How to Plan Your Milford Sound Small Group Tour Cruise Lunch from Te Anau

Milford Sound is a must-visit destination in New Zealand. The stunning natural beauty of its landscapes, mountains, and waterfalls will leave you in awe. One of the best ways to explore Milford Sound is by a small group tour with a comfortable minibus. This guided tour includes a sightseeing cruise, picnic lunch, and many scenic stops along the way. In this blog post, we’ll guide you on how to plan your Milford Sound Small Group Tour Cruise Lunch from Te Anau.

Experience

Experience the picturesque views of Milford Sound and the surrounding Fiordland National Park. Travel in comfort on a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide who can share insights on the area’s history and wildlife. Keep a lookout for native birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat, and see Earl Mountains by Mirror Lakes. With a sightseeing cruise, picnic lunch and scenic stops, you will have the perfect day out.

Highlights

• Enjoy a sightseeing cruise on Milford Sound with views of Mitre Peak
• Explore the Fiordland National Park with knowledgeable guides
• Pass Lake Te Anau, Eglinton Valley, Mirror Lakes, Hollyford River, and more
• Keep a lookout for native birds and other wildlife
• Savor a picnic lunch amidst the scenic beauty

Itinerary

The Milford Sound Small Group Tour Cruise Lunch from Te Anau is a full-day tour that begins at 7.45 am and ends at around 5.30 pm. Here is the itinerary as provided by the tour operator:

Depart from Te Anau

The tour operator will pick you up from your accommodation in Te Anau in a comfortable minibus. This scenic drive along the lakeshore of Lake Te Anau will lead you to Te Anau Downs, where you will have a well-earned photo stop.

Eglinton Valley and Mirror Lakes

Enter the Fiordland National Park and drive into Eglinton Valley, where you can admire the landscape carved by an ancient glacier. Next, stop at Mirror Lakes to see the Earl Mountains’s reflection in the clear waters, and take a relaxing stroll around the area.

Lake Gunn and Hollyford River

Afterwards, head towards Lake Gunn for a leisurely walk and great photo opportunities. Pass the waterfall at Falls Creek as you drive towards Hollyford River. Admire the view from the Lily Ponds and see the Darran Mountains in the background.

Milford Sound cruise and picnic lunch

Arrive at Milford Sound for the highlight of your day. Board your cruise ship and embark on a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise around the Milford Sound. Discover the stunning waterfalls and wildlife while you dine on a picnic lunch amidst the scenic beauty. After the cruise, take a short walk or relax on the coach back to Te Anau, where the tour ends.

Booking Your Tour

To book your Milford Sound Small Group Tour Cruise Lunch from Te Anau, visit the following link: book the tour here. The tour costs around $168 per person, and this price includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, transport, guide, cruise, and lunch.

Book Your Tour Now

Planning a Milford Sound Small Group Tour Cruise Lunch from Te Anau can sound daunting initially, but it’s effortless with this guide. This tour is highly recommended for nature lovers and those who want to explore New Zealand’s beautiful landscapes. You can take beautiful photos, learn more about the area’s history, and enjoy scenic stops and a picnic lunch amidst nature. By booking this tour, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery without worrying about driving or navigating. So book your tour today and experience Milford Sound’s natural beauty!

Frequently Asked Questions about Te Anau

Te Anau is a picturesque town located on the edge of Lake Te Anau and is known as the “Gateway to Fiordland National Park.” Millions of tourists visit the town every year, making it an incredible tourist destination. Here are some frequently asked questions about Te Anau.

1. What is the weather like in Te Anau?

The weather in Te Anau is generally mild and wet, with an average temperature of 11°C (52°F) during the summer months and 4°C (39°F) during winter. The summer season is from December to February, and this is when the town is most bustling with tourists. The town may experience rainfall throughout the year, but it is particularly high during the winter months.

2. What are the top attractions in Te Anau?

Te Anau is famous for its natural beauty, and many people come to visit the town to explore some of the best natural sights that New Zealand has to offer. The top attractions in Te Anau are:

1. Te Anau Glowworm Caves:

These caves are one of the main attractions in Te Anau, and they are known for their stunning limestone formations and thousands of glowworms that light up the caverns.

2. Milford Sound:

Milford Sound is a stunning fjord that is located within Fiordland National Park. It is considered one of the most beautiful natural attractions in the world.

3. Kepler Track:

The Kepler Track is one of the best hiking trails in New Zealand, and it takes you through some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

4. Lake Te Anau:

Lake Te Anau is the largest lake in the South Island of New Zealand and is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to explore its beauty.

3. How do I get to Te Anau?

Te Anau is accessible by road, and the most common way to get there is by car. The nearest major city is Queenstown, which is around 2.5 hours away by car. Visitors can also take a bus or a shuttle service from Queenstown to Te Anau. The nearest airport is in Queenstown, and visitors can fly to Queenstown from major cities in New Zealand.

4. What are the best places to eat in Te Anau?

Te Anau has an excellent selection of dining options, ranging from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants. Some of the best places to eat in Te Anau are:

1. Redcliff Cafe:

This cafe is located on the waterfront and has stunning views of Lake Te Anau. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a selection of New Zealand wines and beers.

2. The Fat Duck:

This restaurant serves modern New Zealand cuisine and has a great selection of local wines and craft beers.

3. Kepler Restaurant:

This restaurant serves delicious pizzas, pastas, and seafood dishes, with an extensive selection of local and international wines.

5. What activities can I do in Te Anau?

There is no shortage of activities to do in Te Anau, and visitors can choose from a range of outdoor activities, including:

1. Hiking:

Te Anau is surrounded by beautiful mountains, and there are plenty of hiking trails to explore. The Kepler Track is one of the most popular hiking trails in the area.

2. Wildlife Tours:

Visitors can take a tour to see some of the local wildlife, including dolphins, penguins, and fur seals.

3. Fishing:

Fishing is another popular activity in Te Anau, and visitors can take a guided fishing tour on Lake Te Anau.

4. Adventure Sports:

Te Anau offers a range of adventure sports, including jet boating, kayaking, and mountain biking.

Book Your Tour Now

Te Anau is an incredible destination that offers visitors a chance to experience some of the most stunning natural sights in the world. From hiking to wildlife tours, there is something for everyone in Te Anau. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a foodie, Te Anau has something to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Te Anau

Te Anau, located in the south-west corner of New Zealand’s South Island, is known for its stunning scenery and outdoor recreational activities. It is the gateway to the Fiordland National Park, home to some of the most incredible natural beauty in the world. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation or a bit of both, Te Anau has something to offer everyone. Here are some top attractions and activities to help you make the most of your time in Te Anau.

1. Take a Cruise on Lake Te Anau

A must-do activity in Te Anau is to take a cruise on Lake Te Anau, the largest lake in the South Island. You can either take a guided tour or rent a kayak or paddleboat to explore the lake by yourself. There are a number of operators in the area who offer guided tours, some of which include a visit to the famous glowworm caves. The scenery is simply breathtaking, with snow-capped mountains and crystal-clear waters creating a picturesque setting.

2. Visit the Fiordland National Park

The Fiordland National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the most stunningly beautiful places you’ll ever visit. The park is home to many world-famous attractions, including Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound, which can be visited by boat or plane. The park also has many walking trails through lush rainforest, offering visitors the opportunity to get up close with the local flora and fauna.

3. Hike the Kepler Track

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s most famous multi-day hikes, and it’s perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Fiordland National Park on foot. The 60-kilometer walk usually takes three to four days and offers stunning views of lakes and mountain ranges. This track can be challenging, but it’s a great way to get off the beaten track and explore the wilderness of the area.

4. Visit the Te Anau Bird Sanctuary

The Te Anau Bird Sanctuary is located on the shores of Lake Te Anau and is home to many unique bird species, including the rare takahe. Visitors can take a stroll around the sanctuary and learn about the local birdlife, or take a guided tour with a knowledgeable guide who can provide interesting facts and insights into the birds’ behavior and habitat.

5. Explore the Town of Te Anau

The town of Te Anau is a charming and laid-back place, and it’s worth spending some time exploring the local shops and eateries. You’ll find many restaurants and cafes serving up traditional New Zealand cuisine, as well as a range of international cuisines, including Thai and Indian. The local farmers’ market is also worth a visit if you’re looking for fresh produce and locally made crafts.

6. Go Fishing in Te Anau

If you’re a fishing enthusiast, then Te Anau is the place for you. The area is home to some of the best fishing spots in the South Island, and there are plenty of fishing charters and guides available to help you catch everything from salmon to trout.

7. Take a Helicopter Tour

For those who want to see the beauty of Fiordland National Park from a different perspective, taking a helicopter tour is a must. There are many operators in the area who offer helicopter tours, and you can choose from a range of flights. Some tours take you over Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound, while others offer a scenic flight over the Southern Alps.

8. Relax and Unwind in Te Anau

Te Anau is a great place to simply kick back and relax. There are many spas and hot springs in the area, offering a range of services to help you unwind and de-stress. You can also take a leisurely stroll along the lakefront, or simply sit and watch the world go by.

Book Your Tour Now

Te Anau is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but it’s also a great place to just relax and take in the stunning beauty of the area. Whether you’re looking for adventure or just a bit of R&R, Te Anau has something to offer everyone. We hope this guide has given you some ideas on how to spend your time in Te Anau and that you enjoy your stay in this incredible part of New Zealand.