From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

Scenic drive to Milford Sound

Embark on a 4-hour drive from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Witness the transformation of landscapes as you travel through Southland's farmlands and into the heart of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As the drive continues, lush rainforests and glacier-carved valleys unfold, offering photo-worthy moments at iconic spots like the Eglinton Valley – a testament to nature's artistry – and Mirror Lakes, which mirrors the majestic Earl Mountains.

Milford Sound cruise

The highlight of the trip is a 1-hour 45-minute cruise on the Milford Sound. As the vessel nears the Stirling Falls waterfall, brace yourself for a refreshing spray when the bow ventures beneath! The vessel's spacious decks, large windows, and HD camera footage ensure you don't miss a moment of this surreal view.

Return drive to Queenstown

After the cruise, relax on a return drive to Queenstown, reflecting on the day's magnificent sights and experiences.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fiordland National Park on this full-day guided tour from Queenstown, including round-trip transfers and a cruise through Milford Sound. This tour covers iconic landmarks such as Mirror Lakes, Bowen Falls, Stirling Falls, and features a 1-hour scenic walk at Mirror Lakes. The tour operates daily with options for English audio guides and small group sizes to enhance your experience. With stops at four major attractions and a total duration of approximately 12 hours, this day trip offers an immersive exploration of the natural wonders of Milford Sound.

Explore Fiordland National Park

Your tour stops at Fiordland National Park, established in 1952 as New Zealand's first national park. Spanning over 1 million acres and part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features diverse landscapes including mountains, lakes, and waterfalls. Key attractions include Mirror Lakes with its reflective waters, and Milford Sound, a fjord carved by glaciers that is home to numerous waterfalls like Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls. Visitors spend around 6 hours exploring the park's scenic beauty, taking in panoramic views from various lookout points. Unique features of Fiordland National Park include diverse wildlife and flora, making it one of the most biodiverse areas in New Zealand.

Marvel at Mirror Lakes

Mirror Lakes serve as a stunning introduction to the tour, offering visitors breathtaking reflections of surrounding mountains like Mount Pembroke. The lakes are part of a wider network of waterways that feed into Milford Sound and were formed by glacial activity over 10,000 years ago. Guests can take short walks along trails near Mirror Lakes, enjoying panoramic views from vantage points such as the Mirror Lake Lookout. Visitors typically spend about 30 minutes here, capturing memorable photographs while learning about the geological history of the area through guided commentary.

Admire Bowen Falls

Your tour continues to Lady Bowen Falls where you can marvel at one of Milford Sound's most iconic waterfalls. With a height of approximately 50 meters and a flow rate that varies seasonally, this waterfall is not only visually stunning but also serves practical purposes for the nearby village by providing electricity and water through hydroelectric facilities. Visitors spend about 15 minutes here, taking photos and listening to informative guides who highlight historical facts such as its discovery in 1863 by Captain John Lort Stokes during an exploration expedition.

Experience Stirling Falls

At Stirling Falls, guests can witness another impressive waterfall cascading down from the surrounding cliffs into Milford Sound. With a height of around 250 meters and a width of approximately 100 meters at its widest point, this waterfall is one of several that contribute to the dramatic scenery of the fiord. Visitors typically spend about 30 minutes exploring the area, learning about the geological history and ecological significance through guided commentary. Stirling Falls stands out for its sheer size and proximity to other natural wonders like Mitre Peak.

Tour Highlights

• Scenic drive to Mirror Lakes
• Walk along trails near Milford Sound
• Cruise on Milford Sound with expert guides
• English audio guide available throughout the tour
• Premium small group experience at Bowen Falls
• Wildlife spotting including seals, dolphins, and penguins
• Round-trip transfers from Queenstown included

Perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photography enthusiasts, this full-day guided tour provides an in-depth exploration of Milford Sound's natural beauty. The 12-hour format allows you to walk along trails near Mirror Lakes, cruise on Milford Sound, and marvel at iconic waterfalls like Lady Bowen Falls, giving you unparalleled views of New Zealand’s most spectacular landscapes.