Aotearoa (New Zealand) is a destination synonymous with spectacular landscapes, a vibrant culture, creative culinary scene, and adventure activities galore. Discover the best things to do in New Zealand in this handy guide.
New Zealand
Best places to stay in Milford Sound
The ultimate guide to Milford Sound, New Zealand
Milford Sound in New Zealand is widely regarded as one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world. Here’s a few reasons why you should visit.
With its jaw-dropping beauty and abundant wildlife, Milford Sound is a photographer’s paradise that offers unforgettable journeys, outdoor adventures and peaceful escapes.
Milford Sound, known as Piopiotahi in the Māori language, is part of Fiordland National Park and larger Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Area.
Use this handy traveller’s guide to plan the ultimate Milford Sound experience, including what to do when you’re there, and road trip stops en route.
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Milford Sound is a land of stunning scenery. Image: Graeme Murray
Your guide to Milford Sound (Piopiotahi), NZ
Best water activities in Milford Sound
A playground for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Milford Sound never disappoints, be it your first or fifth time, with its dramatic fjord peaks, powerful waterfalls, and native beech forests.
The most popular way to experience Milford Sound is on a scenic cruise, with boutique small boat sailing to more spacious vessels available to suit your travel style. You get access to the grandeur of the fjords, from the towering cliffs and mighty Sterling Falls to the iconic Mitre Peak.
Adventure seekers after an intimate Milford Sound experience can try a small group guided trip with Rosco’s Kayaks. A water taxi drops you into the thick of the action, ensuring maximum time to glide amid the imposing fjords and witness the wildlife up close.
Did you know you can scuba in Milford Sound if you’re a qualified diver? Known as the Kiwi ‘coral capital’, there’s a distinct marine ecosystem to discover, including black coral trees usually found in deep-water trenches.
Not a diver? There’s no need to miss out: descend 10m below the surface at the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory. Without getting a drop of water on you, you’ll see Milford’s black coral, rare fish species, and other marine life.
Milford Sound is abundant with amazing water-based activities. Image: Tourism NZ
Best hikes in Milford Sound
For a thrilling experience out of the water, hikers love trekking the multi-day Milford Track; it’s one of New Zealand’s 10 Great Walks. From late October to April, trek the valleys and glacier-carved fjords over four days, starting at Lake Te Anau. To tackle this popular track, you’ll need to prebook the Department of Conservation (DOC) huts along the way, plus a boat transfer at either end. If the huts are full (they book fast) or your trekking style is more upmarket, there’s the choice of private lodges, hot showers, and 3-course meals with Ultimate Hikes New Zealand.
For a shorter walk with outstanding views, consider the 3-hour Key Summit tramp or the 4-5-hour Gertrude Valley track (summer and autumn only). For a Milford Track teaser, book a boat transfer with Fiordland Outdoors for a half-day adventure.
Hikers love the multi-day Milford Track. Image: Tourism NZ
Captivating wildlife in Milford Sound
While Milford Sound’s enchanting scenery is a drawcard by itself, the native wildlife sightings enhance your visit to this UNESCO World Heritage wonder. The verdant rainforest and frequent rainfall create a unique environment and Milford’s protected status ensures all wildlife remain safe.
Bottlenose dolphins are frequently spotted here; they love to play in the wake of tourist boats. As you journey into the fjords, watch for New Zealand fur seals, little blue penguins, and the rare Fiordland crested penguin. The latter is occasionally seen during their breeding season from July to November. While uncommon, an errant orca or whale sometimes end up in the Sounds, too.
There’s ample bird life to spot while visiting, including the endangered kākā and boisterous tui. If you’re driving to Milford Sound, you’ll encounter naughty keas at scenic stops. Known as the Clever Clowns of the Alps, watch for your windscreen wipers, aerials, and valuables; cheeky keas are famous for their vandalising and thievish ways. The rare blue duck, or whio, has been spotted around Eglinton Valley and Monkey Creek on occasion.
There's ample bird life to spot around Milford Sound. Image: Tourism NZ
How to get to Milford Sound from Queenstown
The Ralph Waldo Emerson quote, “It’s not the destination, it’s the journey” is apt for any visit to Milford Sound. No matter how you travel to this remote pocket of New Zealand, you’ll be soaking in pristine scenery en route.
The drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound is one of the world’s most scenic. If you’re self-driving, allow four hours to travel the 287km to reach your cruise boat - more if you’re a keen photographer.
As Milford Road is windy and narrow, many leave their rental car in Queenstown or Te Anau and take a coach-cruise tour instead. Experience driving this route, guided commentary, and knowing the best stops can elevate your Milford Sound experience compared to the focus required when self-driving.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider the ultimate Milford Sound experience, a coach-cruise-flight package from Queenstown. See the dramatic fjords by land, sea, and while soaring over the Southern Alps. If time is short, the convenient one-hour scenic flight from Queenstown ensures you don’t miss out on this South Island gem.
Don't miss the Shotover Jet in Queenstown. Image: Tourism NZ
The best road trip stops from Queenstown to Milford Sound
If you’re keen for a self-drive adventure, there are some notable stops to add to your journey. Two hours from Queenstown, there’s Te Anau, the main visitor base for Fiordland National Park. Stretch your legs, caffeinate, take a selfie with the giant takahe bird statue, or discover why people rate Miles Better Pies as the best road trip snack. On your return to Queenstown, the Fat Duck offers tasty evening meals to fuel you for the final leg.
Once on Milford Road (state highway 94), it’s worth stopping at the spectacular Mirror Lakes. On a calm day, the crystal-clear mountains reflecting in the lake ensure a photograph worthy of a travel brochure.
Next up is Monkey Creek, where you can sample the pure glacier-fed spring water, then Chasm with its dramatic waterfalls and sculpted rocks, followed by the hand-carved Homer Tunnel, which you’ll pass through on your journey to Milford Sound.
If you’re travelling in the early morning or late afternoon, the soft light at Eglinton Valley offers the chance for stunning photos.
Te Anau is the main visitor base for Fiordland National Park. Image: Tourism NZ
Best places to stay in Milford Sound
Milford Sound is primarily a day-trip destination. That said, there are accommodation options for travellers looking for a more immersive experience. When the boats have finished and the coaches have departed for Te Anau and Queenstown, a heightened sense of tranquillity befalls across the sounds.
For a luxury stay, Milford Sound Lodge offers gorgeous riverside, mountain view or garden view chalets, plus the Sound’s only restaurant, Pio Pio. With charming cabins and delectable meals featuring South Island-sourced ingredients, a stay at Milford Sound Lodge is an idyllic way to unwind.
For more accommodation options, book a cosy cabin at Eglinton Valley Camp, an hour from Milford Sound. Alternatively, Te Anau offers chalets, charming B&Bs, and high-end lodges.
If you’re exploring New Zealand by RV, Milford Sound Lodge offers powered campsites and Eglinton Valley Campground has unpowered sites at an affordable rate.
