Overview
Eglinton Valley is a stunningly beautiful glacial valley located in Fiordland National Park, Southland, New Zealand. It is renowned for its dramatic landscape, featuring waterfalls, rugged mountains, and lush rainforests.
Eglinton Valley is a popular stop on the Milford Road and offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails. It is part of the larger Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Location
Address
Southland, New Zealand
Neighborhood: Fiordland National Park
Coordinates
-46.416700, 168.350000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
November-March
Best Time of Day
Early morning or late afternoon
Better weather, fewer crowds, and optimal lighting for photography
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Mild, variable
- • Wildflowers
- • Blooming vegetation
summer
Warm, sunny
- • Long daylight hours
- • All trails open
autumn
Cool, crisp
- • Fall foliage
- • Cool temperatures
winter
Cold, snowy
- • Snowy landscapes
- • Fewer visitors
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Check weather conditions
- Bring appropriate gear
- Plan ahead for long hikes
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on activity)
- • Altitude sickness (on some trails)
- • Slippery paths
Medical facilities: Limited, nearest hospital in Invercargill
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
New Zealand Dollar (NZD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Weather-appropriate clothing, Layered clothing, sturdy hiking boots, Waterproof hiking boots, Inappropriate footwear, Littering
Booking Tips
- • At least a few days in advance for guided tours
- • Official Fiordland National Park website or local tour operators
- • Varies by tour operator
- • Guided tours may offer priority access
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Fiordland NP Explorer
Size: 50 MB
Features: Trail maps, Weather updates, Emergency contacts
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Invercargill Airport (IVC)
Distance: 180 km
Travel Time: 2.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 20 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere
Historical Significance: Part of the ancient landscape of Fiordland, important to Māori culture
Insider Tips
- Best views are from the Eglinton Valley Lookout
- Early morning visits offer the most serene experience
Local Recommendations
- • Visit the nearby Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
- • Try local food at the Te Anau Manapouri i-SITE
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, Māori, Other languages depending on the tour
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Eglinton Valley Lookout
Best Time: Sunrise or sunset
Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the landscape
Result: Breathtaking panoramic views
Mirror Lakes
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Reflection shots
Result: Serene, reflective landscapes
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Fiordland National Park Visitor Centre
Distance: 500m
Walking: 10 min
Type: Visitor Centre
Mirror Lakes
Distance: 1km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Scenic Spot
Te Anau Glowworm Caves
Distance: 50km
Walking: N/A
Type: Cultural Attraction
Milford Sound
Distance: 30km
Walking: N/A
Type: Scenic Drive
Reviews
Based on 500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Start early"
- "Bring layers"
- "Don't miss the viewpoints"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (4)
Milford Sound Premium Coach & Cruise from Queenstown with Lunch
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise ex Te Anau Stunning Views with Lunch
Milford Sound Coach & Cruise from Queenstown: Panoramic Views
Milford Sound Premium Coach and Cruise with Lunch from Te Anau
Quick Info
Available Tours
27
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
500
Adult Entry
Free (park entry), guided tours vary