5.0 (795) · Te Anau · By Trips & Tramps Free cancellation
Embark on an awe-inspiring day excursion to Milford Sound from Te Anau, where you'll be part of a friendly, intimate group of no more than 15 fellow travelers, led by a friendly local guide.
Prepare for an unforgettable journey, including a small boat cruise, traversing the entire length of the majestic fiord and venturing out to the vast expanse of the Tasman Sea.
Our relaxed itinerary is designed to maximise your enjoyment, allowing ample time for leisurely strolls, capturing breathtaking photographs, and immersing yourself in the natural wonders of the area alongside our knowledgeable nature guide.
Whether it's pausing to admire cascading waterfalls, spotting playful dolphins, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings, every moment promises to be filled with wonder and discovery.
✓ Milford Sound sightseeing boat cruise (small vessel)✓ Guided & self-guided nature walks along Milford Road✓ Small-group transport (max 15 travelers) in a modern minivan with local guide✓ Picnic lunch (vegetarian & gluten-free available with advance notice)✓ Te Anau accommodation pickup & drop-off✕ Queenstown pickup (tour departs Te Anau only)✕ Personal expenses✕ INFANTS - Sorry, we do not cater for children under 5 yearsActivity Schedule
9 h
Departing from Te Anau, travel in a small group (maximum 15 people) along the scenic Milford Road through the heart of Fiordland National Park. Your local driver/guide will share their knowledge and entertaining stories along the way.
Upon reaching Milford Sound, enjoy a 2-hour small boat cruise to the Tasman Sea. You'll have excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time to enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains, and wildlife.
Exploring on foot in Fiordland is a must, even if it's only for a few hundred meters. We stop often to ensure you won't miss a thing!
Enjoy a series of short guided walks and scenic photo stops on the journey. Many opportunities are created for you to experience this natural wonderland with all your senses.
Hike in a range of different environments, from lush forests to magnificent alpine areas carved by glaciers long ago, and discover the native birds, such as the cheeky kea. We will tailor the day to the weather and seasonal highlights to ensure your day makes the most of this incredible world heritage area.
Milford Sound Trips & Tramps Lake Te Anau Mirror Lakes Walk Homer Tunnel Lake Gunn Eglinton Valley Fiordland National Park Te Anau Downs
Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking.
If you have not selected your accommodation, please meet us at the Event Center. There is plenty of free all-day parking here for any vehicle. Please wait on the steps of the facility, or where we can see you. Thank you.
If you have not selected your accommodation, please meet us at the Event Center. There is plenty of free all-day parking here for any vehicle. Please wait on the steps of the facility, or where we can see you. Thank you.
We can collect from any address in the Te Anau township. If you wish to be collected from an address not listed, please provide the address. Thank you.
What to Bring: We recommend comfortable walking shoes, a day pack containing a warm top, waterproof jacket, drinking water, and a camera. On cool days, you may also like to bring a warm hat and gloves, which can be used on the boat cruise or while walking.
We Provide: A professional driver/guide, all transport from Te Anau with walking and photo opportunities. Plus a Milford Sound small boat cruise and packed lunch (any dietary requirements must be advised prior to the day of travel for catering).
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
Suitable for all physical fitness levels. Operates in all weather – please bring a good rain jacket and practical shoes. Bring any required personal medication. Tour departs from Te Anau, not Queenstown. Allow 2.5 hours driving time if coming from Queenstown. Year round Duration: 9 hours Picnic lunch: A picnic lunch is included. Please advise if you have any dietary requirements for the lunch prior to the day of travel. Pickup included Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring layers of clothing. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery. Advise of any dietary requirements in advance for your picnic lunch. Be prepared for all weather conditions; rain gear is recommended. This tour departs from Te Anau; plan your travel accordingly if coming from Queenstown. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 10245P1
Activity offered by Trips & Tramps via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Nature lovers Photography enthusiasts Travelers seeking intimate group experiences All fitness levels Intimate small-group experience (max 15 people) Scenic drive through Fiordland National Park 2-hour cruise on Milford Sound Guided nature walks and photo stops Knowledgeable local guide Picnic lunch included
Population 2,940 (2020)
Currency New Zealand dollar
Official languages Māori, English
Driving on the left
Power plugs I · 230 V
Emergency number 111
Capital city Wellington Average temperatures 11° Jan 11° Feb 10° Mar 7° Apr 5° May 3° Jun 3° Jul 3° Aug 5° Sept 6° Oct 8° Nov 10° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the maximum group size for this tour? + The maximum group size is 15 travelers.
Is pickup included from Te Anau accommodation? + Yes, pickup and drop-off are included from Te Anau accommodation.
What should I bring on the tour? + We recommend comfortable walking shoes, a day pack with a warm top, waterproof jacket, drinking water, and a camera. Warm hat and gloves are optional for cooler days.
Does the tour operate in all weather conditions? + Yes, the tour operates in all weather. Please bring a good rain jacket and practical shoes.
Are there any age restrictions for this tour? + Children under 5 years old are not catered for on this tour.
★★★★★ Viator review
Book now!
Michelle_M, October 2026
We both had a wonderful day, our guide was amazing with his knowledge and understanding of the area. He allowed plenty of time for photos and taking in the sights. It was a fantastic day out!
Response from the operator · Katiepai It’s wonderful to hear you both had a fantastic day out! We’re so pleased your guide’s knowledge and thoughtful approach gave you time to truly take in the sights and capture some special photos
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Amazing day in Fiordland national park
YwaValeria, October 2026
This was one of the best days I had during my trip in Aotearoa💚.
Our guide Ben was very lovely and knowledgeable and kept the tour interesting the whole day. We had a chance to see so many stunning spots, both from the van, during quick photo stops and the short walks we did.
New Zealand is absolutely incredible place and it beauty stole my heart.
I was very interested and pleased to find out about the efforts and actions of Trips and Tramps around conservation of NZ nature, and that by purchasing this tour we directly contribute to these amazing efforts.
Great job guys, please keep doing what your doing and I wish you the best.
I am so glad I chose this company, the group was small and I could see the big difference with one other tour I went to where we were going as a large group.
Amazing tour, highly recommended!
Response from the operator · Katiepai Thank you so much for your beautiful and heartfelt review! We’re so pleased to hear this was one of your best days in Aotearoa and that Ben helped make it such a special experience. It’s wonderful that you enjoyed the small group, scenic stops, short walks, and learning more about the conservation work we care so deeply about.
Your kind words truly mean a lot to our team. Thank you for choosing Trips & Tramps, for supporting our conservation efforts, and for sharing such a lovely recommendation. We hope your time in New Zealand stays with you for a long time to come!
★★★★★ Viator review
Our guide Ro had a...
Holly_D, October 2026
Our guide Ro had a fantastic flair for storytelling, giving us a unique tale for every little thing we asked about or pointed out. Her voice was nice to listen to as we drove through the Fiordland national park. And she was mindful of time and group interests to adapt on the go where we stopped.
The booking itself was perfect. After a long trip of planning everything ourselves and driving over 1000+ km, having everything handled from transportation pickup and drop off, packed food, and cruise organisation, was a breath of fresh air. The veggie option was a falafel wrap that was also delish.
It’s not that much more expensive compared to a cruise ticket by itself. The added information about the land, people, and wildlife with a good guide, and the burden being taken off you for planning is worth it.
Response from the operator · Katiepai Thank you for sharing such a thoughtful review. We’re delighted Ro’s storytelling, knowledge, and flexibility made your journey through Fiordland so memorable. After planning and driving so much yourselves, it’s wonderful to hear that having the transport, food, and cruise arrangements taken care of gave you the chance to truly relax and enjoy the day.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
Best Tour for Journey Over Destination
Fearless52940539901, October 2026
This tour was exactly what my group needed. Most of the Milford Sound cruise options require you to drive yourself from Te Anau or Queenstown to the cruise, which would be ok for experienced drivers who leave with plenty of time for travel. Doing this 9-hour tour, however, removes all the stress of driving through winding roads and heavy traffic. Our tour guide, Jeff, was delightful. He made several stops for us on the way to the cruise and took note of our favorite sites so that he could tailor the stops to our group on the way back. Our group was about 10 people, and we fit comfortably inside the van. Jeff got us to the boat right on time so that no time was wasted. The transition to the cruise was seamless. Jeff gave us our sack lunches and encouraged us to sit on the left side of the boat for the best views. The actual cruise was slow but lovely. Warm drinks were provided on the boat, free of charge. We saw dolphins and seals as well as many gushing waterfalls. If you want a stress-free Milford Sound experience that prioritizes the journey as much as the destination, choose this full-day tour.
Response from the operator · Discover32758509229 Thank you for such a thoughtful review! We’re delighted Geoff made the journey to Milford Sound just as memorable as the cruise, from tailoring the scenic stops to sharing his tip for the best views on board. Dolphins, seals, waterfalls, and a stress-free day sounds like a wonderful combination.
★★★★★ Tripadvisor review
What a great crew to do Milford Sound with
Taggys, October 2026
The weather was filthy and vision was limited which was a real shame. However, every bit of our experience with trips and tramps was excellent. Our guide and driver Ross was so skilled and knowledgeable. We loved the small van and the small boat (Mitre Peak). We were collected and dropped off at our accommodation. Despite the pouring rain we had lots of stops for walks and photos. And we are told that the waterfalls were massive due to the rain.
A great experience hampered by unfortunate weather. Would definitely choose these guys again.
Response from the operator · Discover32758509229 We really appreciate your lovely review, Taggys. Milford Sound can be spectacular in the rain, especially when the waterfalls are flowing at full force, though we understand the limited visibility was disappointing. We’re so pleased Ross’s skill and knowledge, along with the small van and Mitre Peak cruise, helped make it a great day. Thank you for choosing Trips & Tramps, and we hope to see you again!
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