Is Milford Sound Worth Visiting? Discover the Ultimate NZ Travel Guide

Fjords are the one landscape that our country is missing, and it’s a truly unique experience to explore them. Many people argue that fjords on a sunny day can be underwhelming, while rainy days evoke a dramatic, almost apocalyptic atmosphere. Here are my thoughts on making the most of your fjord visit:

Firstly, dedicate at least a full day to exploring the fjord. The drive from Queenstown takes about five hours, and after parking, there’s still a short walk to the meeting point. Factor in time for refueling and other stops, and a round trip in a single day can be quite exhausting.

If you have the luxury of time, consider staying overnight in Te Anau, which is approximately two and a half hours from Milford. This will allow you to break up the journey and enjoy the area more leisurely.

While there are travel companies that offer direct bus services to Milford, I don’t particularly recommend them. Highway 94, the essential route to Milford, is renowned as one of the most beautiful alpine highways, with a plethora of attractions along the way. Buses typically only stop at a few major sites, limiting your flexibility and the overall experience.

I once left my camera at one of the attractions along the fjord and had to drive back the next day to retrieve it, resulting in four trips along Highway 94. Even on the fourth pass, I was still awestruck by the breathtaking beauty of this road. However, the disappointment of not finding the camera and having to return was a bit of a downer.

Many visitors agree that the journey to Milford is just as, if not more, stunning than the fjord itself. But you can’t fully appreciate this without seeing the fjord firsthand. The scenery en route is especially enchanting on a sunny day, while the fjord cruise is more captivating during a rain shower. If you’re incredibly fortunate and get sunny weather on the way and rain at the fjord, you’ve hit the jackpot!

Even on a sunny day, the fjord is undeniably beautiful. Some may feel let down due to the long journey and high expectations, similar to visiting large waterfalls. However, I firmly believe it’s worth the effort. If you have the time and budget, an overnight cruise offers a deeper, more immersive experience, though it does come at a higher cost.