Go on an adventure to Milford Sound from Te Anau, either by joining a tour or driving yourself. This guide offers insights and tips to help you in planning your journey.
Recognized globally for its natural beauty, Milford Sound in New Zealand is a destination that every adventurer should visit.
Located in the southwest of New Zealand’s South Island, it offers awe-inspiring views and unforgettable experiences.
You can get to Milford Sound from Te Anau either by joining a tour or driving yourself. Each method has its own unique appeal and advantages.
This guide aims to help you decide which option is the best fit for you.
Understanding the journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound
The trip from Te Anau to Milford Sound covers a distance of approximately 120 kilometers and takes about 2.5 hours without stops.
However, the journey is filled with scenic stops along the way, making it a memorable experience whether you choose to join a tour or drive yourself.
If you decide to drive yourself, you’ll have the liberty to explore at your own pace. You can stop whenever you want to take in the views, snap photos, or simply enjoy the serenity.
If you opt for a tour, you can sit back, relax, and listen to a knowledgeable guide share fascinating facts and stories about the region.
Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice largely depends on your personal preferences, comfort, and experience.
The self-drive experience: Pros and cons
Setting off on a self-drive journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is an adventure in itself.
The freedom to explore at your own pace is one of the biggest advantages of this option. However, self-driving also comes with its challenges.
Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Freedom and flexibility: You can stop whenever you want, spend as much time as you like at each scenic spot, and truly immerse yourself in the beauty of the landscape. | Road conditions: The road conditions can be challenging, especially during winter. It’s essential to check the weather forecast and road conditions before you set off. |
| Personalized experience: With a self-drive, you can create your own itinerary and explore the areas that interest you the most. | Driving skills: The route involves long-distance driving on winding and sometimes narrow roads. You need to be comfortable with such conditions. |
| Cost-effective: If you’re traveling with a group, self-driving can be more cost-effective than booking multiple tour tickets. | Responsibility: You’re responsible for your own safety and navigation. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition and you’re well-prepared for the journey. |
Despite these challenges, the self-drive experience can be incredibly rewarding. Just imagine the thrill of driving through the stunning landscapes, with the flexibility to create your own unique adventure.
Exploring Milford Sound by tour: What to expect
If you prefer a more relaxed and hassle-free journey, then a tour to Milford Sound might be the perfect choice for you.
Tours offer the convenience of transportation, often including hotel pick-up and drop-off, and the added benefit of a knowledgeable guide.
There are various types of tours available, from small-group tours for a more personalized experience to full-day tours that include a cruise on Milford Sound.
These tours are designed to provide a comprehensive experience, allowing you to learn about the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
Real Journeys
Known for their excellent service and knowledgeable guides, Real Journeys offers a variety of tours to Milford Sound.
Their full-day tour from the town of Te Anau, which includes a cruise on Milford Sound, is priced around NZD 179 per adult and NZD 89 per child.
This tour offers a comfortable coach journey with multiple scenic stops along the way, a 2-hour cruise exploring the stunning fiord, and a complimentary picnic lunch.
Trips & Tramps
Priced at around NZD 199 per person, this Trip & Tramps tour offers a more intimate experience with a maximum of 12 people per group.
The tour includes a guided walk in Fiordland National Park, a cruise on Milford Sound, and a picnic lunch.
While a tour might not offer the same level of freedom as a self-drive, it takes away the stress of planning and allows you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Safety tips for the journey
Whether you choose to self-drive or take a tour, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some tips to ensure a safe journey.
- Always check the weather forecast and road conditions before setting off. The Milford Sound road can be dangerous on a rainy day, especially passing through the 1.2-km Homer tunnel.
- If you’re self-driving, make sure your vehicle is in best condition. Remember, the journey can be long and the road conditions can be challenging.
- Carry a map and a GPS device. While the route is well-marked, it’s always good to have a backup.
- Carry plenty of water and snacks. There are limited facilities along the route.
- If you’re driving, take regular breaks to rest and enjoy the scenery.
Experiencing the Milford Sound Cruise from Te Anau
One of the highlights of a Milford Sound day is undoubtedly the cruise. The cruise takes you through the heart of the fiord, offering an up-close view of the stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife that make Milford Sound so special. There’s so much to see on the Milford Sound Cruise.
The cruise typically lasts for about 2 hours, during which you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views in the world.
Regardless of which cruise you choose, one thing is certain: a cruise in Milford Sound is an experience you won’t soon forget.
FAQs about traveling from Te Anau to Milford Sound
Yes, it’s safe to drive if you’re comfortable with long-distance driving and changing weather conditions. Always check the weather and Milford road conditions before you set off.
The drive is incredibly scenic, with numerous spots to stop and enjoy the view. However, the road can be winding and narrow at times, so it’s important to drive carefully.
It’s recommended to bring water, snacks, a map, a GPS device, and a camera to capture the stunning views.
Some of the best stops include Mirror Lakes, The Chasm, and Monkey Creek. Each offers unique views and photo opportunities.
Milford Sound is stunning year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to see. Summer (December to February) offers the best weather, while winter (June to August) offers a chance to see snow-capped mountains.
Both fiords are incredibly beautiful, but they offer different experiences. Milford Sound is more accessible and tends to be more crowded. Doubtful Sound is more remote and offers a quieter, more serene experience. The wildlife in Doubtful Sound is also more abundant so if you have plenty of time, go do a Doubtful Sound tour as well.
Yes, there are several Department of Conservation campsites along the route where you can camp. However, it’s important to check the rules and regulations before you set up camp.
Milford Sound is home to a variety of wildlife, including New Zealand fur seals, penguins, and dolphins. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a rare Fiordland crested penguin!
No, there are no fuel stations in Milford Sound. The last fuel station is in Te Anau, so make sure to fill up before you leave.
Explore Milford Sound from Te Anau
Whether you choose to self-drive or take a tour, the journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound is bound to be an unforgettable experience.
With its stunning landscapes and unique wildlife, Milford Sound is a true gem of New Zealand.
So, pack your bags, plan your journey, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!