Milford Sound is just one of the many beautiful sites of the South Island. This fjord region is located in the southwest corner of the South Island off the Tasman Sea. There is no easy way to reach Milford Sound, other than via the lengthy drive, but it is well worth a visit. It is also one of the many locations in New Zealand where you can count on being off the cell phone grid! During the summer you can take advantage of the added hours of daylight!
Things To See & Do
1) The Milford Track
This 52.5 km, multi-day track is through the Fjordland National Park. We did not have the time available to embark on this track that takes you through mountains and forests and near rivers and waterfalls. It has been referred to as “the finest walk in the world” and is one of the more popular walks in New Zealand. The Milford Track website provides additional specifics on this walk.
2) Sea Kayaking
Some of our friends had an incredible time kayaking Milford Sound with Rosco’s Milford Kayaks. They were lucky enough to have a beautiful clear day, and could not say enough about the sights and sounds they experienced. They were definitely dead tired at the end of the day!
3) Cruise
An alternative to kayaking on Milford Sound is to take a cruise out on the Sound.
4) Routeburn Track
Another multi-day hike is 32 km long that takes you through New Zealand’s Southern Alps. We did not have the opportunity to tackle this trek, but have seen it referenced in multiple different places as one of the great treks on the South Island.
5) Milford Foreshore Walk
This easy 30 minute walk starts from the car park near the end of road. We watched the fog clear from the sound from this vantage point one morning prior to leaving town.
6) Key Summit Track
This 3.4 km (3 hour) return track is just one section of the Routeburn Track. This hike provides “panoramic views over the Humboldt and Darran Mountains.”
7) The Chasm Walkway
This short walk is located half way between the Homer Tunnel and Milford Sound. The 15 minute (w/return) walk leads to you two powerful waterfalls.
8) Hiking
We have mentioned a handful of specific hiking trails above. However, there are many additional options available. Please visit the New Zealand Department of Conservation for additional details on other hikes available in the area!
Accommodation Options
We toured the South Island in RVs with 12 of our friends from home. We stayed in our RVs at campgrounds and were pleasantly surprised by the facilities at most of the campsites. During our time in Milford Sound, we stayed at the Milford Lodge. In addition to powered campsites the lodge has tent, dorm, lodge, and chalet accommodation options.