New Zealand | 3 Day Milford Sound Itinerary
An overview of Milford Sound
Milford Sound (Piopiotahi) is one of the most beautiful corners of New Zealand - and the world, for that matter!
Once called the "Unofficial 8th Wonder of the World," Milford Sound is touted as "New Zealand's most stunning natural attraction." When we visited, I felt dwarfed by the sheer sight of the iconic Fiordland mountains. No matter how often I relive our trip, I am constantly overwhelmed by how spectacular it was.
Milford Sound is an outdoor lovers' dream, full of lush rainforests, towering glacier peaks, waterfalls and alpine lakes everywhere you look. But it's not all hiking. You'll also find luxury experiences galore, boutique accommodations and world-class dining.
I think everyone should visit here once in their lifetime. But, only a few people come for more than a day trip. I'm here to tell you that you MUST stay overnight. There's so much to do; when you're unsure if you'll be back here again, you don't want to rush a second of your time here.
Milford Sound is home to some of the most impressive waterfalls on earth. There are two huge waterfalls: Lady Bowen Falls and Stirling Falls. However, Milford Sound is one of the wettest areas in New Zealand (and sees a ridiculous 182 days of rain per year), so you're guaranteed to see lots of small waterfalls trickling down the mountains, too. You'll get up close and personal with them on boat trips, star gaze beneath mountains, wake up to bird song and walk along some of the most popular hiking tracks in the world.
You can visit Milford Sound at any time throughout the year. But the best time to visit is in August-October. This way, you've got a higher chance of seeing the breathtaking waterfalls that come alive when it rains, snow on the peaks of the mountains, lower costs and fewer tourists.
How to get to Milford Sound