New Zealand’s stunning Fiordland National Park is home to the legendary Milford Track, and the "Milford Track: Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise" offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience its breathtaking landscapes. This seven-hour adventure combines a guided hike along the picturesque Arthur River and a captivating Milford Sound cruise, providing visitors with an immersive journey through some of the country’s most magnificent natural wonders. Trained guides offer insightful commentary, while comfortable amenities and opportunities to witness local wildlife ensure a truly memorable day for nature enthusiasts. But the true allure of this experience lies in the sheer grandeur of the surroundings, waiting to be discovered by those who dare to venture forth.
This experience made our list of the 7 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Milford Sound.
Key Points
- The Milford Track Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise is a 7-hour tour that includes a water taxi ride, a 3.5-hour guided hike, and a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise.
- The guided hike features stops at the Giants Gate Waterfall and showcases the natural beauty of Fiordland National Park, with sightings of flora, fauna, and dramatic geological features.
- The Milford Sound cruise offers panoramic views of sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and the chance to spot wildlife like dolphins, seals, and rare Fiordland crested penguins.
- The tour starts at Mitre Peak Cruises and requires a recommended 6:00 AM departure from Te Anau, with paid or free parking options available at Milford Sound.
- The activity is suitable for participants with good fitness levels and sturdy hiking boots, as the 11 km (7 mile) hike has the potential for wet conditions.
Overview and Pricing
The Milford Track Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise activity offers an all-inclusive experience, priced from Kč4,602 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
This 7-hour tour includes a water taxi ride, a guided hike along the Milford Track, a break at the Giants Gate Waterfall, and a 2-hour small boat cruise through Milford Sound.
Participants can reserve their spot without upfront payment, allowing for convenient booking.
The tour provides professional hiking guides, safety gear, and hot drinks, ensuring a safe and memorable journey through the stunning natural landscapes of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park.
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Itinerary
Starting at the Mitre Peak Cruises location, the tour begins with a 15-minute water taxi ride to Sandfly Point, where the guided hike on the Milford Track commences.
After the short boat transfer, hikers embark on a 3.5-hour trek alongside the Arthur River, leading them to the breathtaking Lake Ada.
Along the way, the group will enjoy a 20-minute break at the stunning Giants Gate Waterfall.
Following the hike, you will board a small boat for a 2-hour Milford Sound cruise, offering panoramic views of the fjord’s dramatic landscape, including the iconic Mitre Peak and diverse wildlife such as dolphins and seals.
The tour concludes with the return trip to the Mitre Peak Cruises starting point.
Guided Hike Highlights
Highly trained guides lead hikers through the lush forest, pointing out the vibrant flora and fauna along the way to the Giants Gate Waterfall.
Trekking alongside the Arthur River, adventurers take in sweeping vistas of the Mitre Peak and keep an eye out for dolphins and seals frolicking in Milford Sound.
The guided hike showcases the region’s dramatic geological features, from towering cliffs to cascading waterfalls.
Hikers can marvel at the sheer scale and power of these natural wonders while enjoying the safety and expertise of the professional guide.
With provided safety gear and hot drinks, participants can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of this world-renowned hiking destination.
Nature Cruise Experience
After the guided hike, participants board a small boat for a two-hour Milford Sound cruise, where they’ll enjoy the region’s breathtaking natural landscapes. The cruise takes them past sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and lush native forests. Along the way, they may spot a variety of wildlife, including dolphins, seals, and perhaps even the rare Fiordland crested penguin.
The cruise offers panoramic views of the iconic Mitre Peak, a towering mountain that rises dramatically from the water’s edge. Participants can learn about the area’s unique geology and the formation of the fiords from the knowledgeable crew.
Complimentary hot drinks are served, providing a welcome respite from the cool, maritime climate. The cruise concludes with a return to the Mitre Peak Cruises terminal, capping off a truly memorable day in Milford Sound.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyMeeting Point and Departure
Participants meet at the Mitre Peak Cruise Counter to check in by 8:30 AM for the guided Milford Track hike and nature cruise.
To reach the starting point, the recommended departure time from Te Anau is 6:00 AM, allowing for the 2-hour drive to Milford Sound.
Paid parking is available at Milford Sound for $10 per hour, payable by credit card only. Alternatively, free parking can be found on Deepwater Basin Road, which is a 20-minute walk to the terminal.
It’s important to note that this activity isn’t suitable for children under 8, people with mobility impairments, those over 75, or those with low fitness levels.
Parking and Accessibility
Paid parking is available at Milford Sound for $10 per hour, payable only by credit card.
Alternatively, free parking can be found on Deepwater Basin Road, which requires a 20-minute walk to reach the terminal.
The Milford Track Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise may not be suitable for:
- Children under 8
- People with mobility impairments
- Individuals over 75
- Those with low fitness levels
It’s important to note that the hike covers a distance of 11 km (7 miles) on a mostly flat trail, with the potential for wet conditions.
Participants should have a good level of fitness to fully enjoy the experience.
What to Bring
Visitors’ recommended gear includes comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, a camera, snacks, water, rain gear, a packed lunch, gloves, insect repellent, outdoor clothing, a daypack, and thermal clothing.
Jeans aren’t allowed on this hike.
The Milford Track hike requires good fitness, as the pace is approximately 3 km/2 miles per hour on a mostly flat trail.
The total walk is 11 km/7 miles, and participants should prepare for potentially wet conditions.
With the right attire and equipment, adventurers can fully enjoy the stunning natural surroundings and geological features of the Milford Sound region during this guided excursion.
Difficulty and Fitness Requirements
The Milford Track hike requires good fitness, as the pace is approximately 3 km/2 miles per hour on a mostly flat trail. The total walk is 11 km/7 miles, with the potential for wet conditions.
While the trail itself isn’t technically challenging, hikers should be prepared for a sustained, moderate-paced walk over several hours. The difficulty level is suitable for those with:
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A good level of cardiovascular fitness
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Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots
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Ability to walk for extended periods
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Experience navigating uneven, potentially slippery terrain
Those with limited mobility, low fitness levels, or under the age of 8 are advised to consider alternative activities in the Milford Sound region.
Recap
The Milford Track: Full Day Guided Hike and Nature Cruise offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the stunning natural wonders of New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park.
With a guided hike along the Arthur River and a breathtaking cruise through Milford Sound, this adventure provides an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Participants can expect informative insights, comfortable amenities, and the chance to witness the area’s diverse wildlife, making it a must-do activity during a trip to this remarkable region.
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