Things to do in Milford Sound New Zealand
Milford Sound New Zealand is a truly spectacular site to see.
On the right day you can witness its crystal clear waters reflecting the beauty of the mountains that run alongside the Fijord.
A bit about Milford Sound New Zealand
Despite Milford being named a “sound” Milford sound is actually Fijord.
Fijord’s are formed by the erosive effects of the glacier whereas a sound is formed by a river carving its way through the valley.
New Zealand has several “sounds” including Milford, Doubtful and Marlborough sound but Milford is the most popular.
Milford sounds is situated between the mountains and the rain forest and is the only Fijord accessible by road.
The deepest part of the Fijord is around 400m and Milford is known as one of the most wettest inhabited places in New Zealand.
Milford Sound has been known to have up to 2.5m of rainfall drop in a 24 hour period.
Why you must visit Milford Sound New Zealand
On a good day you will be able to follow the road passing through the mountain and as you arrive will be rewarded by the perfect view.
Crystal clear mirrored waters reflecting the mountains and surrounding scenery will be absolutely breathtaking in their beauty.
With Milford Sound located between the mountains and rain forest the Sound experiences significant rainfall.
As a result temporary waterfalls captivate their audiences as they cascade to the waters below discarding excess water.
You will be in awe of this part of New Zealand.
Must Do Milford Sound New Zealand
Cruise the Fijord
A Boat Cruise is probably the best way to truly experience the Fijord and all it has to offer.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride while you take in stunning vies, waterfalls and the wildlife.
Kayak the Fijord
If you have time and feel a little more fit and adventurous why not take out a Kayak for a few hours.
You may not make it to the sea but you will certainly love the feeling of being at one with nature in the beautiful Fijord.
Things do in Milford Sound New Zealand
Milford Sound is a hugely popular tourist attraction but what is there for you to do, check out he below:
- Hike the Milford Track – one of New Zealand’s 9 great walks
- Walk in the Fijordlands National Park
- Go Fishing
- Go Sailing
- Take a Scenic Flight
The Underwater Observatory
You may have already heard about the underwater observatory which gives you a chance to see into the natural depths of the sound.
If you take a boat trip, the trip will usually include access to the observatory as a part of the package.
It can be an interesting visit as a part of the trip but we think this is more of a novelty and would probably skip it otherwise.
Keep an eye out for the wildlife
As you would expect in the Fijords and rain forest there are plenty of different species of animals, some common and some endangered.
You will probably see Birds like the mischievous Kia, insects, dolphins and the penguins like the worlds rarest Fijord-land crested penguin.
Book with Backpack-nz
As you would expect we want to offer you the best experience at the right price and have a number of options for you.
Book a day trip
Book an inclusive day trip with transport, a boat trip and some kind of lunch
Self Travel
Self travel and book a boat trip and activities through Backpack-nz.
If you self travel you can take your time and explore along the journey.
Avoid disappointmentÂ
We recommend you book the boat trip, tours and activities before you go to Milford Sound given the huge popularity of this spot.
Consider staying a night.
One day might just not be enough unless you are lucky enough to get that perfect day.
How do you get to Milford Sound
If you want a relatively easy day trip to Milford Sound you really need to stay around Te Anau. (Te Anau make sure you check out the amazing Kepler Track)
It takes around 2.5 hours to drive to Milford Sound from Te Anau or a 5 hour drive from Queenstown.
Road trips to Milford can be a quite a long journey.
Most people book an organised day trip to avoid a long days drive.
