If you’ve never visited Milford Sound, you should probably add it to your bucket list. Milford Sound is so stunning that it has unofficially been named the 8th Wonder of the World. I recently travelled to Milford Sound to check it out myself. Here is what you need to know.

What is Milford Sound?

Milford Sound is a fiord located in New Zealand’s South Island. Sitting within the Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is famed for its astonishing natural beauty boasting steep glacier-carved peaks, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and an abundance of marine life. The area gets a high amount of rainfall, meaning the waterfalls are some of the world’s best. Within the fiord’s deep waters, you can often spot dolphins, seals, penguins, and even whales.

Getting There

Most travellers begin their journey to Milford Sound in either Queenstown or Te Anau. The journey to Milford is around 4 hours from Queenstown and 2 hours from Te Anau. The road through Fiordland National Park is quite narrow and winding so if you are driving, be sure to allow extra travel time.

The other common way to get to Milford Sound is by coach. There are a number of companies who do coach tours that include a scenic boat ride. I travelled with Great Sights which included a luxury glass-roof coach, stops at Mirror Lakes, Knob’s Flat, Monkey Creek, and Homer Tunnel, a picnic lunch, and 2 hour cruise on Milford Sound. Those feeling extra adventurous could also opt to take a scenic flight back to Queenstown. There are plenty of tour choices depending on your budget. You can check out a few of the most common ones here.

When to Go

Milford Sound is beautiful at any time of the year but if you do visit during winter, there is a chance the road can be closed due to snowfall so opt for a time towards the beginning or end of snow season. Winter is a great time to visit if you want to see waterfalls and wildlife. There are generally also less crowds during the cooler months. Just make sure to wear a warm coat and thermals. 

Summer and Autumn bring warmer weather and a higher chance of clear views during your visit. The weather is perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding mountain scenery of Fiordland National Park. 

Spring is the shoulder season meaning less people and fewer boats on the water. Plus, the melting snow on the mountain tops surrounding Milford Sound make it a fantastic time to see the waterfalls. 

What to Do

Boat Cruise

There are many ways to admire the natural beauty of Milford Sound with the most common being by boat. With both day and overnight options available, boat cruises are an excellent way to explore Milford Sound. Day cruises are a great way to take in the stunning scenery and wildlife that the fiord has to offer. If you’ve got a bit of extra time up your sleeve, overnight cruises are the best way to experience the peacefulness and tranquillity before other visitors arrive. Dinner and breakfast are included with overnight cruises and of course the opportunity to stargaze after your evening meal. 

Kayaking

Kayaking is the best way to explore the untouched beauty of Milford Sound. You’ll have the opportunity to get up close to some of the most magnificent waterfalls in the region. It is also a great way to spot wildlife like dolphins, penguins, and seals. The kayak tours are run in smaller groups with plenty of options available depending on your level of experience. 

Hiking

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, hiking is a great way to explore the gorgeous mountain ranges within Fiordland National Park. There are numerous tracks within the national park ranging from short, beginner-friendly walks, to multi-day hiking trails. 

If you’re an avid hiker and have a few days to spend in Milford Sound, you need to experience the famous Milford Track, coined the finest walk in the world. The 4-5 day walk boasts ice-carved valleys, stunning rivers and waterfalls, mountain passes, and lush rainforests. 

Scenic Flights 

If you want to experience Milford Sound from above, you can take to the skies with a scenic flight. Flights from Queenstown take around 45 minutes to arrive at Milford boasting incredible views of Lake Wakatipu, Skippers Canyon, and the glaciers along the way. Upon arrival you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Fiordland National Park, thundering waterfalls, and dark blue lake. 

There are so many more incredible things to do in Milford Sound. If you haven’t haven’t been yet, I highly recommend adding it to your list to experience its beauty for yourself. I, for one, will definitely be going back again. 

Until the next adventure,

Sophie