Bowen Falls

Overview

Bowen Falls is a stunning waterfall located along the Milford Road in Fiordland National Park. It is one of the most accessible and photogenic waterfalls in the region, with a drop of 163 meters.

Bowen Falls is a significant natural landmark that showcases the beauty of Fiordland National Park and is a popular stop for tourists visiting Milford Sound.

Waterfall Scenic Viewpoint

Location

Address

Milford Sound Highway, Southland, New Zealand

Neighborhood: Fiordland National Park

Coordinates

-45.427000, 167.871000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$0 (park entry)

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November-March

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and better lighting for photographs

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

30 minutes

Recommended

1-2 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild to warm

• Lush greenery
• Wildlife sightings

summer

Warm to hot

• Long daylight hours
• Warm temperatures

autumn

Cool to mild

• Autumn colors
• Clear skies

winter

Cold and wet

• Snow-capped landscapes
• Peaceful atmosphere

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Check weather conditions
Wear appropriate footwear
Bring water and snacks

What to Bring

essential

Water Snacks Camera

seasonal

Warm layers in winter Hat and sunglasses in summer

not allowed

Drones without permit Littering

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Uneven terrain
• Slippery when wet

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available at nearby visitor centers

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

New Zealand Dollar (NZD)

Typical Costs

parking $5

boat tour $80

food $15

Dress Code

Casual and comfortable, Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, Sturdy hiking boots or shoes, Inappropriate or offensive clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks for tours
• Official Fiordland National Park website
• 48 hours for refund
• Available for boat tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Fiordland National Park App

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Trail information, Weather updates

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor centers

Charging Stations: Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Queenstown Airport (ZQN)

Distance: 180 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

rental_car

Variable 2.5 hours

shuttle_service

$100 3 hours

From City Center

Distance: 10 km

car

Variable 15 minutes

bicycle

$0 30 minutes

taxi

$25 15 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty and a sense of tranquility

Historical Significance: Part of the ancient landscape of Fiordland

Insider Tips

Visit early morning for the best views
Check for wildlife like seals and dolphins in the area

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby Milford Sound for boat tours
• Try local cafes in Te Anau for Kiwi cuisine

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Kia ora

thank_you Ngā mihi

where_is Kei hea...?

how_much E pea ra te utu?

beautiful Māia

ticket Tīkiti

Guide Languages: English, Maori, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Viewpoint near Milford Road

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Capture the waterfall from a low angle

Result: Stunning waterfall shot

#NewZealand #Fiordland #BowenFalls

Photography Rules

allowed areas Viewpoints along Milford Road

prohibited areas Restricted areas near waterfall base

flash photography Allowed but not recommended

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Permitted with special permit

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Milford Sound

Distance: 5 km

Walking: 1 hour

Type: Scenic Viewpoint

Mirror Lakes

Distance: 25 km

Walking: 30 minutes