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Offered languages
- English
- English
Watch for kea, the inquisitive alpine parrots, on this self-guided driving tour of the Milford Road, from Te Anau to Piopiotahi (Milford Sound). The journey is every bit as extraordinary as the destination.
Hear how a road was forced through Fiordland’s mountains, ending at the Homer Tunnel. Meet hermit Ernest Lord and bushman Davey Gunn, follow the rediscovery of the takahē, and learn why Māori crossed these valleys in search of pounamu. Pause at Mirror Lakes and Lake Gunn, two of Fiordland’s most photographed spots, while glaciers, earthquakes and water explain the scenery around you. The tour ends in the Milford Sound car park, ready for a cruise, a walk or a flight.
Perfect for independent travellers who like to know the story behind every viewpoint. Install the VoiceMap app, then enter the ticket code from your confirmation email to download the tour and start driving.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
This tour starts at Alpine Centre Cafe & Bar. Before arrival, please install the mobile app and use the code provided on your confirmation ticket. Detailed starting point instructions are available after downloading.
The tour ends at Milford Sound.
Itinerary
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Lake Te Anau (Pass by)
You'll catch glimpses of Lake Te Anau, the South Island's largest lake, through the trees and over the paddocks as your guide describes its three arms stretching into the mountains. Access to the lake is free.
Admission ticket free -
Te Anau Downs (Pass by)
Passing through Te Anau Downs, you'll hear about the unassuming wharf where walkers board a boat to begin the famous Milford Track. Walking the Milford Track requires advance booking and is not included in this tour.
Admission ticket free -
Eglinton Valley (Pass by)
You'll drive into the wide, glacier-carved Eglinton Valley as Mount Eglinton rises ahead and the Eglinton River winds across the valley floor. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free -
Fiordland National Park (Pass by)
You'll cross into Fiordland National Park, New Zealand's largest national park and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Area, as your guide explains how it came to be protected. Entry to the park is free.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll pass by Mirror Lakes, where on a calm day the mountains are reflected perfectly in the still water. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free -
Lake Gunn (Pass by)
You'll see Lake Gunn on your left as your guide explains how it was named and how far you have quietly climbed since leaving Te Anau. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll pass The Divide, the lowest east-west pass on the Milford Road and the start of the Routeburn Track and Key Summit walk. Walking these tracks is not included in this tour, and the Routeburn Track's huts require separate booking.
Admission ticket free -
Hollyford Track (Pass by)
You'll cross into the Hollyford Valley as your guide describes the river's Irish name and the walks and waterfalls found further along its road. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll cross the bridge by Falls Creek, one of the most accessible waterfalls on the Milford Road, which changes from delicate ribbons to a torrent after rain. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free -
Monkey Creek (Pass by)
As you pass Monkey Creek, you'll hear about the cheeky kea, the alpine parrots often seen in this area, along with the rock wren and the hardy alpine plants. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free -
Homer Tunnel (Pass by)
You'll drive through the Homer Tunnel, almost 1.3 kilometres of bare rock cut by hand and blast over 18 years, controlled by traffic lights. There is no charge to use the tunnel.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
You'll pass the historic 1940s Tutoko Suspension Bridge, now pedestrian-only, and the modern bridge beside it, with Mt Tūtoko rising above. Entry is free.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- The total tour time includes walking the route and passing by the attractions
Tags
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.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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