layers, windproof jacket, sturdy boots, and a rain cover for your pack.
  • Beat the sandflies: They bite. Carry insect repellent and wear light, long-sleeved clothing.
  • Gear checklist: Map, compass, whistle, portable charger, and a water bottle (add purification tablets for safety).
  • Footwear strategy: Use sturdy boots for rough terrain and lightweight shoes for river crossings.
  • Emergency prep: A small first aid kit and space blanket are must-haves.
  • Leave no trace: Carry out all rubbish and respect Fiordland’s pristine environment.
  • Huts & bookings: Space is limited. Book DOC huts well ahead, especially in peak season. Respect quiet hours; earplugs help if you’re a light sleeper.

Plan your experience

Adventure activities on Milford Track

Hiking and Trekking

Traverse the 53.5-kilometer trail, taking on challenging sections like Mackinnon Pass for sweeping views of the area.

River Crossings

Experience the thrill of crossing pristine rivers, adding an adventurous element to the trek.

Waterfall Exploration

Take in the beautiful Sutherland Falls and others, and have a grand time in the natural beauty of Fiordland.

Wildlife Spotting

Observe native birds like the Weka and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.

Camping/Tramping

Opt for multi-day hikes with overnight stays in comfortable huts, enhancing the adventure experience.

History of Milford Track 

Utilized by the Māori for gathering precious greenstone, Milford Track's rich history intertwines with legends about the area and its native species. European exploration commenced in 1880 when Donald Sutherland and John Mackay, from the Milford end, first witnessed Mackay Falls and Sutherland Falls. Quintin McKinnon, from Lake Te Anau, discovered the overland route and McKinnon Pass in 1888. McKinnon became the first guide, leading walkers from Lake Te Anau to Milford Sound. His legacy persists in landmarks like McKinnon Pass, symbolizing the track's evolution from Māori traditions to European exploration and guided trekking experiences.

Learn more about Milford Sound

Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Track at Milford Sound

The Milford Track is a renowned 53.5-kilometer hiking trail in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, celebrated for its spectacular landscapes, including Sutherland Falls and Mackinnon Pass.