Fiordland & Milford Sound: Top Outdoor Activities
Thinking about Fiordland & Milford Sound might make you picture jaw-dropping fjords, majestic peaks, and that just almost impossibly pure New Zealand air. Actually, very few places can spark the imagination in quite the same way. This region, located on the South Island, happens to be like a true playground for anyone that enjoys being outside. From awesome hikes to tranquil kayak adventures, it offers something truly special for all experience levels and kinds of interests. So, let’s explore a few of the neatest ways you might enjoy the lovely scenery of Fiordland and Milford Sound.
Discovering the Iconic Milford Sound Cruise
The Milford Sound cruise is kind of an essential experience, especially for first-timers. Very many companies provide trips that allow you to see the sound from a comfortable vessel. You get to view steep cliffs, cascading waterfalls like Stirling Falls, that send mist into the air, and maybe even see some of the local wildlife, which very often include seals and dolphins. So, it’s a chance to get up close to the stunning beauty of the fjords. One popular option you may like includes an overnight cruise. This offers the peaceful quiet of Milford Sound without the daytime crowds. The boats sometimes have viewing decks, cozy lounges, and cabins that are pretty comfortable, so, you can see the landscape in style and get some great sleep too.
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Hiking the Famous Milford Track
Want something that’s active and fully immerses you in the wilderness? The Milford Track, arguably one of New Zealand’s well-known hikes, presents you with stunning views of valleys, lush rainforest, and massive suspension bridges. Very many say that the track will take four or five days, covering 33.5 miles. You ought to prepare yourself. The track can be tough, that’s something important to think about if you are intending to attempt it yourself, but you may also stay in the provided huts along the way, so it’s easier to get your rest and recharge. Typically, you’re going to need to book your place beforehand. It can get filled quickly. It remains incredibly favored for a truly superb reason: Its untouched beauty gives you a rewarding and unforgettable experience of New Zealand’s untouched nature. You should probably have some hiking experience, too.
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Kayaking Adventures in Doubtful Sound
For a calmer encounter, the Doubtful Sound invites with its pristine waters and secluded inlets. Kayaking is one such fine method to carefully navigate the quieter regions of the fjord. And you are able to get so close to waterfalls, discover the plant and wildlife, and just be alone with nature. One might get lucky to glimpse dolphins or fur seals when close to the shore. Tours are readily available, often that includes every bit of necessary gear and direction from someone trained, securing a very protected and pleasurable time for all levels of kayakers. It’s often described like a private encounter of a lovely region, far removed from the rush of vacationer hotspots.
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Scenic Flights Over Fiordland National Park
If heights don’t spook you, then why not consider taking a scenic flight over Fiordland? Viewing the region from up high gives a totally different viewpoint. You might get a sense of the expansive spread of its glacial valleys, remote lakes, and mountain peaks. It’s likely one is going to catch glimpses of hidden waterfalls and wild areas which simply aren’t accessible through trails or waterways. Flight operators are often around in both Te Anau and Milford Sound, delivering different routes to fit both schedules and budgets. The trips are fantastic, offering both photographers and environment fans an exclusive viewpoint on such a lovely area. It’s so worthy of being an adventure.
Read our full review: Fiordland National Park Flights Full Review and Details
Exploring Lake Marian Track
Want something that’s less popular than Milford but still provides some eye-popping scenery? The Lake Marian Track is actually the perfect middle ground. Beginning close to the Milford Road, this walk can take between three or four hours. Actually, it gets really near a remarkable alpine lake known as Lake Marian. Typically, folks will tell you it’s quite something, displaying sharp reflections of the surrounding mountains, especially on calm days. The path is likely to challenge you in spots because it could get steeper. You are going to want to have reliable footwear. Its peaceful settings make for an exciting hike that captures that true mood of the Fiordland area minus those huge crowds, so, you get the peaceful mood with out loads of disturbance.
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