Full-Day Milford Sound Tour with Cruise and Walks from Te Anau
Overview
Available languages
9 hours
Mobile ticket
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.
Additional Info
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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
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 may. On reaching Milford Sound enjoy a 2-hour small boat cruise to the Tasman Sea. With excellent viewing opportunities and plenty of time to enjoy the waterfalls, rainforest, mountains and wildlife. Exploring on foot with a walk in Fiordland is a must, even if it is only 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. Lots of opportunities are made for you to experience this natural wonderland with all your senses. Hike in a the 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.
What‘s Included
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 years
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
2023/24 season
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
Reviews
737 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Amazing day trip to Milford Sound.
JenWinters,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great day with friendly and knowledgeable Phil who was leading our coach, cruise and walk tour from Te Anau to Milford Sound. We appreciated the hotel pick up and drop off. Coach ride was smooth and there was lots of commentary about what we were seeing as we drove to Milford Sound. There were some nice stops to take pictures and a couple of short walks that were fun. Picnic lunch was generous and delicious. The cruise included was in a smaller boat so we were able to get closer to the coastline for wildlife and waterfall views. Fewer passengers and lots of friendly commentary. Altogether a vacation highlight for us. We were so glad we booked this tour. Thanks Trips and Tramps.
Great day out
N7053ZEfm,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Milford Sound was truly awe inspiring, a wonderful experience. Our guide Phil was engaging and entertaining, and found some great sights for the coach journeys.
Smaller is better!
Kathleen S,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Fewer people in a van vs bus equals more time walking in the forest with a guide! We had about 25 people on the boat which I think could have held more. This was a lovely experience!
Out of this world Milford Sound tour
F7260DZcarries,Feb 27, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Jeff was a wonderful tour guide, charming , funny and a great storyteller about Milford Sound and beyond. I highly recommend this tour company. It prioritizes safety and client satisfaction. Easy communications, hotel pickup and delicious, heatlthy wrap, apple and dessert for lunch.
Marvelous nature with perfect guide Phil
JirkaD18,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had Phil as our guide for the day and he brought the day trip to a higher level : he was passionate about his home region, knowledgeable about history (Maiori legends, customs of new Zealanders) , plants and animals. He could bring all that with a touch of humor. He’ s spontaneous, helpful and brings the group together.
Just Awesome!
Corey S,Feb 25, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We just had the pleasure of spending the day on the Milford Sound Coach, Cruise and Walk from Te Anau and it was amazing. We had been expecting a day of incredible vistas and of course this trip did not disappoint. The unexpected addition to this day was the incredible job that was done by our tour guide/ driver Phil. Phil was engaging and made everyone feel right at home as well as being very knowledgeable on a wide range of subjects. We honestly couldn’t have asked for a better day and if you get the opportunity to take this trip I would highly recommend doing so (and ask for Phil because he was awesome).
Great day!
T6664VYlynnn,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Enjoyed the scenic drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound. The stop at Mirror Lake, complete with rainbow (and a local coffee stop), was spectacular! We were worried about the drizzly day, but Milford is more dramatic in the rain, which brings out more waterfalls! This was our second day with Trips and Tramps and thoroughly enjoyed both!
An outstanding excursion!
J6635MVnickd,Feb 24, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Having been on numerous trips in numerous locations across the world, this was the best ever!Ben was outstanding-friendly, helpful, fun, incredibly knowledgeable. The trip itself was excellent from the start with multiple stops to explore the route down to Milford Sound including short informative walks covering the history of the region, the flora & fauna and a wealth of other facts. The two hour cruise on Milford Sound was brilliant and being on a small boat, undoubtedly enhanced the experience further. We couldn't rate this trip & our brilliant guide any higher!
From the moment we boarded the very comfortable van we had a positive experience. The weather was cold but fairly clear.
3559,Feb 23, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing experience! Our guide, Ben, was so knowledgeable and friendly and helped make our trip so relaxing and fun.
A great excursion in a small group with many beautiful experiences
Annegret B,Feb 19, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00A very well organized excursion with a great guide ( Phil). We were picked up on time and had some stops on the way to Milford Sound. Our small international group kept getting information about the country and the area. Arriving at the sound there was a really rich packed lunch and the tickets for the small boat. The two-hour drive was very entertaining and the crew drove many points close. On the way there was coffee and tea that was included. The return journey with stops and a short hike to a waterfall was also very pleasant.
From NZ$310.65
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