Award Winning Milford Sound Full Day Tour & Cruise from Te Anau
Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This full-day Milford Sound extraordinaire tour from Te Anau will have you traveling along the spectacular Milford Road. With fun commentary and plenty of local knowledge provided you will have a chance to see keas, seals, dolphins and the Fiordland crested penguin.
In addition to a scenic cruise on Milford Sound, this full-day tour includes short nature walks and opportunities to explore some of Fiordland’s most striking landscapes. Take time to admire powerful waterfalls fed by glacier-carved terrain as they flow into the UNESCO World Heritage–listed fiord.
Enjoy a relaxed pace with morning tea provided, and informative English commentary throughout the day covering the region’s unique geology, history, and natural environment, adding depth and context to the breathtaking scenery.
Available options
With Picnic Lunch
Packed Picnic Lunch: Choices for picnic lunch sandwich are chicken, lamb, seafood, ham or vegetarian. Please advise your choice in the comments.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Local guide
Multiple scenic stops & optional walks within Fiordland National Park
National Park fees
Morning tea: home-baked goods & hot drinks
Driver/guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Te Anau
Live commentary on board
Detailed itinerary
1
This is Fiordland Tours signature, award winning tour – an extended day trip to Milford Sound from Te Anau that guarantees you’ll experience all the best sights and have ample time to explore Fiordland National Park.
Escape the crowds with our small group tours, and enjoy short walks, kiwi-style café baked goods, & a nature cruise on the iconic Milford Sound.
Depart: 8:00 AM
Return: 6:00 PM
Pick-up & drop-off from your Te Anau accommodation.
This fully guided tour includes informative commentary & personalised service, ensuring an enriching experience.
Travel along the spectacular Milford Road, with up to 15 scenic photo stops along the way.
A chance to see Keas, Seals, Dolphins, and the Fiordland Crested Penguin.
Enjoy a nature cruise on Milford Sound, offering a more intimate and crowd-free experience.
Plenty of toilet stops for your comfort.
We operate in safe & comfortable coaches provide limited to small groups ensuring a more personalised experience.
2
Stop 2
A short walk viewing the "Mirror Lakes" where the Earl mountains reflect on the small oxbow lakes. You will take photos which will look the same turned 180 deg. Whilst this can be 1 five minute walk, we allow 15 minutes for you to soak up the amazing scenery
3
Enjoy a 2-hour nature cruise on the spectacular Milford Sound.
Get up close to cascading waterfalls and have the chance to see Keas, Seals, Dolphins, and the Fiordland Crested Penguin.
After the cruise, enjoy some time in Milford Sound, where we offer the opportunity to take a stunning, optional Milford foreshore walk.
What's not included
Drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.9
120 reviews
5★
111
4★
9
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
1,088 reviews
5★
1058
4★
26
3★
2
2★
1
1★
1
Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A minimum of 4 people is required to operate the tour
Meeting point
You may come to our address the morning of your tour.
We are at 60 Town Centre, Te Anau.
About Te Anau
Te Anau is a picturesque town on the shores of Lake Te Anau, the second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand. It serves as the gateway to Fiordland National Park and its stunning fiords, including the famous Milford Sound. The town is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and the enchanting glowworm caves.
Top Attractions
Fiordland National Park
Fiordland National Park is one of New Zealand's most iconic natural areas, home to Milford Sound, Doubtful Sound, and numerous hiking trails. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its dramatic landscapes, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Nature
Half day to multi-day
Free to enter, but tours and activities have fees
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
These caves are famous for their glowworms, which create a magical, star-like effect on the cave ceilings. The caves are accessible only by guided boat tour and walking tour.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate
Lake Te Anau
The second-largest freshwater lake in New Zealand, Lake Te Anau offers stunning views, kayaking, and boat tours. The lake is part of the Fiordland National Park and is surrounded by lush forests and mountains.
Nature
Varies
Free to explore, tours have fees
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fresh Seafood
Te Anau is known for its fresh seafood, including salmon, trout, and whitebait. Dishes often feature locally sourced ingredients.
Dinner
May contain allergens like shellfish
Lamb
New Zealand lamb is renowned for its quality and flavor, often served with seasonal vegetables and local wines.
Dinner
Not vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Boating
Scenic drives
Picnicking
Photography
Local crafts
Museum visits
Best Time to Visit
December to February
This is the summer season, offering the warmest weather and the most daylight hours. It's ideal for hiking, kayaking, and exploring the fiords. However, it's also the busiest time of year.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, Maori
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Time Zone
GMT+12
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Te Anau is a safe destination with low crime rates. However, visitors should always take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Be cautious when hiking alone
- • Check weather conditions before outdoor activities
Getting there
By air
- Invercargill Airport • 100 km (62 miles)
- Queenstown Airport • 170 km (105 miles)
By bus
Te Anau Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Public transport options are limited in Te Anau. Local shuttle services are available for specific routes and tours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Limited app availability
Rentals
Car, Bike
Neighborhoods
Te Anau Town Center
Lakefront Area
Day trips
Milford Sound
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's most famous attractions, known for its stunning fiord, waterfalls, and wildlife. It's a must-visit for nature lovers.
Doubtful Sound
150 km (93 miles) • Full day or overnight
Doubtful Sound is a lesser-known but equally stunning fiord, offering a more remote and tranquil experience compared to Milford Sound.
Festivals
Fiordland Jazz Festival • March
Pro tips
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season
- Be prepared for rain and cool temperatures, even in summer
- Rent a car for flexibility and to explore the surrounding area
- Visit the glowworm caves for a magical experience
- Take a boat tour of Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound for stunning views and wildlife spotting
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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