Milford Sound in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park is a can’t-miss experience on your road trip around New Zealand’s South Island. Whether you’re interested in a scenic cruise or a close encounter with wildlife, Milford Sound is a bucket list destination with so many incredible tour options. With its towering cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and clear waters, Milford Sound is one of the most stunning areas of New Zealand, if not the MOST stunning.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the best Milford Sound road trip and the best tours for 2025. From cruises and kayaking to scenic flights, you’ll discover the best things to do in Milford Sound. Plus, I’ll share where to stay, what to do in Te Anau (the nearest town), and the ideal times to visit.

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What to Know Before Visiting Milford Sound

Before booking your Milford Sound trip, there are a few important details you should know to help make your experience smoother.

First of all, the weather can be very unpredictable. It rains often, so bring a waterproof jacket and sturdy shoes. Bringing layers ensures you will be comfortable no matter the conditions. Also, don’t forget bug spray—the sandflies are brutal…especially early in the morning.

Though the weather can be very rainy, it’s actually one of the most special experiences. When it rains, you’ll begin to see thousands of waterfalls spilling down the massive cliffs. It’s truly beautiful. It’s probably one of the few places you actually want it to rain!

Additionally, since Milford Sound is so remote, planning for meals and accommodation is essential. Dining options are limited, so packing snacks or drinks and food (depending on where and how long you’re staying) is vital. Moreover, if you’re driving, take it slow on the winding roads and enjoy the incredible scenery along the way.

Ultimately, embrace the adventure, take lots of photos, and make the most of your time in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

How to Get to Milford Sound

Milford Sound may feel remote when you look at a map (240 km roundtrip from Te Anau), but getting there is part of the adventure. Experiencing Milford Sound in real life was totally worth the journey of getting there. Thankfully, there are several travel options to choose from depending on your budget and comfort level.

Driving Yourself

Driving from Queenstown takes about four hours, while Te Anau is closer—around two or three hours away. ‘

You can rent car through Rentalcars.com. Along the way, you’ll pass stops like the Mirror Lakes and the Homer Tunnel. Be sure to take your time and enjoy the views! We stopped numerous times to watch the farm animals, and take photographs of beautiful waterfalls and lakes.

With that said, be prepared for a bit of a nerve-wracking drive and many unique terrains along the way. There are a lot of switchbacks, and potential avalanches, and as it’s only a one-way road there can often be a lot of traffic. Depending on the weather, it can also be icy. If you tend to be a nervous driver, I recommend taking a tour over driving yourself.

Other stops along the way to Milford Sound:

• Te Anau Downs
• Elington Valley
• Mirror Lakes
• Hollyford Valley Lookout
• Homer Tunnel
• The Chasm

Bus Tours

For a stress-free trip, consider a bus tour. These tours, departing from Queenstown or Te Anau, offer large windows for viewing and a live guide. Many bus tours also include a Milford Sound cruise, giving you a seamless experience, so you don’t have to really worry or plan anything,

Scenic Flights

If you have the budget and want to splurge, flying into Milford Sound is a fantastic option. Scenic flights from Queenstown or Wanaka offer breathtaking views of Fiordland’s mountains and lakes before landing in Milford Sound. We didn’t have a chance to do this, but the pictures I’ve seen look absolutely breathtaking. I can’t even imagine how incredible the view would be from above.

Where to Stay in Milford Sound

For an unforgettable stay, the Milford Sound Lodge is the best accommodation option. As the only place to stay inside the fjord, it offers both luxury and budget-friendly choices. We decided to splurge and stay in their riverside chalet’s and it was an amazing experience. Since it’s really the only option, they fill up quickly and it can get pretty expensive. Make sure you book as far in advance as possible.

Luxury Riverside or Mountainside Chalets

For a more luxurious experience, book a riverside chalet. These rooms have large windows so you can enjoy panoramic views of Milford Sound and the beautiful river passing by. The rooms are pretty basic, but modern and comfortable. After exploring, relax by the fire with a drink or enjoy a meal at the lodge’s restaurant. The restaurant is quite fancy and has incredible gourmet meals. They also offer a full bar. We loved not having to worry about food during our trip and ate at the restaurant the entire time we were there.

They also offer delicious charcuterie boards and snacks during the day if you get back early from a tour and want a bite to eat.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you’re on a budget, dorm-style rooms are available. These are perfect for solo travelers or those seeking a simple place to sleep. Moreover, staying at the lodge allows you to catch early tours before the crowds arrive.

Camp in Milford Sound

Many travelers in New Zealand rent a campervan for their road trip around the island. If this is something you plan to do, Milford Sound Lodge is the only place to camp near the fjord. They offer powered and unpowered sites, along with amenities like hot showers, a kitchen, and a lounge area. Book well in advance, as spots fill up quickly. There are also designated Department of Conservation campsites along Milford Road, which offer a more basic camping experience.

How Long to Stay

Depending on whether you’re taking a day tour, or driving yourself, you can spend 1-3 days in Milford Sound. If you want to enjoy various activities like a boat tour, kayaking, and hiking, I recommend at least 2 days so you’re not rushing.

Best Time to Visit Milford Sound in 2025

Choosing when to visit Milford Sound is so important depending on what you’re looking for. Each season has something unique to offer.

Summer (December to February)

Summer is the peak season, with long days and warm weather. It’s perfect for outdoor activities, but it’s also the busiest time. Be sure to book your accommodation and Milford Sound tours early.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn is quieter, and the changing leaves add extra beauty to the landscape. The weather is more mild, making it an excellent time to visit without the summer crowds.

Winter (June to August)

Winter offers snow-capped mountains and dramatic waterfalls. Fewer tourists visit Milford Sound in winter, which makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful, serene experience.

Spring (September to November)

Spring provides a perfect balance of great weather and fewer crowds. The waterfalls are at their fullest due to melting snow, making spring an ideal time to visit for stunning natural beauty.

Milford Sound Tours for 2025

Here are the top ways to experience Milford Sound in 2025, offering something for every type of traveler.

Scenic Cruises

A scenic cruise is the most popular way to tour Milford Sound. These trips usually last 1.5 to 2.5 hours. You’ll pass iconic sights such as Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls. Along the way, you might also spot wildlife like dolphins and seals.

I highly recommend this luxury tour we booked. We chose this one and had an amazing trip. It was a HUGE boat and we pretty much had it all to ourselves along with one other couple. They served champagne and endless canapes and lunch. We had a guide who shared information about the history of the area, as well as information about the different plants and animals. It was a wonderful experience and I highly recommend this as a can’t-miss tour in Milford Sound for 2025.

We ended up staying two nights, so we did this in the afternoon of the first full day. In the morning, we woke up early and did a kayaking tour. This schedule worked out perfectly and we were able to fit both activities into our day.

Kayaking Tours

To get up close and personal with Milford Sound’s incredible nature, don’t miss taking a kayak trip. Paddle beneath towering cliffs and waterfalls, getting even closer to Milford Sound’s natural beauty. It’s also a great way to see wildlife, including dolphins and seals. At one point we had dolphins following our kayaks for a while. It was amazing to be so close to them. We chose to take a tour early in the morning before any of the big boats or planes were out and it was extremely peaceful. The water was calm and it was very misty. After a couple hours the sun came out, which was really special because we were able to see the towering cliffs much more clearly.

We took our kayak tour through Roscoe’s Milford Kayak’s which I highly recommend. Be warned early in the morning there are TONS of sandflies and it can get super annoying. Bring and wear bug repellant. Also, plan to bring layers as the temperature can change drastically from early morning into late morning.

The company provided everything we needed for the tour including warm clothes and water-repellant covers (it rains quite often).

Helicopter or Plane Tours

To see the area from above, consider a helicopter or plane tour. You’ll get aerial views of Fiordland’s rugged landscape, hidden valleys, and alpine lakes. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’re seeking a unique perspective and maybe only have one day. It’s probably the most expensive option, so keep that in mind! Additionally, depending on the weather it may or may not be the best option. If it’s extremely rainy or cloudy you may not be able to see as much.

Hiking

There are many incredible hikes in and around Milford Sound. You can hike on your own or even find guided tours. Here are a few I recommend:

• Milford Sound Foreshore Walk: This short, easy hike offers breathtaking views of Mitre Peak and the surrounding fjord. It’s a 30-minute return walk and perfect for a quick exploration.
• Key Summit Track: Part of the Routeburn Track, this moderate 3-hour return hike (7 km) offers incredible panoramic views over the Hollyford Valley and Fiordland’s mountains. It’s about an hour’s drive from Milford Sound.
• Lake Marian Track: This is a more challenging 3-hour return hike (6 km) that leads you to the stunning Lake Marian. The trail can be steep and rocky, but the alpine lake views are worth the effort.

Wildlife Encounters

Milford Sound is home to a variety of unique wildlife. As you explore, keep an eye out for these incredible animals.

Dolphins

Bottlenose dolphins frequently visit Milford Sound. They love to swim near boats, often jumping and playing in the water. We experienced this on our kayak trip which was so fun!

Seals

New Zealand fur seals can be seen lounging on rocks along the shore. They’re more active during cooler months but can be spotted year-round. We spotted many seals on our Milford Sound boat tour.

Penguins

The rare Fiordland crested penguin retreats to shore to nest in spring. If you’re lucky, you might spot one of these rare birds. They’re one of the rarest penguin species in the world. We weren’t there in Spring, but if you are, you should keep an eye out!

Kea

Kea are the only alpine parrot in the world and the smartest bird on the planet. They are also very beautiful and have vibrant-colored feathers. You may encounter some on your way into Milford Sound.

Day vs. Overnight Tours

Deciding between a day tour and an overnight experience depends on how much time you have to explore the area.

Guided Day Tours

A day tour is perfect if you’re short on time. Once you arrive in Milford Sound, boat tours last 2-3 hours and will show you highlights, including spotting Mitre Peak and the majestic waterfalls. Note, this option can be a very long day depending on where you are coming from. The nice thing is you will have a driver or guide so you don’t have to worry about driving and can relax. Everything is pre-planned, which many people appreciate.

Milford Sound Tour on Your Own

You can choose to drive yourself to Milford Sound for the day and book a tour while you’re there. I recommend leaving very early in the morning from Queenstown or Te Anau depending on where you are staying. Leave early to avoid all the bus tour traffic! Book a scenic boat tour later in the afternoon so you have enough time to get there with stops and potential traffic along the way.

Most tours ask you to arrive at least 20 minutes ahead of departure and parking is about $20 for the day (you can pay with a credit card) and a short 5 minute walk to where most of the tours take off from.

Overnight Cruises

For a more immersive experience, consider an overnight cruise. You’ll get to see the fjord in the evening when it’s peaceful and quiet. In the morning, you’ll wake up to a misty, tranquil Milford Sound before the daytime visitors arrive.

Kayaking vs. Scenic Cruises

Both kayaking and scenic cruises offer amazing experiences in Milford Sound. However, they offer different ways to explore the fjord.

Kayaking

Kayaking allows you to get closer to nature. Paddle near cliffs and waterfalls while feeling the cool spray from the water. This is the best option if you’re seeking an active and personal experience. It can get tiring after many hours so make sure you’re prepared for more of a “workout”.

Scenic Cruises

For a more relaxed option, a scenic cruise lets you sit back and enjoy the stunning views of Milford Sound. It’s ideal for those who prefer to take in the fjord’s beauty without doing work.

Milford Sound Weather in 2025

Milford Sound is one of the wettest places on Earth, so it’s important to be prepared for all kinds of weather. However, both rainy and clear days offer their own unique experiences. We were lucky enough to experience both and I am so grateful we did!!

Rainy Days

Milford Sound gets around 200 rainy days a year. Rain makes the waterfalls even more dramatic, with water cascading down the cliffs, creating a spectacular scene. It’s truly beautiful and so peaceful. It’s an experience I will never forget.

Clear Days

On a clear day, you’ll get blue skies and reflections in the fjord’s waters. These days are perfect for scenic flights or helicopter tours, as visibility will be excellent.

Budget-Friendly Milford Sound Tour Options for 2025

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy Milford Sound. Here are a few ways to save money while still enjoying the best Milford Sound tour.

Combo Tours

Save money by booking a combo tour that includes both transportation and a Milford Sound tour. Many packages combine a scenic bus ride from Queenstown or Te Anau with a boat tour of the fjord.

Off-Season Discounts

Visiting during the off-season (autumn and winter) can help you save money on both tours and accommodation. Many operators offer discounts during these quieter months.

Budget Cruises

There are budget-friendly cruises available that provide the same stunning views as luxury cruises, but at a lower price. These cruises are perfect if you want to explore Milford Sound on more of a budget.

Stopping in Te Anau: Gateway to Milford Sound

Te Anau is the last major town before Milford Sound, making it the perfect stop for gas, food, and a quick break. We stopped here on our long drive from Queenstown. Note, it’s the last stop for gas or food until you reach Milford Sound, so make sure you fill up. Here’s what you can do while in Te Anau.

Explore Lake Te Anau

Grab a quick bite to eat at one of the cafes, pick up some snacks and drinks at the grocery store, and get gas for the final leg of your trip. Check out Sandfly Cafe or the Fat Duck for coffee or a bite to eat.

Lake Te Anau is the largest lake on New Zealand’s South Island. You can take a peaceful walk along the lakefront, rent a kayak, or hop on a boat tour. It’s the perfect place to unwind before or after your Milford Sound tour.

Visit the Te Anau Glowworm Caves

The Te Anau Glowworm Caves are a popular attraction that many visitors stop at on their way to Milford Sound. Accessible by boat, the caves are home to thousands of glowworms that light up the cave ceilings like stars. It’s a magical experience you won’t forget.

Discover Fiordland National Park

Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park. You can hike sections of the famous Kepler Track or explore other trails that offer stunning views of the mountains, forests, and lakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

Planning your 2025 Milford Sound tour? Whether you prefer a scenic cruise, a peaceful overnight tour, or an active kayaking adventure, Milford Sound offers something for everyone. From stunning fjords to unique wildlife, it’s one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Don’t forget to stop in Te Anau and explore Fiordland as part of your journey through this incredible region!

Make sure you check out my full guide to visiting New Zealand’s South Island.

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