Milford Sound Toursfrom Queenstown

Discover New Zealand's most famous fjord on a day trip from Queenstown

Why choose a tour from Queenstown?

Located less than 4 hours’ drive from Milford Sound, Queenstown is the ideal starting point to discover New Zealand’s most famous fjord.

Organized tours allow you to fully enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Milford Road without the fatigue of driving, while benefiting from the commentary of an experienced guide.

Book Your Tour

12 h

Total duration

Cruise

4 to 6

Photo stops

NZ$ 270

From

📍 Eglinton Valley

Book your Milford Sound tour

Choose from tour options and experience an unforgettable adventure in one of the world's most beautiful fjords

Bus Cruise Bus

Classic option with return bus transport in comfortable coach and 2-hour cruise in the fjord

From NZ$ 270

✓ Return transport
✓ 2-hour Milford Sound cruise
✓ Photo stops on Milford Road
✓ Free cancellation 24h before

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Bus Cruise Return flight

Premium experience: bus journey, fjord cruise, and spectacular return flight!

From NZ$ 890

✓ Free cancellation 24h before
✓ Panoramic return flight
✓ 2-hour cruise
✓ Save 3 hours on return journey

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Your day trip schedule

Detailed itinerary

7:00 AM - Departure from Queenstown

Pick-up at your hotel or meeting point

9:30 AM - Stop in Te Anau

Coffee break and last purchases before Milford Sound

10 AM-1 PM - Milford Road

Photo stops: Mirror Lakes, Monkey Creek, Chasm Falls

1-3 PM - Milford Sound Cruise

2-hour navigation in the fjord, waterfalls and marine wildlife

7:30 PM - Return to Queenstown

Return by bus or plane depending on chosen option

Tips for your tour

🎒 What to pack?

Camera: The landscapes are breathtaking!
Warm clothing: Multiple layers as weather changes quickly
Waterproof jacket: Essential to enjoy the waterfalls
Closed shoes: Avoid flip-flops, prefer sneakers
Sun protection: Sunscreen and sunglasses
Insect repellent: Against sandflies in summer

💡 Practical tips

Book in advance: Especially in high season (December-February)
Check the weather: Conditions can affect flights
Early wake-up: Early departure but you won't regret it!
Consider the scenic flight: If budget allows, the experience is unique
Listen to the guide: Their commentary enriches the experience
Stay flexible: Schedules may vary depending on weather

Frequently Asked Questions about Milford Sound Tours

Everything you need to know to prepare your trip to Milford Sound from Queenstown.

Pick-up locations vary by company and are communicated the day before departure. The shuttle can pick you up directly from certain Queenstown hotels. Exact details will be confirmed by email after your booking.

The direct drive takes about 4 hours, but with planned stops (Te Anau, Mirror Lakes, etc.), allow approximately 5 hours to reach Milford Sound from Queenstown. The return follows the same timing.

Cruises typically last between 1h45 and 2 hours, allowing you to discover the fjord's main attractions: Stirling and Bowen Falls, Mitre Peak, and marine wildlife.

Prices vary depending on the option chosen: expect between $120 and $180 for bus + cruise, $150 to $220 with meals included, and $350 to $450 for the option with scenic return flight.

You'll admire Stirling and Bowen Falls, the iconic Mitre Peak, and may observe seals, dolphins, and sometimes whales, orcas or penguins depending on the season and conditions.

Essentials: camera, warm and waterproof clothing, closed shoes. In summer: sunscreen and insect repellent. Plan layers as weather can change rapidly in the mountains.