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Book Milford Track Tours
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 45 minutes - 2 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERBoat
TOTAL DURATION5 hours 30 minutes - 6 hours 30 minutes
TimelineMap
START POINT
Milford Sound Terminal
Begin at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal and board a relaxed cruise covering the full 16 km fiord, with close passes to Mitre Peak, permanent waterfalls, and wildlife hotspots, plus complimentary hot drinks.
Passes by
Mitre Peak
Lady Bowen Falls
Seal Rock
Fairy Falls
The Four Sisters
Stirling Falls
St. Anne's Point Lighthouse
Harrison Cove
Bottlenose dolphins
Fiordland Crested Penguins
11
END POINT
Milford Sound Terminal
START POINT
Milford Sound Terminal
Begin at the Milford Sound Visitor Terminal and board a relaxed cruise covering the full 16 km fiord, with close passes to Mitre Peak, permanent waterfalls, and wildlife hotspots, plus complimentary hot drinks.
Boat
1
Deepwater Basin Departure Point
Start your adventure at Deepwater Basin, where a short water taxi crossing whisks you across to legendary Sandfly Point, the official end of the Milford Track. This ride offers your first taste of Fiordland’s wilderness, with dramatic peaks rising from the fiord and the sense of entering somewhere remote and special.
Walk
2
Sandfly Point (Milford Track Official End/Start)
Stand at the official end of New Zealand’s most famous Great Walk. Facilities, information panels, and the iconic “Milford Track” sign greet both day hikers and those finishing the full 53.5 km trek. For day walkers, it’s a chance to step onto the world-renowned track without committing to four days.
Walk
3
Arthur River Valley Floor
Walk alongside the clear, rushing Arthur River, where ancient beech and rimu trees create a natural cathedral overhead. Ferns and mosses carpet the forest floor, giving you a sense of stepping back into primeval wilderness.
Walk
4
Lake Ada Viewpoint
A short detour takes you to Lake Ada, where calm waters reflect the Sheerdown Hills in perfect symmetry. This serene spot offers one of the most photogenic scenes on the track.
Walk
5
Giant Gate Falls & Swing Bridge
Reach the 30 m Giant Gate Falls, a dramatic cascade spilling from a hanging valley above. The swing bridge offers unbeatable views, while the riverside area makes this the highlight and turnaround point of the walk.
Walk
6
Sandfly Point
Arrive back at Sandfly Point for your water taxi pickup, with flexible times between 1:30 pm and 4:30 pm. The return leg brings new light, new moods, and often new wildlife. Your guide may point out fantails, grey warblers, bellbirds, and occasionally robins, which are especially active later in the day. Take a final photo with the Milford Track sign before returning across Deepwater Basin.
7
Milford Sound Visitor Terminal & Wharf
Transition from your hike to a new perspective, boarding your Milford Sound cruise. The Visitor Terminal houses operator check-in desks, restrooms, and interpretive panels, while the wharf delivers first panoramic views of Mitre Peak before you step onto your vessel.
Boat
Passes by
Mitre Peak
Lady Bowen Falls
Harrison Cove
St. Anne's Point Lighthouse
Seal Rock
Fairy Falls
The Four Sisters
Stirling Falls
Bottlenose dolphins
Fiordland Crested Penguins
18
END POINT
Milford Sound Terminal
Boutique boat, big encounters, with a maximum of 75 guests
- Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute cruise on a boutique vessel, close approaches to Stirling Falls for spray moments, live skipper-led commentary, wildlife at seal colonies, relaxed crowd-free decks, hot drinks, and flexible positioning for photos.
- Why choose this: Best for photographers, couples, and crowd-avoiders. Smaller boats mean closer angles, sharper wildlife shots, and a more personal vibe, without luxury pricing.
- Upgrades: Choose just the cruise, or pair with a Milford Track walk for a land-and-sea combo in one day.
Boutique boat, big encounters, with a maximum of 75 guests
- Everything you get: 1-hour 45-minute cruise on a boutique vessel, close approaches to Stirling Falls for spray moments, live skipper-led commentary, wildlife at seal colonies, relaxed crowd-free decks, hot drinks, and flexible positioning for photos.
- Why choose this: Best for photographers, couples, and crowd-avoiders. Smaller boats mean closer angles, sharper wildlife shots, and a more personal vibe, without luxury pricing.
- Upgrades: Choose just the cruise, or pair with a Milford Track walk for a land-and-sea combo in one day.
Inclusions
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise on a boutique boat
- Maximum 75 passengers only
- Expert skipper & guide
- Close-to-waterfall positioning
- Wildlife encounter opportunities
- Onboard commentary
Guided Milford Track walk (if option selected)
- 10min boat to Sandfly Point
- Up to 4 hours hiking time
- Expert hiking guide
- Track safety briefing and safety gear
Exclusions
- Lunch & personal snacks (available to purchase onsite)
What to bring
- Bring a valid photo ID to match the name on your booking if requested at check-in.
- Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear, as conditions can change rapidly in Milford Sound.
- Bring a waterproof jacket and warm layers, as the weather can be unpredictable and it may be cold or wet.
- Bring cash or an EFTPOS/credit card onboard for meals, souvenirs, and extra delights not covered by the ticket.
- Pack your meds – better to be prepared, just in case they’re not available onsite.
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
- Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks, especially if your experience includes a guided walk.
What’s not allowed
- Smoking is not permitted on board the boat or during the guided walk.
- Alcohol and illegal substances are strictly prohibited.
- Drones and other aerial devices are not allowed in Milford Sound.
- Pets are not permitted, except for registered service animals.
- Safety is a priority, so the Milford Track guided walk is restricted for guests under the age of 8 years and over the age of 75 years.
Accessibility
- This experience is not wheelchair accessible.
- The guided walk and boat may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
- This hike is suitable for people in moderate shape. You'll walk about 7 miles on uneven terrain, with some uphill sections. Expect to be on your feet for around 3.5 hours. Be prepared for wet weather and wear sturdy shoes.
Additional information
- The experience operates in all weather conditions; cruises and walks may proceed in rain or shine.
- Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
- Please arrive at the meeting point at least 20 minutes before your scheduled departure.
- Restroom facilities are available on board the boat.
- The guided walk portion may involve uneven or slippery surfaces—participation is at your own risk.
- Life jackets and safety briefings are provided before departure.
- Photography is encouraged, but please be mindful of other guests and wildlife.
- Mobile phone coverage is limited in Milford Sound.
- Pack wisely for the trek. Carry essentials like a lightweight backpack, rain gear, quick-drying clothes, and trekking poles for added support.
- 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.
Milford Sound ToursMilford Track
Milford Track in a nutshell
- Official name: Milford Track
- Location/Address: Fiordland National Park, Southland, New Zealand
- Date of opening: 1888
- Timings: Open during the Great Walks season (late October to late April)
- Track distance: 53.5 kilometers (33.2 miles)
- Time taken to cover the entire track: Typically 4 days
- Activities to do on the track: Hiking, exploring rainforests, viewing landmarks like Sutherland Falls
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: Te Wahipounamu, since 1990
- Number of visitors per year: approximately 14,000 per season
- Function: Hiking trail
- Difficulty level: Easy to moderate
Why visit Milford Track?
One of New Zealand’s Great Walks
New Zealand's Great Walks are nine of the country's most popular and scenic hikes. Of this, Milford Track is one of the most famous Great Walks, running through a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The wettest places in New Zealand
Milford Track has one end in Milford Sound, the wettest place is New Zealand and one of the wettest places on Earth.
Milford’s best landmarks and waterfalls up close
Observe Sutherland Falls, one of the world's highest waterfalls, and conquer the challenge of Mackinnon Pass for unparalleled views. To add to it? Glacial lakes and glaciers themselves.
Rich biodiversity and unique wildlife
Encounter New Zealand's diverse flora and fauna, including native bird species like the Kea and Fiordland-crested penguins.
Milford Track guided walks and tours
Join informative and intimate small-group guided tours that provide insights into the ecology, geology, and indigenous Māori culture as you hike up the path.
Scenic boat cruise on Milford Sound
Conclude the adventure with a 2-hour picturesque boat cruise, that’ll allow you to encounter the waterfalls, fiords, and fauna up close.
Your Milford Track tour options
Milford Track Guided Walk to Giant Gate Falls
- Join an informative 5-hour round-trip guided tour covering 11 km of the track. Learn about the region's ecology, history, and Māori cultural significance from a local expert.
- Hike with a small group past sights like Deepwater Basin, Sandfly Point, Arthur River, Lake Ada, and Giant's Gate Waterfall.
- Upgrade to a guided cruise along the Milford Sound, sailing past Mitre Peak, Fairy and Bridal Veil waterfalls, and endangered wildlife like New Zealand fur seals.
Duration: 5 to 7 hours
Timings: 8:45 AM
From Te Anau: Milford Track, Cruise & Return Transfers
- Get end-to-end hassle-free arrangements with hotel pick-up and drop-offs from Te Anau, along with a water taxi to Sandfly Point during your Milford Track hike.
- Learn about the UNESCO-listed national park's rich history and diverse wildlife during the insightful 5.5 km journey on your Milford Track guided walk.
- Cruise Milford Sound post-walk, admiring iconic landmarks from the observation deck, including Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and Seal Point. Also, get insightful commentary from your cruise’s skipper.
Duration: 12 hours
Timings: 6:30 AM
Discover Milford Track
See all photos
Milford Track Highlights
Milford Sound Cruise
Sail through the majestic fjord surrounded by towering cliffs, and spot the Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls amongst other landmarks on a Milford Sound cruise. Get a front-row seat topped with commentary from knowledgeable guides enhancing your experience. Encounter marine wildlife, including New Zealand fur seals, dolphins, and Fiordland Crested penguins. Milford Sound cruises offer a quintessential journey through one of the world's 8th natural wonder.
Book a Milford Sound cruise
Mitre Peak
Standing proudly in Milford Sound, New Zealand, this peak soars 1,692 meters (5,551 feet) above sea level commanding attention with its distinctive, sharp summit. A symbol of Fiordland's majesty, Mitre Peak is a prominent sight during Milford Sound cruises.
Explore Mitre Peak
Sandfly Point
Sandfly Point serves as the starting or ending point for Milford Track adventurers. While the name implies these tiny insects, the real highlight is the gateway it provides to the pristine wilderness. The quiet ambiance and scenic surroundings make Sandfly Point a tranquil prelude to the journey that unfolds along the renowned Milford Track.
Mackinnon Pass
Mackinnon Pass stands as a challenging ascent for those who dare. What’s waiting for you? Views of the Southern Alps including Mt. Balloon and Mt. Hart, Fiordland scenes like Clinton Valley, Arthur Valley, glaciers and Milford Sound. Traversing its steep terrain is a rite of passage for hikers.
Sutherland Falls
Amongst New Zealand’s highest, this majestic cascade within Fiordland's scenic landscape is right along the Milford Track. It plummets dramatically 1,904 feet from Lake Quill amidst lush landscapes. Witnessing this Milford Sound waterfall becomes an indelible moment.
Giant Gate Falls
This 30-meter-high (98-foot) waterfall on the Milford Track, awaits approximately 1.5 hours from Sandfly Point, marking the trail's conclusion. Cascading from the hillside into a serene pool, the falls create a picturesque scene with a swingbridge spanning its front. Below, the water flows through a shallow rocky stretch and under the swingbridge forming a perfect oasis for a revitalizing swim, particularly on warm days.
Explore Giant Gate Falls
Lake Ada
Lake Ada is a tranquil alpine jewel framed by majestic mountains. Bask in a moment of reflection and appreciation for the surrounding natural beauty as you catch a break. Accessible during the Milford Track journey, Lake Ada's still waters mirror the surrounding enviroment.
Lake Te Anau
An expanse of freshwater, Lake Te Anau’s crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding grandeur of snow-capped peaks in the heart of Fiordland. A gateway to the Milford Track, Lake Te Anau welcomes adventurers beginning from the opposite end of the track. The lake's tranquil shores sets the stage for a prelude or conclusion to your Milford Track adventure.
Unique flora and fauna
Encounter the cheeky Kea or the vulnerable Weka, both native bird species in the rainforests. Vibrant plant life, including unique ferns and mosses, adorns the trail. The Southern Alps offer glimpses of endemic species. Milford Track is your ticket into a living showcase of the country's natural biodiverse heritage.
Plan Your Visit to Milford Track
Timings
Location
- Great Walk season: End of October to April
- Off-Great Walk season/ Closed from: May to the end of October
Best time to visit:
- October & November: Spring unfolds with lush green landscapes. The weather is generally warm and sunny, but it can be unpredictable with occasional showers. Crowds are moderate.
- December & January: Summer brings the warmest temperatures and the most daylight hours, perfect for long hikes and enjoying the scenery. However, this is also the busiest time with the largest crowds.
- February & March: The crowds begin to thin towards the end of summer. Temperatures remain comfortable, and the vibrant fall foliage starts to appear.
- April: The Great Walks season officially ends in April, but experienced hikers can still tackle the track with proper preparation. Expect colder temperatures, possible snowfall, and shorter daylight hours.
Address: Fiordland, Southland 9679, New Zealand | Find on maps
Getting there: Accessible solely through private transportation, Milford Track can be conveniently experienced by booking a day trip or tour that includes transfers, ensuring a hassle-free visit. If you're short on time or don't wanna complete the entire track (53.5 km/4 days), go for a shorter Milford Sound tour. This lets you explore a slice of the track, see prominent sights, and learn from an expert guide.
Getting to Milford TrackAdventure activities on Milford Track
Hiking and Trekking
Traverse the 53.5-kilometer trail, taking on challenging sections like Mackinnon Pass for sweeping views of the area.
River Crossings
Experience the thrill of crossing pristine rivers, adding an adventurous element to the trek.
Waterfall Exploration
Take in the beautiful Sutherland Falls and others, and have a grand time in the natural beauty of Fiordland.
Wildlife Spotting
Observe native birds like the Weka and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.
Camping/Tramping
Opt for multi-day hikes with overnight stays in comfortable huts, enhancing the adventure experience.
Frequently Asked Questions About Milford Track at Milford Sound
What is Milford Track?
The Milford Track is a renowned 53.5-kilometer hiking trail in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand, celebrated for its spectacular landscapes, including Sutherland Falls and Mackinnon Pass.
Can I visit Milford Track with Milford Sound tickets?
Yes, you can visit both Milford Track and Milford Sound as part of your tour.
What can I do at the Milford Track?
At Milford Track, you can enjoy hiking through pristine landscapes, watching iconic waterfalls, exploring native wildlife, boarding a scenic cruise to Milford Sound, and going on guided tours to learn about the region's ecology and culture.
What can I see during a Milford Track tour?
Milford Track tours showcase Sutherland Falls, Mackinnon Pass, native wildlife, amongst other landscapes. Guided tours provide insights into the area's natural and cultural significance.
What are the timings of Milford Track?
Milford Track guided walks are open during the Great Walks season, typically from late October to late April. Exact dates may vary, so checking them before you plan your Milford Track hike is advisable. Booking your tour in advance is recommended.
Where is Milford Track located?
Milford Track is located in Fiordland National Park. The Milford Track starts at Glade Wharf and ends at Milford Sound, South Island, New Zealand.
Is Milford Track wheelchair accessible?
The Milford Track isn't wheelchair accessible due to its rugged terrain, challenging elevation changes, and remote location. If you wish to experience Milford Sound however, the cruises and scenic flights are accessibility-friendly.
Is photography allowed at Milford Track?
Yes, photography is allowed and encouraged at Milford Track. Mark your visit by capturing memories of your time at the world’s 8th natural wonder.
What should I pack for Milford Track?
Pack essentials like waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a backpack, food, water, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellant, a power bank, and a camera. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly for changing conditions.
How long is the Milford Track?
The track spans 53.5 kilometers (33.2 miles) and it will take you around 4 days to complete the Milford Track trek. However, a one-day Milford Track guided walk will take around 5 to 7 hours.
What are my Milford Track tour options?
Options include guided tours with informative commentary, independent hikes with tea breaks at the Giant Gate Falls, and boat cruises on Milford Sound. Check out your Milford Track tour options before planning your trip.
How do I get to Milford Track?
For convenient access to Milford Track, opt for a day tour with included transfers, making your visit hassle-free. If you’re also short on time or not up for the full 53.5 km trek over four days, consider a shorter Milford Track tour, allowing you to explore key sights with an expert guide.
From happy customers
Mollie
United Statesago, 2025
I had been out kayaking the day prior and was not sure it was worth it to come all the way back out for the cruise. It was totally worth it! Stunning views, super comfy boat, lovely crew (didn't get his name but your guy from British Columbia is fabulous! However. Things they don't tell you (or I missed) you have to pay to park which is kind of baloney when you have no other option. Or there is an option to park out and walk in about 30 min, but no way to know that until I asked someone at check in. Also make sure you leave enough time to walk around the harbor from the paid parking to the boats. I arrived 15 minutes early as instructed and almost didn't make it
Small-Boat Milford Sound Cruise
Melissa
New Zealandabr, 2025
+ 1 more
I really liked the Mitre Peak's boat. We were not too many on it and thanks to its size, we could get very close from the falls.
The crew was nice and having hot drinks available is a big plus!
Small-Boat Milford Sound Cruise
Raymond
Australiajul, 2025
There were low crowd numbers and dolphins swimming in the water. Service was pretty good as well. Will recommend this trip
Milford Sound Cruise
Gilbert
United Statesmar, 2025
+ 1 more
The sound itself. It was an unforgettable spectacle. I was stressed about the rain as we got close to the facility, but it turned out perfectly: the rain engorged the waterfalls so they were more spectacular, and the rain slacked off soon after we sailed, and ceased completly about midway. So we got good visibility and great waterfalls. The food was decent, although it was hard to find a place to eat it while we kept getting up to gawk at more wonders outside. We agreed we were in awe and it was one of the most remarkable experiences of our lives.
Milford Sound Cruise
Ning
Chinajul, 2025
RealNZ arranged taxi pickup from our hotel in Frankton as we required. Milford sound is really beautiful and worth the money. We also saw dolphins and seal.
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers
Liu,
Taiwanabr, 2025
1.The driver & captain introduced the views very clearl !
2.Milford sounds very beautiful!
3.There are many places to visit during the trip!
From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers
David
Australiamar, 2025
Personalised table for 2 and the knowledgeable hosts and guides made it well worth the $$$.
Food was good and topped off with a cheese board.
The all female crew only added to the experience.
Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne
R
New Zealandmar, 2025
From the moment we stepped on board the cruise boat we could sense a good vibe ,after receiving our complementary glass of champagne and canapés everyone were ready for a great time ,the crew were very friendly and helpful with any of our questions.The cruise itself out to the Tasman Sea was very enjoyable with the onboard nature expert explaining many points of interest.On reflection we can honestly recommend the whole experience.
Premium Milford Sound Cruise with Gourmet Canapes & Champagne