A short guide about Self Drive travel to Milford Sound
Visit one of the most dramatic and unspoiled tourist destinations in the world - Milford Sound is New Zealand’s most visited fjord in the country. Its steep mountains rise up out of a freshwater sound that runs into the sea. On a sunny day, the clouds lift and the mountains are revealed in all their glory - but Milford Sound is best in the rain, with 200 inches a year or an inch a day, the water drains from the hillside in hundreds of waterfalls.
Milford Sound has dramatic scenery and views of the distinctive Mitre Peak and here you are likely to see fern filled forests, spectacular waterfalls, ice carved mountains and aquatic wildlife. This is the most photographed area in the whole of New Zealand and while on par with the Grand Canyon in grandiosity, nothing can prepare you for the towering granite spires, unpredictable weather and shear wilderness of the sound.
Travellers to Milford Sound have the selection of day or an overnight cruise and/or scenic flights, but for the more adventurous travellers - walk the famous Milford Track. A ferry tour is a must, as you weave between waterfalls which span from trickles to roaring torrents, and run the duration of the sound. These guided tours inspire you with stories and discuss geological origins whilst presenting you with rock samples and early Polynesian artefacts to handle and examine as you take your trip.
At the north end of Milford Sound is an underwater observatory, a 10m submersible - open to the public, here you can watch the fish, crabs, seals and anemones in their natural environment. The drive back has about 4-6 stop-off points on the way to Te Anua which are well worth a visit if the weather is fine.
Those thinking of taking the Milford track should book early as places are limited to preserve this pristine wilderness. If you are visiting New Zealand’s South Island on your next tour or holiday Milford Sound should definitely be on your list. Tourabout has catalogued holiday packages and magical day tours to give you a glimpse of what put the New Zeal in New Zealand.