Milford Sound: Day Trips and Tours from Queenstown

Milford Sound, also known as Piopiotahi in Maori, is a fjord located in the southwest corner of the Fiordland National Park and Te Wahipounamu World Heritage site.

With an idyllic combination of soaring mountain peaks, lush forests and dark blue waters, it is arguably one of the most beautiful areas on New Zealand. As such, a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown is a must for every visitor.

Here is everything you need to know about Milford Sound, one of the most exciting day trips from Queenstown.

How to get to Milford Sound from Queenstown?

Milford Sound is located about 70 kilometers northwest of Queenstown, with the driving distance being roughly 280 kilometers. It is easily accessible by car and bus.

From Queenstown to Milford Sound by car

The fastest route to Milford Sound by car is via State Highway 94. You begin your journey heading south from the Queenstown airport and follow Highway 6 all the way to Lowther.

From there, you take a right on State Highway 97 and cross the Oreti River in Mossburn. That will lead you to State Highway 94, which you follow up to Milford Sound, passing by Mount Hamilton, Lake Te Anau, the David Peaks and Mount Christina.

Although the roads are safe and well-maintained, caution is required, particularly in the mountainous parts of the drive. The entire journey should take about 3.5 hours without stops.

From Queenstown to Milford Sound by bus

There are two daily direct bus services from Queenstown to Milford Sound. Both buses depart from Athol Street in the morning and take just under 6 hours to reach the Visitor Center at Milford Wharf. Tickets cost US$25 to US$60 per person.

Guided tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown

If you would like to avoid public transportation or driving out to Milford Sound yourself, consider booking a guided tour. This will give you the opportunity to enjoy the scenery and make some stops during the long drive.

There are also a number of tours that include flights, which can cut down dramatically on travelling time, allowing you to make the most of your day.

What is the typical itinerary?

Your day trip will begin early in the morning from your hotel in Queenstown, as the drive to Milford Sound can take a few hours.

Along the way, the bus will make a few stops to stretch your legs, relax and take some photos of the scenery. Tours usually stop at Lake Wakatipu, Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley and the Homer Tunnel, among others.

When you reach Milford Sound, you can explore the area on foot or embark on a cruise for a stunning view of forested cliffs and waterfalls. These tours usually include lunch or a picnic, as well as snacks and refreshments throughout the day.

If you opt for a guided tour that includes a helicopter flight, you will also get to land on and explore a few glaciers in the area. There are also scenic flights by airplane that offer an equally stunning view of Milford Sound.

When the cruise or flight concludes and you have finished exploring, you return to Queenstown.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Milford Sound?

Guided tours with lunch

The easiest way to discover Milford sound is with a guided tour from Queenstown. These excursions typically include transportation via bus, with a few stops along the way for you to admire the natural landscape and learn about the history.  

These excursions to Milford Sound also include a meal or a picnic lunch, as well as a cruise in the fjord. Guided tours by bus typically last an entire day.

Guided tours with flight to Milford Sound from Queenstown

Although the drive to Milford Sound from Queenstown is quite scenic, it can be rather time-consuming. Guided tours that include a flight, however, will cut down on travel time and give you a bird's-eye view of the New Zealand landscape.

There is a wide variety of flight options and combinations with bus rides available, while some also include a cruise in the fjord. Depending on the tour, you may also have the option to buy a video or photos of your flight.

Guided tours with an airplane flight can last from as little as 2 hours to about 5 hours, if they include a cruise. All relevant taxes and fees are covered.

Guided tours to Milford Sound with helicopter glacier landing

If you would like to take a closer look at some of the glaciers around Milford Sound, there are many helicopter tours available. By taking to the skies, you will get to see the glorious New Zealand landscape from above.

The helicopter will then drop you off at a glacier, allowing you to walk around and take panoramic photos. After you have explored a few more glaciers, the tour may include a cruise in the fjord before returning to Queenstown.

Guided tours with a helicopter landing on a glacier usually between 2 and 4 hours, depending on the flight schedule.

Private tour to Milford Sound from Queenstown

For a more flexible day trip to Milford Sound, there are a number of private tours available that depart from Queenstown. These tours typically include roundtrip luxury transportation from your hotel, the undivided attention of your guide and are ideal for small groups.

By booking a private tour, you will be able to explore the New Zealand countryside at your own pace. In certain cases, private tours may also include lunch and a cruise when you reach Milford Sound. These excursions usually last an entire day.

How much does a day trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown cost?

The most affordable way to go on an excursion to Milford Sound from Queenstown is with a guided tour. The cost of guided tours can range from US$130 to US$160 per person and usually include lunch, snacks, an experienced guide and a cruise in the fjord.

Guided tours with an airplane flight from Queenstown to Milford typically cost between US$350 and US$400 per person. For tours that include a helicopter flight and landings on glaciers, the price ranges from US$600 to US$700 per person.

For a private tour from Queenstown to Milford Sound, expect to pay US$250 to US$550 per person. The cost varies according to your group size and whether a cruise is included.

What will you see and do?

There are many things to see and do once you arrive in Milford Sound, enough to fill an entire day.

Boating in the fjord

One of the most popular ways of exploring the area is by going on a boat tour. These will give you a close view of the lush green cliffs, dramatic waterfalls and alpine peaks surrounding the fjord.

For those wanting a bit of adrenaline, there are many kayaking opportunities in Milford Sound. Unless you are experienced at sea and have your own equipment, your best option is to book a kayaking tour, which include everything you need.

Milford Underwater Observatory

If you would like to explore the marine life in Milford Sound without getting wet, you should check out the unique underwater observatory. The main viewing room is located 10 meters below sea level and gives visitors the opportunity to discover the colorful wild sea life.

Explore the glaciers

Helicopter tours are very popular among visitors to Milford Sound, as they provide a majestic view of the fjord from above. On many of these scenic flights, you will also have the opportunity to land on and explore some of the glaciers that carved out the landscape.

Trekking

Should you prefer to stay on land, you can check out the hiking trails in the area. The Milford Sound Lookout Track is one of the shortest and best walks in the country, with a unique view of fjord and mountains.

If you have more time available, the Key Summit Track will take though the forests and rewards hikers with a breathtaking view of the Fiordland National Park. Don't forget to pack your camera.

When is the best time to visit Milford Sound?

The best time to visit Milford Sound is during autumn, from March to May. During that period, the weather is still warm and not as rainy in spring. Although the crowds are thinner during winter, the weather is colder and more unpredictable.

Are there any tours to Milford Sound from other cities in New Zealand?

Yes, there are tours departing from other cities in New Zealand:

• Multi-day trips to South Island Circle and Milford Sound from Christchurch

Travel tips

• Milford Sound is one of the wettest inhabited areas in the world, with an average of 182 rainy days per year. As such, don’t forget to pack a raincoat.
• To make the most of your excursion to Milford Sound, wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots.
• Make sure that your camera can withstand a bit of water, especially if you intend to go on a cruise in the fjord.