Milford Sound

New Zealand, Oceania

Milford Sound, an exquisite fiord in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, is celebrated for its dramatic cliffs, stunning waterfalls, and rich biodiversity. Known as the 'eighth wonder of the world,' visitors can embark on scenic boat cruises or kayak through serene waters, taking in breathtaking vistas of soaring peaks and lush rainforests. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot dolphins, seals, and rare bird species, making it a haven for adventure and nature lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

Coastal Area

Vibe

Active

Airport

Queenstown

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Milford Sound

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a scenic cruise

Explore stunning fjords and waterfalls by boat.

Booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Kayak in the fjord

Paddle through the serene waters of Milford Sound.

Booking required
3

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Adults only

Hike the Milford Track

A famous multi-day hike through breathtaking landscapes.

Booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Milford Sound Underwater Observatory

Discover marine life in an underwater viewing chamber.

Booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Chasm Walk

Short walk to a stunning waterfall and rock formations.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a scenic flight

View the fjord from above on a breathtaking flight.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Go on a guided nature walk

Learn about the local flora and fauna with an expert.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Milford Sound Visitor Centre

Learn about the area's history and ecology.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very High

LGBTQ+ safety score

12 (#1 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

New Zealand Dollar

Majority religion

Christian

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kiwi Pie

Savory pie with meat and vegetables. (National dish)

Hāngi

Traditional Māori dish cooked in earth oven.

Pavlova

V

Meringue dessert topped with fruit and cream.

Fish and Chips

Battered fish served with fries.

Lamingtons

V

Sponge cake coated in chocolate and coconut.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)