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South Island

Start: Te Anau
Duration: 1 day
Travel Time: 12 hours
Distance: 11 kms
Difficulty: 2
Minimum Age: 8

Details

Walk Through Ancient Rainforest on the Milford Track

Start your day in Te Anau with a friendly local guide who will drive you along the Milford Highway, surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery. After a short boat ride to Sandfly Point, the guided Milford Track walk begins. The 5.5 km trail follows the Arthur River and Lake Ada, leading to the impressive Giant Gate waterfall.

Along the way, you’ll stroll beneath towering trees, past lush green ferns, and hear native birdsong echoing through the forest. With a small group of just 12 people per guide, the experience feels personal and unhurried. The return journey allows time to pause, enjoy the landscape, and capture photos at the Milford Track sign.

Milford Sound Small Boat Cruise from Te Anau

After the walk, the adventure continues with a boat cruise across the fiord, where Mitre Peak and towering cliffs dominate the skyline. The purpose-built vessel offers wide decks and cosy viewing lounges, perfect for spotting waterfalls and glaciers. Wildlife sightings often include seals basking on rocks and playful dolphins.

Your knowledgeable crew share stories of the area’s history and natural wonders as you sail through this iconic New Zealand location. The mix of lush rainforest, sheer rock faces, and misty cascades creates a magical atmosphere. At the end of the cruise, you’ll return to Te Anau with memories of a truly unforgettable day.

  • Hiking Time: 3.5 hours
  • Distance: 11 km
  • Climb: 50m
  • Boat Cruise: 2 hours

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Boat ride across Milford Sound to Sandfly Point
  • Guided walk along the Milford Track to Giant's Gate waterfall
  • Small group tour (max 12 people) with expert nature guide
  • Learn about native plants, wildlife, and local history
  • Scenic cruise on Milford Sound with views of Mitre Peak and Stirling Falls

INCLUSIONS

  • Professional nature guide for the Milford Track guided walk.
  • Water taxi transport to and from Sandfly Point.
  • A hot drink and light snack during the guided walk.
  • 2-hour Milford Sound small boat cruise with Mitre Peak Cruises.
  • Complimentary tea and coffee onboard the boat.

FITNESS

  • Moderate fitness level required, with a walking pace of around 3 km per hour.
  • The walk covers 11 km with a 50-metre vertical gain, taking approximately 3.5 hours.
  • Suitable for individuals who can manage rocky or rough terrain and adapt to wet weather conditions.

WHAT TO BRING

  • Comfortable walking shoes and outdoor, active wear suitable for the weather.
  • Day pack with a warm top, waterproof jacket, hat, gloves, insect repellent, snack food, and camera.
  • Optional: Pre-order a picnic lunch or bring your own lunch and a filled, reusable water bottle.

Note: Milford Road can be challenging for less confident drivers, and there's no cell coverage past Te Anau Downs.

AGE INFORMATION

  • Adults: 16 years +
  • Child: 8-15 years
  • Minimum age: 8 years

CANCELLATION & REFUND

  • 7 days or more before travel: Full refund**
  • 6 days or less: Non Refundable

Note: **Refunds exclude credit card or payment fees if applicable, which are non-refundable.

Please see more information on refunds and cancellations in Go New Zealand's terms and conditions.

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