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Key Takeaways:
Milford Sound is located on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand and is inside Fiordland National Park.
Milford Sound recieved almost 1-million visitors per year due to its unique history, stunning scenery and diverse range of wildlife.
Learn whether Milford Sound is an appropriate inclusion in your holiday and worth visiting.
We break down whether Milford Sound is suited to five key types of traveller, as well as alternatives to Milford Sound
Milford Sound offers an escape to a place where nature reigns supreme. It’s a destination where towering cliffs meet pristine waters, and wildlife roams freely.
For many, a trip to Milford Sound might be a dream come true. But is it the right choice for your New Zealand adventure?
Let's explore what makes Milford Sound unique and help you decide if it's the right fit for your travel aspirations.
What is Milford Sound?
Milford Sound is a beautiful fiord nestled in the heart of Fiordland National Park on New Zealand's South Island. It's a place where sheer cliffs rise dramatically from dark waters, waterfalls cascade from dizzying heights, and the air is filled with a sense of timeless tranquility. The stunning area is located 288 kilometres from Queenstown, and 118 kilometres from Te Anau, the closest town to Milford Sound.
Milford Sound is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage area, recognised for its outstanding natural values and extraordinary biodiversity. Here, lush rainforests cling to steep mountainsides, providing a haven for unique flora and fauna.
The remote nature of Milford Sound is part of its allure. It's a place where you can truly disconnect from the modern world and immerse yourself in nature. However, this remoteness also means limited amenities, so visitors should be prepared for a more rustic experience.
General Traveller Types and Their Milford Sound Experience
Most visitors to Milford Sound take a cruise, as this is one of the best ways to experience the fiord up close. There are many options for travelling to and experiencing Milford Sound, and it caters to a wide range of travellers. The key is finding the right approach that suits your travel style and preferences.
Backpacker/Budget-Conscious Traveller
For those watching their wallet, Milford Sound can still be an accessible dream. If you've hired a campervan, like a Juicy camper, you could consider staying at one of the Department of Conservation (DOC) campsites along Milford Road overnight and then visiting Milford Sound the following day. These sites offer a budget-friendly stay at around NZD$13-$18 per person per night. Keep in mind you will have to plan to bring everything you need with you, including water and food, and you’ll need to pay for parking in Milford Sound when you arrive there.
If you prefer not to drive the challenging Milford Road, staying in Te Anau and joining a larger group tour and cruise can be an excellent alternative. These tours often provide the most economical way to experience Milford Sound. For budget travellers, expect to spend between NZD$150-300 per adult for a full Milford Sound experience.
Luxury Traveller
For those seeking a luxurious Milford Sound experience, consider flying into Milford Sound by helicopter for a truly spectacular arrival. Once there, indulge in a private or premium smaller cruise for an intimate fiord experience.
These travellers might also enjoy staying at the Milford Sound Lodge and dining at the exquisite Pio Pio restaurant. For an even more immersive experience, the overnight Discovery Cruise offers a chance to experience Milford Sound's changing moods. Luxury experiences in Milford Sound typically range from NZD$800-$2000 per adult.
All-Round Nature Lover and Adventure Seeker
For those who crave nature and adventure, Milford Sound is a paradise. Small group tours can be an excellent option, offering a balance of information, immersion, and flexibility. These tours cater to those interested in learning about the area's geography and ecology while ensuring stops at the best photo spots.
Self-driving is another great option for the all-round traveler, allowing for a more personalised experience. However, this requires more planning and incurs parking costs in Milford Sound. For this type of experience, expect costs to range from NZD$350-$600 per person.
Families
Contrary to what some might think, Milford Sound can be an excellent destination for families. It offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that children will remember fondly.
QUICK TIP
To make the most of your family trip, consider staying in Te Anau rather than attempting the journey from Queenstown, which can be too long for young children.
If self-driving, plan plenty of stops along Milford Road and pack snacks and entertainment for the kids.
Small group tours can also be great for families, as the smaller groups allow parents some time to explore while guides engage the kids in exploration and hands-on learning. Kids often add a fun dynamic to group tours, making the experience enjoyable for all. For family trips, budget about 50% of the adult price for each child.
"It is always an enjoyable day through to Milford Sound with a family onboard. There is that natural nervousness at the start for the parents as they board our vehicles, likely in anticipation of how their children will behave or last through the day. However more often than not, the children are so immersed in the nature and different wildlife experiences, the parents end up getting a bit of a break and our guides always come home with a smile from watching the kids enjoyment!" Toby, Luxe Tours Lead Guide
Photography Enthusiast
Milford Sound is a photographer's dream come true. The ever-changing light, dramatic landscapes, and abundant wildlife offer endless opportunities for capturing stunning images. Milford Sound's beauty also transforms throughout the day, offering diverse shooting conditions from dawn to dusk.
Self-driving allows for flexibility in timing and locations, but remember to factor in parking costs at Milford Sound.
Small group tours can also be beneficial for photographers, as guides can point out the best spots and ensure ample time for setting up shots.
Is Milford Sound Right for You?
Milford Sound might be perfect for you if:
1. You're a nature lover who thrives on dramatic landscapes and pristine wilderness.
2. You're eager to learn about unique ecosystems and geological formations.
3. You don't mind disconnecting from the modern world for a while (you'll be away from decent wifi and cell coverage for about 4-5 hours).
However, if you prefer urban environments, constant connectivity, or have a strong aversion to potentially wet weather, Milford Sound might not be the best fit.
Alternatives to Milford Sound
If you’re thinking you don’t want to be disconnected from the modern world for the day, or that you’re not so into the outdoors, Milford Sound might not be quite right for you. If this is the case, you could consider these alternatives:
1. Walter Peak & Earnslaw Tour in Queenstown: This option offers a taste of New Zealand's natural beauty, with a scenic lake cruise and farm tour, plus a delicious meal.
2. Willowbank Wildlife Reserve in Christchurch: For those who prefer a controlled environment, this park offers a chance to see native New Zealand animals without venturing into the wilderness.
3. Auckland Zoo: If you’re most comfortable in the hustle and bustle of an urban environment, staying in Auckland and visiting the Auckland Zoo could be a good option. This zoo has a fantastic New Zealand native animal enclosure, allowing you to walk through a forest-like environment and have up-close wildlife encounters without stepping off the beaten track.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you further decide if Milford Sound is right for you, here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
What amenities does Milford Sound have?
What Is Available:
Public toilets
Limited café
One accommodation option - Milford Sound Lodge
Limited wifi and cell phone coverage near the cruise terminal
Small fuel station (recommended to fill up in Te Anau before leaving)
Paid car park - NZD$10.00 per hour
What's Not Available:
Public transport
Shopping centres
Grocery stores (bring necessities and snacks with you)
Fast internet/wifi
Good cell phone coverage
Is Milford Sound really as beautiful as people say?
Absolutely! Milford Sound's beauty often exceeds expectations. Its towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene waters create a landscape that many describe as breathtaking.
I don't like crowds. Will I enjoy Milford Sound?
While Milford Sound can get busy, especially during peak season, its vast scale often makes it feel less crowded than it is.
If you prefer solitude, consider visiting during shoulder seasons or taking a small group tour. Small group tours schedule Milford Road stops outside of peak times to ensure a peaceful experience.
You could also book a smaller cruise, or book a cruise with a company that caps their passenger numbers. For example, Real NZ caps the numbers on the Milford Haven (Luxe Tours cruise boat) to half capacity to ensure the cruise doesn’t feel crowded.
I'm prone to motion sickness. Should I be concerned about the boat trip?
The waters in Milford Sound are typically calm, but some people may experience mild motion sickness. If you're prone to it, consider bringing motion sickness remedies, such as Sealegs tablets.
The spectacular views and being out on the boat deck in the fresh air often help distract from any discomfort.
Is Milford Sound suitable for elderly visitors or those with limited mobility?
Many Milford Sound experiences are accessible to visitors with limited mobility. Most cruise boats are wheelchair accessible, and many of the short walks along Milford Road are suitable for those who have limited mobility. However, it's always best to check with tour operators about specific accessibility needs.
Does it rain a lot in Milford Sound? Will it ruin my experience?
Milford Sound receives a lot of rainfall, which contributes to its lush environment and numerous waterfalls. Rain can actually enhance the experience, creating hundreds of temporary waterfalls and adding to the mystical atmosphere. If you don't mind getting a bit wet, rainy days in Milford Sound can be magical.
Milford Sound offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in one of nature's most spectacular creations. Whether you're seeking luxury, tranquility, or breathtaking photo opportunities, this remarkable area has something to offer.
By understanding what to expect and how to approach your visit, you can ensure that your Milford Sound experience is nothing short of extraordinary. Stay tuned for next week's guide on how to plan for your Milford Sound adventure.