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Te Anau to Milford Sound Tours
Select your experience
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION8 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Te Anau
Start your trip here; enjoy the views, grab a coffee, and get ready for the adventure ahead.
Passes by
Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes
Hollyford Lookout
Homer Tunnel
1
Milford Sound Terminal
Tickets included
The gateway to Milford Sound, where you can embark on a cruise to explore one of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls.
5
END POINT
Te Anau
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
- Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.
- Best for: families and visitors based in Te Anau looking for a no-frills, convenient visit to Milford Sound.
- Book this if you: want a hassle-free day trip that includes a cruise and round-trip transfers from Te Anau.
- What's unique: Enjoy short walks on the journey to and from Milford Sound, at spots like The Chasm, and Knobs Flat.
- Sights seen: Darran Mountains, Lake Gunn, Hollyford River and Falls Creek, Mitre Peak, Eglington Valley, Mirror Lakes, Homer Tunnel, and more.
Inclusions
- Full-day tour to Milford Sound from Te Anau
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Round-trip transfers with stops for short walks
- Complimentary tea & coffee on-board
- Tip: Pack motion sickness tablets for the winding Milford Road. Even if you don't usually get car sick, the serpentine route can catch you off guard.
- The experience may be subject to change due to extreme weather conditions.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.1
70 ratings
35
22
4
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6
What our guests say
Robert
Nov 2024Verified booking
The booking online was efficient. The information emailed beforehand was helpful in backing up the reservation process. The experience itself on Milford sound speaks for itself as I'm sure ma y thousands of people will confirm. Our coach driver was very informative One negative was that the coach arrived 30 minutes later than we were advised.
Franciscus
Oct 2024Verified booking
The explanation of the busdriver during the coach drive and the help and explanation of him also on the boat. Sooo helpfull.
Pierre
Oct 2024Verified booking
The bus was new and clean. It's so easy and convenient to just have a seat and relax while looking at the scenery. It's a good idea to stop several times so we can take pictures and get some fresh air. The cruise was amazing. Big thank to our bus driver Simon ! He gave us a lot of information about the area of Te Anau and Milford Sound. He is cheerful and also passionate about this region. Thanks for the safe drive, the jokes, the stories, and the great mood. Legend !
Chantal
Mar 2024Verified booking
Excellent Driver with lots of knowledge and explanations of surroundings, plants and animals and stopping for views and photos!👌👏👏👏 Very confortable Coach!👍👍 Excellent Cruise on Milford Sounds with à very good lunch and nice choice of local wine!😋🥂 Wonderful Day!👌👌
Lee
Mar 2024Verified booking
There were some work roads that made the whole trip delayed by an hour. Not the driver's fault. Ended up, the one house delay was not compensated to us in other forms. It was like, no one was responsible for that. Overall, the bus driver was good, multi skilled and hillarious.
Lewis
Mar 2024Verified booking
Very good bus driver/commentator. Ticketing was fine. Unfortunately the bus was full when my husband and I boarded in Te Amou so we were not able to sit together. Very friendly staff on the cruise. We rode up in the wheelhouse and enjoyed the commentary from the staff.
Kenneth
Mar 2024Verified booking
Everything went to plan ticketing etc well organised. Loved all the goodies in the bag for lunch. Enjoyed the waterfall experience though did not stay on deck to get wet. Staff were very efficient.
DIANA
Mar 2024Verified booking
Great bus driver who gave interesting facts and history about the area along the ride in. Nice to have some stops for photos. The boat trip was great and lunch was good.
Norman
Mar 2024Verified booking
Great people Debbie the coach driver excellent. Mark and the staff on the boat excellent. Modern coach. Only issue we were told to meet in the cafe at Te anua but I had to find the coach outside well after the agreed time clear instr
Kaye
Mar 2024Verified booking
OMG. EVERYTHING! Great coach driver, full of fantastic information. Awesome coach with the glass ceiling. So much to see and this was a huge advantage. Fabulous stopping points for photos especially the Kea's, waterfalls etc. Then on to the boat cruise around the sounds. Again the commentary on the cruse ship was very funny and informative.
Michael
Mar 2024Verified booking
The ticketing was easy via internet. The meeting point was easy to find because of detailed information. The bus arrived punctual (with guests from Queenstown), enough place. The driver Sebastian was very friendly, for us he had a good english - he spoke slowly and not so fast as sometimes other guides. It is relaxing not do drive yourself, no worries about full parking. We had sunshine at Milford Sound, (well organised!!) For lunch we got pie, to choose chicken or vegetarian, was a good idea, and sweets, chips and an apple. We saw fur seals, the boat was going slowly at important view points, the crew gave extra informations. At the bus journey back we did the viewing points we missed in the morning. We enjoined the trip
Meredith
Feb 2024Verified booking
We loved the comfortable coach drive to and from Milford Sound and the interesting commentary from the knowledgable, welcoming and friendly driver. The nature walk was much shorter than we expected but very prettty otherwise. The cruise was spectacular and the ship offered many places to view. The captain was also friendly and informative about the Sound and steered the ship around well. Door to Door very efficient. Lunch was pretty good.
Beeckmans
Feb 2024Verified booking
Very good driver with excellent explanations. The lunch was OK. Thanks to the rain we could see a lot of water coming down the mountain. Nice cruise, even with the rain and the wind. The timing was well respected.
Henricus
Feb 2024Verified booking
What a hell of a driver/guide on our trip! Verry admirable and with a great knowledge of the interesting things on our trip towards Milford sound (fjord)
Leander
Nov 2024Verified booking
Captains guide was good but weather could have been better. Low cloud level spoilt the experience.
Alan
Nov 2024Verified booking
Everything from start to finish
John
Nov 2024Verified booking
The scenery was beautiful and our driver and the boat captain were helpful and informative.
Lisa
Aug 2024Verified booking
The scenic tour the beautiful boat ride and the safe experience
Lee
Apr 2024Verified booking
Everything was fantastic. Debbie the bus driver was so informative.
Villmann,
Mar 2024Verified booking
Friendly and well experienced bus driver. So many interesting information on the road. Stops at interesting outlooks.
Henning
Mar 2024Verified booking
Our busdriver Washington fantastisk- No less. Milford Sound was extraordinary.
Angelito
Feb 2024Verified booking
Its about how you handle the tourist well, Debbie our bus driver she handle us very well...
Jan
Jan 2024Verified booking
The view of milford sound, good explanation of the driver
Jennifer
Jan 2024Verified booking
It was my 3rd visit to Milford and the best. Our coach driver was the most informative and the cruise excellent.
Linda
Jan 2024Verified booking
Boat trip awesome lived going right out to the ocean Coachtrip also stopped at great viewing points
Milford Sound ToursTe Anau to Milford Sound Tours
What to expect on your journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound?
- Transfers: Take the scenic route from Te Anau to Milford in a comfortable AC coach. The tours offer pick-ups right from your hotel and take you on a journey with seasoned drivers and guides.
- Guided tours: These tours give you insight into unique local culture and ecosystems. Spot wildlife such as seals and dolphins along the way and listen to informative commentary from the experienced onboard crew.
- Activities: From guided walks on the Milford track to taking kayaks and boats to explore the extensive shoreline, the tour has something for everyone. Board a spacious vessel and cruise and admire the views of Mitre Peak, Pembroke Glacier, and waterfalls.
- Food: Relish tea break at Giant Gate waterfall and commentary coffee while marveling at glacier-carved landscapes. Some tours also offer 3-course buffet dinner and continental breakfast, with vegetarian options too.
- Premium experiences: If you are looking for a more intimate experience, go for the premium tour that offers delicious canapes and champagne, as you take in the beauty of the cascading waterfalls and towering peaks.
Pick the best Te Anau to Milford Sound tour for you
Standard day trip
Best for: Families and friends
Price range: From NZ$225 for a full-day cruise
Duration: 8-12 hours
Why choose this experience?
- Perfect budget option that includes transfers and 2 hours Milford Sound cruise. Day trips include walks, guided tours, and complimentary coffee on-board.
- You can also upgrade for a premium experience with a small group for NZ$410
Recommended experience
From Te Anau: Milford Sound cruise and transfers
Premium experience
Best for: Partners and families
Price range: NZ$239 to NZ$429
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes to 13 hours
Why choose this experience?
- For a luxurious affair, this tour offers private cabins and delicious meals cooked on-board.
- Catch glimpses of attractions like Eglinton Valley and Lake Gunn on your way to Milford Sound and know more about them from an expert nature guide.
Recommended experience
Premium Milford Sound Cruise Tickets
Overnight experience
Best for: Partners and Families
Price range: NZ$1,499 to NZ$1,524
Duration: 17-31 hours
Why choose this experience?
- Spend some quality time with your family on an overnight trip to Milford Sound with return transfer to Te Anau.
- Experience a 3-course meal prepared by the chef on-board. Spot penguins and dolphins or hop on a kayak to explore the shoreline when the cruise is anchored.
Recommended experience
Overnight Cruise Experience
Plan your Te Anau to Milford Sound tour
Timings
Transfers
Food
Facilities
Tips
Rules
- Duration: From 2 hours on the cruise to 31 hours for overnight stay.
- Starting time: Cruises from 7:20 am, 7:45am, 8:30am, 10:15am, 10:45am, 1:30 pm, and 4 pm.
- Boarding time: As mentioned on your voucher. Arrive at least 15 minutes before to settle down.
- Many tours offer hotel transfers. Remember to add your hotel name while booking.
- You can find your cruise boarding point location by following the directions mentioned on the voucher.
- Day trips: Refreshments are available for those who choose AC coaches. Complimentary beverages such as tea and coffee are also available along the journey.
- Overnight cruise: You can choose an elaborate three-course buffet dinner and continental breakfast prepared by a chef onboard an overnight cruise. Vegetarian options are also available.
- Premium cruise: You can also opt for a gourmet meal of canapes and champagne to make the experience even more memorable.
Remember to provide specific dietary requirements when making a booking.
- Expert nature guide
- Trained crew
- Wheelchair accessibility (check your voucher while booking)
- Reserved seating
- Private cabins (for overnight cruise)
- Audio guides
- Snacks and meals (Additional food and beverage options available)
- Be prepared for winding roads and consider packing motion sickness tablets.
- Milford Sound is known for unpredictable weather. Wear comfortable layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy walking shoes.
- Early departures mean fewer crowds and serene conditions. Morning or late afternoon visits are also ideal for capturing the best lighting for photography.
- Stay on designated paths during guided walks to protect Milford Sound’s unique ecosystem.
- Certain activities, such as guided walks, have age and health restrictions. Participants under 8 years or above 75 should remain cautious for any strenuous activities.
- You will be taken through safety procedures by the staff, please make sure to follow them.
Sights to see on your Te Anau to Milford Sound tour
Live the Te Anau to Milford Sound tour, where every pitstop has a story to tell. Designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour offers some of the best memories of the land.
Milford Track
The Milford Track, set in Fiordland National Park, known for its amazing views and rugged terrain. While the full hike takes four days, you can experience its beauty on your Te Anau to Milford Sound tour.
Explore the Milford Track
Milford Sound
A breathtaking fiord framed by Mitre Peak, dramatic waterfalls, and home to rare wildlife like Fiordland crested penguins and fur seals—a true world wonder.
Explore Milford Sound
Gertrude Valley
Gertrude Valley is a hidden gem with steep, mossy slopes, tumbling waterfalls, and clear, turquoise streams weaving through the valley floor.
Eglinton Valley
This glacially-carved valley features stunning views of golden meadows making it a popular stop for photographers.
Mirror Lakes
These small lakes reflect the Earl Mountains on calm days, creating a picturesque, mirror-like effect perfect for a short walk.
Lake Gunn
An alpine lake surrounded by forest, Lake Gunn offers short, family-friendly walking trails and chances to spot native birdlife.
Homer Tunnel
This 1.2-kilometer tunnel cuts through granite and offers a thrilling gateway to the Milford Sound region.
Pop's Lookout
A roadside viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of Fiordland National Park, ideal for taking in the scale of the landscape.
Looking for more fun things to do in Milford Sound? Our detailed Milford Sound guide covers everything you need to know.
Frequently asked questions about Te Anau to Milford Sound tours
What are the best tour options from Te Anau to Milford Sound?
The tours from Te Anau to Milford Sound offer a range of experiences to suit various preferences and budgets. A standard Te Anau to Milford Sound ticket starts from NZ$220 and includes guided coach journey and 2-hour boat cruise. And if you’re looking for something luxurious, you can opt for an overnight stay at private cabins at NZ$1,449.
What’s the best season to go from Te Anau to Milford Sound?
In the summer, you’ll see lush landscapes with warmer weather. Winter adds snow-capped peaks for a magical view but expect cooler temps. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant colors and quieter trails. Read our guide to the best time to visit Milford Sound for more information.
How do I get from Te Anau to the Milford Sound tour starting point?
Most tours include transfers from Te Anau to Milford Sound. You’ll be picked up in a comfy coach with panoramic windows, perfect for enjoying the scenery along the way.
Do I need to prepare for changing weather?
Milford Sound is known for its unpredictable weather, so it’s wise to pack layers and a waterproof jacket—especially since rain creates stunning waterfalls. Even on a sunny day, things can change quickly.
Are there meals included on this tour?
Some tours offer lunch onboard the cruise or a packed picnic. If meals aren’t included, grab some snacks or a packed lunch, as options are limited once you’re en route to Milford Sound.
How to park at Te Anau or Milford Sound if I’m driving?
Parking can be tricky, especially at Milford Sound during peak times. Most people choose a tour with pick-up from Te Anau to skip the hassle, but if you’re driving, arrive early for parking availability.
How long is the Te Anau to Milford Sound drive, and are there rest stops?
The drive takes around 2 hours without stops, but most tours have breaks to enjoy scenic spots like Mirror Lakes and the Chasm, plus a rest stop halfway for stretching your legs and grabbing a snack.
Is the trip accessible for people with limited mobility?
Some tours offer accessible options, but it’s best to check the tickets to ensure your specific needs are met, especially for stops along the way and boarding the cruise at Milford Sound.
Is the journey suitable for kids?
Yes, kids usually love the mix of bus and boat travel, plus the chance to spot animals. Bring snacks and something to keep them entertained on the longer stretches of the drive.
Will I have mobile coverage?
Most of the drive has little to no mobile signal. It’s a remote area, so prepare to disconnect and enjoy the wild landscapes. The visitor center at Milford Sound has Wi-Fi for a quick reconnect if needed.
Is there a particular side of the cruise for better views?
Both sides have incredible views, but the starboard (right) side often faces some of the more stunning cliffs and waterfalls.