Milford Sound is a breathtaking fjord located in the South Island of New Zealand. Known for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife, it is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting the area. However, before you embark on your journey to Milford Sound, there are a few tips and tricks to keep in mind to make the most out of your trip:
Sights of Milford Sound
Milford Sound, located in Fiordland National Park in New Zealand, is one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders on the planet. It is known for its breathtaking landscapes, dramatic waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top sights of Milford Sound that you can’t afford to miss.
Mitre Peak
Mitre Peak is the most iconic sight of Milford Sound, standing tall at 1,692 meters. The peak resembles a bishop’s mitre and people often use it as a symbol for Fiordland National Park. The best perspective of Mitre Peak’s sheer granite cliffs and the surrounding landscape is from a boat tour.
Bowen Falls (Milford Sound travel tips)
Bowen Falls is one of the most impressive waterfalls in Milford Sound, with a height of 162 meters. The waterfall is named after the first European to discover Milford Sound, Lieutenant James Bowen. Bowen Falls is best viewed on a boat tour, where visitors can get up close to the waterfall and feel the mist on their faces.
Milford Sound Underwater Observatory
The Milford Sound Underwater Observatory is a unique attraction that allows visitors to view the marine life of Milford Sound up close. The observatory is located 10 meters below the water’s surface and features a series of underwater viewing chambers that offer a window into the underwater world. Visitors can see a variety of fish species, including blue cod and sea anemones.
Stirling Falls
Stirling Falls is another spectacular waterfall in Milford Sound, with a height of 151 meters. The waterfall is named after the captain of a ship that explored the area in the 19th century, Captain William Stirling. Stirling Falls is best viewed on a boat tour, where visitors can get up close to the waterfall and feel the power of the water as it crashes into the sea below.
Milford Sound Scenic Cruise (Milford Sound travel tips)
A Milford Sound Scenic Cruise is the best way to experience the beauty of Milford Sound. The cruise takes visitors on a journey through the sound, offering stunning views of the towering cliffs, waterfalls, and wildlife. Visitors can spot seals, dolphins, and penguins from the comfort of the boat.
The Chasm
Chasm is a natural formation located on the Milford Road, just a short drive from Milford Sound. The Chasm is a narrow gorge that has been carved out by the Cleddau River over thousands of years. Visitors can take a short walk through the forest to reach the Chasm, where they can view the powerful waterfalls and swirling pools of water.
Milford Sound Kayaking
Milford Sound Kayaking is a unique way to explore the sound’s dramatic landscapes and diverse wildlife. Visitors can rent a kayak or join a guided tour to explore the sound’s hidden coves, waterfalls, and marine life. Kayaking also offers a chance to get up close to the seals, dolphins, and penguins that call Milford Sound home.
Lake Te Anau (Milford Sound travel tips)
Lake Te Anau is the largest lake in the South Island of New Zealand and located just a short drive from Milford Sound. The lake is surrounded by mountains and forests, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake to explore its hidden bays and waterfalls.
Milford Sound Air Tour
A Milford Sound Air Tour is a unique way to experience the sound’s beauty from above. Visitors can take a scenic flight over Milford Sound, offering breathtaking views of the sound’s towering cliffs, waterfalls, and glaciers. The tour also offers a chance to see the surrounding mountain ranges
Milford Sound travel tips-
First and foremost
Milford Sound is a popular destination, and it’s best to book your tour or activity well in advance to avoid disappointment. Additionally, it’s important to note that the weather in Milford Sound can be unpredictable, so be sure to pack accordingly with warm clothing and rain gear.
When planning your visit:
consider the time of year. The best time to visit Milford Sound is during the summer months (December to February) when the weather is mild and the waterfalls are at their most spectacular. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so if you prefer a more secluded experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (October to November or March to April) when the crowds are smaller.
In terms of transportation (Milford Sound travel tips):
take a bus or a coach. Although it is possible to drive to Milford Sound. It is a long and winding road. Many visitors find it to be a challenging drive. Furthermore, parking can limit at the Milford Sound Visitors Centre, so it’s best to take a bus or coach tour to avoid the stress of navigating the road and finding parking.
One of the best ways to experience (Milford Sound travel tips):
Take a boat tour. This will allow you to get up close and personal with the fjord’s stunning scenery and wildlife. There are several boat tour options available, including large catamarans and smaller, more intimate boats. Furthermore, for the adventure seekers, there are kayak and boat tours that provide an even more immersive experience.
If you want to experience Milford Sound in a unique way:
take a helicopter or a seaplane tour. This will give you a bird’s eye view of the fjord and its surroundings. It’s an unforgettable experience and a great way to see the area’s rugged beauty.
When it comes to wildlife (Milford Sound travel tips):
keep an eye out for bottlenose dolphins and fur seals. Boat tours often spot a variety of marine life, including bottlenose dolphins and fur seals, in the fjord, which serves as their home. Additionally, there are several walking tracks around the fjord that offer the opportunity to spot native birds such as the kea and the weka.
Milford Sound Map:
Lastly, make sure to take plenty of photos. Milford Sound is one of the most picturesque places in the world, and you’ll want to capture the memories to share with friends and family. However, remember to be respectful of the environment and the wildlife, and refrain from using flash photography.
Milford Sound is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting New Zealand. With a little planning and preparation. You can make the most out of your trip and have an unforgettable experience. Remember to plan ahead, consider the time of year, take a bus or a coach, take a boat tour, and look out for wildlife. And, don’t forget to snap plenty of photos to remember your journey!
