A vast wilderness is the best way to describe Fiordland National Park. Our largest national park and the world’s fifth largest national park contains the largest tract of untouched forest in New Zealand. Covering the south west corner of New Zealand’s South Island, Fiordland National Park is in integral part of Te Wahipounamu – South West New Zealand World Heritage Area.
The small town of Te Anau is the gateway to Fiordland National Park and provides a great range of accommodations, cafes and restaurants as well as being the jumping off point for many activities. Notable features of Fiordland National Park are the ice carved Fiords that cut into the coastline, most famous of these being Milford Sound. This part of Fiordland is also the location of New Zealand’s world renowned Milford Track, one of the world’s greatest walks. As well as the sea that fills the deep fiords, there are a number of magnificent inland lakes and rivers and endless waterfalls, especially after it rains and rain it does. Fiordland averages 7 metres of rain per year, so remember to bring your raincoat. This water has created a lush rainforest with trees clad in moss and lichen that cling to the steep banks of the fiords and U-shaped valleys.
There is an abundant marine life in the fiords and on your Milford Sound cruise you may see dolphins, New Zealand Fur Seals and if you’re lucky the Fiordland Crested Penguin. Walking any of the 3 great walks within the park, including the Milford Track will introduce you to the cheeky kea, our native parrot and the smaller forest dwellers like tomtit and South Island robin.
On both Doubtful Sound and Milford Sound you can choose from a range of cruise options or kayaking. Some of the best ways to explore Fiordland are to cruise the sounds, either a Milford Sound Nature Cruise or spend the night in the more remote Doubtful Sound on board the Fiordland Navigator. The Underwater Observatory in Milford Sound is a great way to see what lies beneath. From Te Anau jet boating, fly fishing and walking are all popular activities. The Routeburn, Kepler and Milford Great Walks can all be experienced as short day walks, or for the ultimate Fiordland adventure enjoy the Milford Track guided walk.
A popular style of touring is to take a preplanned self drive road trip. After a thorough consultation with you we expertly plan and create your self drive tour around New Zealand. These tours allow you the freedom to explore at leisure with the comfort and security of pre-booked activities and accommodations. Route suggestions, APP guidance plus local support mean your New Zealand vacation is in safe hands. See self drive ideas here
If you prefer to let someone else do the work then an escorted small group tour might be for you. Our sister company at New Zealanbd Coach has a range of hand picked small group itineraries are ideal if you prefer to travel in the company of like minded people. Tours are limited to a certain number of participants which means different accommodation options, exclusive activities and of course a knowledgeable guide ensures you get to see the best of New Zealand. See small group tours here.
A private guided tour offers true flexibility and the security of a knowledgeable local guiding you all the way. Well planned itineraries ensure you see exactly what you want to see but with your own driver-guide you can adapt to suit the day or your preference. 100% tailor-made to suit you a private tour is a great option when travelling as a small group. All our self drive itineraries can be replanned and priced using a private driver and guide, so if it is what you fancy just contact us to discuss.
All North Island touring ideas - See here to explore the diverse North Island - itinerary suggestions.
All South Island touring ideas - Iconic scenery and landscapes await on this made for touring island. See itinerary suggestions
All Nationwide touring ideas - See the best of New Zealand on these all encompassing touring itinerary ideas