Milford Sound is one of the most spectacular places to visit in New Zealand. Towering cliffs and peaks that rise from 16 kilometres of dark water leading out to the open sea. Waterfalls plunging down from as high as a thousand meters disappearing into the sea with a spray of mist. The magnificence of Milford Sound is so surreal and ethereal.
The journey to Milford Sound is just as spectacular as the destination itself getting there can be done on the Road or by air but the best way to explore the fiord is to get on the water with a nature or scenic cruise and even better in a kayak.
By Land
It is around a 5-hour one-way Trip from Queenstown (288 kilometres) and about 3 hours from Te Anau (121 kilometres) with a self-drive trip. Give yourself enough time for stops and taking pictures as the road takes you through a scenic route of glacial valleys, cliffs and lush forests. Alight your car, stretch your legs and go on a short walk to see Mirror Lakes, its glass-like waters create a beautiful reflection of the surrounding mountains. You will also pass through one of the landmarks of this popular road trip attraction, the Homer Tunnel, its construction made car trips possible in 1954.
Instead of driving, you can choose to board one of many coach providers that journey the road to Milford Sound daily. It’s a great way to enjoy one of the world’s best alpine roads. These glass-roofed coaches enhance the magnificent views of the mountains, rainforests and glaciers you’ll pass during the trip. A lot of people prefer to take the coach because driving conditions can be tricky, especially during winter.
By Air
If you want a different perspective of the spectacular landscape of Milford Sound, board a scenic flight from Queenstown. There are also helicopter flights departing from Queenstown Airport. The trip will take you above the clouds and fly over verdant, rolling hills, cerulean lakes and snow-capped, craggy peaks. Although it comes at a price, it really is a memorable experience to fly over rainforests, see incredible waterfalls from the top watching the waters rush and tumble down the cliffs and follow the fiord out to the Tasman Sea.
By Water
When you get to Milford Sound, join a scenic cruise or enjoy more time on the water with an informative nature cruise . Board a cruise ship that takes you around the fjord; you will see beautiful waterfalls, seal colonies and other stunning attractions. If you would likea more immersive, sea-level experience, the kayak trip around Harrison Cove is a good option
No matter how you choose to experience Milford Sound and the journey to get there, you’ll find yourself being in awe of nature’s beauty.
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