Drive, Coach, Fly? How to get to Milford Sound.
Visiting Milford Sound is a must-do when you’re in Queenstown. Renowned for its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife, there’s truly no other place quite like it in the world. From towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls to playful dolphins and fur seals, Milford Sound is a natural wonder that leaves visitors in awe. However, many people underestimate the time and effort required to reach this remote location. With no direct road from Glenorchy to Milford, the journey often becomes a full-day affair, with many travellers using Te Anau as a convenient halfway point. This picturesque town offers a perfect spot to rest and break up the long drive.
Let’s look at your travel options:
Self Drive to Milford Sound
Driving yourself to Milford Sound can be an exhilarating adventure, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, it’s a significant commitment, requiring approximately 4 hours one way, excluding any stops.
But the route is filled with stunning landscapes that will tempt you to pull over frequently, including the famous glow worm caves in Te Anau, which are definitely worth a visit.
In winter, snow chains are mandatory, and road conditions can be unpredictable with potential closures. Many visitors opt to base themselves out of Te Anau to reduce travel time, enjoying an overnight stay to split the journey.
Some notable stops along your journey:
- Te Anau: A charming town, perfect for a short break or overnight stay.
- Te Anau Glow Worm Caves: A hidden gem that’s well worth seeing!
- Eglinton Valley: Famous for its rolling plains and stunning views.
- Mirror Lakes: Reflective lakes ideal for quick, scenic photography.
- Homer Tunnel: A historic tunnel that cuts through the Darran Mountains.
Pros of self driving:
- Flexibility to stop and enjoy the scenery.
- Can explore nearby attractions.
- Can be the most economical for a group.
Cons of self driving:
- Requires long driving hours.
- Possible road conditions issues in winter.
- Parking Fees – $10 per hour.
Paid Parking Information
An hourly rate of NZD $10 will apply to parking in our designated areas. To pay, simply enter your license plate into one of the pay machines located at the entry/exit points or inside the Visitor Terminal.
This barrierless license plate recognition system is easy to use and requires only credit/debit cards for payment
The Visitor Terminal is just a 10-15 minute walk from the paid parking areas.
Road Conditions:
Road conditions are available here, please check before your trip!
Bus/Coach to Milford Sound
Taking a coach tour is a popular choice, as it removes the stress of navigating the roads yourself. The journey typically takes around 5.5 hours one way, making for a long day when combined with a cruise package, which can total 12-13 hours. Coach tours are the most economical option for solo travelers, providing a budget-friendly way to experience Milford Sound. However, they come with a rigid schedule, offering limited breaks and no spontaneous stops for photo opportunities or side trips. This can make the journey feel somewhat restrictive, but it ensures a hassle-free experience from start to finish.
Pros:
- Guided Commentary – Learn about the landscape and history as you drive, ensuring you don’t miss any highlights along the way.
- No driving stress.
- Economical for solo travellers.
Cons:
- Long travel time.
- Limited flexibility for stops.
Luxury Small Group Van to Milford Sound
For those seeking a more comfortable and personalised experience, a small luxury van tour is an excellent option. These tours typically accommodate smaller groups, offering a more intimate setting and the chance for more frequent stops. The vans often feature comfy seats and, in some cases, glass roofs for enhanced viewing of the stunning landscapes. Although this option is slightly more expensive than a standard coach tour, it completes the round trip in about 12 hours and provides a more relaxed and enjoyable journey. The personalised service and better amenities make it a worthwhile consideration for those willing to spend a bit more.
Pros:
- Smaller, more intimate groups.
- More stops and better views.
- Comfortable seating.
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to coach tours.
- Still a long day trip.
Fly to Milford Sound
For the ultimate Milford Sound experience, our top recommendation is the Fly/Cruise/Fly option. This method transforms the trip into a 5-6 hour adventure, significantly reducing travel time. You’ll depart from Queenstown, enjoying spectacular aerial views of mountains, lakes, glaciers, and valleys. Upon landing in Milford Sound, you’ll embark on a cruise to explore the fjord up close, before flying back to Queenstown via a different route. This option not only makes Milford Sound a half-day trip but also allows you to enjoy other activities later in the day, maximising your time. The luxury plane interiors ensure every seat is a window seat, offering unparalleled views of the landscape below.
Pros:
- Quickest option, allowing for more activities.
- Stunning aerial views of landscapes.
- Luxury plane interiors with every seat offering a window view.
Cons:
- Higher cost.
- Weather-dependent.
In Conclusion:
No matter how you choose to get there, visiting Milford Sound is an experience you won’t forget. Driving yourself offers the freedom to explore at your own pace, while flying allows you to maximize your time in Queenstown and enjoy breathtaking views from above. Each method has its unique advantages and suits different preferences and budgets. Let us help you make Milford Sound a memorable part of your Queenstown adventure.