Milford Sound Tour: Coach & Cruise incl. Picnic lunch

Embark on an intimate small-group adventure from Queenstown to Milford Sound—one of Aotearoa’s most iconic natural wonders. This fully guided day trip is more than just a destination; it’s an experience crafted with care, comfort, and connection in mind. Travel in our premium sprinter designed for a relaxed pace and optimal viewing, with plenty of time to stop, explore, and soak up the landscape. From majestic alpine valleys to cascading waterfalls and native wildlife encounters, every moment of the journey is part of the magic.

Tour Highlights

• Small group tour (max 16 guests) for a more personal, unrushed experience
• Travel in a comfortable, custom-outfitted Mercedes sprinter with panoramic windows
• Scenic stops along the Milford Road, including Mirror Lakes, Eglinton Valley & Homer Tunnel
• Fully guided by a friendly, knowledgeable local with rich insight into the region
• Milford Sound nature cruise aboard a small vessel
• Opportunity to spot dolphins, seals, and Fiordland’s native birdlife
• Optional scenic flight upgrade on the return leg (weather permitting)

What's Included

• Central pickup and drop-off locations in Queenstown
• Return transport in a modern, air-conditioned minibus
• Experienced local guide with in-depth commentary
• Multiple scenic and photo stops en route to Milford Sound
• Milford Sound nature cruise (1 hr 45 min) including a picnic lunch
• Complimentary water & snacks (please bring a reusable water bottle)
• Optional scenic flight upgrade back to Queenstown (additional cost)

Itinerary

1. Queenstown – Tour Departure
Your day begins with a convenient pickup at or near your accommodation in Queenstown. Settle into your seat in our premium sprinter and meet your local guide—someone who’s not only well-versed in the area’s natural and cultural heritage but also passionate about sharing it. As we leave Queenstown behind, your guide will introduce the route and point out notable landmarks.

2. Lake Wakatipu – Scenic Drive & Photo Stop
We travel alongside the stunning shores of Lake Wakatipu, winding our way through dramatic alpine landscapes. The Remarkables mountain range offers a breathtaking backdrop - perfect for an early photo opportunity to start the day right.

3. Kingston – Historical Rail Town
Pass through the charming settlement of Kingston, known for its historic railway. Your guide will share stories of the area’s heritage as we continue south.

4. Southland Rural Landscapes – Commentary Stop
As we cross into Southland, take in the wide-open spaces and lush farmland. Your guide will provide insight into the local farming lifestyle and how this region plays a key role in New Zealand’s agriculture.

5. Te Anau – Lakeside Break
Arriving in Te Anau, we pause for a comfort stop. Grab a coffee and enjoy a short lakeside stroll. If you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife. 
A little further along, we pull in at Te Anau Downs. From here, you’ll look across the lake to where the famous Milford Track begins. Your guide will share the history of this world-renowned walking trail and its early explorers.

6. Fiordland National Park Entrance – Scenic Pause
We officially enter Fiordland National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the landscape instantly changes. Dense rainforest, moss-covered beech trees, and towering peaks welcome us into this remote wilderness.

7. Eglinton Valley – Glacier-Carved Wonder
Stop and step out into the wide-open expanse of Eglinton Valley. Formed by ancient glaciers, this dramatic landscape looks like something straight out of a fantasy film - it's no wonder it featured in The Lord of the Rings.

8. Mirror Lakes – Reflective Beauty Walk

Take a short stroll to see the perfectly still Mirror Lakes, famous for their glass-like reflections of the Earl Mountains. On a clear day, it’s a photographer’s dream.

9. Knobs Flat – Geological Stop & Facilities
We make a brief stop at Knobs Flat, where you’ll learn about the geological forces that shaped this dramatic region. Public toilets and an interpretive display make this a handy break point.

10. Hollyford River – Wild Waters

Follow the route of the Hollyford River, a fast-flowing alpine stream lined with dense native forest and giant boulders. We pause for a moment to admire its energy and raw beauty.

11. Falls Creek – Waterfall Lookout Our next stop is at Falls Creek, where a powerful waterfall plunges down the steep mountainside. It’s one of the first of many waterfalls you’ll encounter today—weather permitting.

12. Darran Mountains – Alpine Vistas
Climbing higher, we enter the heart of the Darran Mountains. We’ll pull over at a lookout point to take in the panoramic views of these dramatic granite peaks. Keep your eyes open for kea, New Zealand’s curious alpine parrots.

13. Homer Tunnel – Engineering Marvel
Journey through the iconic Homer Tunnel, carved by hand through solid rock. Learn the fascinating history of this feat of engineering as we prepare to descend into the dramatic Cleddau Valley.
Emerging from the tunnel, the road winds through a steep glacial valley. On rainy days, the cliffs come alive with hundreds of cascading waterfalls—a magical and unforgettable sight.

14. Milford Sound – Nature Cruise
Upon reaching Milford Sound, we board a boutique cruise with Southern Discoveries. You'll experience the fiord’s grandeur up close with towering cliffs, thundering waterfalls, and native wildlife including New Zealand fur seals.

15. Stirling & Bowen Falls – Up Close with Nature
During the cruise, experience the majesty of Stirling and Bowen Falls—two of Milford Sound’s most iconic waterfalls. If the conditions are right, your skipper may nose the boat right into the spray!

16. Mitre Peak – The Icon of the Sound
Admire the towering Mitre Peak, rising nearly 1,700 metres from the fiord. Its distinctive triangular shape makes it one of the most photographed landmarks in New Zealand.

17. Return Journey – Scenic Relaxation
After the cruise, rejoin your guide for the journey home. While there are fewer stops on the way back, you’ll have time to unwind and enjoy more of the region’s sweeping scenery, with comfort stops along the way.

Optional Upgrade: Scenic Flight
For those seeking something extra special, you may opt to return to Queenstown via a 45-minute fixed-wing scenic flight (weather dependent). It’s a truly breathtaking way to end the day, soaring over the Southern Alps and Fiordland’s dramatic landscape.

This full-day tour runs for approximately 12–13 hours and is designed with comfort and immersion in mind, making it the perfect way to explore the majesty of Milford Sound in a single, unforgettable day.