Milford Sound Small Group Tour, Cruise & Picnic Lunch

5.0
(61 reviews)

13 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Embark on an intimate small-group adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound—one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural wonders. This fully guided day trip is more than just a destination; it’s an experience crafted with care, comfort, and connection in mind. Travel in our premium Sprinter, designed for a relaxed pace and optimal viewing, with plenty of time to stop, explore, and soak up the landscape. From majestic alpine valleys to cascading waterfalls and native wildlife encounters, every moment of the journey is part of the magic.

What's Included

Private transportation
GST (Goods and Services Tax)
WiFi on board
Snacks
Enjoy a 1 hour 45 minute cruise with fewer passengers and an onboard nature guide. You’ll get up close to waterfalls, towering cliffs, Mitre Peak, and wildlife.
Air-conditioned vehicle
Water (Please bring a reusable Water Bottle)
Enjoy a Picnic Lunch onboard the Milford Cruise

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

1. Bus Stop in front of Rydges Hotel (44 Lake Esplanade) - 6:30 am 2. Bus Stop in front of Crowne Plaza Queenstown (93 Beach Street) - 6:40 am Please wait in front of the hotel.

OR
Meeting point
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 13 hours (approximately)
  • Lake Wakatipu (Pass by)

    We travel alongside the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu, winding our way through dramatic alpine landscapes. Your guide will share fascinating insights about the adventure ahead and point out some hidden gems to look forward to.

    Admission ticket free
  • Southland Region (Pass by)

    As we cross into Southland, take in the wide-open spaces and lush farmland. Your guide will provide insight into the local farming lifestyle and how this region plays a key role in New Zealand’s agriculture.

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    Te Anau

    We arrive in Te Anau, often called the gateway to Fiordland National Park, where we take a short break to enjoy a coffee and stretch our legs. Refreshed, we continue our journey towards the breathtaking Milford Sound. As we pass Te Anau Downs, you’ll have views across the lake to the starting point of the legendary Milford Track. Your guide will bring the trail’s history to life, sharing stories of its early explorers and its place among the world’s great walks.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • (Pass by)

    We officially enter Fiordland National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the landscape instantly changes. Dense rainforest, moss-covered beech trees, and towering peaks welcome us into this remote wilderness.

    Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Eglinton Valley

    Stop and step out into the wide-open expanse of Eglinton Valley. This impressive glacial valley, with its flat floor and mountainous walls, makes for an unforgettable photo opportunity.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Mirror Lakes Walk

    Take a short stroll to see the perfectly still Mirror Lakes, famous for their glass-like reflections of the Earl Mountains. On a clear day, it’s a photographer’s dream.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Not far along the road, we follow the course of the Hollyford River, its clear waters tumbling over massive boulders and racing through rapids. At Falls Creek, we’re treated to the first of many spectacular waterfalls in the region.

    5 minutes Admission ticket free
  • Homer Tunnel (Pass by)

    Journey through the iconic Homer Tunnel, carved by hand through solid rock. Learn the fascinating history of this feat of engineering as we prepare to descend into the dramatic Cleddau Valley. Emerging from the tunnel, the road winds through a steep glacial valley. On rainy days, the cliffs come alive with hundreds of cascading waterfalls—a magical and unforgettable sight.

    Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Milford Sound

    Arrive at Milford Sound and board your boutique nature cruise with Cruise Milford, TripAdvisor’s top-rated operator. Enjoy a 1 hour 45 minute cruise with fewer passengers and an onboard nature guide. You’ll get up close to waterfalls, towering cliffs, Mitre Peak, and wildlife such as seals and potentially dolphins or penguins.

    2 hours Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Please provide us with your dietary requirements
Supplied by Wild Kiwi Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Adventure Tours
Best Conversion
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 61 61 reviews
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