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- English
- English
- English
Complete with a scenic cruise in Milford Sound, this 1 way trip from Queenstown to Te Anau is perfect for those looking to extend their time in Fiordland National Park.
The beating heart of Fiordland and Mt Aspiring National Parks, Piopiotahi Milford Sound is a destination that must be seen to be believed! Widely regarded as one of the world’s most scenic drives, join us as we traverse New Zealand’s Southern Alps and Te Anau Downs to the UNESCO heritage site. Enjoy spectacular views year-round of glacier-eroded valleys, lakes and inlets before arriving at the impressive Mitre Peak. Described by Rudyard Kipling as the 8th wonder of the world, this jaw-dropping tour is truly a must do!
You will be driven in comfort by our modern, comfortable Mercedes Sprinter (or similar) packed with the extras to make the trip that bit easier. Led by our fun, knowledgeable, and passionate tour guides, this journey is one you will never forget!
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Please ensure that you are ready at least five to ten minutes before your allocated pick up time. We do not wait for late passengers/no shows.
Itinerary
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Queenstown (Pass by)
We start by leaving Tāhua Queenstown; New Zealand’s adventure capital; and head via Jack’s Point to Te Anau. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will share insights into the local region as we pass Lake Wakatipu on our way out.
Admission ticket free -
1Te Anau
As the South Island’s largest lake at 344 km², Te Anau is a fitting first stop of the day. Surrounded by the Kepler and Murchison chains, this glacial-retreat produced lake offers sweeping views of native forest, rolling hills, and high country blocks. Keep your eyes peeled for the Giant Takahe on the lakefront!
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Travelling further along the Milford Road, we make our first stop at Eglinton Valley. The outstanding lowland beech forest is one of the few examples in Aotearoa and is a critical home for native birds such as Yellowheads/Mohua and the threatened South Island lesser short-tailed bat. While we will not see these species on tour, eager eyed Lord of the Rings fans may recognise the mountains to the West as the film location for the Misty Mountains in the Fellowship of the Ring.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Monkey Creek
Rumoured to be named after surveyor William Henry Homer’s dog Monkey, the crystal (albeit icy!) clear water at this glacier fed spring offers refuge for wildlife such as Kea and Whio (New Zealand’s native blue duck).
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
Homer Tunnel (Pass by)
Continuing deeper into Fiordland national park, we arrive at the 1.2km long Homer Tunnel. Still unlined to this day, the granite rock that was hand carved into in order to create passage between Queenstown and Milford remains visible; an important nod to the dedication and sacrifice of those who worked to make this feat of engineering possible.
Admission ticket free -
4Milford Sound
Arriving at Milford Sound's Ferry Terminal, you will embark on a scenic cruise of Milford Sound. Travel the full length of the fiord, enjoying breathtaking geography and cascading waterfalls. The highlight of the cruise is when the boat noses close to Stirling Falls, allowing you to get up close to glacial spray! Aboard a modern vessel with large windows and viewing decks, a cruise of Piopiotahi (approx 1h 45m) with the team at Pure Milford is an absolute must!
2 hours • Admission ticket free -
5
Departing Milford Sound, we pass back through the Homer Tunnel before this time making a stop at Pops Lookout. Overlooking the Hollyford Valley, this lookout is a breathtaking photo opportunity.
5 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6Te Anau
Tour concludes here with drop off at the Olive Tree Cafe.
1 minute • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note that our minimum age is 4 years old.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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