English
English
Language
Currency
Book Milford Track Tours
Select your experience
- Best for solo travelers looking for an interactive, small-group Milford Sound cruise or active adventurers wanting a more immersive encounter with a Milford Track trek.
- Book this if you want flexibility between a scenic cruise only or combine it with a guided walk on the famous Milford Track for a land and sea adventure.
- What's unique: a comprehensive Milford Sound experience with the option to explore by both water and land, with the walk offering up-close interaction with the environment.
- Sights seen: Unobstructed views in a small-group setting of Arthur River, Lake Ada, Giant's Gate waterfall, Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and more.
- Best for solo travelers looking for an interactive, small-group Milford Sound cruise or active adventurers wanting a more immersive encounter with a Milford Track trek.
- Book this if you want flexibility between a scenic cruise only or combine it with a guided walk on the famous Milford Track for a land and sea adventure.
- What's unique: a comprehensive Milford Sound experience with the option to explore by both water and land, with the walk offering up-close interaction with the environment.
- Sights seen: Unobstructed views in a small-group setting of Arthur River, Lake Ada, Giant's Gate waterfall, Mitre Peak, Stirling Falls, and more.
Inclusions
- 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
- Complimentary tea and coffee on board
- Small boat cruise of up to 75 people
- Live commentary on cruise
Milford Track Guided Walk (if option selected)
- 3.5-hour Milford Track guided walk
- English-speaking guide for walk
- Small group of up to 12 people for guided walk
- Round-trip water taxi transfers from Deep Water Basin to Sandfly Point
- Safety gear for guided walk
- Tip: 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Cruises in Milford SoundMilford 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.
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.
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 Track 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.
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 Track tour. This lets you explore a slice of the track, see prominent sights, and learn from an expert guide.
Adventure 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 with these tickets.
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. Advance Milford Track bookings are 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 our 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 trip or 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.