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.

How long is the drive, and are there rest stops?

The transfer from Te Anau to Milford Sound typically takes about 2 hours without stops, but most tours include scenic breaks at spots like Mirror Lakes and The Chasm for photo opportunities and stretching your legs.

Is the trip family-friendly?

Absolutely! Kids enjoy the mix of coach transfers and boat cruises, plus the chance to spot playful wildlife along the way. Just pack extra snacks and entertainment for the journey.

Is it better to stay at Te Anau or Milford Sound?

Most travelers choose to stay in Te Anau because Milford Sound has very limited accommodation options. Te Anau is a charming town with plenty of amenities, making it the ideal base for your adventure.

What is the drive like from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

Expect a scenic, winding journey that takes about 2 hours without stops. The route offers breathtaking views of alpine landscapes, though it can be bumpy on winding roads—so if you're sensitive to motion, consider taking precautions.

Is there a tunnel between Te Anau and Milford Sound?

Yes, the journey includes the 1.2 km Homer Tunnel—a fascinating engineering feat that adds to the adventure of the scenic drive.

Te Anau to Milford Sound – Transfers with Guided Tours

1/5

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.

Manon

New Zealand

Sep, 2025

+ 1 more

It's a superb experience and well worth the detour to Nz. The road is as worthwhile as the boat ride. 100% recommended Great guide who explains the route very well.

View original review in French

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers

Ning

China

Jul, 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.

Mollie

United States

Aug, 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

Milford Sound Boutique Small-Boat Cruise

Melissa

Apr, 2025

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!

Raymond

Australia

There were low crowd numbers and dolphins swimming in the water. Service was pretty good as well. Will recommend this trip

Milford Sound Cruise with Optional Lunch

Summer

Our pilot Jerod was great. We enjoyed flying over the beautiful mountains and sound. We signed up late but was told on the website that hotel pickup was included. When we paid we were told we had to meet at the office on shotovet. Not a long walk but not what was promised.

From Queenstown: Milford Sound Scenic Flyover & Cruise

John

May, 2025

Milford Sound Flights needed to cancel our booked morning trip, but managed to get us in on the afternoon trip. Much appreciated.

Nora

Best part of our NZ trip, hands down. Our guide, Steve, was funny and super chill. He let us stop for extra pics when the road was clear. The cruise part was honestly magical—I’ve never seen water that blue. Boat wasn’t too packed, maybe cuz we went early. Bring snacks, the food sells out FAST.

From Te Anau: Milford Sound Day Trip with Cruise, Walks & Return Transfers