Milford Sound: Small Group Cruise & Picnic Lunch from Te Anau

Summary

From Te Anau to Milford Sound waterfalls, wildlife and mountain views

You’ll start from Te Anau and cross Fiordland’s wild valleys with a local guide who actually knows where to stop for real views—not just photo ops. Walk by Mirror Lakes’ glassy water, spot kea parrots near Lake Gunn, breathe cold tunnel air, then cruise close to Milford Sound’s cliffs and waterfalls over a picnic lunch. It’s not just scenery—it’s those odd little moments you’ll keep replaying later.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll never forget the way our van fell silent when we first rolled into Eglinton Valley. It wasn’t planned—one minute we were all joking about the sheep traffic (classic New Zealand), and then suddenly those glacier-carved hills just swallowed up the noise. Our guide, Dave, just grinned and let us stare. I remember the grass was still damp from last night’s rain, kind of sparkling under a sky that couldn’t decide if it wanted to be blue or grey. That set the mood for the rest of this Milford Sound tour—unexpected quiet moments between all the “wow” stuff.

We stopped at Mirror Lakes next. I’d seen photos before but didn’t expect to stand there squinting at my own reflection in water so still it looked fake. The air smelled like wet earth and something sharp—maybe those little alpine plants? Dave told us about Maori explorers who crossed these valleys long before any roads. At Lake Gunn, a couple of kea parrots showed up, totally unbothered by us, picking at someone’s leftover apple core. They’re supposed to be cheeky but honestly they just looked bored.

The Homer Tunnel was colder than I thought inside—like breathing in a fridge—and you could hear every drip echo off the stone walls. Coming out on the other side felt like dropping into another world; cliffs everywhere, waterfalls sliding down them even though it hadn’t rained much. When we finally boarded the Milford Sound cruise boat (small group, so you actually see things), I ended up pressed against the rail with a sandwich in one hand and my phone in the other, trying not to drop either as seals flopped around on rocks below Mitre Peak. The picnic lunch was simple but hit different with that view—ham sandwich never tasted so good.

On the way back to Te Anau I caught myself thinking about how many tiny moments I’d forget unless I wrote them down—the mist on my glasses after a waterfall spray, or Li laughing when I tried to pronounce “Fiordland” right (I definitely didn’t). This day trip from Te Anau isn’t really about ticking off landmarks; it’s more like collecting small surprises along a road that feels bigger than you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Te Anau to Milford Sound tour

• Start tour in Te Anau
• Stop at Te Anau Downs
• Visit Eglinton Valley
• Walk at Mirror Lakes
• Photo stop at Lake Gunn
• Pass Hollyford River and Falls Creek
• View Southern Alps divide
• Stop in Darran Mountains for photos
• Drive through Homer Tunnel
• Arrive at Milford Sound
• Board Milford Sound cruise
• See Mitre Peak from cruise
• Return to Te Anau with stops

Top questions

How long is the drive from Te Anau to Milford Sound?

The drive takes around 2 hours each way, with several scenic stops along the route.

Is lunch included on this Milford Sound tour?

Yes, a picnic lunch is included as part of your day trip from Te Anau.

Are there stops for photos during the trip?

Yes, there are multiple stops including Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Lake Gunn, and others for photos and short walks.

What kind of boat is used for the Milford Sound cruise?

A smaller cruise boat is used so guests can get closer to waterfalls and wildlife in Milford Sound.

Is hotel pickup available in Te Anau?

The tour includes pickup from central locations in Te Anau.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated for lunch?

Yes, dietary needs can be noted at booking and will be accommodated for your picnic lunch.

Are children allowed on this tour?

Children are welcome; child safety seats are available if requested 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

This tour involves moderate walking and uneven surfaces; it may not be suitable for those with walking disabilities or wheelchair users.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Te Anau, snacks and water on board, entry for your boutique Milford Sound cruise with a local guide leading throughout, plus a picnic lunch (just let them know if you have dietary needs). You’ll travel in a small group vehicle designed for comfort before returning to town later that afternoon.