Fiordland & Milford Sound ATTRACTIONS See all
Milford Sound
Described as the eighth wonder of the World by Rudyard Kipling, Milford Sound is New Zealand’s premier tourist attraction. Upon entering the sound you’re surrounded by sheer cliffs 3,900 feet (1,200 meters) high, carved by glaciers, rising dramatically from the dark waters.
Among the tallest peaks are The Elephant at 5,000 ft (1,500 m), named because it resembles an elephants head, and The Lion, 4,300 ft (1,300 m), which looks like a crouching lion. Over 22 ft (7 m) of rain falls on the sound each year creating spectacular waterfalls and lush forests which cling to some of the surrounding slopes.
Lots of wildlife play in the sound including penguins, seals, dolphins and - if you’re lucky - whales. The high tannin level in the water means you can also view black coral which can usually only be seen deep underwater.
Practical Info
There are plenty of tour boats that head into Milford Sound. During the peak season of January through February the sound can be filled with thousands of tourists a day; however, because of the immense size of the sound, once you’re on a boat you feel alone.
If driving, it’s 4 ½ hours from Queenstown or under 2 hours from Te Anau.
Tours & Tickets
Milford Sound Nature Cruise from Queenstown, Te Anau or Milford Sound
An extended and leisurely cruise of Milford Sound to the Tasman Sea on the Milford Mariner or Milford Wanderer designed for the free, independent traveler. ... Read more
Location: Milford Sound, New Zealand
Duration: 2 hours (approx.)
Full-Day Luxury Milford Sound Tour by Coach and Cruise from Queenstown
Your trip to amazing Milford Sound should be done in style! Our mid sized coach has a glass roof for the best viewing, lots of leg room, and its smaller size ... Read more
Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: 12 hours (approx.)
Full-Day Milford Sound Discovery Day Trip from Queenstown
Kiwi Discovery runs daily tours from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Luxury coaches will take you on your journey in comfort and style, with informative ... Read more
Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: 12 hours (approx.)
Queenstown Super Saver: Milford Sound Nature Cruise plus Walter Peak High Country Farm Tour
Immerse yourself in New Zealand’s stunning natural scenery over two days with this Queenstown Super Saver. On your first day, you'll take a cruise on the ... Read more
Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: 2 days (approx.)
Full-Day Milford Sound and Fiordland National Park Tour including Milford Sound Cruise and BBQ Lunch from Te Anau
Milford Sound is arguably the most scenic destination in New Zealand. Located in 3 million acres of the Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a must-see ... Read more
Location: Te Anau, New Zealand
Duration: 9 hours (approx.)
The Ultimate Milford Sound Experience by Helicopter from Queenstown
Stroll on a deserted beach, soar among mountains and dine at an alpine lake suspended above Fiordland. Learn of the age old glaciers and prehistoric rain ... Read more
Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: Flexible
Milford Sound Full-Day Tour from Queenstown
Discover Milford Sound on a full-day trip from Queenstown. You'll travel through beautiful Fiordland in a luxury coach with panoramic windows and take an ... Read more
Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: 12 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Milford Sound Full-Day Tour from Queenstown including Helicopter Flight
Treat yourself to the ultimate Milford Sound experience on this day trip from Queenstown that allows you to see this world-famous fiord region by land, sea and ... Read more
Location: Queenstown, New Zealand
Duration: 10 hours (approx.)
Milford Sound Scenic Flight and Nature Cruise
See Milford Sound by air and water on a half-day tour from Queenstown that includes a round-trip flight and a boat tour through the sound. Save time and enjoy ... Read more
Location: Milford Sound, New Zealand
Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Kayak Tour
Experience the majesty of Milford Sound on a boat cruise that stops at the Milford Sound Discovery Center and Underwater Observatory. The smaller boat travels ... Read more
Location: Milford Sound, New Zealand
Duration: Varies
